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García-Uribe PÁ, Hernández-Silva G, Vega CC, Ordaz-Rosado D, Morales A, Hernández-Pando R, García-Becerra R, Díaz L, García-Quiroz J, Barrera D, Chirinos M, Larrea F. In Vitro Human Endometrial Cells and In Vivo Rat Model Studies Suggest That Ulipristal Acetate Impacts Endometrial Compatibility for Embryo Implantation. Arch Med Res 2024; 55:103026. [PMID: 38897915 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2024.103026] [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: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulipristal acetate (UPA) and levonorgestrel are used as emergency hormonal contraceptives. Although both are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, UPA shows efficacy even when taken up to 120 h after unprotected sexual intercourse. AIMS To investigate whether the mechanism of UPA's contraceptive action involves post-fertilization effects. METHODS In vitro and in vivo studies using cultured human endometrial cells and a pre-clinical rat model. RESULTS Endometrial cells treated with UPA showed changes in the expression of receptivity gene markers and a significant decrease in trophoblast spheroids attached to the cultured cells. In addition, administration of UPA to female unmated rats decreased the expression of implantation-related genes in the endometrium and inhibited the number of implantation sites in the mated group compared to the non-treated group. CONCLUSIONS These results support that UPA as an emergency contraceptive might have post-fertilization effects that may affect embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Ángel García-Uribe
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Hernández-Silva
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia Cecilia Vega
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - David Ordaz-Rosado
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Angélica Morales
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rogelio Hernández-Pando
- Laboratorio de Patología Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rocío García-Becerra
- Programa de Investigación de Cáncer de Mama y Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Lorenza Díaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Janice García-Quiroz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - David Barrera
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mayel Chirinos
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fernando Larrea
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico.
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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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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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Li RHW, Lo SST, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Fong CHY, Ho PC, Ng EHY. Oral emergency contraception with levonorgestrel plus piroxicam: a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2023; 402:851-858. [PMID: 37597523 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01240-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levonorgestrel, a standard drug for emergency contraception (EC), is not effective if administered post-ovulation. A cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor could contribute synergistic effects. We investigated whether a single 40 mg oral dose of piroxicam as co-treatment with levonorgestrel improved emergency contraceptive efficacy. METHODS This was a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial carried out in a major community sexual and reproductive health service in Hong Kong. Women who required levonorgestrel EC within 72 h of unprotected sexual intercourse were recruited and block-randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive a single supervised dose of levonorgestrel 1·5 mg plus either piroxicam 40 mg or placebo orally. Group assignment was concealed in opaque envelopes and masked to the women, clinicians, and investigators. At follow-up 1-2 weeks after the next expected period, the pregnancy status was noted by history or pregnancy test. The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of pregnancies prevented out of those expected based on an established model. All women randomised to receive the study drug and who completed the follow-up were analysed. The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03614494. FINDINGS 860 women (430 in each group) were recruited between Aug 20, 2018, and Aug 30, 2022. One (0·2%) of 418 efficacy-eligible women in the piroxicam group were pregnant, compared with seven (1·7%) of 418 in the placebo group (odds ratio 0·20 [95% CI 0·02-0·91]; p=0·036). Levonorgestrel plus piroxicam prevented 94·7% of expected pregnancies compared with 63·4% for levonorgestrel plus placebo. We noted no significant difference between the two groups in the proportion of women with advancement or delay of their next period, or in the adverse event profile. INTERPRETATION Oral piroxicam 40 mg co-administered with levonorgestrel improved efficacy of EC in our study. Piroxicam co-administration could be considered clinically where levonorgestrel EC is the option of choice. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Hang Wun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
| | - Sue Seen Tsing Lo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carol Ho Yi Fong
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Pak Chung Ho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Ernest Hung Yu Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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5
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Cameron S, Li HWR, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Is contragestion the future? BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023:bmjsrh-2022-201758. [PMID: 36805893 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2022-201758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Cameron
- Chalmers Sexual Health Centre, Edinburgh, UK
- Section of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Hang Wun Raymond Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
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Geng J, Cui C, Yin Y, Zhao Y, Zhang C. LncRNA NEAT1 affects endometrial receptivity by regulating HOXA10 promoter activity. Cell Cycle 2022; 21:1932-1944. [PMID: 35574918 PMCID: PMC9415530 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2022.2075198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is one of the effective methods to treat female infertility. Poor endometrial receptivity (ER) is an important factor leading to embryo implantation dysfunction, which can reduce pregnancy rate of IVF-ET. The mice model with embryo implantation dysfunction in vivo and attachment model of trophoblast (JAR) spheroids in vitro were constructed. The levels of lncRNA NEAT1, HOXA10, CTCF and markers of ER were detected. The cell proliferation was measured. The interaction between lncRNA NEAT1 and CTCF, HOXA10 promoter and CTCF were confirmed. LncRNA NEAT1 and HOXA10 levels in infertile patients and mice model with embryo implantation dysfunction were increased. In vitro experiments showed that down-regulation of lncRNA NEAT1 improved EECs proliferation and ER marker expressions. LncRNA NEAT1 could bind to CTCF, and CTCF could bind to HOXA10 promoter and down-regulate HOXA10 gene expression by regulating histone modification level. The lncRNA NEAT1/CTCF/HOXA10 signaling pathway regulated EECs proliferation and ER establishment in vitro and in vivo. Our study suggested that lncRNA NEAT1 could up-regulate HOXA10 promoter activity and its expression by combining with CTCF, thus improving EECs proliferation and ER establishment, and ultimately facilitating embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxuan Geng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chenchen Cui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yisha Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Chen X, Fernando SR, Lee YL, Yeung WSB, Ng EHY, Li RHW, Lee KF. High-Throughput In Vitro Screening Identified Nemadipine as a Novel Suppressor of Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095073. [PMID: 35563464 PMCID: PMC9103851 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Current contraceptive methods interfere with folliculogenesis, fertilization, and embryo implantation by physical or hormonal approaches. Although hormonal contraceptive pills are effective in regulating egg formation, they are less effective in preventing embryo implantation. To explore the use of non-hormonal compounds that suppress embryo implantation, we established a high-throughput spheroid-endometrial epithelial cell co-culture assay to screen the Library of Pharmacologically Active Compounds (LOPAC) for compounds that affect trophoblastic spheroid (blastocyst surrogate) attachment onto endometrial epithelial Ishikawa cells. We identified 174 out of 1280 LOPAC that significantly suppressed BeWo spheroid attachment onto endometrial Ishikawa cells. Among the top 20 compounds, we found the one with the lowest cytotoxicity in Ishikawa cells, P11B5, which was later identified as Nemadipine-A. Nemadipine-A at 10 µM also suppressed BeWo spheroid attachment onto endometrial epithelial RL95-2 cells and primary human endometrial epithelial cells (hEECs) isolated from LH +7/8-day endometrial biopsies. Mice at 1.5 days post coitum (dpc) treated with a transcervical injection of 100 µg/kg Nemadipine-A or 500 µg/kg PRI-724 (control, Wnt-inhibitor), but not 10 µg/kg Nemadipine-A, suppressed embryo implantation compared with controls. The transcript expressions of endometrial receptivity markers, integrin αV (ITGAV) and mucin 1 (MUC1), but not β-catenin (CTNNB1), were significantly decreased at 2.5 dpc in the uterus of treated mice compared with controls. The reduction of embryo implantation by Nemadipine-A was likely mediated through suppressing endometrial receptivity molecules ITGAV and MUC1. Nemadipine-A is a potential novel non-hormonal compound for contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.C.); (S.R.F.); (Y.-L.L.); (W.S.-B.Y.); (E.H.-Y.N.); (R.H.-W.L.)
| | - Sudini Ranshaya Fernando
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.C.); (S.R.F.); (Y.-L.L.); (W.S.-B.Y.); (E.H.-Y.N.); (R.H.-W.L.)
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Uva Wellassa University, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Yin-Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.C.); (S.R.F.); (Y.-L.L.); (W.S.-B.Y.); (E.H.-Y.N.); (R.H.-W.L.)
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - William Shu-Biu Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.C.); (S.R.F.); (Y.-L.L.); (W.S.-B.Y.); (E.H.-Y.N.); (R.H.-W.L.)
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Ernest Hung-Yu Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.C.); (S.R.F.); (Y.-L.L.); (W.S.-B.Y.); (E.H.-Y.N.); (R.H.-W.L.)
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Raymond Hang-Wun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.C.); (S.R.F.); (Y.-L.L.); (W.S.-B.Y.); (E.H.-Y.N.); (R.H.-W.L.)
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.C.); (S.R.F.); (Y.-L.L.); (W.S.-B.Y.); (E.H.-Y.N.); (R.H.-W.L.)
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +852-28161947
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Yao C, Lu L, Ji Y, Zhang Y, Li W, Shi Y, Liu J, Sun M, Xia F. Hypo-Hydroxymethylation of Nobox is Associated with Ovarian Dysfunction in Rat Offspring Exposed to Prenatal Hypoxia. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:1424-1436. [PMID: 35257353 PMCID: PMC9005429 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00866-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal hypoxia (PH) is a common feature of a suboptimal intrauterine environment affecting the development of fetuses. Whether PH leads to abnormal ovary development is not yet clear. This study investigated ovarian function in offspring exposed to PH and the potential underlying molecular mechanisms. SD female rats (n = 12 per group) at 9 weeks of age were housed in individual cages (21% O2). After the pregnant rats were exposed to hypoxia (10.5% oxygen) from embryonic day (E) 5 to E21, PH offspring were generated. All animals maintained normoxia during lactation. The number of follicles was counted in female offspring at 3 months under an optical microscope. The expression of Nobox, Gdf9, and Tets was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot. Global DNA hydroxymethylation was measured by dot blot. The hydroxymethylation level of the Nobox gene was evaluated with an NGS-based multiple targeted CpG hydroxymethylation analysis method. Body weight and ovary weight were significantly decreased in the PH group compared with the control group. PH offspring have abnormal estrous cycle, decreased serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and increased serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and follicular atresia, which are consistent with the clinical manifestations in patients with ovarian dysfunction. In terms of mechanism, the expression of Nobox was significantly decreased in the PH group. Subsequent high-throughput sequencing results showed that the level of hydroxymethylation in the candidate region of the Nobox gene was reduced. Cultured cells treated with hypoxia exhibited lower levels of both 5hmC and Nobox, while vitamin C, a coactivator of Tets, rescued hypo-hydroxymethylation and increased the expression level of Nobox. This study indicated that PH could cause hypo-hydroxymethylation of Nobox through epigenetic regulation and may consequently contribute to ovarian dysfunction in adult rat offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changfang Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006 Jiangsu China
- Obstetrics of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213000 Jiangsu China
| | - Likui Lu
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Yiting Ji
- Reproductive Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006 Jiangsu China
| | - Yingying Zhang
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Weisheng Li
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Yajun Shi
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Jinliu Liu
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Miao Sun
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Fei Xia
- Reproductive Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006 Jiangsu China
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Liang Y, Shuai Q, Wang Y, Jin S, Feng Z, Chen B, Liang T, Liu Z, Zhao H, Chen Z, Wang C, Xie J. 1-Nitropyrene exposure impairs embryo implantation through disrupting endometrial receptivity genes expression and producing excessive ROS. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 227:112939. [PMID: 34717220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Haze problem is an important factor threatening human health. PM2.5 is the main culprit haze. 1-Nitropyrene (1-NP) is the main nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, the toxic component of PM2.5 particles. The effects of 1-NP on various organs and reproductive health have been extensively and deeply studied, but the effects of 1-NP on embryo implantation and endometrial receptivity remain to be determined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the adverse effects of 1-NP on mouse embryo implantation and human endometrial receptivity. In early pregnancy, CD1 mice were given 2 mg/kg 1-NP by oral gavage, which resulted in a decreased embryo implantation number on day 5, inhibited leukemic inhibitory factor (LIF)/STAT3 pathway, decreased expression of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor, and disrupted regulation of uterine cell proliferation. In addition, in a human in vitro implantation model, 1-NP was found to significantly inhibit the adhesion rate between trophoblast spheroids and endometrial epithelial cells, possibly by inhibiting the expression of receptivity molecules in Ishikawa cells. Promoting reactive oxygen species (ROS) production may be an additional mechanism by which it inhibits trophoblast spheroid adhesion. In this study, we used an in vivo mouse pregnancy model and an in vitro human embryo implantation model to demonstrate that 1-NP can impair endometrial receptivity and compromise embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Liang
- Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Qizhi Shuai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Shanshan Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zihan Feng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Binghong Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Ting Liang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhizhen Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhaoyang Chen
- Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Chunfang Wang
- Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory for Cellular Physiology of Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China.
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Kamaraju S, Fowler AM, Weil E, Wisinski KB, Truong TH, Lehr M, Chaudhary LN, Cheng YC, Chitambar CR, Rui H, Yee D, Lange C. Leveraging Antiprogestins in the Treatment of Metastatic Breast Cancer. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6178343. [PMID: 33735382 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although incurable, the prognosis for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) has considerably improved with the approvals of multiple targeted and cytotoxic therapies. For hormone receptor-positive (HR+), ie, estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor positive (ER+/PgR+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (ie, ERBB2 gene nonamplified or HER2-) MBC, current approved treatment options include palliative endocrine therapy (ET), cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK 4/6) inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors, and PI3 kinase inhibitors. Most treatments target ER+ disease regardless of PgR status. Although the presence of PgR is crucial for ER+ cell proliferation in both normal and malignant mammary tissue, currently, there are no approved treatments that specifically target PgR. Recent literature has demonstrated the potential of antiprogestins in the treatment of MBC both in preclinical and clinical studies. Antiprogestins, including selective PgR modulators (SPRMs) that act as PgR antagonists, are a promising class of therapeutics for overcoming endocrine resistance in patients who develop activating estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) gene mutations after prior endocrine therapy. Herein, we summarize the role of PgR and antiprogestins in the treatment of MBC. Other aspects on the use of functional imaging, clinical trials incorporating novel antiprogestins, and potential treatment combinations to overcome endocrine resistance will be briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sailaja Kamaraju
- Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Amy M Fowler
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology Medical College of Wisconsin, Cancer Center, 4th Fl Administrative Offices, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Elizabeth Weil
- Froedtert Health, Cancer Center, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Kari B Wisinski
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology Medical College of Wisconsin, Cancer Center, 4th Fl Administrative Offices, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Thu H Truong
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Martin Lehr
- Context Therapeutics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lubna N Chaudhary
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology Medical College of Wisconsin, Cancer Center, 4th Fl Administrative Offices, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Yee Chung Cheng
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA
- Division of Hematology-Oncology Medical College of Wisconsin, Cancer Center, 4th Fl Administrative Offices, Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | | | - Hallgeir Rui
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin , Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Douglas Yee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Carol Lange
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Fernando SR, Lee CL, Wong BP, Cheng KW, Lee YL, Chan MC, Ng EH, Yeung WS, Lee KF. Expression of membrane protein disulphide isomerase A1 (PDIA1) disrupt a reducing microenvironment in endometrial epithelium for embryo implantation. Exp Cell Res 2021; 405:112665. [PMID: 34111473 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112665] [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: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Various proteins in the endometrial epithelium are differentially expressed in the receptive phase and play a pivotal role in embryo implantation. The Protein Disulphide Isomerase (PDI) family contains 21 members that function as chaperone proteins through their redox activities. Although total PDIA1 protein expression was high in four common receptive (Ishikawa and RL95-2) and non-receptive (HEC1-B and AN3CA) endometrial epithelial cell lines, significantly higher membrane PDIA1 expression was found in non-receptive AN3CA cells. In Ishikawa cells, oestrogen up-regulated while progesterone down-regulated membrane PDIA1 expression. Moreover, mid-luteal phase hormone treatment down-regulated membrane PDIA1 expression. Furthermore, oestrogen at 10 nM reduced spheroid attachment on Ishikawa cells. Interestingly, inhibition of PDIA1 function by bacitracin or 16F16 increased the spheroid attachment rate onto non-receptive AN3CA cells. Over-expression of PDIA1 in receptive Ishikawa cells reduced the spheroid attachment rate and significantly down-regulated integrin β3 levels, but not integrin αV and E-cadherin. Addition of reducing agent TCEP induced a sulphydryl-rich microenvironment and increased spheroid attachment onto AN3CA cells and human primary endometrial epithelial cells collected at LH+7/8 days. The luminal epithelial cells from human endometrial biopsies had higher PDIA1 protein expression in the proliferative phase than in the secretory phase. Our findings suggest oestrogen and progesterone regulate PDIA1 expression, resulting in the differential expressions of membrane PDIA1 protein to modulate endometrial receptivity. This suggests that membrane PDIA1 expression prior to embryo transfer could be used to predict endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation in women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudini R Fernando
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal Science & Export Agriculture, Uva Wellassa University, Badulla, 50000, Sri Lanka
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518053, China
| | - Benancy Pc Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Kiu-Wai Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Yin-Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518053, China
| | - Ming-Chung Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Ernest Hy Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518053, China
| | - William Sb Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518053, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518053, China.
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12
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Wang Z, Kottawatta KSA, Kodithuwakku SP, Fernando TS, Lee YL, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Lee KF. The fungicide Mancozeb reduces spheroid attachment onto endometrial epithelial cells through downregulation of estrogen receptor β and integrin β3 in Ishikawa cells. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 208:111606. [PMID: 33396126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mancozeb is a metal-containing ethylene bis-dithiocarbamate fungicide widely used in agriculture. Ethylene thiourea (ETU) is the primary metabolite of Mancozeb. Mancozeb has been associated with spontaneous abortions and abnormal menstruation in women. However, the effects of Mancozeb and ETU on embryo attachment remain unknown. The human blastocyst surrogate trophoblastic spheroids (JEG-3), endometrial epithelial surrogate adenocarcinoma cells (Ishikawa), or human primary endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) monolayer were used in the spheroid attachment models. Ishikawa and EECs were pretreated with different concentrations of Mancozeb or ETU for 48 h before the attachment assay. Gene expression profiles of Ishikawa cells were examined to understand how Mancozeb modulates endometrial receptivity with Microarray. The genes altered by Mancozeb were confirmed by qPCR and compared with the ETU treated groups. Mancozeb and ETU treatment inhibited cell viability at 10 μg/mL and 5000 µg/mL, respectively. At non-cytotoxic concentrations, Mancozeb at 3 μg/mL and ETU at 300 μg/mL reduced JEG-3 spheroid attachment onto Ishikawa cells. A similar result was observed with human primary endometrial epithelial cells. Mancozeb at 3 μg/mL modified the transcription of 158 genes by at least 1.5-fold in Microarray analysis. The expression of 10 differentially expressed genes were confirmed by qPCR. Furthermore, Mancozeb decreased spheroid attachment possibly through downregulating the expression of endometrial estrogen receptor β and integrin β3, but not mucin 1. These results were confirmed in both overexpression and knockdown experiments and co-culture assay. Mancozeb but not its metabolite ETU reduced spheroid attachment through modulating gene expression profile and decreasing estrogen receptor β and integrin β3 expression of endometrial epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kottawattage S A Kottawatta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Department of Veterinary Public Health and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, The University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Suranga P Kodithuwakku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Thevarathanthrige S Fernando
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yin-Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen, China.
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13
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Li Y, Cao L, Qian Z, Guo Q, Niu X, Huang L. Mifepristone regulates Tregs function mediated by dendritic cells through suppressing the expression of TGF-β. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2021; 43:85-93. [PMID: 33406939 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2020.1867998] [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] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have demonstrated that mifepristone in the daily low-dose affects the function of endometrium. These researches also implied an alteration of endometrium immune balance, which might be involved in regulating endometrial function. However, the detailed mechanisms remain to be further explored. METHODS In this study, the expressions of CD80, CD86, and ICAM-1 in dendritic cells (DCs), which were stimulated with different concentrations of mifepristone (20, 65, and 200 nM), were detected by FACS. After that, we further evaluated the expression of Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) and IL-10 in Tregs, which co-cultured with mifepristone treated DCs. In mechanism, we compared the indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and TGF-β expression with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS The results indicated that mifepristone promoted the expressions of CD80, CD86, and ICAM-1 in a dosage dependent manner. Reversely, FOXP3 and IL-10 expression levels in Tregs co-cultured with mifepristone-treated DCs were significantly decreased compared with those co-cultured with nontreated DC. Furthermore, a significant reduce in IDO and TGF-β expression was observed in DCs treated with mifepristone. By using the IDO inhibitor (1-methyl tryptophan, 1-MT) or TGF-b supplement, we confirmed that TGF-β, but not IDO could rescue the downregulation of FOXP3 and IL-10 in Tregs co-cultured with mifepristone treated DCs. All of these results suggest that mifepristone may regulate DC function by decreasing TGF-β expression, which further results in the downregulations of FOXP3 and IL-10 in Tregs. CONCLUSION Therefore, our research provides a theoretical basis for a potentially clinical application of mifepristone as a novel contraceptive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghua Li
- Hangzhou Women's Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lili Cao
- Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhida Qian
- Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingyun Guo
- Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaocen Niu
- Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lili Huang
- Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Regulates Ishikawa Cell Proliferation through the TrkB-ERK1/2 Signaling Pathway. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121645. [PMID: 33302387 PMCID: PMC7762527 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Endometrial regulation is a necessary condition for maintaining normal uterine physiology, which is driven by many growth factors. Growth factors produced in the endometrium are thought to be related to the proliferation of endometrial cells induced by estradiol-17β (E2). In this study, we found that E2 can induce the secretion of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Ishikawa cells (the cells of an endometrial cell line). Furthermore, Ishikawa cells were used in exploring the regulatory role of BDNF in endometrial cells and to clarify the potential mechanism. (2) Methods: Ishikawa cells were treated with different concentrations of BDNF (100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 ng/mL). The mRNA expression levels of various proliferation-related genes were detected through quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and the expression of various proliferation-related genes was detected by knocking out BDNF or inhibiting the binding of BDNF to its receptor TrkB. The expression levels of various proliferation-related genes were detected by performing Western blotting on the TrkB-ERK1/2 signaling pathway. (3) Results: Exogenous BDNF promoted the growth of the Ishikawa cells, but the knocking down of BDNF or the inhibition of TrkB reduced their growth. Meanwhile, BDNF enhanced cell viability and increased the expression of proliferation-related genes, including cyclin D1 and cyclin E2. More importantly, the BDNF-induced proliferation of the Ishikawa cells involved the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. (4) Conclusions: The stimulating effect of exogenous E2 on the expression of BDNF in the uterus and the action of BDNF promoted the proliferation of the Ishikawa cells through the TrkB-ERK1/2 signal pathway.
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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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Wagner JK, Dathe K, Schaefer C, Hoeltzenbein M. Ulipristal acetate and pregnancy outcome-an observational study. Hum Reprod 2020; 35:751-758. [PMID: 32322890 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the failure of the selective progesterone receptor modulator ulipristal acetate (UPA) as emergency contraception (EC; 30 mg, single) or inadvertent exposure for myoma treatment (5 mg/d) in pregnancy associated with a higher risk of birth defects, spontaneous abortion (SAB) or elective termination of pregnancy (ETOP)? SUMMARY ANSWER We did not find an increased risk for birth defects, SABs or ETOPs after UPA exposure during implantation and early embryogenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Pregnancy outcome data after exposure to UPA are very limited. In cases of EC failure or unplanned pregnancy during myoma treatment, women need well-grounded risk assessment to minimize anxiety and prevent unjustified termination of pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Observational study of prospectively ascertained pregnancies from the German Embryotox institute with UPA exposure (EC, n = 95; myoma, n = 7). Four retrospectively reported pregnancy outcomes were evaluated separately. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 226 requests on ulipristal were directed to the German Embryotox institute during the study period 2010-2018. Outcomes of pregnancies exposed-(i) precycle, (ii) preconceptional or (iii) first trimester-were ascertained using standardized questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were applied. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Failed EC with UPA resulted in 95 prospectively ascertained pregnancies, of which 56 had completed follow-up: 37 live births, 7 SABs and 12 ETOPs. There was no major birth defect. Just 34% of women had taken UPA during the fertile window. Seven prospectively enrolled pregnancies were treated for myoma and had known pregnancy outcomes: five healthy live births and two SABs. Among the four retrospectively reported pregnancies after EC, there was one child diagnosed with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our limited sample size does not allow concluding safety of UPA use in pregnancy. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We provide a preliminary basis for reassuring women who wish to carry their pregnancy to term after EC or myoma treatment with UPA. However, because of the report of a BWS after UPA exposure, a possible epigenetic effect could not be excluded and requires further evaluation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was performed with financial support from the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM). All authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered with the German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00015155).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Katharina Wagner
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Pharmakovigilanz- und Beratungszentrum für Embryonaltoxikologie, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katarina Dathe
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Pharmakovigilanz- und Beratungszentrum für Embryonaltoxikologie, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christof Schaefer
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Pharmakovigilanz- und Beratungszentrum für Embryonaltoxikologie, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Hoeltzenbein
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Pharmakovigilanz- und Beratungszentrum für Embryonaltoxikologie, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Berlin, Germany
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17
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Ran J, Yang HH, Huang HP, Huang HL, Xu Z, Zhang W, Wang ZX. ZEB1 modulates endometrial receptivity through epithelial-mesenchymal transition in endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 525:699-705. [PMID: 32139122 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.02.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in carcinogenesis, but its role in embryo implantation has not yet been identified. The present study sought to verify if ZEB1 plays a role in endometrial receptivity through regulation of EMT during embryo implantation. Endometrial epithelium from sixty patients in phase of the menstrual cycle (including proliferative and secretory phases) were collected for assessment of mRNA/protein expression. In human endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line RL95-2, ZEB1 expression was suppressed by using shRNA, and the cell function and mRNA/protein expression were evaluated. RL95-2 cells and human choriocarcinoma cell line JAR were co-cultured to establish embryo implantation model in vitro. The results showed that, ZEB1 was highly expressed at both mRNA and protein levels in human endometrium during mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. Knockdown of ZEB1 expression in RL95-2 cells attenuated cell growth, migration, DNA replication, and altered expression of E-cadherin and vimentin at both mRNA and protein levels. Interestingly, knockdown of ZEB1 expression in RL95-2 cells potently suppressed JAR spheroid attachment in vitro (P < 0.01). Additionally, the. Conclusively, knockdown of ZEB1 suppressed embryo implantation in vitro, paralleled with alteration of EMT markers. ZEB1 is likely to modulate endometrial receptivity through promotion of EMT, that could be crucial for embryo implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ran
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, PR China
| | - Huan-Huan Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, PR China
| | - Hui-Ping Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, PR China
| | - Hong-Lang Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, PR China
| | - Zhong Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, PR China
| | - Wei Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, PR China; Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, PR China.
| | - Zhan-Xiang Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, PR China.
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Lv CX, Duan H, Wang S, Gan L, Xu Q. Exosomes Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Proliferation of Allogeneic Endometrial Stromal Cells. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1372-1381. [PMID: 32006246 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00165-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) have been proposed as an ideal source for cell-based therapy to promote endometrial repair and regeneration. Furthermore, increasing evidence has indicated that UCMSC-derived exosomes (UCMSC-exos) act as important paracrine mediators to recapitulate the features of MSCs and may play a vital role in this process. UCMSCs and human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were isolated and characterized. ESCs were cocultured with UCMSCs and further assessed by flow cytometry and EdU incorporation assays. UCMSC-exos were extracted by differential ultracentrifugation and identified by western blots, transmission electron microscopy, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. The internalization of UCMSC-exos by ESCs was observed under a confocal microscope. ESCs were treated with UCMSC-exos at different concentrations and for different durations, with cell viability evaluated by CCK-8 assays. The cell cycle analysis showed that the percentage of ESCs in S phase significantly increased after coculture with UCMSCs, whereas it significantly decreased after inhibition of UCMSC-exo secretions. EdU incorporation assays also showed a similar trend. The isolated UCMSC-exos had a typical cup-shaped morphology with a monolayer membrane, expressed the specific exosomal markers Alix, CD63, and TSG101 and were approximately 60 to 200 nm in diameter. The PKH26-labeled UCMSC-exos were incorporated into ESCs. Moreover, UCMSC-exos enhanced the cell growth and viability of ESCs in a dose-dependent manner, and the effects occurred in a short period of time. UCMSC-exos promote the proliferation of ESCs in a dose-dependent manner; thus, they could be used as a potential treatment to promote endometrial repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Xiao Lv
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Gan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Hu W, Liang YX, Luo JM, Gu XW, Chen ZC, Fu T, Zhu YY, Lin S, Diao HL, Jia B, Yang ZM. Nucleolar stress regulation of endometrial receptivity in mouse models and human cell lines. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:831. [PMID: 31685803 PMCID: PMC6828743 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-2071-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation is essential to the successful establishment of pregnancy. A previous study has demonstrated that actinomycin D (ActD) could initiate the activation of mouse delayed implantation. However, the mechanism underlying this activation remains to be elucidated. A low dose of ActD is an inducer of nucleolar stress. This study was to examine whether nucleolar stress is involved in embryo implantation. We showed that nucleolar stress occurred when delayed implantation was activated by ActD in mice. ActD treatment also stimulated the Lif-STAT3 pathway. During early pregnancy, nucleolar stress was detected in the luminal epithelial cells during the receptive phase. Blastocyst-derived lactate could induce nucleolar stress in cultured luminal epithelial cells. The inhibition of nucleophosmin1 (NPM1), which was a marker of nucleolar stress, compromised uterine receptivity and decreased the implantation rates in pregnant mice. To translate these mouse data into humans, we examined nucleolar stress in human endometrium. Our data demonstrated that ActD-induced nucleolar stress had positive effects on the embryo attachment by upregulating IL32 expression in non-receptive epithelial cells rather than receptive epithelial cells. Our data should be the first to demonstrate that nucleolar stress is present during early pregnancy and is able to induce embryo implantation in both mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Liang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China.,Laboratory Animal Center, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal Science and Animal Model of Human Disease, Shanxi Medical University, 030001, Taiyuan, China.,Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, 030001, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jia-Mei Luo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Wei Gu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi-Cong Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Fu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Yuan Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Lu Diao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, China
| | - Bo Jia
- Jiangxi Provincial Institute of Occupational Medicine, 330006, Nanchang, China
| | - Zeng-Ming Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, China.
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20
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Li HWR, Resche-Rigon M, Bagchi IC, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Glasier A. Does ulipristal acetate emergency contraception (ella®) interfere with implantation? Contraception 2019; 100:386-390. [DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2019.07.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Cui D, Sui L, Han X, Zhang M, Guo Z, Chen W, Yu X, Sun Q, Dong M, Ma T, Kong Y. Aquaporin-3 mediates ovarian steroid hormone-induced motility of endometrial epithelial cells. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2060-2073. [PMID: 30285121 PMCID: PMC6195804 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does aquaporin-3 (AQP3) affect endometrial receptivity? SUMMARY ANSWER AQP3, which is regulated by the combination and estrogen (E2) and progesterone (P4), induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of endometrial epithelial cells. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryo implantation is an extremely complex process, and endometrial receptivity is essential for successful embryo implantation. Estrogen and progesterone regulate endometrial receptivity. AQP3, which is regulated by estrogen (E2), increases cell migration and invasion ability by regulating the expression of EMT-related factors and influencing the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study investigated the pathophysiological significance of AQP3 in human endometrial function during different phases of the menstrual cycle. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS AQP3 expression levels during different phases of the menstrual cycle were measured using immunohistochemical assays. In cells of different receptivity (high-receptive RL95-2 cells and low-receptive HEC-1A cells), the expression of AQP3 was measured using western blotting, qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence assays. Activities of AQP3, and its regulation by E2 and P4, were studied through in-vitro experiments using RL95-2 cells. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE AQP3 expression in the mid- and late-secretory phases of the human endometrium is significantly higher than in other phases. Since AQP3 expression levels were higher in RL95-2 cells than in HEC-1A cells, mechanisms of AQP3 regulation by E2 and P4 were studied using RL95-2 cells. We provided the first report that P4 up-regulates AQP3 by directly targeting the promoter of the AQP3 gene. The up-regulation of AQP3 expression by a combination of E2 and P4 is significantly higher than that caused by either E2 or P4 alone. Together E2 and P4 promote RL95-2 cell migration and invasion by inducing EMT through AQP3. We also found that AQP3 co-localizes with ezrin and affects the formation of filopodia and lamellipodia during the E2 and P4-induced EMT process but has no effect on the expression of ezrin and F-actin. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION It is still unclear whether AQP3 is a main regulator of endometrial receptivity or one of several factors influencing the process. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Further investigation on AQP3 may contribute to a greater understanding of endometrial receptivity. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Scientific Grants of China (No. 31570798), the Program for Liaoning Excellent Talents in University (LR2017042), the Doctoral Scientific Research Foundation of Liaoning province (201601236), and the Liaoning Provincial Program for Top Discipline of Basic Medical Sciences. There are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Cui
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Linlin Sui
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Xiao Han
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Zhenzhen Guo
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Wanfang Chen
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Xinxin Yu
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Qiannan Sun
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Ming Dong
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Tonghui Ma
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Kong
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
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Gómez-Elías MD, May M, Munuce MJ, Bahamondes L, Cuasnicú PS, Cohen DJ. A single post-ovulatory dose of ulipristal acetate impairs post-fertilization events in mice. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 25:257-264. [PMID: 30824928 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is a selective progesterone receptor modulator used for emergency contraception that has proven to be highly effective in preventing pregnancy when taken up to 120 h after unprotected sexual intercourse. Even though it may act mainly by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, additional effects of UPA on post-fertilization events cannot be excluded. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether a single post-ovulatory dose of UPA could prevent pregnancy using the mouse as a pre-clinical model. Mated females received a single dose of UPA (40 mg/kg) on Day E1.5 or E2.5 (E0.5: copulatory plug detection) and post-fertilization events were evaluated. Our studies revealed that UPA administration produced a significant decrease in the number of conceptuses compared to control. Moreover, UPA-treated females exhibited a lower number of early implantation sites on Day E5.5, despite normal in vivo embryo development and transport to the uterus at E3.5. Administration of UPA produced histological and functional alterations in the uterine horns, i.e., a dyssynchronous growth between endometrial glands and stroma, with non-physiological combination of both fractions compared to controls, and a completely impaired ability to respond to an artificial decidualization stimulus. Altogether, our results show that the administration of a single post-ovulatory dose of UPA impairs mouse pregnancy probably due to an effect on embryo-uterine interaction, supporting additional effects of the drug on post-fertilization events. Although these studies cannot be performed with human samples, our results with the mouse model provide new insights into the mechanism of action of UPA as an emergency contraception method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías D Gómez-Elías
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María May
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María José Munuce
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Biochemical Chemistry Area, School of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Luis Bahamondes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Patricia S Cuasnicú
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Débora J Cohen
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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23
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Li HWR, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Mechanisms of action of emergency contraception pills. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2019; 24:11-12. [PMID: 30664367 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2018.1555663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hang Wun Raymond Li
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital , Hong Kong.,b Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center , The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital , Shenzhen , PR China
| | - K Gemzell-Danielsson
- b Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center , The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital , Shenzhen , PR China.,c Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska Institutet , Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
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24
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Wang Q, Li D, Cai B, Chen Q, Li C, Wu Y, Jin L, Wang X, Zhang X, Zhang F. Whole-exome sequencing reveals SALL4 variants in premature ovarian insufficiency: an update on genotype-phenotype correlations. Hum Genet 2019; 138:83-92. [PMID: 30603774 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-018-1962-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a severe female disorder characterized by primary or secondary amenorrhea before 40 years of age. Genetic factors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of POI, but known POI-associated genes account for only a small fraction of heritability. Here, we performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) to explore pathogenic genes in Han Chinese subjects with POI. Intriguingly, we identified novel or rare heterozygous missense variants of SALL4 (spalt-like transcription factor 4) in 3 (6%) of 50 POI subjects. The SALL4 c.541G>A and c.2279C>T variants were paternally inherited, while c.1790A>G was inherited from an affected mother with early menopause. SALL4 encodes a transcription factor that is highly expressed in oocytes and early embryos. Our in vitro functional assays suggested that all of these SALL4 missense variants had significantly increased SALL4 protein expression with enhanced regulatory activity in regard to its downstream target POU5F1 compared to that of wild-type SALL4. Notably, previous studies demonstrated the genetic involvement of SALL4 loss-of-function variants in Okihiro syndrome and related syndromic developmental disorders. Through our analysis of genotype-phenotype correlations, we suggest that different variation types of SALL4 might have different effects on SALL4 activity, resulting in phenotypic variability. Our findings highlight the genetic contribution of SALL4 missense variants with enhanced regulatory activities to POI and underscore the importance of variant classification and evaluation for molecular diagnosis and genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211116, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Da Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Baozhu Cai
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qing Chen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211116, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Caihua Li
- Genesky Biotechnologies Inc., Shanghai, 201315, China
| | - Yanhua Wu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Li Jin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiuxia Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Xiaojin Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211116, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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25
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Xu B, Zhou M, Wang J, Zhang D, Guo F, Si C, Leung PCK, Zhang A. Increased AIF-1-mediated TNF-α expression during implantation phase in IVF cycles with GnRH antagonist protocol. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1270-1280. [PMID: 29897458 PMCID: PMC6012176 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is allograft inflammatory factor-1 (AIF-1), a cytokine associated with inflammation and allograft rejection, aberrantly elevated in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol with potential effects on endometrial receptivity? SUMMARY ANSWER Our findings indicated AIF-1 is increased in IVF cycles with GnRH antagonist protocol and mediates greater TNF-α expression during implantation phase, which may be unfavorable for embryo implantation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Studies have shown that GnRH antagonist protocol cycles have lower implantation and clinical pregnancy rates than GnRH agonist long protocol cycles. Endometrial receptivity but not embryo quality is a key factor contributing to this phenomenon; however, the mechanism is still unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Implantation and pregnancy rates were studied in 238 patients undergoing their first cycle of IVF/ICSI between 2012 and 2014. Forty of these patients opted to have no fresh embryo replacement and were divided into two equal groups: (i) GnRH antagonist protocol and (ii) GnRH agonist long protocol, group 3 included 20 infertile women with a tubal factor in untreated cycles. During the same interval, endometrial tissues were taken from 18 infertile women with a tubal factor in the early proliferative phase, late proliferative phase, and mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle (n = 6/group). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Microarray analysis, RT-qPCR, Western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry were used to investigate the expression levels of AIF-1 and the related cytokines (TNF-α, IL1β, IL1RA, IL6, IL12, IL15 and IL18). The effect of AIF-1 on uterine receptivity was modeled using in vitro adhesion experiments (coculture of JAR cells and Ishikawa cells). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The expression of AIF-1 was the highest in early proliferative phase, decreasing thereafter in the late proliferative phase, and almost disappearing in the mid-secretory phase, indicating that low AIF-1 expression might be important for embryo implantation during implantation phase. Microarray results revealed that AIF-1 was upregulated in the antagonist group compared with the control group (fold change [FC] = 3.75) and the agonist (FC = 2.20) group. The raw microarray data and complete gene expression table were uploaded to GEO under the accession number of GSE107914. Both the mRNA and protein expression levels of AIF-1 and TNF-α were the higher in the antagonist group than in the other two groups (P < 0.05) which did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). The protein levels of TNF-α in both Ishikawa cells and primary endometrial cells were significantly increased (P < 0.05) at 96 h after transfection with the AIF-1 expression vector, indicating that TNF-α was mediated by AIF-1 in endometrial cells. Overexpression of AIF-1 in Ishikawa cells inhibited adhesion of JAR cells to them. Thus, increased AIF-1 might inhibit adhesion during implantation via raised TNF-α. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The sample size of the microarray was small, which might weaken the accuracy of our results; however, the sample size of RT-qPCR and the Western blotting assays were sufficient to compensate for this deficiency in our study. In addition, the aberrant AIF-1 and thus TNF-α expression is one of many factors that may contribute to limiting implantation success. Therefore, further extensive in vitro mechanistic and in vivo animal studies are needed to assess the actual functional impact of this pathway. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Anti-TNF-α therapy might mitigate the adverse effects of GnRH antagonist on endometrial receptivity and improve the implantation rate in GnRH antagonist protocols in IVF. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Grant numbers 81771656 and 81370763; Clinical research special fund of Chinese Medical Association, Grant number 16020480664; Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medicine-Engineering Fund, Grant number YG2017ZD11 and YG2017MS57; and the Merck-Serono China Research Fund for Fertility Agreement. P.C.K.L. is supported by a Canadian Institutes of Health Research Foundation Scheme Grant 143317. None of the authors has any competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bufang Xu
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingjuan Zhou
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingwen Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Guo
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenchen Si
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Aijun Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, China
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26
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Chen B, Li L, Wang J, Li T, Pan H, Liu B, Zhou Y, Cao Y, Wang B. Consanguineous familial study revealed biallelic FIGLA mutation associated with premature ovarian insufficiency. J Ovarian Res 2018; 11:48. [PMID: 29914564 PMCID: PMC6006558 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0413-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To dissect the genetic alteration in two sisters with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) from a consanguineous family. Methods Whole-exome sequencing technology was used in the POI proband, bioinformatics analysis was carried out to identify the potential genetic cause in this pedigree. Sanger sequencing analyses were performed to validate the segregation of the variant within the pedigree. In silico analysis was also used to predict the effect and pathogenicity of the variant. Results Whole-exome sequencing analysis identified novel and rare homozygous mutation associated with POI, namely mutation in FIGLA (c.2 T > C, start codon shift). This homozygous mutation was also harbored by the proband’s sister with POI and was segregated within the consanguineous pedigree. The mutation in the start codon of the FIGLA gene alters the open reading frame, leading to a FIGLA knock-out like phenotype. Conclusions Biallelic mutations in FIGLA may be the cause of POI. This study will aid researchers and clinicians in genetic counseling of POI and provides new insights into understanding the mode of genetic inheritance of FIGLA mutations in POI pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beili Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Shushan, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao, Youanmenwai, Fengtai, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Tengyan Li
- Center for Genetics, National Research Institute for Family Planning, 12 Dahuisi Road, Haidian, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Hong Pan
- Center for Genetics, National Research Institute for Family Planning, 12 Dahuisi Road, Haidian, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Beihong Liu
- Center for Genetics, National Research Institute for Family Planning, 12 Dahuisi Road, Haidian, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yiran Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Shushan, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Shushan, Hefei, 230022, China. .,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Shushan, Hefei, 230032, China. .,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Meishan Road, Shushan, Hefei, 230027, China.
| | - Binbin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Shushan, Hefei, 230022, China. .,Center for Genetics, National Research Institute for Family Planning, 12 Dahuisi Road, Haidian, Beijing, 100081, China. .,Key Laboratory of Family planning and Reproductive Genetics, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Heb Research institute For Family Planning, Beijing, 050071, People's Republic of China.
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