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Qi J, Li X, Cao Y, Long Y, Lai J, Yao Y, Meng Y, Wang Y, Chen XD, Vankelecom H, Bian X, Cui W, Sun Y. Locationally activated PRP via an injectable dual-network hydrogel for endometrial regeneration. Biomaterials 2024; 309:122615. [PMID: 38759486 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Enhancing the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for endometrial regeneration is challenging, due to its limited mechanical properties and burst release of growth factors. Here, we proposed an injectable interpenetrating dual-network hydrogel that can locationally activate PRP within the uterine cavity, sustained release growth factors and further address the insufficient therapeutic efficacy. Locational activation of PRP is achieved using the dual-network hydrogel. The phenylboronic acid (PBA) modified methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HAMA) dispersion chelates Ca2+ by carboxy groups and polyphenol groups, and in situ crosslinked with PRP-loaded polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) dispersion by dynamic borate ester bonds thus establishing the soft hydrogel. Subsequently, in situ photo-crosslinking technology is employed to enhance the mechanical performance of hydrogels by initiating free radical polymerization of carbon-carbon double bonds to form a dense network. The PRP-hydrogel significantly promoted the endometrial cell proliferation, exhibited strong pro-angiogenic effects, and down-regulated the expression of collagen deposition genes by inhibiting the TGF-β1-SMAD2/3 pathway in vitro. In vivo experiments using a rat intrauterine adhesion (IUA) model showed that the PRP-hydrogel significantly promoted endometrial regeneration and restored uterine functionality. Furthermore, rats treated with the PRP-hydrogel displayed an increase in the number of embryos, litter size, and birth rate, which was similar to normal rats. Overall, this injectable interpenetrating dual-network hydrogel, capable of locational activation of PRP, suggests a new therapeutic approach for endometrial repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Qi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; Laboratory of Key Technology and Materials in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yumeng Cao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yijing Long
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Junliang Lai
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yejie Yao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yiwen Meng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiao-Dong Chen
- Department of Comprehensive Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Research Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie Murphy VA Medical Center, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Hugo Vankelecom
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, Research Unit of Stem Cell Research, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Xuejiao Bian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, Research Unit of Stem Cell Research, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wenguo Cui
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Yun Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.
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Gong Y, Liu M, Zhang Q, Li J, Cai H, Ran J, Ma L, Ma Y, Quan S. Lysine acetyltransferase 14 mediates TGF-β-induced fibrosis in ovarian endometrioma via co-operation with serum response factor. J Transl Med 2024; 22:561. [PMID: 38867256 PMCID: PMC11167823 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05243-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrogenesis within ovarian endometrioma (endometrioma), mainly induced by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), is characterized by myofibroblast over-activation and excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, contributing to endometrioma-associated symptoms such as infertility by impairing ovarian reserve and oocyte quality. However, the precise molecular mechanisms that underpin the endometrioma- associated fibrosis progression induced by TGF-β remain poorly understood. METHODS The expression level of lysine acetyltransferase 14 (KAT14) was validated in endometrium biopsies from patients with endometrioma and healthy controls, and the transcription level of KAT14 was further confirmed by analyzing a published single-cell transcriptome (scRNA-seq) dataset of endometriosis. We used overexpression, knockout, and knockdown approaches in immortalized human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) or human primary ectopic endometrial stromal cells (EcESCs) to determine the role of KAT14 in TGF-β-induced fibrosis. Furthermore, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) carrying KAT14-shRNA was used in an endometriosis mice model to assess the role of KAT14 in vivo. RESULTS KAT14 was upregulated in ectopic lesions from endometrioma patients and predominantly expressed in activated fibroblasts. In vitro studies showed that KAT14 overexpression significantly promoted a TGF-β-induced profibrotic response in endometrial stromal cells, while KAT14 silencing showed adverse effects that could be rescued by KAT14 re-enhancement. In vivo, Kat14 knockdown ameliorated fibrosis in the ectopic lesions of the endometriosis mouse model. Mechanistically, we showed that KAT14 directly interacted with serum response factor (SRF) to promote the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) by increasing histone H4 acetylation at promoter regions; this is necessary for TGF-β-induced ECM production and myofibroblast differentiation. In addition, the knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of SRF significantly attenuated KAT14-mediating profibrotic effects under TGF-β treatment. Notably, the KAT14/SRF complex was abundant in endometrioma samples and positively correlated with α-SMA expression, further supporting the key role of KAT14/SRF complex in the progression of endometrioma-associated fibrogenesis. CONCLUSION Our results shed light on KAT14 as a key effector of TGF-β-induced ECM production and myofibroblast differentiation in EcESCs by promoting histone H4 acetylation via co-operating with SRF, representing a potential therapeutic target for endometrioma-associated fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Gong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Mian Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523001, China
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jinjing Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Hong Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Jing Ran
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Linna Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Yanlin Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China.
| | - Song Quan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China.
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Cao Y, Qi J, Wang J, Chen L, Wang Y, Long Y, Li B, Lai J, Yao Y, Meng Y, Yu X, Chen X, Ng LG, Li X, Lu Y, Cheng X, Cui W, Sun Y. Injectable "Homing-Like" Bioactive Short-Fibers for Endometrial Repair and Efficient Live Births. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306507. [PMID: 38504456 PMCID: PMC11132084 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of infertility caused by endometrial defects is steadily increasing, posing a significant challenge to women's reproductive health. In this study, injectable "homing-like" bioactive decellularized extracellular matrix short-fibers (DEFs) of porcine skin origin are innovatively designed for endometrial and fertility restoration. The DEFs can effectively bind to endometrial cells through noncovalent dipole interactions and release bioactive growth factors in situ. In vitro, the DEFs effectively attracted endometrial cells through the "homing-like" effect, enabling cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation on their surface. Furthermore, the DEFs effectively facilitated the proliferation and angiogenesis of human primary endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and inhibited fibrosis of pretreated HESCs. In vivo, the DEFs significantly accelerated endometrial restoration, angiogenesis, and receptivity. Notably, the deposition of endometrial collagen decreased from 41.19 ± 2.16% to 14.15 ± 1.70% with DEFs treatment. Most importantly, in endometrium-injured rats, the use of DEFs increased the live birth rate from 30% to an impressive 90%, and the number and development of live births close to normal rats. The injectable "homing-like" bioactive DEFs system can achieve efficient live births and intrauterine injection of DEFs provides a new promising clinical strategy for endometrial factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Cao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Jia Qi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Yijing Long
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Boyu Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Junliang Lai
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Yejie Yao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Yiwen Meng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Xiaohua Yu
- Hangzhou Phil Stone Biotech Co., Ltd.HangzhouZhejiang311215P. R. China
| | - Xiao‐Dong Chen
- Department of Comprehensive DentistryUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San AntonioSan AntonioTX78229USA
- Research ServiceSouth Texas Veterans Health Care SystemAudie Murphy VA Medical CenterSan AntonioTX78229USA
| | - Lai Guan Ng
- Shanghai Immune Therapy InstituteShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine affiliated Renji HospitalShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Yao Lu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyue Cheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
| | - Wenguo Cui
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Yun Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200135P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghai200135P. R. China
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Ma Y, Hu X, Shen S, Pan D. Geniposide ameliorates brain injury in mice with intracerebral hemorrhage by inhibiting NF-κB signaling. Neurol Res 2024; 46:346-355. [PMID: 38402902 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2024.2321014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress are critical players in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Geniposide is an active component of Gardenia that has anti-inflammatory effects. This study focused on the roles and mechanisms of geniposide in ICH. METHODS ICH was established by injecting collagenase IV into C57BL/6 mice. To determine the functions of geniposide and NF-κB inhibition in ICH model mice, geniposide (1, 25, or 50 mg/kg) or PDTC (a NF-κB inhibitor) was administered. Neurological functions were assessed with the modified neurological severity score (mNSS) test. Hematoxylin and eosin staining were performed to identify pathological changes. IL-1β and TNF-α levels were estimated with ELISA kits. NF-κB p65 localization was determined by immunofluorescence staining. Oxidative stress was analyzed by measuring ROS levels. RESULTS Geniposide alleviated cerebral edema and neurological deficits. Geniposide inhibited neuroinflammation and oxidative stress after ICH, and the inhibitory effects were enhanced by NF-κB inhibition. Additionally, geniposide inhibited NF-κB signaling. CONCLUSION Geniposide alleviates brain injury by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress damage in experimental ICH models by inhibiting NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghui Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huang Shi Central Hospital, HuangShi, China
| | - Xiao Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huang Shi Central Hospital, HuangShi, China
| | - Songbo Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huang Shi Central Hospital, HuangShi, China
| | - Dongmei Pan
- Department of Geriatrics, Huang Shi Central Hospital, HuangShi, China
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Chen P, Ye C, Huang Y, Xu B, Wu T, Dong Y, Jin Y, Zhao L, Hu C, Mao J, Wu R. Glutaminolysis regulates endometrial fibrosis in intrauterine adhesion via modulating mitochondrial function. Biol Res 2024; 57:13. [PMID: 38561846 PMCID: PMC10983700 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-024-00492-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometrial fibrosis, a significant characteristic of intrauterine adhesion (IUA), is caused by the excessive differentiation and activation of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Glutaminolysis is the metabolic process of glutamine (Gln), which has been implicated in multiple types of organ fibrosis. So far, little is known about whether glutaminolysis plays a role in endometrial fibrosis. METHODS The activation model of ESCs was constructed by TGF-β1, followed by RNA-sequencing analysis. Changes in glutaminase1 (GLS1) expression at RNA and protein levels in activated ESCs were verified experimentally. Human IUA samples were collected to verify GLS1 expression in endometrial fibrosis. GLS1 inhibitor and glutamine deprivation were applied to ESCs models to investigate the biological functions and mechanisms of glutaminolysis in ESCs activation. The IUA mice model was established to explore the effect of glutaminolysis inhibition on endometrial fibrosis. RESULTS We found that GLS1 expression was significantly increased in activated ESCs models and fibrotic endometrium. Glutaminolysis inhibition by GLS1 inhibitor bis-2-(5-phenylacetamido-1,2,4-thiadiazol-2-yl) ethyl sulfide (BPTES or glutamine deprivation treatment suppressed the expression of two fibrotic markers, α-SMA and collagen I, as well as the mitochondrial function and mTORC1 signaling in ESCs. Furthermore, inhibition of the mTORC1 signaling pathway by rapamycin suppressed ESCs activation. In IUA mice models, BPTES treatment significantly ameliorated endometrial fibrosis and improved pregnancy outcomes. CONCLUSION Glutaminolysis and glutaminolysis-associated mTOR signaling play a role in the activation of ESCs and the pathogenesis of endometrial fibrosis through regulating mitochondrial function. Glutaminolysis inhibition suppresses the activation of ESCs, which might be a novel therapeutic strategy for IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chaoshuang Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunke Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bingning Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianyu Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuanhang Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Changchang Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingxia Mao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruijin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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Qin X, Zeng B, Sooranna SR, Li M. LAMB3 Promotes Myofibrogenesis and Cytoskeletal Reorganization in Endometrial Stromal Cells via the RhoA/ROCK1/MYL9 Pathway. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024; 82:127-137. [PMID: 37801199 PMCID: PMC10867058 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-023-01186-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
LAMB3, a major extracellular matrix and basal membrane component, is involved in wound healing. We aimed to understand its role in Asherman's syndrome (AS), which is associated with infertility, by using bioinformatics analysis and cultured endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). MRNAs extracted from tissues obtained from control subjects and patients with severe intrauterine adhesion were sequenced and subjected to bioinformatics analysis and the RhoA/ROCK1/MYL9 pathway was implicated and this subsequently studied using cultured primary ESCs. The effects of overexpression and knockdown and activation and inhibition of LAMB3 on the mesenchymal to myofibroblastic phenotypic transformation of ECCs were assessed using PCR and western blot analysis. Phalloidin was used to localize the actin cytoskeletal proteins. Silencing of LAMB3 reversed the TGF-β-induced ESC myofibroblast phenotype conversion, whereas overexpression of LAMB3 promoted this process. Activation and silencing of LAMB3 led to remodeling of the ESC cytoskeleton. Overexpression and silencing of LAMB3 caused activation and inhibition of ESCs, respectively. Y-27632 and LPA reversed the activation and inhibition of the RhoA/ROCK1/MYL9 pathway after overexpression and silencing, respectively. These results suggest that LAMB3 can regulate ESC fibrosis transformation and cytoskeleton remodeling via the RhoA/ROCK1/MYL9 pathway. This study provides a potential new target for gene therapy and drug intervention of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Qin
- Gynecology Section, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, 530000, Nanning, China
| | - Bin Zeng
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, 530000, Nanning, China
| | - Suren R Sooranna
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction Faculty of Medicine Imperial College London Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
- Life Science and Clinical Research Center, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Mujun Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, 530000, Nanning, China.
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Zhu Y, Bao M, Wang T, Ai X, Qiu D, Wang C. Novel therapeutic targets, including IGFBP3, of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem-cell-conditioned medium in intrauterine adhesion. Biol Open 2024; 13:bio060141. [PMID: 38224009 PMCID: PMC10886714 DOI: 10.1242/bio.060141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells play important roles in repairing injured endometrium. However, the molecular targets and potential mechanism of the endometrial recipient cells for stem cell therapy in intrauterine adhesion (IUA) are poorly understood. In this study, umbilical cord mesenchymal stem-cell-conditioned medium (UCMSCs-CM) produced positive effects on a Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) induced IUA cell model. RNA-sequencing was performed on clinical IUA tissues, and the top 40 upregulated and top 20 downregulated mRNAs were selected and verified using high-throughput (HT) qPCR in both tissues and cell models. Based on a bioinformatic analysis of RNA-sequencing and HT-qPCR results, 11 mRNAs were uncovered to be the intervention targets of UCMSCs-CM on IUA endometrium cell models. Among them, IGFBP3 was striking as a key pathogenic gene and a potential diagnostic marker of IUA, which exhibited the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity were 0.924, 93.1% and 80.6%, respectively in 60 endometrial tissues. The silencing of IGFBP3 exerted positive effects on the IUA cell model through partially upregulating MMP1 and KLF2. In conclusion, RNA-sequencing combined with HT qPCR based on clinical tissues and IUA cell models were used in IUA research and our results may provide some scientific ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Mingjie Bao
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ai
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Dewen Qiu
- Clinical laboratory, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Changhua Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
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Liu PC, Song YT, Zhao LM, Jiang YL, Hu JG, Dong L, Zhou XL, Zhou L, Li Y, Li-Ling J, Xie HQ. Establishment and comparison of different procedures for modeling intrauterine adhesion in rats: A preliminary study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25365. [PMID: 38322868 PMCID: PMC10844578 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The establishment of a stable animal model for intrauterine adhesion (IUA) can significantly enhance research on the pathogenesis and pathological changes of this disease, as well as on the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. In this study, three different modeling methods, including phenol mucilage combined mechanical scraping, ethanol combined mechanical scraping and ethanol modeling alone were designed. The morphological characteristics of the models were evaluated. The underlying mechanisms and fertility capacity of the ethanol modeling group were analyzed and compared to those of the sham surgery group. All three methods resulted in severe intrauterine adhesions, with ethanol being identified as a reliable modeling agent and was subsequently subjected to further evaluation. Immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR results indicated that the ethanol modeling group exhibited an increase in the degree of fibrosis and inflammation, as well as a significant reduction in endometrial thickness, gland number, vascularization, and endometrial receptivity, ultimately resulting in the loss of fertility capacity. The aforementioned findings indicate that the intrauterine perfusion of 95 % ethanol is efficacious in inducing the development of intrauterine adhesions in rats. Given its cost-effectiveness, efficacy, and stability in IUA formation, the use of 95 % ethanol intrauterine perfusion may serve as a novel platform for evaluating innovative anti-adhesion materials and bioengineered therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Cheng Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu-Ting Song
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Long-Mei Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yan-Ling Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jun-Gen Hu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Dong
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of Topregmed, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xing-li Zhou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Research Core Facility of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaxing Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jesse Li-Ling
- Department of Medical Genetics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hui-Qi Xie
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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9
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Saad-Naguib MH, Kenfack Y, Sherman LS, Chafitz OB, Morelli SS. Impaired receptivity of thin endometrium: therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1268990. [PMID: 38344687 PMCID: PMC10854221 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1268990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a resilient and highly dynamic tissue, undergoing cyclic renewal in preparation for embryo implantation. Cyclic endometrial regeneration depends on the intact function of several cell types, including parenchymal, endothelial, and immune cells, as well as adult stem cells that can arise from endometrial or extrauterine sources. The ability of the endometrium to undergo rapid, repeated regeneration without scarring is unique to this tissue. However, if this tissue renewal process is disrupted or dysfunctional, women may present clinically with infertility due to endometrial scarring or persistent atrophic/thin endometrium. Such disorders are rate-limiting in the treatment of female infertility and in the success of in vitro fertilization because of a dearth of treatment options specifically targeting the endometrium. A growing number of studies have explored the potential of adult stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), to treat women with disorders of endometrial regeneration. MSCs are multipotent adult stem cells with capacity to differentiate into cells such as adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. In addition to their differentiation capacity, MSCs migrate toward injured sites where they secrete bioactive factors (e.g. cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, proteins and extracellular vesicles) to aid in tissue repair. These factors modulate biological processes critical for tissue regeneration, such as angiogenesis, cell migration and immunomodulation. The MSC secretome has therefore attracted significant attention for its therapeutic potential. In the uterus, studies utilizing rodent models and limited human trials have shown a potential benefit of MSCs and the MSC secretome in treatment of endometrial infertility. This review will explore the potential of MSCs to treat women with impaired endometrial receptivity due to a thin endometrium or endometrial scarring. We will provide context supporting leveraging MSCs for this purpose by including a review of mechanisms by which the MSC secretome promotes regeneration and repair of nonreproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Saad-Naguib
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Yannick Kenfack
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Lauren S. Sherman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Olivia B. Chafitz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States
| | - Sara S. Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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10
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Lv H, Sun H, Wang L, Yao S, Liu D, Zhang X, Pei Z, Zhou J, Wang H, Dai J, Yan G, Ding L, Wang Z, Cao C, Zhao G, Hu Y. Targeting CD301 + macrophages inhibits endometrial fibrosis and improves pregnancy outcome. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e17601. [PMID: 37519221 PMCID: PMC10493587 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202317601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are a key and heterogeneous cell population involved in endometrial repair and regeneration during the menstrual cycle, but their role in the development of intrauterine adhesion (IUA) and sequential endometrial fibrosis remains unclear. Here, we reported that CD301+ macrophages were significantly increased and showed their most active interaction with profibrotic cells in the endometria of IUA patients compared with the normal endometria by single-cell RNA sequencing, bulk RNA sequencing, and experimental verification. Increasing CD301+ macrophages promoted the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells into myofibroblasts and resulted in extracellular matrix accumulation, which destroyed the physiological architecture of endometrial tissue, drove endometrial fibrosis, and ultimately led to female infertility or adverse pregnancy outcomes. Mechanistically, CD301+ macrophages secreted GAS6 to activate the AXL/NF-κB pathway, upregulating the profibrotic protein synthesis. Targeted deletion of CD301+ macrophages or inhibition of AXL by Bemcentinib blunted the pathology and improved the outcomes of pregnancy in mice, supporting the therapeutic potential of targeting CD301+ macrophages for treating endometrial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haining Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Limin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Simin Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Xiwen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Zhongrui Pei
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina
| | - Jianjun Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Huiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Jianwu Dai
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental BiologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Guijun Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Lijun Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Zhiyin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Chenrui Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Guangfeng Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yali Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
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11
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Wu F, Lei N, Yang S, Zhou J, Chen M, Chen C, Qiu L, Guo R, Li Y, Chang L. Treatment strategies for intrauterine adhesion: focus on the exosomes and hydrogels. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1264006. [PMID: 37720318 PMCID: PMC10501405 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1264006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), also referred to as Asherman Syndrome (AS), results from uterine trauma in both pregnant and nonpregnant women. The IUA damages the endometrial bottom layer, causing partial or complete occlusion of the uterine cavity. This leads to irregular menstruation, infertility, or repeated abortions. Transcervical adhesion electroreception (TCRA) is frequently used to treat IUA, which greatly lowers the prevalence of adhesions and increases pregnancy rates. Although surgery aims to disentangle the adhesive tissue, it can exacerbate the development of IUA when the degree of adhesion is severer. Therefore, it is critical to develop innovative therapeutic approaches for the prevention of IUA. Endometrial fibrosis is the essence of IUA, and studies have found that the use of different types of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can reduce the risk of endometrial fibrosis and increase the possibility of pregnancy. Recent research has suggested that exosomes derived from MSCs can overcome the limitations of MSCs, such as immunogenicity and tumorigenicity risks, thereby providing new directions for IUA treatment. Moreover, the hydrogel drug delivery system can significantly ameliorate the recurrence rate of adhesions and the intrauterine pregnancy rate of patients, and its potential mechanism in the treatment of IUA has also been studied. It has been shown that the combination of two or more therapeutic schemes has broader application prospects; therefore, this article reviews the pathophysiology of IUA and current treatment strategies, focusing on exosomes combined with hydrogels in the treatment of IUA. Although the use of exosomes and hydrogels has certain challenges in treating IUA, they still provide new promising directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengling Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ningjing Lei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shenyu Yang
- Medical 3D Printing Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Junying Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Mengyu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Luojie Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ruixia Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yong Li
- St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Lei Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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12
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Qi J, Zhang X, Zhang S, Wu S, Lu Y, Li S, Li P, Tan J. P65 mediated UBR4 in exosomes derived from menstrual blood stromal cells to reduce endometrial fibrosis by regulating YAP Ubiquitination. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:305. [PMID: 37644565 PMCID: PMC10463480 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02070-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a recurrent and refractory reproductive dysfunction disorder for which menstrual blood-derived stromal cells (MenSCs) might be a promising intervention. We reported that administration of MenSCs-derived exosomes (MenSCs-EXO) could achieve similar therapeutic effects to MenSCs transplantation, including alleviating endometrial fibrosis and improving fertility in IUA rats. The mass spectrometry sequencing result suggested that UBR4, a member of the proteasome family, was abundantly enriched in MenSCs-EXO. This study aimed to investigate the key role of UBR4 in MenSCs-EXO for the treatment of IUA and the specific molecular mechanism. RESULTS UBR4 was lowly expressed in the endometrial stromal cells (EndoSCs) of IUA patients. MenSCs-EXO treatment could restore the morphology of IUA endometrium, reduce the extent of fibrosis, and promote endometrial and vascular proliferation. Knockdown of UBR4 in MenSCs did not affect the characteristics of exosomes but attenuated the therapeutic effect of exosomes. UBR4 in MenSCs-EXO could alleviate endometrial fibrosis by boosting YAP ubiquitination degradation and promoting YAP nuclear-cytoplasmic translocation. Moreover, P65 could bind to the UBR4 promoter region to transcriptionally promote the expression level of UBR4 in MenSCs. CONCLUSION Our study clarified that MenSCs-EXO ameliorated endometrial fibrosis in IUA primarily by affecting YAP activity mediated through UBR4, while inflammatory signaling P65 may affect UBR4 expression in MenSCs to enhance MenSCs-EXO therapeutic effects. This revealed a novel mechanism for the treatment of IUA with MenSCs-EXO, proposing a potential option for the clinical treatment of endometrial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Qi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Siwen Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Yimeng Lu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuyu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Pingping Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Jichun Tan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China.
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13
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Zhu Q, Yao S, Ye Z, Jiang P, Wang H, Zhang X, Liu D, Lv H, Cao C, Zhou Z, Zhou Z, Pan W, Zhao G, Hu Y. Ferroptosis contributes to endometrial fibrosis in intrauterine adhesions. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 205:151-162. [PMID: 37302615 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUA), characterized by endometrial fibrosis, is a challenging clinical issue in reproductive medicine. We previously demonstrated that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibrosis of endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) played a vital role in the development of IUA, but the precise pathogenesis remains elucidated. Ferroptosis has now been recognized as a unique form of oxidative cell death, but whether it is involved in endometrial fibrosis remains unknown. In the present study, we performed an RNA-seq of the endometria from 4 severe IUA patients and 4 normal controls. Enrichment analysis and protein-protein interactions (PPIs) network analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were conducted. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess ferroptosis levels and cellular localization. The potential role of ferroptosis for IUA was investigated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Here, we demonstrated that ferroptosis load is increased in IUA endometria. In vitro experiments showed that erastin-induced ferroptosis promoted EMT and fibrosis in endometrial epithelial cells (P < 0.05), but did not lead to pro-fibrotic differentiation in endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). Cell co-culture experiments showed that erastin-stimulated epithelial cell supernatants promoted fibrosis in HESCs (P < 0.05). In vivo experiments suggested that elevation of ferroptosis level in mice by erastin led to mild endometrial EMT and fibrosis. Meanwhile, the ferroptosis inhibitor Fer-1 significantly ameliorated endometrial fibrosis in a dual-injury IUA murine model. Overall, our findings revealed that ferroptosis may serve as a potential therapeutic target for endometrial fibrosis in IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Simin Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziying Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peipei Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiwen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haining Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chenrui Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenhua Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zihan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weichen Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangfeng Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yali Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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14
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Tabeeva G, Silachev D, Vishnyakova P, Asaturova A, Fatkhudinov T, Smetnik A, Dumanovskaya M. The Therapeutic Potential of Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Endometrial Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119431. [PMID: 37298382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Disruption of endometrial regeneration, fibrosis formation, and intrauterine adhesions underlie the development of "thin" endometrium and/or Asherman's syndrome (AS) and are a common cause of infertility and a high risk for adverse obstetric outcomes. The methods used (surgical adhesiolysis, anti-adhesive agents, and hormonal therapy) do not allow restoration of the regenerative properties of the endometrium. The experience gained today with cell therapy using multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MMSCs) proves their high regenerative and proliferative properties in tissue damage. Their contribution to regenerative processes is still poorly understood. One of these mechanisms is based on the paracrine effects of MMSCs associated with the stimulation of cells of the microenvironment by secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs) into the extracellular space. EVs, whose source is MMSCs, are able to stimulate progenitor cells and stem cells in damaged tissues and exert cytoprotective, antiapoptotic, and angiogenic effects. This review described the regulatory mechanisms of endometrial regeneration, pathological conditions associated with a decrease in endometrial regeneration, and it presented the available data from studies on the effect of MMSCs and their EVs on endometrial repair processes, and the involvement of EVs in human reproductive processes at the level of implantation and embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyuzyal Tabeeva
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Denis Silachev
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Polina Vishnyakova
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 117198 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandra Asaturova
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Timur Fatkhudinov
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 117198 Moscow, Russia
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, 117418 Moscow, Russia
| | - Antonina Smetnik
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Madina Dumanovskaya
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
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15
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Zhu Y, Wang T, Bao MJ, Qu XH, Li ZM. Effect of stem cell conditional medium-loading adhesive hydrogel on TGF-β1-induced endometrial stromal cell fibrosis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1168136. [PMID: 37214295 PMCID: PMC10192850 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1168136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Uterine adhesion (IUA) is a severe complication that results from uterine operations or uterine infections. Hysteroscopy is considered the gold standard for the diagnosis and treatment of uterine adhesions. Yet, this invasive procedure leads to re-adhesions after hysteroscopic treatment. Hydrogels loading functional additives (e.g., placental mesenchymal stem cells (PC-MSCs)) that can act as physical barriers and promote endometrium regeneration are a good solution. However, traditional hydrogels lack tissue adhesion which makes them unstable under a rapid turnover of the uterus, and PC-MSCs have biosafety risks when used as functional additives. Methods: In this study, we coupled an adhesive hydrogel with a PC-MSCs conditioned medium (CM) to form a hybrid of gel and functional additives (CM/Gel-MA). Results and Discussion: Our experiments show that CM/Gel-MA enhances the activity of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), promotes cell proliferation, and reduces the expression of α-SMA, collagen I, CTGF, E-cadherin, and IL-6, which helps to reduce the inflammatory response and inhibit fibrosis. We conclude that CM/Gel-MA can more potentially prevent IUA by combining the physical barriers from adhesive hydrogel and functional promotion from CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhu
- JXHC Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Reproductive Health, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Reproductive Health, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ming-Jie Bao
- Department of Reproductive Health, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Qu
- Pathology Department, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zeng-Ming Li
- JXHC Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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16
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Zhang X, Zhang S, Qi J, Zhao F, Lu Y, Li S, Wu S, Li P, Tan J. PDGFBB improved the biological function of menstrual blood-derived stromal cells and the anti-fibrotic properties of exosomes. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:113. [PMID: 37118830 PMCID: PMC10148410 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03339-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a reproductive dysfunction disease characterized by endometrial fibrosis, with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. Our previous studies confirmed that menstrual blood-derived stromal cells (MenSCs) effectively attenuated endometrial fibrosis in an animal model of IUA mainly through exosomes. This therapeutic effect can be enhanced by platelet-rich plasma (PRP), in which PDGFBB is an abundant growth factor. Therefore, we aimed to compare the effects of PRP and PDGFBB on the biological activities of MenSCs in vitro, and to further investigate the molecular mechanism of MenSCs-derived exosomes in alleviating endometrial fibrosis. METHODS MenSCs were isolated for in vitro functional assays to examine the viability, migration, and stemness of MenSCs. Endometrial stromal cells (EndoSCs) were treated with 50 ug/ml of MenSCs-derived exosomes, obtained by differential ultracentrifugation extraction. The molecular mechanisms by which PDGFBB improves MenSCs and exosomes alleviate EndoSCs fibrosis were then explored using immunofluorescence, western blot, and co-immunoprecipitation. RESULTS Both 100 ng/ml PDGFBB and 10% activated PRP promoted the proliferation, increased the S phase of cell cycle, and inhibited apoptosis of MenSCs in vitro. Compared with PRP, PDGFBB significantly promoted MenSCs migration. All of these effects were inhibited by sorafenib, a PDGFR-β inhibitor. PRP and PDGFBB activated AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway in MenSCs and increased the expression of P65 and OCT4. Moreover, pretreatment of PDGFBB did not increase the secretion of MenSCs but significantly increased the anti-fibrosis effects of MenSCs-derived exosomes on IUA-EndoSCs. MenSCs-derived exosomes attenuated SMAD3 phosphorylation and increased YAP ubiquitination, which reduced the binding of YAP/SMAD3. Pretreatment with PDGFBB amplified this effect. CONCLUSIONS In summary, PDGFBB could improve the biological functions of MenSCs via AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, including viability, migration, and stemness. Our results indicated that PDGFBB amplified MenSCs-derived exosomes to attenuate endometrial fibrosis by inhibiting YAP activity, revealing a novel mechanism by which PRP enhanced the ability of MenSCs to repair tissue injury and providing a potential option for improving stem cell efficacy in IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Siwen Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Jiarui Qi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Fujie Zhao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Yimeng Lu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Shuyu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Pingping Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
| | - Jichun Tan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
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17
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Fang Z, Lu C, Du W, Wang X, Yang H, Shi M, Liu T, Xie Y, Wang S, Xu X, Li H, Wang H, Zheng Y. Injectable self-assembled dual-crosslinked alginate/recombinant collagen-based hydrogel for endometrium regeneration. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 236:123943. [PMID: 36889621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The disadvantages of mainstream therapies for endometrial injury are difficult to resolve, herein, we suggest an omnibearing improvement strategy by introducing an injectable multifunctional self-assembled dual-crosslinked sodium alginate/recombinant collagen hydrogel. The hydrogel possessed a reversible and dynamic double network based on dynamic covalent bonds and ionic interactions, which also contributed to excellent capability in viscosity and injectability. Moreover, it was also biodegradable with a suitable speed, giving off active ingredients during the degradation process and eventually disappearing completely. In vitro tests exhibited that the hydrogel was biocompatible and able to enhance endometrial stromal cells viability. These features synergistically promoted cell multiplication and maintenance of endometrial hormone homeostasis, which accelerated endometrial matrix regeneration and structural reconstruction after severe injury in vivo. Furthermore, we explored the interrelation between the hydrogel characteristics, endometrial structure, and postoperative uterine recovery, which would benefit deep research on regulation of uterine repair mechanism and optimization of hydrogel materials. The injectable hydrogel could achieve favourable therapeutic efficacy without the need of exogenous hormones or cells, which would be of clinical value in endometrium regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyuan Fang
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Cong Lu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wenjun Du
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Huiyi Yang
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Miaojie Shi
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yajie Xie
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shufang Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, China
| | - Xiangbo Xu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Haihang Li
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Sichuan Province 610065, China
| | - Hanbi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Yudong Zheng
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
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18
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Endometriosis Stem Cells as a Possible Main Target for Carcinogenesis of Endometriosis-Associated Ovarian Cancer (EAOC). Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010111. [PMID: 36612107 PMCID: PMC9817684 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a serious recurrent disease impairing the quality of life and fertility, and being a risk for some histologic types of ovarian cancer defined as endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers (EAOC). The presence of stem cells in the endometriotic foci could account for the proliferative, migrative and angiogenic activity of the lesions. Their phenotype and sources have been described. The similarly disturbed expression of several genes, miRNAs, galectins and chaperones has been observed both in endometriotic lesions and in ovarian or endometrial cancer. The importance of stem cells for nascence and sustain of malignant tumors is commonly appreciated. Although the proposed mechanisms promoting carcinogenesis leading from endometriosis into the EAOC are not completely known, they have been discussed in several articles. However, the role of endometriosis stem cells (ESCs) has not been discussed in this context. Here, we postulate that ESCs may be a main target for the carcinogenesis of EAOC and present the possible sequence of events resulting finally in the development of EAOC.
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19
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Ghasemi D, Ebrahimi-Barough S, Nekoofar MH, Mohamadnia A, Lotfibakhshaiesh N, Bahrami N, Karimi R, Taghdiri Nooshabadi V, Azami M, Hasanzadeh E, Ai J. Differentiation of human endometrial stem cells encapsulated in alginate hydrogel into oocyte-like cells. BIOIMPACTS : BI 2022; 13:229-240. [PMID: 37431484 PMCID: PMC10329755 DOI: 10.34172/bi.2022.23960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (hEnMSCs) are a rich source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with multi-lineage differentiation potential, making them an intriguing tool in regenerative medicine, particularly for the treatment of reproductive and infertility issues. The specific process of germline cell-derived stem cell differentiation remains unknown, the aim is to study novel ways to achieve an effective differentiation method that produces adequate and functioning human gamete cells. METHODS We adjusted the optimum retinoic acid (RA) concentration for enhancement of germ cell-derived hEnSCs generation in 2D cell culture after 7 days in this study. Subsequently, we developed a suitable oocyte-like cell induction media including RA and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), and studied their effects on oocyte-like cell differentiation in 2D and 3D cell culture media utilizing cells encapsulated in alginate hydrogel. RESULTS Our results from microscopy analysis, real-time PCR, and immunofluorescence tests revealed that 10 µM RA concentration was the optimal dose for inducing germ-like cells after 7 days. We examined the alginate hydrogel structural characteristics and integrity by rheology analysis and SEM microscope. We also demonstrated encapsulated cell viability and adhesion in the manufactured hydrogel. We propose that in 3D cell cultures in alginate hydrogel, an induction medium containing 10 µM RA and 50 ng/mL BMP4 can enhance hEnSC differentiation into oocyte-like cells. CONCLUSION The production of oocyte-like cells using 3D alginate hydrogel may be viable in vitro approach for replacing gonad tissues and cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diba Ghasemi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Ebrahimi-Barough
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nekoofar
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Abdolreza Mohamadnia
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Lotfibakhshaiesh
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naghmeh Bahrami
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Craniomaxillofacial Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Karimi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vajihe Taghdiri Nooshabadi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Azami
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Hasanzadeh
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Jafar Ai
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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20
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Research progress of stem cell therapy for endometrial injury. Mater Today Bio 2022; 16:100389. [PMID: 36033375 PMCID: PMC9403503 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial damage is an important factor leading to infertility and traditional conventional treatments have limited efficacy. As an emerging technology in recent years, stem cell therapy has provided new hope for the treatment of this disease. By comparing the advantages of stem cells from different sources, it is believed that menstrual blood endometrial stem cells have a good application prospect as a new source of stem cells. However, the clinical utility of stem cells is still limited by issues such as colonization rates, long-term efficacy, tumor formation, and storage and transportation. This paper summarizes the mechanism by which stem cells repair endometrial damage and clarifies the material basis of their effects from four aspects: replacement of damaged sites, paracrine effects, interaction with growth factors, and other new targets. According to the pathological characteristics and treatment requirements of intrauterine adhesion (IUA), the research work to solve the above problems from the aspects of functional bioscaffold preparation and multi-functional platform construction is also summarized. From the perspective of scaffold materials and component functions, this review will provide a reference for comprehensively optimizing the clinical application of stem cells.
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21
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Babaei K, Aziminezhad M, Norollahi SE, Vahidi S, Samadani AA. Cell therapy for the treatment of reproductive diseases and infertility: an overview from the mechanism to the clinic alongside diagnostic methods. Front Med 2022; 16:827-858. [PMID: 36562947 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-022-0948-8] [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: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is experienced by 8%-12% of adults in their reproductive period globally and has become a prevalent concern. Besides routine therapeutic methods, stem cells are rapidly being examined as viable alternative therapies in regenerative medicine and translational investigation. Remarkable progress has been made in understanding the biology and purpose of stem cells. The affected pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are further studied for their possible use in reproductive medicine, particularly for infertility induced by premature ovarian insufficiency and azoospermia. Accordingly, this study discusses current developments in the use of some kinds of MSCs such as adipose-derived stem cells, bone marrow stromal cells, umbilical cord MSCs, and menstrual blood MSCs. These methods have been used to manage ovarian and uterine disorders, and each technique presents a novel method for the therapy of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosar Babaei
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Mohsen Aziminezhad
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.,UMR INSERM U 1122, IGE-PCV, Interactions Gène-Environment En Physiopathologie Cardiovascular Université De Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Seyedeh Elham Norollahi
- Cancer Research Center and Department of Immunology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Sogand Vahidi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Samadani
- Guilan Road Trauma Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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22
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Huang J, Li Q, Yuan X, Liu Q, Zhang W, Li P. Intrauterine infusion of clinically graded human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of poor healing after uterine injury: a phase I clinical trial. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:85. [PMID: 35241151 PMCID: PMC8895869 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02756-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intrauterine adhesion and cesarean scar diverticulum are the main complications of poor healing after uterine injury. Human umbilical cord MSCs transplantation has been regarded as the most potential treatment in the clinic, the safety and efficacy of which in the clinic, however, remains unclear. Methods In this study, ten patients were enrolled: six with intrauterine adhesion and four with cesarean scar diverticulum. All the patients were injected with human umbilical cord MSCs twice into the uterus. Beside the chest X-ray, ECG and abdominal ultrasound, many laboratory tests including blood routine, liver and renal function, ovarian function, tumor biomarkers, and immune function were used to estimate the safe after stem cell transplanted. In addition, the efficacy of stem cell transplanted was shown by the endometrial thickness, the volume of the uterus, and cesarean scar diverticulum based on 3D ultrasound imaging. Results We found that all results of these laboratory tests were normal in these enrolled patients before and after cell injection. Meanwhile, the results of the chest X-ray and ECG were also normal in the treatment process. The abdominal ultrasound showed that the size of the left and right kidneys was inconsistent in one patient after cell therapy, while those of other patients were normal. In addition, endometrial thickness, the volume of the uterus, and cesarean scar diverticulum showed an improving tendency, but no significant difference was noted. Conclusion In summary, intrauterine injection of clinically graded human umbilical cord MSCs was safe for poor healing after uterus injury. Trial registration NCT03386708. Registered 27 December 2017, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03386708?cond=CSD&cntry=CN&draw=2&rank=2 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02756-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingrui Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center of Early Life Development and Disease Prevention, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaoshu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Weishe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center of Early Life Development and Disease Prevention, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China. .,Hunan Engineering Research Center of Early Life Development and Disease Prevention, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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23
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He Y, Han Y, Ye Y. Therapeutic Potential of Menstrual Blood-Derived Stem Cell Transplantation for Intrauterine Adhesions. Front Surg 2022; 9:847213. [PMID: 35274000 PMCID: PMC8901573 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.847213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of women experience intrauterine adhesion as a result of intrauterine operations, such as induced abortion, which can cause infertility, recurrent abortion and amenorrhea. Although some strategies have been applied clinically, such as hysteroscopy adhesiolysis of intrauterine adhesions, the results have not been promising. As regenerative medicine develops, research on menstrual blood-derived stem cell transplantation is increasing due to the properties of these cells, including self-renewal, differentiation, angiogenesis, anti-inflammation and immunomodulation. As a result, menstrual blood-derived stem cells may be an ideal cell source for the treatment of intrauterine adhesion. Excitingly, it has been reported that autologous menstrual blood stem cells could recovery injured endometrium and improve infertility in patients with refractory intrauterine adhesion. In this review, we discuss the possible potential of menstrual blood-derived stem cell transplantation for intrauterine adhesion, including the antifibrosis, angiogenesis, anti-inflammation and immunoregulation properties of the cells, which brings hopes for clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yantao He
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, China
| | - Yanhua Han
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, China
| | - Yun Ye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Ye
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24
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Sanchez-Mata A, Gonzalez-Muñoz E. Understanding menstrual blood-derived stromal/stem cells: Definition and properties. Are we rushing into their therapeutic applications? iScience 2021; 24:103501. [PMID: 34917895 PMCID: PMC8646170 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells with mesenchymal stem cell properties have been identified in menstrual blood and termed menstrual blood-derived stem/stromal cells (MenSCs). MenSCs have been proposed as ideal candidates for cell-based therapy in regenerative medicine and immune-related diseases. However, MenSCs identity has been loosely defined so far and there is controversy regarding their cell markers and differentiation potential. In this review, we outline the origin of MenSCs in the context of regenerating human endometrium, with attention to endometrial eMSCs as reference cells to understand MenSCs. We summarize the cell identity markers analyzed and the immunomodulatory and reparative properties reported. We also address the recent use of MenSCs in cell reprogramming. The main goal of this review is to contribute to the understanding of the identity and properties of MenSCs as well as to identify potential caveats and new venues that deserve to be explored to strengthen their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Sanchez-Mata
- Andalusian Laboratory of Cell Reprogramming (LARCel), Andalusian Centre for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology-BIONAND, 29590 Málaga, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology, University of Malaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
| | - Elena Gonzalez-Muñoz
- Andalusian Laboratory of Cell Reprogramming (LARCel), Andalusian Centre for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology-BIONAND, 29590 Málaga, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology, University of Malaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, (CIBER-BBN), 29071 Málaga, Spain
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25
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Stem cell-based therapy for ameliorating intrauterine adhesion and endometrium injury. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:556. [PMID: 34717746 PMCID: PMC8557001 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02620-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion refers to endometrial repair disorders which are usually caused by uterine injury and may lead to a series of complications such as abnormal menstrual bleeding, recurrent abortion and secondary infertility. At present, therapeutic approaches to intrauterine adhesion are limited due to the lack of effective methods to promote regeneration following severe endometrial injury. Therefore, to develop new methods to prevent endometrial injury and intrauterine adhesion has become an urgent need. For severely damaged endometrium, the loss of stem cells in the endometrium may affect its regeneration. This article aimed to discuss the characteristics of various stem cells and their applications for uterine tissue regeneration.
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Kong Y, Shao Y, Ren C, Yang G. Endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their roles in immunity, clinical application, and endometriosis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:474. [PMID: 34425902 PMCID: PMC8383353 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02526-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial stem/progenitor cells have been proved to exist in periodically regenerated female endometrium and can be divided into three categories: endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells, CD140b+CD146+ or SUSD2+ endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs), and side population cells (SPs). Endometrial stem/progenitor cells in the menstruation blood are defined as menstrual stem cells (MenSCs). Due to their abundant sources, excellent proliferation, and autotransplantation capabilities, MenSCs are ideal candidates for cell-based therapy in regenerative medicine, inflammation, and immune-related diseases. Endometrial stem/progenitor cells also participate in the occurrence and development of endometriosis by entering the pelvic cavity from retrograde menstruation and becoming overreactive under certain conditions to form new glands and stroma through clonal expansion. Additionally, the limited bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMDSCs) in blood circulation can be recruited and infiltrated into the lesion sites, leading to the establishment of deep invasive endometriosis. On the other hand, cell derived from endometriosis may also enter the blood circulation to form circulating endometrial cells (CECs) with stem cell-like properties, and to migrate and implant into distant tissues. In this manuscript, by reviewing the available literature, we outlined the characteristics of endometrial stem/progenitor cells and summarized their roles in immunoregulation, regenerative medicine, and endometriosis, through which to provide some novel therapeutic strategies for reproductive and cancerous diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Kong
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yang Shao
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chunxia Ren
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China.
| | - Gong Yang
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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Wu JX, Lin S, Kong SB. Psychological Stress and Functional Endometrial Disorders: Update of Mechanism Insights. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:690255. [PMID: 34413829 PMCID: PMC8369421 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.690255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium plays a vital role in providing the site for embryo implantation and maintaining the normal development and survival of the embryo. Recent studies have shown that stress is a common factor for the development of unexplained reproductive disorders. The nonreceptive endometrium and disturbed early maternal-fetal interaction might lead to infertility including the repeated embryo implantation failure and recurrent spontaneous abortion, or late pregnancy complications, thereby affecting the quality of life as well as the psychological status of the affected individuals. Additionally, psychological stress might also adversely affect female reproductive health. In recent years, several basic and clinical studies have tried to investigate the harm caused by psychological stress to reproductive health, however, the mechanism is still unclear. Here, we review the relationship between psychological stress and endometrial dysfunction, and its consequent effects on female infertility to provide new insights for clinical therapeutic interventions in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-xiang Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shuang-bo Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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Lv H, Wu B, Song J, Wu W, Cai W, Xu J. Hydrogel, a novel therapeutic and delivery strategy, in the treatment of intrauterine adhesions. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:6536-6552. [PMID: 34324619 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb01005k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) are caused by damage to the underlying lining of the endometrium. They' re related to disorder of endometrial repair. In recent years, hydrogels with controllable biological activity have been widely used for treating IUAs. They encapsulate estrogen, cytokines, cells, or exosomes, forming a delivery system to release therapeutic components for the treatment of IUAs. In addition, the hydrogel acting as a barrier can be degraded in the body automatically, reducing the risk of infection caused by secondary surgeries. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of hydrogels and their application in IUAs as both a novel alternative therapeutic and an artificial delivery strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houyi Lv
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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29
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Liao Z, Liu C, Wang L, Sui C, Zhang H. Therapeutic Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Female Reproductive Diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:665645. [PMID: 34248842 PMCID: PMC8261239 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.665645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive disorders, including intrauterine adhesion (IUA), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are great threats to female reproduction. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells derived-extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) have presented their potentials to cure these diseases, not only for the propensity ability they stemmed from the parent cells, but also for the higher biology stability and lower immunogenicity, compared to MSCs. EVs are lipid bilayer complexes, functional as mediators by transferring multiple molecules to recipient cells, such as proteins, microRNAs, lipids, and cytokines. EVs appeared to have a therapeutic effect on the female reproductive disorder, such as repairing injured endometrium, suppressing fibrosis of endometrium, regulating immunity and anti-inflammatory, and repressing apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) in ovaries. Although the underlying mechanisms of MSC-EVs have reached a consensus, several theories have been proposed, including promoting angiogenesis, regulating immunity, and reducing oxidate stress levels. In the current study, we summarized the current knowledge of functions of MSC-EVs on IUA, POI, and PCOS. Given the great potentials of MSC-EVs on reproductive health, the critical issues discussed will guide new insights in this rapidly expanding field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | | | - Cong Sui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hanwang Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Wang J, Li D, Pan Y, Li J, Jiang Q, Liu D, Hou Y. Interleukin-34 accelerates intrauterine adhesions progress related to CX3CR1 + monocytes/macrophages. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:2501-2512. [PMID: 34138470 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) are characterized by endometrial fibrosis and impose a great challenge for female reproduction. IL-34 is profoundly involved in various fibrotic diseases through regulating the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of monocytes/macrophages. However, it remains unclear how IL-34 regulates monocytes/macrophages in context of IUA. Here, we showed that the expression level of IL-34 and the amount of CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages were significantly increased in endometrial tissues of IUA patients. IL-34 promoted the differentiation of monocytes/macrophages, which express CX3CR1 via CSF-1R/P13K/Akt pathway in vitro. Moreover, IL-34-induced CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages promoted the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells into myofibroblasts. Of note, IL-34 caused endometrial fibrosis and increased the amount of CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages in endometrial tissues in vivo. IL-34 modulated endometrial fibrosis by regulating monocytes/macrophages since the elimination of endometrial monocytes/macrophages significantly suppressed the profibrotic function of IL-34. Finally, blocking of IL-34 in the LPS-IUA model resulted in the improvement of endometrial fibrosis and decreased number of CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages. Our studies uncover the novel mechanism of interaction between IL-34-induced CX3CR1+ monocytes/macrophages and endometrial stromal cells in endometrial fibrosis pathogenesis, and highlight IL-34 as a critical target for treating IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuchen Pan
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingman Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Jiang
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Yayi Hou
- The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Immunology, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Turner BM, Cramer SF, Heller DS. The pathogenesis of abnormal uterine bleeding in myopathic uteri. Ann Diagn Pathol 2021; 52:151726. [PMID: 33706160 DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2021.151726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that impaired venous drainage and endometrial vascular ectasia (EMVE), secondary to increased intramural pressure, explains abnormal bleeding in fibroid uteri. Striking EMVE with extravasated red blood cells (ecchymosis) has also been seen in uteri with grossly obvious myometrial hyperplasia (MMH), suggesting that increased intramural pressure can cause EMVE in the absence of fibroids. EMVE with MMH may explain the century old association of clinically enlarged uteri with abnormal bleeding, and this same mechanism may be operative in myopathic uteri with grossly obvious adenomyosis. EMVE with associated thrombosis, ecchymosis, and/or stromal breakdown is commonly seen in random sections of hysterectomies for bleeding. EMVE may also be associated with endothelial hyperplasia, consistent with a reaction to endothelial injury due to impaired venous drainage. This further supports the theory that EMVE bleeds when thrombosis occurs, due to Virchow's Triad (stasis, endothelial injury, and hypercoagulability). EMVE may be "the lesion for which surgery was performed" in hysterectomies with otherwise unexplained bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley M Turner
- Departments of Pathology, Highland Hospital and Rochester General Hospital, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Stewart F Cramer
- Departments of Pathology, Highland Hospital and Rochester General Hospital, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Debra S Heller
- Department of Pathology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA.
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32
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Xu J, Tan YL, Liu QY, Huang ZC, Qiao ZH, Li T, Hu ZQ, Lei L. Quercetin regulates fibrogenic responses of endometrial stromal cell by upregulating miR-145 and inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad2/Smad3 pathway. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151600. [PMID: 33066828 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Aim of this study is to explore whether quercetin can inhibit the enlarged fibrogenic responses of endometrial stromal cells by increasing the level of microRNA-145 (miR-145) and mediating the TGFβ1/Smad2/Smad3 signaling pathway, and to discuss the mechanism of signal transduction, further to provide experimental basis for revealing the pathophysiological mechanism and seeking new strategies for effective prevention and treatment of endometrial fibrosis. METHODS The expression levels of miR-145 and TGF-β receptor 2 (TGFBR2) were detected by RT-qPCR analysis. Expressions of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin were examined by immunofluorescence staining. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. The protein expression of collagen type 1 alpha 1 (Col1a1), α-SMA, fibronectin (FN), TGFBR2, transforming growth factor (TGF-β1), Smad2/3, phospho-Smad2/3 (p-Smad2/3) were detected by western blot analysis. The interaction between miR-145 and TGFBR2 was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. RESULTS The expression level of miR-145 was decreased, whereas TGFBR2 was increased in intrauterine adhesion tissue. The expression levels of COL1A1, α-SMA, FN, TGFBR2, and p-Smad2/3 were increased, whereas miR-145 and cell proliferation were decreased in human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) in response to TGF-β1 stimulation in a time and dose-dependent manner, which could be reversed by quercetin. Furthermore, quercetin regulates cell fibrogenic responses of endometrial stromal cells via miR-145/TGF-β1/Smad2/Smad3 pathway. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicated that quercetin have a significant anti-fibrotic effect and could upregulate miR-145 and inhibit activation of TGF-β1/Smad2/Smad3 pathway to regulate TGF-β1 induced fibrogenic responses of endometrial stromal cells, which may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for endometrial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Xu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410007, PR China
| | - Ya-Li Tan
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, PR China
| | - Qi-Ying Liu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Changsha maternal and Child Health Hospital, Changsha, 410000, PR China
| | - Zi-Chun Huang
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410005, PR China
| | - Zong-Hui Qiao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410007, PR China
| | - Tai Li
- School of clinical medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, PR China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Hu
- School of clinical medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, PR China
| | - Lei Lei
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, PR China.
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An update on stem cell therapy for Asherman syndrome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1511-1529. [PMID: 32445154 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01801-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The current treatment for Asherman syndrome is limited and not very effective. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recent evidence for stem cells in the treatment of Asherman syndrome. The advent of stem cell therapy has propagated experimentation on mice and humans as a novel treatment. The consensus is that the regenerative capacity of stem cells has demonstrated improved outcomes in terms of fertility and fibrosis in both mice and humans with Asherman syndrome. Stem cells have effects on tissue repair by homing to the injured site, recruiting other cells by secreting chemokines, modulating the immune system, differentiating into other types of cells, proliferating into daughter cells, and potentially having antimicrobial activity. The studies reviewed examine different origins and administration modalities of stem cells. In preclinical models, therapeutic systemic injection of stem cells is more effective than direct intrauterine injection in regenerating the endometrium. In conjunction, bone marrow-derived stem cells have a stronger effect on uterine regeneration than uterine-derived stem cells, likely due to their broader differentiation potency. Clinical trials have demonstrated the initial safety and effectiveness profiles of menstrual, bone marrow, umbilical cord, and adipose tissue-derived stem cells in resumption of menstruation, fertility outcomes, and endometrial regeneration.
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Chen JX, Wang YP, Zhang X, Li GX, Zheng K, Duan CZ. lncRNA Mtss1 promotes inflammatory responses and secondary brain injury after intracerebral hemorrhage by targeting miR-709 in mice. Brain Res Bull 2020; 162:20-29. [PMID: 32442560 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2020.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Secondary brain injuries following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are mediated by inflammatory pathway activation. The present study aimed to characterize long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are differentially expressed in cerebral tissues during ICH pathogenesis and to investigate their pathogenic functions. An ICH mouse model established by collagenase injection was used to obtain differentially expressed lncRNAs for deep sequencing. A cellular inflammation model was established by treating mouse microglia with lipopolysaccharide. Expression of lncRNA and miRNA was assessed by quantitative RT-PCR, and protein abundance was measured by western blot. Cytokine levels in mouse serum and cell culture supernatants were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cerebral injury was evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin and Nissl staining, the ratio of brain dry weight/brain wet weight, and neurobehavior scoring. Ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1) expression in the brain sections was assessed using immunohistochemistry. A total of 3681 lncRNAs were differentially expressed in the brain tissue of the ICH mice group compared with the Sham group. Of these, lncRNA metastasis suppressor-1 (Mtss1) expression was increased. Mtss1 knockdown by siRNA in the cellular model strongly suppressed TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) expression, P65 phosphorylation, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β secretion. Mtss1 knockdown in ICH mice inhibited secondary brain injury and decreased IBA1, TNF-α, and IL-1β. Mtss1 was predicted to bind miR-709, and Mtss1 knockdown elevated miR-709 expression in the cellular inflammation model and ICH mice. High expression of Mtss1 promoted inflammatory brain injuries after ICH by enhancing inflammatory cytokine secretion and targeting miR-709 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Xiang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; The National Key Clinical Specialty, Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Guangzhou, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Ping Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; The National Key Clinical Specialty, Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guo-Xiong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; The National Key Clinical Specialty, Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kuang Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; The National Key Clinical Specialty, Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuan-Zhi Duan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; The National Key Clinical Specialty, Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Guangzhou, China.
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Vascular endothelial growth factor 165 inhibits pro-fibrotic differentiation of stromal cells via the DLL4/Notch4/smad7 pathway. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:681. [PMID: 31515487 PMCID: PMC6742656 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1928-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial fibrosis is the main pathological feature of Asherman’s syndrome (AS), which is the leading cause of uterine infertility. Much is known about the expression of VEGF165 in luminal/glandular epithelial cells and stromal cells of the endometrium in normal menstrual cycles; however, less is known about the role and mechanism of VEGF165 in endometrial fibrosis. Herein, we report that VEGF165 is a key regulator in endometrial stromal cells to inhibit α-SMA and collagen 1 expression. Compared to human control subjects, patients with AS exhibited decreased VEGF165 expression in the endometrium along with increased fibrotic marker expression and collagen production. A fibrotic phenotype was shown in both mice with conditional VEGF reduction and VEGF165-deleted endometrial stromal cells. Exogenous VEGF165 could suppress TGFβ1-induced α-SMA and collagen 1 expression in human primary endometrial stromal cells. However, this beneficial effect was hindered when the expression of smad7 or Notch4 was inhibited or when Notch signaling was blocked, suggesting that smad7 and Notch4 are essential downstream molecules for VEGFA functioning. Overall, our results uncover a clinical targeting strategy for VEGF165 to inhibit pro-fibrotic differentiation of stromal cells by inducing DLL4/Notch4/smad7, which paves the way for AS treatment.
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