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Mei J, Wu B, Li M, Ma L, Yang X, Ma Y, Huang Y. Effect of Cyclosporine A on Th1/Th2 Cytokine Production by Decidual Stromal Cells Mediated by Trophoblast-derived Galectin-9. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1903-1914. [PMID: 38273122 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01431-5] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of cyclosporine A (CsA) on secretion of Th1 and Th2 cytokines by decidual stromal cells (DSCs) mediated by galectin (Gal)-9.HTR8/SVneo cells and primary trophoblasts were used for in vitro studies. Gal-9 expression was measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, CsA was used to regulate Gal-9 expression in trophoblasts. DSCs were treated with trophoblast supernatant and changes in Th1 and Th2 cytokine levels were analyzed. Changes in DSC levels of the T-cell immunoglobulin mucin receptor 3 (TIM-3) levels in DSCs after treatment with Gal-9 were assessed. Western blotting and ERK and AKT inhibitors were used to assess the involvement of the corresponding signaling pathways. Gal-9 was expressed by both primary trophoblasts and HTR8/SVneo cells. CsA treatment increased Gal-9 secretion by trophoblasts, which in turn increased IL-6 (Th2 cytokine) and decreased TNF-α and IFN-γ (Th1 cytokines) secretion in DSCs. Upon downregulation of trophoblast Gal-9 secretion, DSCs secreted lower levels of Th2 cytokines and higher levels of Th1 cytokines, and the effect was reversed by addition of CsA. TIM-3 expression changed in parallel with Gal-9 secretion. CsA treatment upregulated expression of Gal-9 in trophoblasts, promoted secretion of Th2 cytokines, and inhibited secretion of Th1 cytokines via ERK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoqi Mei
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Bangyong Wu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Mengyongwei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Lina Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xiaohui Yang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yanlin Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China.
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
| | - Yuanhua Huang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University) , Ministry of EducationThe First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
- National Center for International Research "China-Myanmar Joint Research Center for Prevention and Treatment of Regional Major Disease" By the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Haikou, China.
- Haikou Key Laboratory for Preservation of Human Genetic Resource, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
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Zhang T, Li H, Jiang E, Liu L, Zhang C. The downregulation of NSUN5 may contribute to preeclampsia. Biol Reprod 2024:ioae096. [PMID: 38924712 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae096] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a complication of pregnancy characterized by the new onset of hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation. The incidence of PE is steadily rising, posing a significant threat to the lives of both the pregnant woman and the fetus. Most studies on PE pathogenesis currently focus on the placenta, but maternal decidualization forms the foundation for placental growth and development. Recent studies have shown that impaired decidualization is also a cause of PE. Decidualization is a process where endometrial stromal cells gradually transform into secretory decidual cells during early pregnancy. While NSUN5 encodes a member of a conserved family of proteins, its role in pregnancy remains unknown. In this study, we conducted experiments and observed a significant downregulation of NSUN5 expression in severe preeclampsia decidual tissues compared to those of normal pregnant women. When inducing decidualization in vitro, we found an increase in NSUN5 expression. However, when we used siRNA to knockdown NSUN5 expression, the process of decidualization was prevented. Moreover, we observed a decrease in ATP content during both cell decidualization and after knockdown of NSUN5. Finally, through immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry, we discovered that the protein ATP5B interacts with NSUN5. Furthermore, after knocking down ATP5B using siRNA, we observed impaired decidualization. Moreover, transfection with siRNA to suppress NSUN5 resulted in a decrease in ATP5B expression. These significant findings provide strong evidence that NSUN5 plays a crucial role in decidualization and is closely associated with the development of PE through its interaction with ATP5B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianying Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Hua Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ji'nan Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Jinan, Shandong 250001, China
| | - Enhui Jiang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Lisheng Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200135, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China
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Lestari B, Fukushima T, Utomo RY, Wahyuningsih MSH. Apoptotic and non-apoptotic roles of caspases in placenta physiology and pathology. Placenta 2024; 151:37-47. [PMID: 38703713 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Caspases, a family of cysteine proteases, are pivotal regulators of apoptosis, the tightly controlled cell death process crucial for eliminating excessive or unnecessary cells during development, including placental development. Collecting research has unveiled the multifaceted roles of caspases in the placenta, extending beyond apoptosis. Apart from their involvement in placental tissue remodeling via apoptosis, caspases actively participate in essential regulatory processes, such as trophoblast fusion and differentiation, significantly influencing placental growth and functionality. In addition, growing evidence indicates an elevation in caspase activity under pathological conditions like pre-eclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), leading to excessive cell death as well as inflammation. Drawing from advancements in caspase research and placental development under both normal and abnormal conditions, we examine the significance of caspases in both cell death (apoptosis) and non-cell death-related processes within the placenta. We also discuss potential therapeutics targeting caspase-related pathways for placenta disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beni Lestari
- Department Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Cancer Chemoprevention Research Center, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Toshiaki Fukushima
- Cell Biology Center, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Japan.
| | - Rohmad Yudi Utomo
- Cancer Chemoprevention Research Center, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Department Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Mae Sri Hartati Wahyuningsih
- Department Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
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Ebrahimi F, Omidvar-Mehrabadi A, Shahbazi M, Mohammadnia-Afrouzi M. Innate and adaptive immune dysregulation in women with recurrent implantation failure. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 164:104262. [PMID: 38823361 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104262] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a condition where a woman fails to obtain pregnancy after multiple embryo transfer cycles, even with superior-quality blastocysts. There are various factors that can contribute to RIF, including immunologic disturbances. The immune system is extremely important during pregnancy. Immune cells such as T cells, B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages (MQ) are present in the female reproductive tract and are accountable for regulating the immune response to invading pathogens and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Dysregulation of these immune cells can lead to inflammation, which can impair fertility. One of the most common immunological disturbances observed in RIF is an altered Th1/Th2 ratio, along with changes in NK cell and macrophage numbers. In addition, the presence of some antibodies, such as anti-ovarian antibodies, can also contribute to RIF. Interleukins have been implicated in the development of an inflammatory response that can interfere with successful embryo implantation. As a result, a comprehensive understanding of immunological compartments in RIF women could assist us in determining the immunological origins of this disease. We will discuss immunological factors that might contribute to RIF etiology, including cellular and molecular components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fateme Ebrahimi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Shahbazi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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Saadeldin IM, Ehab S, Noreldin AE, Swelum AAA, Bang S, Kim H, Yoon KY, Lee S, Cho J. Current strategies using 3D organoids to establish in vitro maternal-embryonic interaction. J Vet Sci 2024; 25:e40. [PMID: 38834510 PMCID: PMC11156602 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.24004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The creation of robust maternal-embryonic interactions and implantation models is important for comprehending the early stages of embryonic development and reproductive disorders. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture systems often fail to accurately mimic the highly complex in vivo conditions. The employment of three-dimensional (3D) organoids has emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these limitations in recent years. The advancements in the field of organoid technology have opened new avenues for studying the physiology and diseases affecting female reproductive tract. OBSERVATIONS This review summarizes the current strategies and advancements in the field of 3D organoids to establish maternal-embryonic interaction and implantation models for use in research and personalized medicine in assisted reproductive technology. The concepts of endometrial organoids, menstrual blood flow organoids, placental trophoblast organoids, stem cell-derived blastoids, and in vitro-generated embryo models are discussed in detail. We show the incorportaion of organoid systems and microfluidic technology to enhance tissue performance and precise management of the cellular surroundings. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This review provides insights into the future direction of modeling maternal-embryonic interaction research and its combination with other powerful technologies to interfere with this dialogue either by promoting or hindering it for improving fertility or methods for contraception, respectively. The merging of organoid systems with microfluidics facilitates the creation of sophisticated and functional organoid models, enhancing insights into organ development, disease mechanisms, and personalized medical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Islam Mohamed Saadeldin
- Comparative Medicine Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seif Ehab
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza 11341, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elsayed Noreldin
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, the Scientific Campus, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Ayman Abdel-Aziz Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Seonggyu Bang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Division in Biomedical Art, Department of Fine Art, Incheon Catholic University Graduate School, Incheon 21986, Korea
| | - Ki Young Yoon
- Department of Companion Animal, Shingu College, Seongnam 13174, Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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Fang Z, Mao J, Huang J, Sun H, Lu X, Lei H, Dong J, Chen S, Wang X. Increased levels of villus-derived exosomal miR-29a-3p in normal pregnancy than uRPL patients suppresses decidual NK cell production of interferon-γ and exerts a therapeutic effect in abortion-prone mice. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:230. [PMID: 38627796 PMCID: PMC11022359 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01610-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) patients have higher absolute numbers of decidual natural killer (dNK) cells with elevated intracellular IFN-γ levels leading to a pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu, which contributes to RPL pathogenesis. The main objective of this study was twofold: first to explore the regulatory effects and mechanisms of villus-derived exosomes (vEXOs) from induced abortion patients or RPL patients at the level of intracellular IFN-γ in dNK cells; second to determine the validity of application of vEXOs in the treatment of unexplained RPL (uRPL) through in vitro experiments and mouse models. METHODS Exosomes were isolated from villus explants by ultracentrifugation, co-cultured with dNK cells, and purified by enzymatic digestion and magnetically activated cell sorting. Flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and RT-qPCR were used to determine IFN-γ levels. Comparative miRNA analysis of vEXOs from induced abortion (IA) and uRPL patients was used to screen potential candidates involved in dNK regulation, which was further confirmed by luciferase reporter assays. IA-vEXOs were electroporated with therapeutic miRNAs and encapsulated in a China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA)-approved hyaluronate gel (HA-Gel), which has been used as a clinical biomaterial in cell therapy for > 30 years. In vivo tracking was performed using 1,1-dioctadecyl-3,3,3,3-tetramethylindotricarbocyaine iodide (DiR) labelling. Tail-vein and uterine horn injections were used to evaluate therapeutic effects of the engineered exosomes in an abortion-prone mouse model (CBA/J × DBA/2 J). Placental growth was evaluated based on placental weight. IFN-γ mRNA levels in mouse placentas were measured by RT-qPCR. RESULTS IFN-γ levels were significantly higher in dNK cells of uRPL patients than in IA patients. Both uRPL-vEXOs and IA-vEXOs could be efficiently internalized by dNK cells, whereas uRPL-vEXOs could not reduce the expression of IFN-γ by dNK cells as much as IA-vEXOs. Mechanistically, miR-29a-3p was delivered by vEXOs to inhibit IFN-γ production by binding to the 3' UTR of IFN-γ mRNA in dNK cells. For in vivo treatment, application of the HA-Gel effectively prolonged the residence time of vEXOs in the uterine cavity via sustained release. Engineered vEXOs loaded with miR-29a-3p reduced the embryo resorption rate in RPL mice with no signs of systemic toxicity. CONCLUSION Our study provides the first evidence that villi can regulate dNK cell production of IFN-γ via exosome-mediated transfer of miR-29a-3p, which deepens our understanding of maternal-fetal immune tolerance for pregnancy maintenance. Based on this, we developed a new strategy to mix engineered vEXOs with HA-Gel, which exhibited good therapeutic effects in mice with uRPL and could be used for potential clinical applications in uRPL treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiaqin Mao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jialyu Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, China
| | - Huijun Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xueyan Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Lei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuqiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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Kim M, Jang YJ, Lee M, Guo Q, Son AJ, Kakkad NA, Roland AB, Lee BK, Kim J. The transcriptional regulatory network modulating human trophoblast stem cells to extravillous trophoblast differentiation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1285. [PMID: 38346993 PMCID: PMC10861538 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45669-2] [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: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
During human pregnancy, extravillous trophoblasts play crucial roles in placental invasion into the maternal decidua and spiral artery remodeling. However, regulatory factors and their action mechanisms modulating human extravillous trophoblast specification have been unknown. By analyzing dynamic changes in transcriptome and enhancer profile during human trophoblast stem cell to extravillous trophoblast differentiation, we define stage-specific regulators, including an early-stage transcription factor, TFAP2C, and multiple late-stage transcription factors. Loss-of-function studies confirm the requirement of all transcription factors identified for adequate differentiation, and we reveal that the dynamic changes in the levels of TFAP2C are essential. Notably, TFAP2C pre-occupies the regulatory elements of the inactive extravillous trophoblast-active genes during the early stage of differentiation, and the late-stage transcription factors directly activate extravillous trophoblast-active genes, including themselves as differentiation further progresses, suggesting sequential actions of transcription factors assuring differentiation. Our results reveal stage-specific transcription factors and their inter-connected regulatory mechanisms modulating extravillous trophoblast differentiation, providing a framework for understanding early human placentation and placenta-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mijeong Kim
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Yu Jin Jang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Muyoung Lee
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Qingqing Guo
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Albert J Son
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Nikita A Kakkad
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Abigail B Roland
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Bum-Kyu Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Jonghwan Kim
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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Ma Y, Yu X, Ye S, Li W, Yang Q, Li YX, Wang Y, Wang YL. Immune-regulatory properties of endovascular extravillous trophoblast cells in human placenta. Placenta 2024; 145:107-116. [PMID: 38128221 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterine spiral artery remodeling is the prerequisite for ensuring adequate blood supply to the maternal-fetal interface during human pregnancy. One crucial cellular event in this process involves the extensive replacement of the spiral artery endothelial cells by endovascular extravillous trophoblasts (enEVTs), a subtype of extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs). However, our understanding of the properties of enEVTs remains limited. METHODS Human enEVTs in decidual tissues during early pregnancy was purified using flow sorting by specific makers, NCAM1 and HLA-G. The high-throughput RNA sequencing analysis as well as the cytokine antibody array experiments were carried out to analyze for cell properties. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment, kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed on differentially expressed genes of enEVTs. Immunofluorescent assays were used to verify the analysis results. RESULTS Both enEVTs and interstitial EVTs (iEVTs) exhibited gene expression patterns typifying EVT characteristics. Intriguingly, enEVTs displayed gene expression associated with immune responses, particularly reminiscent of M2 macrophage characteristics. The active secretion of multiple cytokines and chemokines by enEVTs provided partial validation for their expression pattern of immune-regulatory genes. DISCUSSION Our study reveals the immune-regulatory properties of human enEVTs and provides new insights into their functions and mechanisms involved in spiral artery remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeling Ma
- School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, 312000, China; State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Shenglong Ye
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenlong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Yang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Reproductive Health Drug and Devices, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Xia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yongqing Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Yan-Ling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Wei X, Yang X. The novel role of activating receptor KIR2DS5 in preeclampsia. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 125:111087. [PMID: 37864908 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111087] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious complication of pregnancy. Decidual natural killer (dNK) cells were reported to participate in the remodeling of spiral arteries through producing a group of cytokines, including granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). KIR2DS5 is an activating receptor of NK cells that specifically recognizes HLA-C2 on trophoblasts. Currently, there are no reports regarding the precise mechanism of KIR2DS5 in PE. This study included 30 PE patients and 30 healthy pregnant women. We found that the expressions of KIR2DS5 were significantly lower in PE deciduae compared to those of healthy pregnancies. By transfecting knockdown and overexpression lentivirus vectors of KIR2DS5 into dNK cells isolated from deciduae of early pregnancy, we altered the KIR2DS5 expression level in dNK cells. Then, these dNK cells and trophoblast cell lines were co-cultured as trophoblast-dNK cells. In the trophoblast-dNK cells, we examined the influence of KIR2DS5 on the biological manifestations of trophoblasts. As anticipated, overexpression of KIR2DS5 could facilitate cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, increased expression of KIR2DS5 inhibited cell apoptosis and enhanced the progression of cells from theG1 to theS stage. Further mechanistic study demonstrated a positive relationship between KIR2DS5 and GM-CSF in trophoblast-dNK cells. Accordingly, our observations indicated that a decrease in KIR2DS5 could reduce the expression of GM-CSF via the JAK2/STAT5 pathway, resulting in the failure of the activated signal to be transmitted to dNK cells and ultimately leading to the occurrence of PE. KIR2DS5 may be a new contributor for the prediction and diagnosis of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Wei
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Xiuhua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China.
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10
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Parks SE, Geng T, Monsivais D. Endometrial TGFβ signaling fosters early pregnancy development by remodeling the fetomaternal interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13789. [PMID: 38009061 PMCID: PMC10683870 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13789] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a unique and highly regenerative tissue with crucial roles during the reproductive lifespan of a woman. As the first site of contact between mother and embryo, the endometrium, and its critical processes of decidualization and immune cell recruitment, play a leading role in the establishment of pregnancy, embryonic development, and reproductive capacity. These integral processes are achieved by the concerted actions of steroid hormones and a myriad of growth factor signaling pathways. This review focuses on the roles of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) pathway in the endometrium during the earliest stages of pregnancy through the lens of immune cell regulation and function. We discuss how key ligands in the TGFβ family signal through downstream SMAD transcription factors and ultimately remodel the endometrium into a state suitable for embryo implantation and development. We also focus on the key roles of the TGFβ signaling pathway in recruiting uterine natural killer cells and their collective remodeling of the decidua and spiral arteries. By providing key details about immune cell populations and TGFβ signaling within the endometrium, it is our goal to shed light on the intricate remodeling that is required to achieve a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney E. Parks
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ting Geng
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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11
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Tian X, Goemaere NNT, van der Meeren L, Yang J, Kapsenberg JM, Lashley LEELO, Eikmans M, van der Hoorn MLP. Inflammatory placental lesions are specifically observed in healthy oocyte donation pregnancies with extreme fetal-maternal incompatibility. Placenta 2023; 143:100-109. [PMID: 37866320 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.10.005] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oocyte donation (OD) pregnancy is a risk factor for pre-eclampsia (PE). Due to a higher extent of fetal-maternal human leukocyte antigens (HLA) mismatching in OD pregnancies compared to naturally conceived (NC) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancies, the immune response in OD placentas is probably divergent and affects clinical outcomes. We hypothesized that placental pathology varies among diverse pregnancy conditions and is related to fetal-maternal HLA incompatibility. METHODS Placental lesions were scored in four patient groups: OD-PE (n = 16), OD-healthy (n = 37), NC-PE (n = 45), and IVF-healthy (n = 17). All combinations were genotyped for HLA-A, -B, -C, -DR, and -DQ to calculate fetal-maternal HLA mismatches. Placentas showing chronic deciduitis with plasma cells were immunofluorescently stained with CD138 and the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). RESULTS The distribution and severity of placental lesions varied among groups. The OD-healthy group had the highest inflammation score and greatest extent of chronic deciduitis with plasma cells (p < 0.05). However, the majority of CD138+ plasma cells (90%) in OD-healthy group expressed IL-10, in contrast to the OD-PE group (58%). The OD-healthy group was separated into semi-allogeneic (≤5 HLA mismatches) and fully allogeneic (>5 mismatches) subgroups. The elevated inflammatory pathology score and chronic deciduitis with plasma cells were found more often in the HLA-class-I fully allogeneic OD-healthy group than the IVF-healthy group (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION Placental inflammatory lesions are most often present in uncomplicated OD pregnancies. Immune cells that infiltrate these lesions might play an immunosuppressive role to protect OD pregnancies from complications when facing a higher extent of fetal-maternal HLA mismatching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuezi Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Lotte van der Meeren
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jiayi Yang
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johanna M Kapsenberg
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lisa E E L O Lashley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Eikmans
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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12
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Zhuang BM, Cao DD, Li TX, Liu XF, Lyu MM, Wang SD, Cui XY, Wang L, Chen XL, Lin XL, Lee CL, Chiu PCN, Yeung WSB, Yao YQ. Single-cell characterization of self-renewing primary trophoblast organoids as modeling of EVT differentiation and interactions with decidual natural killer cells. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:618. [PMID: 37853336 PMCID: PMC10583354 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09690-x] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extravillous trophoblast cell (EVT) differentiation and its communication with maternal decidua especially the leading immune cell type natural killer (NK) cell are critical events for placentation. However, appropriate in vitro modelling system and regulatory programs of these two events are still lacking. Recent trophoblast organoid (TO) has advanced the molecular and mechanistic research in placentation. Here, we firstly generated the self-renewing TO from human placental villous and differentiated it into EVTs (EVT-TO) for investigating the differentiation events. We then co-cultured EVT-TO with freshly isolated decidual NKs for further study of cell communication. TO modelling of EVT differentiation as well as EVT interaction with dNK might cast new aspect for placentation research. RESULTS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was applied for comprehensive characterization and molecular exploration of TOs modelling of EVT differentiation and interaction with dNKs. Multiple distinct trophoblast states and dNK subpopulations were identified, representing CTB, STB, EVT, dNK1/2/3 and dNKp. Lineage trajectory and Seurat mapping analysis identified the close resemblance of TO and EVT-TO with the human placenta characteristic. Transcription factors regulatory network analysis revealed the cell-type specific essential TFs for controlling EVT differentiation. CellphoneDB analysis predicted the ligand-receptor complexes in dNK-EVT-TO co-cultures, which relate to cytokines, immunomodulation and angiogenesis. EVT was known to affect the immune properties of dNK. Our study found out that on the other way around, dNKs could exert effects on EVT causing expression changes which are functionally important. CONCLUSION Our study documented a single-cell atlas for TO and its applications on EVT differentiation and communications with dNKs, and thus provide methodology and novel research cues for future study of human placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai-Mei Zhuang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Medical school of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Dan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China.
| | - Tian-Xi Li
- Geneplus-Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Min-Min Lyu
- Department of Clinical-Translational and Basic Research Laboratory, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Shenzhen, Futian District, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Si-Dong Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Medical school of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Cui
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Li Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong S.A.R
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong S.A.R
| | - William S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong S.A.R
| | - Yuan-Qing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China.
- Medical school of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Medical Centre, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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13
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Jin F, Liu W, Cheng G, Cai S, Yin T, Diao L. The function of decidua natural killer cells in physiology and pathology of pregnancy. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13755. [PMID: 37641369 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of decidual natural killer (dNK) cells in maintaining immune tolerance at the maternal-fetal interface during pregnancy is a significant topic in reproductive health. Immune tolerance is essential for a successful pregnancy and involves a complex immune response involving various immune cells and molecules. DNK cells comprise the largest population of lymphocyte subsets found in the decidua and play important roles in maintaining immune tolerance. These cells exert multiple functions to maintain homeostasis of the decidual microenvironment, including modulation of trophoblast invasion, promotion of fetal development, regulation of endometrial decidualization and spiral artery remodeling. DNK cells can also be divided into different subsets based on their functions as NKtolerant , NKcytotoxic , and NKregulatory cells. However, the relationship between dNK cells function and pregnancy outcomes is complex and poorly understood. In this review, we will focus on the physiological role of dNK cells during pregnancy and highlight the potential role in pathological pregnancies and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Guan Cheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of translational medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Songchen Cai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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14
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Zhang Y, Liu Z, Sun H. Fetal-maternal interactions during pregnancy: a 'three-in-one' perspective. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1198430. [PMID: 37350956 PMCID: PMC10282753 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1198430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A successful human pregnancy requires the maternal immune system to recognize and tolerate the semi-allogeneic fetus, allowing for appropriate trophoblasts invasion and protecting the fetus from invading pathogens. Therefore, maternal immunity is critical for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, especially at the maternal-fetal interface. Anatomically, the maternal-fetal interface has both maternally- and fetally- derived cells, including fetal originated trophoblasts and maternal derived immune cells and stromal cells. Besides, a commensal microbiota in the uterus was supposed to aid the unique immunity in pregnancy. The appropriate crosstalk between fetal derived and maternal originated cells and uterine microbiota are critical for normal pregnancy. Dysfunctional maternal-fetal interactions might be associated with the development of pregnancy complications. This review elaborates the latest knowledge on the interactions between trophoblasts and decidual immune cells, highlighting their critical roles in maternal-fetal tolerance and pregnancy development. We also characterize the role of commensal bacteria in promoting pregnancy progression. Furthermore, this review may provide new thought on future basic research and the development of clinical applications for pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghong Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhaozhao Liu
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, ZhengZhou, China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
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15
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Bangi EF, Yousuf MH, Upadhyay S, Jain P, Jain R. Comprehensive Review of Hypertensive Disorders Related to Pregnancy. South Med J 2023; 116:482-489. [PMID: 37263611 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Hypertensive disorder of pregnancy is a common complication during pregnancy that affects approximately 10% of pregnancies and is responsible for nearly 14% of maternal deaths worldwide. It affects the mother and the fetus simultaneously, sometimes putting the health of the mother and the fetus at odds with each other. It may present with only hypertension and proteinuria or with life-threatening complications in the mother such as eclampsia; stroke; acute pulmonary edema; acute renal failure; disseminated intravascular coagulation; placental abruption; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet syndrome; pregnancy loss; and fetal growth restriction and prematurity resulting from the frequent need of delivering preterm in the fetus. In this review, we aimed to describe hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, mainly preeclampsia and chronic hypertension in pregnancy, by discussing the pathophysiology, the central role of abnormal placentation, the release of antiangiogenic factors in the circulation and immunological factors, the clinical outcome in the mother and the fetus, and the diagnostic criteria and principles of management of both the conditions. We also discuss possible screening methods and prevention of preeclampsia using low-dose aspirin and eclampsia prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eera Fatima Bangi
- From the Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | | | | | | | - Rohit Jain
- Department of Internal Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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16
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Huang CC, Hsueh YW, Chang CW, Hsu HC, Yang TC, Lin WC, Chang HM. Establishment of the fetal-maternal interface: developmental events in human implantation and placentation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1200330. [PMID: 37266451 PMCID: PMC10230101 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1200330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Early pregnancy is a complex and well-orchestrated differentiation process that involves all the cellular elements of the fetal-maternal interface. Aberrant trophoblast-decidual interactions can lead to miscarriage and disorders that occur later in pregnancy, including preeclampsia, intrauterine fetal growth restriction, and preterm labor. A great deal of research on the regulation of implantation and placentation has been performed in a wide range of species. However, there is significant species variation regarding trophoblast differentiation as well as decidual-specific gene expression and regulation. Most of the relevant information has been obtained from studies using mouse models. A comprehensive understanding of the physiology and pathology of human implantation and placentation has only recently been obtained because of emerging advanced technologies. With the derivation of human trophoblast stem cells, 3D-organoid cultures, and single-cell analyses of differentiated cells, cell type-specific transcript profiles and functions were generated, and each exhibited a unique signature. Additionally, through integrative transcriptomic information, researchers can uncover the cellular dysfunction of embryonic and placental cells in peri-implantation embryos and the early pathological placenta. In fact, the clinical utility of fetal-maternal cellular trafficking has been applied for the noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of aneuploidies and the prediction of pregnancy complications. Furthermore, recent studies have proposed a viable path toward the development of therapeutic strategies targeting placenta-enriched molecules for placental dysfunction and diseases.
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17
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Habets DHJ, Al-Nasiry S, Nagelkerke SQ, Voorter CEM, Spaanderman MEA, Kuijpers TW, Wieten L. Analysis of FCGR3A-p.176Val variants in women with recurrent pregnancy loss and the association with CD16a expression and anti-HLA antibody status. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5232. [PMID: 36997584 PMCID: PMC10063683 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32156-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractNatural Killer (NK) cells have been implicated in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). The p.Val176Phe (or Val158Phe) Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) in the FCGR3A gene encoding the FcγRIIIA or CD16a receptor has been associated with an enhanced affinity for IgG and stronger NK-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. We hypothesized that the presence of at least one p.176Val variant associates with RPL and increased CD16a expression and alloantibodies e.g., against paternal human leukocyte antigen (HLA). In 50 women with RPL, we studied frequencies of the p.Val176Phe FCGR3A polymorphisms. Additionally, CD16a expression and anti-HLA antibody status were analyzed by flowcytometry and Luminex Single Antigens. In woman with RPL, frequencies were: 20% (VV), 42% (VF) and 38% (FF). This was comparable to frequencies from the European population in the NCBI SNP database and in an independent Dutch cohort of healthy women. NK cells from RPL women with a VV (22,575 [18731-24607]) and VF (24,294 [20157-26637]) polymorphism showed a higher expression of the CD16a receptor than NK cells from RPL women with FF (17,367 [13257-19730]). No difference in frequencies of the FCGR3A-p.176 SNP were detected when comparing women with or without class I and class II anti-HLA antibodies. Our study does not provide strong evidence for an association between the p.Val176Phe FCGR3A SNP and RPL.
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18
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Sciarra F, Campolo F, Franceschini E, Carlomagno F, Venneri M. Gender-Specific Impact of Sex Hormones on the Immune System. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076302. [PMID: 37047274 PMCID: PMC10094624 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones are key determinants of gender-related differences and regulate growth and development during puberty. They also exert a broad range modulation of immune cell functions, and a dichotomy exists in the immune response between the sexes. Both clinical and animal models have demonstrated that androgens, estrogens, and progestogens mediate many of the gender-specific differences in immune responses, from the susceptibility to infectious diseases to the prevalence of autoimmune disorders. Androgens and progestogens mainly promote immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory effects, whereas estrogens enhance humoral immunity both in men and in women. This study summarizes the available evidence regarding the physiological effects of sex hormones on human immune cell function and the underlying biological mechanisms, focusing on gender differences triggered by different amounts of androgens between males and females.
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Sokolov D, Gorshkova A, Markova K, Milyutina Y, Pyatygina K, Zementova M, Korenevsky A, Mikhailova V, Selkov S. Natural Killer Cell Derived Microvesicles Affect the Function of Trophoblast Cells. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:213. [PMID: 36837716 PMCID: PMC9963951 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13020213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of natural killer (NK) and trophoblast cells underlies the formation of immune tolerance in the mother-fetus system and the maintenance of the physiological course of pregnancy. In addition, NK cells affect the function of trophoblast cells, interacting with them via the receptor apparatus and through the production of cytokines. Microvesicles (MVs) derived from NK cells are able to change the function of target cells. However, in the overall pattern of interactions between NK cells and trophoblasts, the possibility that both can transmit signals to each other via MVs has not been taken into account. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of NK cell-derived MVs on the phenotype, proliferation, and migration of trophoblast cells and their expression of intracellular messengers. We carried out assays for the detection of content transferred from MV to trophoblasts. We found that NK cell-derived MVs did not affect the expression of CD54, CD105, CD126, CD130, CD181, CD119, and CD120a receptors in trophoblast cells or lead to the appearance of CD45 and CD56 receptors in the trophoblast membrane. Further, the MVs reduced the proliferation but increased the migration of trophoblasts with no changes to their viability. Incubation of trophoblast cells in the presence of MVs resulted in the activation of STAT3 via pSTAT3(Ser727) but not via pSTAT3(Tyr705). The treatment of trophoblasts with MVs did not result in the phosphorylation of STAT1 and ERK1/2. The obtained data indicate that NK cell-derived MVs influence the function of trophoblast cells, which is accompanied by the activation of STAT3 signaling.
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20
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Liu Z, He J, Jin P, Ran Y, Yin N, Qi H. CCL21/CCR7 Axis Contributes to Trophoblastic Cell Migration and Invasion in Preeclampsia by Affecting the Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition via the ERK1/2 Signaling Pathway. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020150. [PMID: 36829431 PMCID: PMC9952405 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related disorder that is a leading cause of maternal death. The failure of spiral artery remodeling due to insufficient trophoblast migration and invasion is critical in the pathogenesis of PE. Recently, the CC motif chemokine ligand 21 (CCL21) has been widely linked to cancer cell invasion and migration. However, their potential mechanisms are still unknown. In this study, we found that CCL21 expression was significantly lower in the PE group than that in the control group. In vitro experiments revealed that recombinant CCL21 could promote trophoblast cell epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions (EMTs) and improve migration and invasion. Furthermore, an inhibitor of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway inhibited the CCL21-induced EMT process. Finally, a PE mouse model was established using the NOS inhibitor L-NAME, and we obtained similar results, with downregulated CCL21 and EMT biomarkers and upregulated CCR7. Taken together, these findings suggest that the CCL21/CCR7 axis influences EMT by activating the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, thereby affecting trophoblast cell migration and invasion, which may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Pingsong Jin
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yuxin Ran
- Department of Obstetrics, Women and Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, China
| | - Nanlin Yin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Correspondence: (N.Y.); (H.Q.)
| | - Hongbo Qi
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Department of Obstetrics, Women and Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, China
- Correspondence: (N.Y.); (H.Q.)
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21
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Mu Z, Shen S, Tang L, Liu Y, Zhou Z, Lei L. Hyperin promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells via activation of JAK1/STAT3 pathway in recurrent spontaneous abortions. Heliyon 2023; 9:e12958. [PMID: 36747955 PMCID: PMC9898646 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The proliferation of extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) and their further migration, invasion, and differentiation into the decidual and myometrial vasculature are vital for spiral artery remodeling. These physiological functions of EVT are also essential steps in the implantation of the human embryo and the formation of the placenta and are closely related to pregnancy maintenance and the occurrence of abortion. Hyperin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, pro-proliferative, and anti-apoptotic properties. Consequently, we investigated the previously unexplored effects of hyperin on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells. Human extravillous trophoblast-derived HTR-8/SVneo cells were incubated with different concentrations of hyperin (0, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 μM) to observe the changes in cell proliferation, migration, invasive capacity, and pathway activation. Proliferation, migration, and invasion were promoted by activating the JAK1/STAT3 pathway in HTR-8/SVneo cells treated with hyperin. In addition, brepocitinib (PF-06700841) significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion effects of hyperin on HTR-8/SVneo cells. In vivo experiments confirmed that hyperin reduces the embryo loss rate in recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) model mice. Furthermore, our study revealed that hyperin promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells via activation of the JAK1/STAT3 pathway, further improving pregnancy outcomes in RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenni Mu
- College of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Sinan Shen
- College of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Li Tang
- College of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Yingdie Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Ziwei Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Lei Lei
- College of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China,Corresponding author.
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22
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Meggyes M, Feik T, Nagy DU, Polgar B, Szereday L. CD8 and CD4 Positive NKT Subpopulations and Immune-Checkpoint Pathways in Early-Onset Preeclampsia and Healthy Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021390. [PMID: 36674905 PMCID: PMC9863229 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although many studies have investigated the clinical aspect of early-onset preeclampsia, our knowledge about the immunological consequences of improper placenta development is scarce. The maternal immunotolerance against the fetus is greatly influenced by the Th1 predominance developed by the mother's immune system. Thirty-two early-onset preeclamptic and fifty-one healthy pregnant women with appropriately matched gestational age were involved in our study. Mononuclear cells were separated from peripheral venous blood and the frequency of CD8⁺, CD4⁺, double positive (DP), and double negative (DN) NKT cell subpopulations was determined using multicolor flow cytometry. Following the characterization, the expression levels of different immune checkpoint receptors and ligands were also defined. Soluble CD226 levels were quantified by ELISA. Novel and significant differences were revealed among the ratios of the investigated NKT subsets and in the expression patterns of PD-1, LAG-3, TIGIT and CD226 receptors. Further differences were determined in the expression of CD112, PD-1, LAG-3 and CD226 MFI values between the early-onset preeclamptic and the healthy pregnant groups. Our results suggest that the investigated NKT subpopulations act differently in the altered immune condition characteristic of early-onset preeclampsia and indicate that the different subsets may contribute to the compensation or maintenance of Th1 predominance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matyas Meggyes
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, 20 Ifjusag Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
- Correspondence:
| | - Timoteus Feik
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
| | - David U. Nagy
- Institute of Geobotany/Plant Ecology, Martin-Luther-University, Große Steinstraße 79/80, 06108 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Beata Polgar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, 20 Ifjusag Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Szereday
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pecs, 12 Szigeti Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, 20 Ifjusag Street, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
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23
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Lin Z, Shi JL, Chen M, Zheng ZM, Li MQ, Shao J. CCL2: An important cytokine in normal and pathological pregnancies: A review. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1053457. [PMID: 36685497 PMCID: PMC9852914 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1053457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL2), also known as monocytic chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), is an integral chemotactic factor which recruits macrophages for the immune response. Together with its receptors (e.g., CCR2, ACKR1, and ACKR2), they exert noticeable influences on various diseases of different systems. At the maternal-fetal interface, CCL2 is detected to be expressed in trophoblasts, decidual tissue, the myometrium, and others. Meanwhile, existing reports have determined a series of physiological regulators of CCL2, which functions in maintaining normal recruitment of immunocytes, tissue remodeling, and angiogenesis. However, abnormal levels of CCL2 have also been reported to be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as spontaneous abortion, preeclampsia and preterm labor. In this review, we concentrate on CCL2 expression at the maternal-fetal interface, as well as its precise regulatory mechanisms and classic signaling pathways, to reveal the multidimensional aspects of CCL2 in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Lin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Lu Shi
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Chen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zi-Meng Zheng
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Health Commision (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Shao
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Zhu Y, Liu X, Xu Y, Lin Y. Hyperglycemia disturbs trophoblast functions and subsequently leads to failure of uterine spiral artery remodeling. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1060253. [PMID: 37091848 PMCID: PMC10113679 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1060253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine spiral artery remodeling is necessary for fetal growth and development as well as pregnancy outcomes. During remodeling, trophoblasts invade the arteries, replace the endothelium and disrupt the vascular smooth muscle, and are strictly regulated by the local microenvironment. Elevated glucose levels at the fetal-maternal interface are associated with disorganized placental villi and poor placental blood flow. Hyperglycemia disturbs trophoblast proliferation and invasion via inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, altering the protein expression of related proteases (MMP9, MMP2, and uPA) and angiogenic factors (VEGF, PIGF). Besides, hyperglycemia influences the cellular crosstalk between immune cells, trophoblast, and vascular cells, leading to the failure of spiral artery remodeling. This review provides insight into molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of hyperglycemia that influence trophoblast functions and uterine spiral artery remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyue Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaorui Liu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichi Xu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Lin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Lin,
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25
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Baines KJ, Klausner MS, Patterson VS, Renaud SJ. Interleukin-15 deficient rats have reduced osteopontin at the maternal-fetal interface. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1079164. [PMID: 37152295 PMCID: PMC10157472 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1079164] [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: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Uterine Natural Killer (NK) cells are the predominant immune cells within the decidua during early pregnancy. These cells are thought to regulate aspects of decidualization and placental development, but their functions remain poorly characterized, especially in species with deeply invading trophoblasts such as humans and rats. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine required for NK cell development and survival. IL-15 mutant (IL15Δ/Δ) rats lack NK cells and exhibit altered placental development with precocious trophoblast invasion. In this study, we profiled gene expression differences between wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ implantation sites to reveal candidate factors produced by uterine NK cells that may regulate placentation and trophoblast invasion. Methods: Clariom S gene expression profiling was performed using implantation sites collected from pregnant wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ rats on gestational day 9.5. Levels and localization of perforin and osteopontin in implantation sites from wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ rats were further analyzed. The effect of osteopontin on the invasive capacity of rat trophoblasts was evaluated using Matrigel-based Transwell assays. Results: There were 257 genes differentially expressed between wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ implantation sites on gestational day 9.5, including decreased expression of various NK cell markers in IL15Δ/Δ rats, as well as Spp1, which encodes osteopontin. In wild-type rats, osteopontin was present within the decidua basalis and adjacent to the primitive placenta, and osteopontin colocalized with the NK cell marker perforin. Osteopontin was also detectable in uterine glands. Conversely, in IL15Δ/Δ rats, osteopontin and perforin were not readily detectable in the decidua despite robust osteopontin levels in uterine glands. Neutralization of osteopontin in media conditioned by cells isolated from the decidua decreased invasion of rat trophoblasts, suggesting that reduced levels of osteopontin are unlikely to account for the precocious trophoblast invasion in IL15Δ/Δ rats. Conclusion: Osteopontin is expressed by NK cells at the maternal-fetal interface in rats and may contribute to modulation of trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J. Baines
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michelle S. Klausner
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Violet S. Patterson
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J. Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Stephen J. Renaud,
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26
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Qiu Q, Tan J. Long noncoding RNA WT1-AS regulates trophoblast proliferation, migration, and invasion via the microRNA-186-5p/CADM2 axis. Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:1903-1914. [PMID: 36561840 PMCID: PMC9730544 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0595] [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: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) WT1 antisense RNA (WT1-AS) in the occurrence and progression of preeclampsia (PE) and to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms. The associations between WT1-AS and microRNA (miR)-186-5p, and miR-186-5p and cell adhesion molecule 2 (CADM2) were predicted using StarBase software and verified via dual-luciferase assays. To explore the role of the human chorionic trophoblast line HTR-8/SVneo, gene (WT1-AS/miR-186-5p) gain/loss of function experiments were performed. Qualitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis was used to evaluate transfection efficiency. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell migration, and invasion were assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, and transwell analysis, respectively. Moreover, CADM2 protein expression was measured by western blotting. The results indicated that overexpression of WT1-AS inhibited cell viability, migration, and invasion, and induced apoptosis in HTR-8/SVneo cells. We observed that miR-186a-5p directly targeted WT1-AS, and miR-186a-5p knockdown reversed the effects of WT1-AS knockdown in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Binding sites were found between miR-186-5p and CADM2, and CADM2-overexpression reversed the influence of miR-186-5p mimic on HTR-8/SVneo cells. In summary, our findings demonstrated that lncRNA WT1-AS participates in PE by regulating the proliferation and invasion of placental trophoblasts, through the miR-186-5p/CADM2 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Qiu
- Maternal and Child Health Teaching and Research Section, Lianyungang Branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Union Technical Institute, Lianyungang 222000, China
| | - Juan Tan
- Department of Medical Genetics and Prenatal Diagnosis, Lianyungang Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Lianyungang 222000, China
- Lianyungang Maternity and Child Health Hospital, No. 669 Qindongmen Street, Haizhou District, Lianyungang 222000, China
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27
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Wu HM, Chen LH, Hsu LT, Lai CH. Immune Tolerance of Embryo Implantation and Pregnancy: The Role of Human Decidual Stromal Cell- and Embryonic-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113382. [PMID: 36362169 PMCID: PMC9658721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo–endometrial communication plays a critical role in embryo implantation and the establishment of a successful pregnancy. Successful pregnancy outcomes involve maternal immune modulation during embryo implantation. The endometrium is usually primed and immunomodulated by steroid hormones and embryo signals for subsequent embryo implantation and the maintenance of pregnancy. The roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and microRNAs for the embryo–maternal interactions have been elucidated recently. New evidence shows that endometrial EVs and trophectoderm-originated EV cargo, including microRNAs, proteins, and lipids in the physiological microenvironment, regulate maternal immunomodulation for embryo implantation and subsequent pregnancy. On the other hand, trophoblast-derived EVs also control the cross-communication between the trophoblasts and immune cells. The exploration of EV functions and mechanisms in the processes of embryo implantation and pregnancy will shed light on a practical tool for the diagnostic or therapeutic approaches to reproductive medicine and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Ming Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Le-Tien Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chyong-Huey Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3-328-1200 (ext. 8254)
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28
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Benkhalifa M, Joao F, Duval C, Montjean D, Bouricha M, Cabry R, Bélanger MC, Bahri H, Miron P, Benkhalifa M. Endometrium Immunomodulation to Prevent Recurrent Implantation Failure in Assisted Reproductive Technology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232112787. [PMID: 36361577 PMCID: PMC9654171 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
After more than four decades of assisted reproductive technology (ART) practice worldwide, today more than 60% of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments fail to become pregnant after the first embryo transfer and nearly 20% of patients are suffering from unexplained recurrent implantation failures (RIFs) and repeated pregnancy loss (RPL). The literature reported different causes of RIF–RPL, mainly multifactorial, endometrial and idiopathic. RIF remains a black box because of the complicated categorization and causes of this physio-pathological dysregulation of implantation and pregnancy process after ovarian stimulation. Many options were suggested as solutions to treat RIF–RPL with controversial results on their usefulness. In this article, we reviewed different possible therapeutic options to improve implantation rates and clinical outcomes. Based on our experience we believe that endometrium immunomodulation after intrauterine insemination of activated autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can be a promising therapeutic solution. On the other hand, peripheral lymphocyte balance typing, specific cytokines and interleukins profiling can be proposed as predictive biomarkers of implantation before embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustapha Benkhalifa
- HB Laboratory, Tunis TN 1007, Tunisia
- Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, Bizerte TN 7021, Tunisia
| | - Fabien Joao
- Fertilys Reproductive Center, Laval, QC H7S 1Z5, Canada
| | - Cynthia Duval
- Fertilys Reproductive Center, Laval, QC H7S 1Z5, Canada
| | | | - Molka Bouricha
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Biology & Genetics, University Hospital and School of Medicine Picardie University Jules Verne, 80054 Amiens, France
| | - Rosalie Cabry
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Biology & Genetics, University Hospital and School of Medicine Picardie University Jules Verne, 80054 Amiens, France
| | | | | | - Pierre Miron
- Fertilys Reproductive Center, Laval, QC H7S 1Z5, Canada
| | - Moncef Benkhalifa
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Biology & Genetics, University Hospital and School of Medicine Picardie University Jules Verne, 80054 Amiens, France
- PeriTox Laboratory, CURS, Amiens Sud, 80480 Salouël, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-677-867-390
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29
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James JL, Lissaman A, Nursalim YNS, Chamley LW. Modelling human placental villous development: designing cultures that reflect anatomy. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:384. [PMID: 35753002 PMCID: PMC9234034 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The use of in vitro tools to study trophoblast differentiation and function is essential to improve understanding of normal and abnormal placental development. The relative accessibility of human placentae enables the use of primary trophoblasts and placental explants in a range of in vitro systems. Recent advances in stem cell models, three-dimensional organoid cultures, and organ-on-a-chip systems have further shed light on the complex microenvironment and cell-cell crosstalk involved in placental development. However, understanding each model's strengths and limitations, and which in vivo aspects of human placentation in vitro data acquired does, or does not, accurately reflect, is key to interpret findings appropriately. To help researchers use and design anatomically accurate culture models, this review both outlines our current understanding of placental development, and critically considers the range of established and emerging culture models used to study this, with a focus on those derived from primary tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Abbey Lissaman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yohanes N S Nursalim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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30
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Zhang Q, Xiao Z, Lee CL, Duan YG, Fan X, Yeung WSB, Chiu PCN, Zhang JV. The Regulatory Roles of Chemerin-Chemokine-Like Receptor 1 Axis in Placental Development and Vascular Remodeling During Early Pregnancy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:883636. [PMID: 35656551 PMCID: PMC9152263 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.883636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemerin is an adipokine that regulates metabolism in pregnancy. An elevation of serum chemerin level is associated with pregnancy complications. Consistently, we demonstrated that the chemerin expression was increased in placenta of preeclamptic patients at deliveries. The G protein-coupled receptor chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) mediates the actions of chemerin. The functions of the chemerin-CMKLR1 axis in maintaining pregnancy are still unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that CMKLR1 was expressed in the decidual natural killer (dNK) cells and chorionic villi of human. Chemerin suppressed the proliferation of the dNK cells in vitro. Specific antagonist of CMKLR1, α-Neta abolished the suppressive effect of spent medium from chemerin-treated dNK cells culture on extravillous trophoblast invasion. Activation of the chemerin-CMKLR1 axis promoted fusion and differentiation of human cytotrophoblast to syncytiotrophoblast in vitro. We generated Cmklr1 knockout mice and showed that the Cmklr1 deficiency negatively affected pregnancy outcome in terms of number of implantation sites, litter size and fetal weight at birth. Histologically, the Cmklr1 deficiency impaired formation of the syncytiotrophoblast layer II, induced enlargement of the maternal lacunae in the labyrinth, increased the diameter of the spiral arteries and increased trophoblast invasion in the decidua. The Cmklr1 deficient placenta also displayed an increased number of dNK cells and serum IL-15 level. In summary, the chemerin-CMKLR1 axis regulated placental development and spiral artery remodeling in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhonglin Xiao
- Center for Energy Metabolism and Reproduction, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiujun Fan
- Center for Energy Metabolism and Reproduction, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian V. Zhang,
| | - Jian V. Zhang
- Center for Energy Metabolism and Reproduction, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Metabolic Health, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian V. Zhang,
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Guo R, Jiang S, Zhang J, Yang Q, Gao L, Xia W, Tong L, Feng P, Xu Y, Zhang T, Cheng H, Liu C, Zhang X, Yin Z, Zhang H. PD-1 mediates decidual γδ T cells cytotoxicity during recurrent pregnancy loss. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 88:e13562. [PMID: 35567369 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is one of the big challenges of normal pregnancy. Immune dysregulation has been proposed for the key underline mechanisms of RPL. However, the essential roles of T cells, especially γδ T cells, have not been defined. METHOD OF STUDY Decidua were obtained from normal pregnancy women or recurrent pregnancy loss patients and the surface molecules of γδ T cells in decidua were evaluated via flow cytometric analysis. The expression of PD-1 in clinical samples was analyzed by immunohistochemistry assay. The intracellular cytokines of decidual PD-1+ and PD-1- γδ T cells were evaluated by flow cytometric analysis. The cytotoxicity of PD-1- γδ T cells were confirmed via an in vitro co-culture experiment. The specific inhibitors for Erk, p38 and JNK against the MAPK pathway were added to the co-culture media to evaluate the functions of the Erk, p38 and JNK. RESULTS We demonstrated that PD-1 was significantly decreased on decidual tissue γδ T cells of patients with RPL, resulting in the enhanced cytotoxicity of γδ T cells against trophoblasts. We further elucidated an Erk-dependent TNF-α production mediates the γδ T cell cytotoxicity against the trophoblast cells. Finally, the reduced expression of PD-L1 in the villi tissues of patients with RPL might be the cause of the reduction of PD-1 on the tissue γδ T cells. CONCLUSION Our study uncovers an important role of PD-1 expression on decidual γδ T cells in maintaining the normal pregnancy, and may provide a new strategy for immune therapy against RPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Silin Jiang
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jianliang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Quanli Yang
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Gao
- The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lingxia Tong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Peiran Feng
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Xu
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Center for Cancer Immunology Research, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - CuiPing Liu
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xueguang Zhang
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Non-Coding RNAs Regulate Spontaneous Abortion: A Global Network and System Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084214. [PMID: 35457031 PMCID: PMC9028476 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous abortion is a common pregnancy complication that negatively impacts women’s health and commercial pig production. It has been demonstrated that non-coding RNA (ncRNA) is involved in SA by affecting cell proliferation, invasion, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), migration, and immune response. Over the last decade, research on ncRNAs in SA has primarily concentrated on micro RNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). In this review, we discuss recent ncRNA studies focused on the function and mechanism of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs in regulating SA. Meanwhile, we suggest that a ceRNA regulatory network exists in the onset and development of SA. A deeper understanding of this network will accelerate the process of the quest for potential RNA markers for SA diagnosis and treatment.
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Zhang Y, Wang S. The possible role of long non-coding RNAs in recurrent miscarriage. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:9687-9697. [PMID: 35397764 PMCID: PMC9515028 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07427-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is a complicated disease in reproductive medicine that impacts many families. Currently, the etiology of RM is thought to include chromosome abnormalities, reproductive tract malformations, autoimmune dysfunction, infection, and environmental factors. However, the underlying mechanisms of RM remain unknown. At present, research on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is rapidly emerging and becoming a hot research topic in epigenetic studies. Recent studies revealed that lncRNAs are strongly linked to RM and play a crucial role in epigenetic, cell cycle, cell differentiation regulation, and other life activities. This article mainly reviews the difference in lncRNA expression in patients with RM and regulation of susceptibility, endometrial receptivity, and the maternal-fetal interface. Meanwhile, the correlation between lncRNAs and RM is expounded, which provides new insights for the early diagnosis and treatment of RM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Zhang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to, Shandong First Medical University, 324 Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Shan Wang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to, Shandong First Medical University, 324 Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 324 Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, China.
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Zuccarello D, Sorrentino U, Brasson V, Marin L, Piccolo C, Capalbo A, Andrisani A, Cassina M. Epigenetics of pregnancy: looking beyond the DNA code. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:801-816. [PMID: 35301622 PMCID: PMC9050975 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02451-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is the branch of genetics that studies the different mechanisms that influence gene expression without direct modification of the DNA sequence. An ever-increasing amount of evidence suggests that such regulatory processes may play a pivotal role both in the initiation of pregnancy and in the later processes of embryonic and fetal development, thus determining long-term effects even in adult life. In this narrative review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of epigenetics in pregnancy, from its most studied and well-known mechanisms to the new frontiers of epigenetic regulation, such as the role of ncRNAs and the effects of the gestational environment on fetal brain development. Epigenetic mechanisms in pregnancy are a dynamic phenomenon that responds both to maternal-fetal and environmental factors, which can influence and modify the embryo-fetal development during the various gestational phases. Therefore, we also recapitulate the effects of the most notable environmental factors that can affect pregnancy and prenatal development, such as maternal nutrition, stress hormones, microbiome, and teratogens, focusing on their ability to cause epigenetic modifications in the gestational environment and ultimately in the fetus. Despite the promising advancements in the knowledge of epigenetics in pregnancy, more experience and data on this topic are still needed. A better understanding of epigenetic regulation in pregnancy could in fact prove valuable towards a better management of both physiological pregnancies and assisted reproduction treatments, other than allowing to better comprehend the origin of multifactorial pathological conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Zuccarello
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - Ugo Sorrentino
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Valeria Brasson
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Loris Marin
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Piccolo
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Andrisani
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Cassina
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
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35
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Rawat P, Das A. Differential expression of disparate transcription factor regime holds the key for NK cell development and function modulation. Life Sci 2022; 297:120471. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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36
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Role of Natural Killer Cells during Pregnancy and Related Complications. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12010068. [PMID: 35053216 PMCID: PMC8773865 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A high number of leucocytes reside in the human endometrium and are distributed differentially during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. During early pregnancy, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are the most common type of natural killer (NK) cells in the uterus. The increase in the number of uterine NK (uNK) cells during the mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, followed by further increase of dNK cells in early pregnancy, has heightened interest in their involvement during pregnancy. Extensive research has revealed various roles of dNK cells during pregnancy including the formation of new blood vessels, migration of trophoblasts, and immunological tolerance. The present review article is focused on the significance of NK cells during pregnancy and their role in pregnancy-related diseases. The article will provide an in-depth review of cellular and molecular interactions during pregnancy and related disorders, with NK cells playing a pivotal role. Moreover, this study will help researchers to understand the physiology of normal pregnancy and related complications with respect to NK cells, so that future research work can be designed to alleviate the complications.
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Meakin C, Barrett ES, Aleksunes LM. Extravillous trophoblast migration and invasion: Impact of environmental chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 107:60-68. [PMID: 34838982 PMCID: PMC8760155 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the migration and invasion of extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) into the maternal uterus is essential for proper development of the placenta and fetus. During the first trimester, EVTs engraft and remodel maternal spiral arteries allowing for efficient blood flow and the transfer of essential nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. Aberrant migration of EVTs leading to either shallow or deep invasion into the uterus has been implicated in a number of gestational pathologies including preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and placenta accreta spectrum. The migration and invasion of EVTs is well-coordinated to ensure proper placentation. However, recent data point to the ability of xenobiotics to disrupt EVT migration. These xenobiotics include heavy metals, endocrine disrupting chemicals, and organic contaminants and have often been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. In most instances, xenobiotics appear to reduce EVT migration; however, there are select examples of enhanced motility after chemical exposure. In this review, we provide an overview of the 1) current experimental approaches used to evaluate EVT migration and invasion in vitro, 2) ability of environmental chemicals and pharmaceuticals to enhance or retard EVT motility, and 3) signaling pathways responsible for altered EVT migration that are sensitive to disruption by xenobiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Meakin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Emily S. Barrett
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ
| | - Lauren M. Aleksunes
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ,Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ,Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
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38
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Fraser R, Zenclussen AC. Killer Timing: The Temporal Uterine Natural Killer Cell Differentiation Pathway and Implications for Female Reproductive Health. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:904744. [PMID: 35832424 PMCID: PMC9271944 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.904744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are the predominant maternal uterine immune cell component, and they densely populate uterine mucosa to promote key changes in the post-ovulatory endometrium and in early pregnancy. It is broadly accepted that (a) immature, inactive endometrial NK (eNK) cells in the pre-ovulatory endometrium become activated and transition into decidual NK (dNK) cells in the secretory stage, peri-implantation endometrium, and continue to mature into early pregnancy; and (b) that secretory-stage and early pregnancy dNK cells promote uterine vascular growth and mediate trophoblast invasion, but do not exert their killing function. However, this may be an overly simplistic view. Evidence of specific dNK functional killer roles, as well as opposing effects of dNK cells on the uterine vasculature before and after conception, indicates the presence of a transitory secretory-stage dNK cell (s-dNK) phenotype with a unique angiodevelopmental profile during the peri-implantation period, that is that is functionally distinct from the angiomodulatory dNK cells that promote vessel destabilisation and vascular cell apoptosis to facilitate uterine vascular changes in early pregnancy. It is possible that abnormal activation and differentiation into the proposed transitory s-dNK phenotype may have implications in uterine pathologies ranging from infertility to cancer, as well as downstream effects on dNK cell differentiation in early pregnancy. Further, dysregulated transition into the angiomodulatory dNK phenotype in early pregnancy will likely have potential repercussions for adverse pregnancy outcomes, since impaired dNK function is associated with several obstetric complications. A comprehensive understanding of the uterine NK cell temporal differentiation pathway may therefore have important translational potential due to likely NK phenotypic functional implications in a range of reproductive, obstetric, and gynaecological pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupsha Fraser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Rupsha Fraser,
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, Leipzig, Germany
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James JL, Boss AL, Sun C, Allerkamp HH, Clark AR. From stem cells to spiral arteries: A journey through early placental development. Placenta 2021; 125:68-77. [PMID: 34819240 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Early placental development lays the foundation of a healthy pregnancy, and numerous tightly regulated processes must occur for the placenta to meet the increasing nutrient and oxygen exchange requirements of the growing fetus later in gestation. Inadequacies in early placental development can result in disorders such as fetal growth restriction that do not present clinically until the second half of gestation. Indeed, growth restricted placentae exhibit impaired placental development and function, including reduced overall placental size, decreased branching of villi and the blood vessels within them, altered trophoblast function, and impaired uterine vascular remodelling, which together combine to reduce placental exchange capacity. This review explores the importance of early placental development across multiple anatomical aspects of placentation, from the stem cells and lineage hierarchies from which villous core cells and trophoblasts arise, through extravillous trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodelling, and finally remodelling of the larger uterine vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Anna L Boss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Cherry Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Hanna H Allerkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys R Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand
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40
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Examination of the TIGIT, CD226, CD112, and CD155 Immune Checkpoint Molecules in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Women Diagnosed with Early-Onset Preeclampsia. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111608. [PMID: 34829838 PMCID: PMC8615567 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Early-onset preeclampsia is a common obstetrical disease with a potential genetic background and is characterized by the predominance of Th1 immune response. However, although many studies investigated the immunological environment in preeclamptic patients, no information is available about the potential role of the TIGIT/CD226/CD112/CD155 immune checkpoint pathway. A total of 37 pregnant women diagnosed with early-onset preeclampsia and 36 control women with appropriately matched gestational age were enrolled in this study. From venous blood, mononuclear cells were isolated and stored in the freezer. Using multicolor flow cytometry T-, NK cell and monocyte subpopulations were determined. After characterization of the immune cell subsets, TIGIT, CD226, CD112, and CD155 surface expression and intracellular granzyme B content were determined by flow cytometer. Significantly decreased CD226 expression and increased CD112 and CD155 surface expression were detected in almost all investigated T-cell, NK cell, and monocyte subpopulations in women diagnosed with preeclampsia compared to the healthy group. Furthermore, reduced TIGIT and granzyme B expression were measured only in preeclamptic CD8+ T cells compared to healthy pregnant women. A decreased level of the activatory receptor CD226 in effector lymphocytes accompanied with an elevated surface presence of the CD112 and CD155 ligands in monocytes could promote the TIGIT/CD112 and/or TIGIT/CD155 ligation, which mediates inhibitory signals. We assume that the inhibition of the immune response via this immune checkpoint pathway might contribute to compensate for the Th1 predominance during early-onset preeclampsia.
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Kniotek M, Roszczyk A, Zych M, Wrzosek M, Szafarowska M, Zagożdżon R, Jerzak M. Sildenafil Citrate Downregulates PDE5A mRNA Expression in Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss without Altering Angiogenic Factors-A Preliminary Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10215086. [PMID: 34768607 PMCID: PMC8584603 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10215086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In our previous study, we showed that sildenafil citrate (SC), a selective PDE5A blocker, modulated NK cell activity in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss, which correlated with positive pregnancy outcomes. It was found that NK cells had a pivotal role in decidualization, angiogenesis, spiral artery remodeling, and the regulation of trophoblast invasion. Thus, in the current study, we determined the effects of SC on angiogenic factor expression and production, as well as idNK cell activity in the presence of nitric synthase blocker L-NMMA. Methods: NK cells (CD56+) were isolated from the peripheral blood of 15 patients and 15 fertile women on MACS columns and cultured in transformation media containing IL-15, TGF-β, and AZA—a methylation agent—for 7 days in hypoxia (94% N2, 1% O2, 5% CO2). Cultures were set up in four variants: (1) with SC, (2) without SC, (3) with NO, a synthase blocker, and (4) with SC and NO synthase blocker. NK cell activity was determined after 7 days of culturing as CD107a expression after an additional 4h of stimulation with K562 erythroleukemia cells. The expression of the PDE5A, VEGF-A, PIGF, IL-8, and RENBP genes was determined with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) using TaqMan probes and ELISA was used to measure the concentrations of VEGF-A, PLGF, IL-8, Ang-I, Ang-II, IFN–γ proteins in culture supernatants after SC supplementation. Results: SC downregulated PDE5A expression and had no effect on other studied angiogenic factors. VEGF-A expression was increased in RPL patients compared with fertile women. Similarly, VEGF production was enhanced in RPL patients’ supernatants and SC increased the concentration of PIGF in culture supernatants. SC did not affect the expression or concentration of other studied factors, nor idNK cell activity, regardless of NO synthase blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Kniotek
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 59 Nowogrodzka St., 02-006 Warsaw, Poland; (M.K.); (A.R.); (M.Z.); (R.Z.)
| | - Aleksander Roszczyk
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 59 Nowogrodzka St., 02-006 Warsaw, Poland; (M.K.); (A.R.); (M.Z.); (R.Z.)
| | - Michał Zych
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 59 Nowogrodzka St., 02-006 Warsaw, Poland; (M.K.); (A.R.); (M.Z.); (R.Z.)
| | - Małgorzata Wrzosek
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Banacha St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Preclinical Research Center, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Banacha St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Monika Szafarowska
- Department of Gynecology and Oncological Gynecology, Military Institute of Medicine, 128 Szaserów St., 04-141 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Radosław Zagożdżon
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 59 Nowogrodzka St., 02-006 Warsaw, Poland; (M.K.); (A.R.); (M.Z.); (R.Z.)
- Department of Immunology, Transplantology and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, 59 Nowogrodzka St., 02-006 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Jerzak
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Banacha St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Preclinical Research Center, Medical University of Warsaw, 1 Banacha St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- m-CLINIC 77/U9 Pulawska St., 02-595 Warsawa, Poland
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Manzan-Martins C, Paulesu L. Impact of bisphenol A (BPA) on cells and tissues at the human materno-fetal interface. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101662. [PMID: 34628212 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor extensively used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins and a component of liquid and food containers. It is a hazard in the prenatal period because of its presence in the placenta, fetal membranes, amniotic fluid, maternal and fetal blood and its ability to cross the placenta and reach the fetus. Estimation of the risk of BPA exposure during in utero life is extremely important in order to prevent complications of pregnancy and fetal growth. This review describes in vitro models of the human materno-fetal interface. It also outlines the effects of BPA at doses indicated as "physiological", namely at the concentrations found in the general population, and at "supraphysiological" and "subphysiological" doses, i.e. above and below the physiological range. This work will help clarify the discrepancies observed in studies on the effects of BPA on human reproduction and pregnancy, and it will be useful for the choice of appropriate in vitro models for future studies aimed at identifying the potential impact of BPA on specific functional processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - L Paulesu
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
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Orgul G, Dalva K, Dalva-Aydemir S, Alniacik RG, Donmez HG, Cakar AN, Beksac M, Beksac MS. Significance of inhibitory maternal killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and fetal KIR ligand genotype combinations in placenta related obstetric complications. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 148:103425. [PMID: 34607283 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103425] [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: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Some maternal killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and fetal KIR ligand genotypes are associated with obstetric complications, such as recurrent miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. However, how KIR/KIR ligand genotypes affect these placenta-related obstetric complications has not been fully understood. We aimed to demonstrate the association of maternal KIR-fetal KIR ligand genotype combinations with immunological/metabolic risk factor associated placenta-related obstetric complications. This study consisted of three groups of pregnant women: 1) Miscarriage group (n = 30), 2) Complicated Pregnancy (CP) group (n = 30), and 3) Control group (n = 30). The observed maternal genotype frequencies of all inhibitory and activating KIRs were similar in all groups (p > 0.05). However, inhibitory 2DL3 was quite frequent in the miscarriage group (p = 0.052). There was no difference between groups in terms of centromeric and telomeric maternal haplotypes (p > 0.05). The fetal group 1 HLA-C genotype was frequently detected in the miscarriage and CP groups with rates of 83.3 % and 93.3 % respectively, while the observed frequency was 70 % in the control group. The fetal group 2 HLA-C genotype was the same in all groups. The results demonstrated significantly less fetal group 2 HLA-C homozygosity in the CP groups when compared to the control group (p = 0.020). The fetal HLA-Bw4 genotype was detected more frequently in the miscarriage and CP groups (p = 0.028 and p = 0.001, respectively). The inhibitory KIR/KIR ligand genotype combinations of 2DL3-C1 and 3DL1-Bw4 were more frequent in the miscarriage and CP groups (p = 0.045 and p = 0.002, respectively). Enhanced NK cell inhibition may be one of the mechanisms underlying placenta-related obstetric complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokcen Orgul
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Turkey.
| | - Klara Dalva
- Division of Haematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ankara University, Turkey.
| | | | | | - Hanife Guler Donmez
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Ayse Nur Cakar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, TOBB University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Meral Beksac
- Division of Haematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ankara University, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Sinan Beksac
- Division of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Turkey.
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Li L, Feng T, Zhou W, Liu Y, Li H. miRNAs in decidual NK cells: regulators worthy of attention during pregnancy. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:150. [PMID: 34600537 PMCID: PMC8486626 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00812-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The critical immune effectors, including T, B, and natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages participate in regulating immune responses during pregnancy. Among these immune cells, decidual NK (dNK) cells are involved in key placental development processes at the maternal-fetal interface, such as uterine spiral artery remodeling, trophoblast invasion, and decidualization. Mechanistically, dNK cells significantly influence pregnancy outcome by secreting cytokines, chemokines, and angiogenic mediators and by their interactions with trophoblasts and other decidual cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that participate in the initiation and progression of human diseases. Although the functions of circulating miRNAs in pathological mechanism has been extensively studied, the regulatory roles of miRNAs in NK cells, especially in dNK cells, have been rarely reported. In this review, we analyze the effects of miRNA regulations of dNK cell functions on the immune system during gestation. We discuss aberrant expressions of certain miRNAs in dNK cells that may lead to pathological consequences, such as recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Interestingly, miRNA expression patterns are also different between dNK cells and peripheral NK (pNK) cells, and pNK cells in the first- and third-trimester of gestation. The dysregulation of miRNA plays a pivotal regulatory role in driving immune functions of dNK and pNK cells. Further understanding of the molecular mechanisms of miRNAs in dNK cells may provide new insights into the development of therapeutics to prevent pregnancy failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liman Li
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Feng
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Weijie Zhou
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Heusler M, Einenkel R, Ehrhardt J, Muzzio DO, Zygmunt M. Low Abundance Fusobacterium Nucleatum Supports Early Pregnancy Development - An In Vitro Study. Front Immunol 2021; 12:698045. [PMID: 34531854 PMCID: PMC8438310 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.698045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy success depends greatly on a balanced immune homeostasis. The detection of bacterial components in the upper reproductive tract in non-pregnant and pregnant women raised questions on its possible beneficial role in reproductive health. The local conditions that allow the presence of bacteria to harmonize with the establishment of pregnancy are still unknown. Among the described bacterial species in endometrial and placental samples, Fusobacterium nucleatum was found. It has been observed that F. nucleatum can induce tumorigenesis in colon carcinoma, a process that shares several features with embryo implantation. We propose that low concentrations of F. nucleatum may improve trophoblast function without exerting destructive responses. Inactivated F. nucleatum and E. coli were incubated with the trophoblastic cell lines HTR8/SVneo, BeWo, and JEG-3. Viability, proliferation, migratory capacity, invasiveness and the secretion of chemokines, other cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases were assessed. The presence of F. nucleatum significantly induced HTR8/SVneo invasion, accompanied by the secretion of soluble mediators (CXCL1, IL-6 and IL-8) and metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9). However, as concentrations of F. nucleatum increased, these did not improve invasiveness, hindered migration, reduced cell viability and induced alterations in the cell cycle. Part of the F. nucleatum effects on cytokine release were reverted with the addition of a TLR4 blocking antibody. Other effects correlated with the level of expression of E-cadherin on the different cell lines tested. Low amounts of F. nucleatum promote invasion of HTR8/SVneo cells and induce the secretion of important mediators for pregnancy establishment. Some effects were independent of LPS and correlated with the expression of E-cadherin on trophoblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Heusler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Rebekka Einenkel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jens Ehrhardt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Damián Oscar Muzzio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Marek Zygmunt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Zhang X, Wei H. Role of Decidual Natural Killer Cells in Human Pregnancy and Related Pregnancy Complications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:728291. [PMID: 34512661 PMCID: PMC8426434 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.728291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a unique type of immunological process. Healthy pregnancy is associated with a series of inflammatory events: implantation (inflammation), gestation (anti-inflammation), and parturition (inflammation). As the most abundant leukocytes during pregnancy, natural killer (NK) cells are recruited and activated by ovarian hormones and have pivotal roles throughout pregnancy. During the first trimester, NK cells represent up to 50–70% of decidua lymphocytes. Differently from peripheral-blood NK cells, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are poorly cytolytic, and they release cytokines/chemokines that induce trophoblast invasion, tissue remodeling, embryonic development, and placentation. NK cells can also shift to a cytotoxic identity and carry out immune defense if infected in utero by pathogens. At late gestation, premature activation of NK cells can lead to a breakdown of tolerance of the maternal–fetal interface and, subsequently, can result in preterm birth. This review is focused on the role of dNK cells in normal pregnancy and pathological pregnancy, including preeclampsia, recurrent spontaneous abortion, endometriosis, and recurrent implantation failure. dNK cells could be targets for the treatment of pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhong Zhang
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Division of Molecular Medicine, The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Sun Y, Wu S, Zhou Q, Li X. Trophoblast-derived interleukin 9 mediates immune cell conversion and contributes to maternal-fetal tolerance. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 148:103379. [PMID: 34534877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the maternal-fetal crosstalk, fetal derived trophoblast cells can secret several molecules to regulate immune tolerance such as cytokines and chemokines, besides human leukocyte antigens (HLA) providing. However, the mechanism of these factors in pregnancy is still unknown. Our previous study showed that IL9 could be secreted by trophoblasts and exerted a positive effect on trophoblasts themselves through autocrine signaling. Given the immunoregulatory function of IL9 and its expression in trophoblasts, we hypothesize that IL9 contributes to maternal-fetal tolerance by regulating immune cells, especially CD14+ dendritic cells (DCs) and naïve CD4 + T cells who have essential roles in maternal-fetal immune tolerance. We performed a series of experiments, finding that HTR8/SVneo cells could secrete IL9 in vitro, and this secretion was decreased under hypoxia; both CD14 + DCs and naïve CD4 + T cells expressed IL9 receptors, indicating potential interactions among these cells. In CD14 + DCs, trophoblast-derived IL9 promoted the immature differentiation, and induced the secretion of Th2 cytokines, including IL4 and IL10, shifting the Th1/Th2 ratio to Th2. In naïve CD4 + T cells, IL9 also increased Foxp3 expression and promoted the secretion of Treg cytokines, including TGFβ and IL10, inhibiting pro-inflammatory Th17. Therefore, trophoblasts may act as fetal-derived immune cells to maintain maternal-fetal tolerance by secreting IL9. Given that trophoblast derived IL9 is decreased in preeclampsia, our study provides a new insight into maternal-fetal immunology and immunological disorders in abnormal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Sun
- Obstetric Department, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suwen Wu
- Obstetric Department, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiongjie Zhou
- Obstetric Department, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaotian Li
- Obstetric Department, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Obstetric Department, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai, China; Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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48
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Bazhenov DO, Khokhlova EV, Viazmina LP, Furaeva KN, Mikhailova VA, Kostin NA, Selkov SA, Sokolov DI. Characteristics of Natural Killer Cell Interaction with Trophoblast Cells During Pregnancy. Curr Mol Med 2021; 20:202-219. [PMID: 31393246 DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666190808103227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal natural killer cells (NK cells) are a prevailing leukocyte population in the uteroplacental bed. Current descriptions of the effect of cytokines from the placental microenvironment on the expression of receptors by trophoblast and NK cells are inadequate and contradictory. There is insufficient information about the ability of NK cells to migrate through trophoblast cells. OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of conditioned media obtained during culturing of placentas from the first and the third trimesters of healthy pregnancies on the phenotype of trophoblast and NK cells and impact on adhesion and transmigration of NK cells through trophoblast cell layer. RESULTS We established that conditioned media obtained from both first and third trimester placentas increased the intensity of CD106, CD49e, CD49a, CD31, CD51/61, and integrin β6 expression by trophoblast cells. Conditioned media obtained from first trimester placentas increased the intensity of CD11a, CD29, CD49d, CD58, CD29 expression by NK cells. The presence of conditioned media from third trimester placentas resulted in more intense CD29, CD49d, CD11a, CD29, CD49d, and CD58 expression by NK cells. Migration of NK cells through trophoblast cells in the presence of conditioned media from first trimester placentas was increased compared with the migration level in the presence of conditioned media from third trimester placentas. This may be associated with increased expression of CD18 by NK cells. CONCLUSION First trimester placental secretory products increase adhesion receptor expression by both trophoblast and NK cells. Under these conditions, trophoblast is capable of ensuring NK cell adhesion and transmigration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Olegovich Bazhenov
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Mendeleevskya line, 199034, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation.,Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Experimental Medicine, Russian Federation
| | - Evgeniya Valerevna Khokhlova
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Mendeleevskya line, 199034, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Larisa Pavlovna Viazmina
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Mendeleevskya line, 199034, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Kseniya Nikolaevna Furaeva
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Mendeleevskya line, 199034, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Valentina Anatolievna Mikhailova
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Mendeleevskya line, 199034, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Nikolay Anatolievich Kostin
- Resource Centre for the Molecular and Cell Technologies Development, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint- Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Sergey Alekseevich Selkov
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Mendeleevskya line, 199034, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Dmitry Igorevich Sokolov
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O. Ott, Mendeleevskya line, 199034, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation.,Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Research Institute of Experimental Medicine, Russian Federation
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49
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Liu Y, Gao S, Zhao Y, Wang H, Pan Q, Shao Q. Decidual Natural Killer Cells: A Good Nanny at the Maternal-Fetal Interface During Early Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:663660. [PMID: 34054831 PMCID: PMC8149889 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.663660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are the tissue-resident and major subpopulation of NK cells at the maternal-fetal interface. It has been demonstrated that dNK cells play pivotal roles in pregnancy, including keeping maternal-fetal immune tolerance, promoting extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell invasion, and driving uterine spiral artery remodeling. However, the molecular mechanisms haven't been elucidated until recent years. In this review, we systemically introduce the generation, subsets, and surface or soluble molecules of dNK cells, which are critical for maintaining the functions of dNK cells. Further, new functions of dNK cells including well-controlled cytotoxicity, immunosurveillance and immunotrophism supporting via the cell-cell interaction between dNK cells and EVT cells are mainly focused. The molecular mechanisms involved in these functions are also illustrated. Moreover, pregnancy-associated diseases caused by the dNK cells abnormalities are discussed. It will be important for future investigations about the mechanism of maintenance of pregnancy and parturition and potential clinical applications of dNK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuefang Liu
- Department of Clinical Genetics, the Huai'an Maternity and Child Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shujun Gao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yangjing Zhao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Qiong Pan
- Department of Clinical Genetics, the Huai'an Maternity and Child Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China
| | - Qixiang Shao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhenjiang, China
- Jiangsu College of Nursing, School of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Huai'an, China
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50
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Granja MG, Oliveira ACDR, de Figueiredo CS, Gomes AP, Ferreira EC, Giestal-de-Araujo E, de Castro-Faria-Neto HC. SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Pregnant Women: Neuroimmune-Endocrine Changes at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Neuroimmunomodulation 2021; 28:1-21. [PMID: 33910207 PMCID: PMC8247841 DOI: 10.1159/000515556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has devastating effects on the population worldwide. Given this scenario, the extent of the impact of the disease on more vulnerable individuals, such as pregnant women, is of great concern. Although pregnancy may be a risk factor in respiratory virus infections, there are no considerable differences regarding COVID-19 severity observed between pregnant and nonpregnant women. In these circumstances, an emergent concern is the possibility of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric harm for the offspring of infected mothers. Currently, there is no stronger evidence indicating vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2; however, the exacerbated inflammatory response observed in the disease could lead to several impairments in the offspring's brain. Furthermore, in the face of historical knowledge on possible long-term consequences for the progeny's brain after infection by viruses, we must consider that this might be another deleterious facet of COVID-19. In light of neuroimmune interactions at the maternal-fetal interface, we review here the possible harmful outcomes to the offspring brains of mothers infected by SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Gomes Granja
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, Federal University of State of Rio de Janeiro − UNIRIO, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation − Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alex Portes Gomes
- Medical Science Program, Neurology and Neuroscience, Fluminense Federal University − UFF, Niterói, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | - Erica Camila Ferreira
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation − Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth Giestal-de-Araujo
- Neuroscience Program, Fluminense Federal University − UFF, Niterói, Rajasthan, Brazil
- National Institute of Technology-Neuroimmunomodulation − INCT-NIM, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | - Hugo Caire de Castro-Faria-Neto
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation − Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
- National Institute of Technology-Neuroimmunomodulation − INCT-NIM, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
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