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Dawid M, Pich K, Mlyczyńska E, Respekta-Długosz N, Wachowska D, Greggio A, Szkraba O, Kurowska P, Rak A. Adipokines in pregnancy. Adv Clin Chem 2024; 121:172-269. [PMID: 38797542 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2024.04.006] [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] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Reproductive success consists of a sequential events chronology, starting with the ovum fertilization, implantation of the embryo, placentation, and cellular processes like proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, endocrinology, or metabolic changes, which taken together finally conduct the birth of healthy offspring. Currently, many factors are known that affect the regulation and proper maintenance of pregnancy in humans, domestic animals, or rodents. Among the determinants of reproductive success should be distinguished: the maternal microenvironment, genes, and proteins as well as numerous pregnancy hormones that regulate the most important processes and ensure organism homeostasis. It is well known that white adipose tissue, as the largest endocrine gland in our body, participates in the synthesis and secretion of numerous hormones belonging to the adipokine family, which also may regulate the course of pregnancy. Unfortunately, overweight and obesity lead to the expansion of adipose tissue in the body, and its excess in both women and animals contributes to changes in the synthesis and release of adipokines, which in turn translates into dramatic changes during pregnancy, including those taking place in the organ that is crucial for the proper progress of pregnancy, i.e. the placenta. In this chapter, we are summarizing the current knowledge about levels of adipokines and their role in the placenta, taking into account the physiological and pathological conditions of pregnancy, e.g. gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, or intrauterine growth restriction in humans, domestic animals, and rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Dawid
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland; Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Karolina Pich
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland; Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewa Mlyczyńska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland; Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Natalia Respekta-Długosz
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland; Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dominka Wachowska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland; Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Greggio
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Oliwia Szkraba
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Patrycja Kurowska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland.
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Yen IW, Lin SY, Lin MW, Lee CN, Kuo CH, Chen SC, Tai YY, Kuo CH, Kuo HC, Lin HH, Juan HC, Lin CH, Fan KC, Wang CY, Li HY. The association between plasma angiopoietin-like protein 4, glucose and lipid metabolism during pregnancy, placental function, and risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age neonates. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 554:117775. [PMID: 38220135 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.117775] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large-for-gestational-age (LGA) neonates have increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and adult metabolic diseases. We aimed to investigate the relationship between plasma angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4), a protein involved in lipid and glucose metabolism during pregnancy, placental function, growth factors, and the risk of LGA. METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study and recruited women with singleton pregnancies at the National Taiwan University Hospital between 2013 and 2018. First trimester maternal plasma ANGPTL4 concentrations were measured. RESULTS Among 353 pregnant women recruited, the LGA group had higher first trimester plasma ANGPTL4 concentrations than the appropriate-for-gestational-age group. Plasma ANGPTL4 was associated with hemoglobin A1c, post-load plasma glucose, plasma triglyceride, plasma free fatty acid concentrations, plasma growth hormone variant (GH-V), and birth weight, but was not associated with cord blood growth factors. After adjusting for age, body mass index, hemoglobin A1c, and plasma triglyceride concentrations, plasma ANGPTL4 concentrations were significantly associated with LGA risk, and its predictive performance, as measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, outperformed traditional risk factors for LGA. CONCLUSIONS Plasma ANGPTL4 is associated with glucose and lipid metabolism during pregnancy, plasma GH-V, and birth weight, and is an early biomarker for predicting the risk of LGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Weng Yen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Hsin-Chu Branch, Hsin-Chu County, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Yu Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Wei Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, Hsin-Chu County, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Nan Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Heng Kuo
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | | | - Yi-Yun Tai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hua Kuo
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; The Metabolomics Core Laboratory, Centers of Genomic and Precision Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chun Kuo
- The Metabolomics Core Laboratory, Centers of Genomic and Precision Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Heng-Huei Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Chia Juan
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Lin
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kang-Chih Fan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Hsin-Chu Branch, Hsin-Chu County, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yuan Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yuan Li
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, 7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Adibi JJ, Zhao Y, Koistinen H, Mitchell RT, Barrett ES, Miller R, O'Connor TG, Xun X, Liang HW, Birru R, Smith M, Moog NK. Molecular pathways in placental-fetal development and disruption. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 581:112075. [PMID: 37852527 PMCID: PMC10958409 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The first trimester of pregnancy ranks high in priority when minimizing harmful exposures, given the wide-ranging types of organogenesis occurring between 4- and 12-weeks' gestation. One way to quantify potential harm to the fetus in the first trimester is to measure a corollary effect on the placenta. Placental biomarkers are widely present in maternal circulation, cord blood, and placental tissue biopsied at birth or at the time of pregnancy termination. Here we evaluate ten diverse pathways involving molecules expressed in the first trimester human placenta based on their relevance to normal fetal development and to the hypothesis of placental-fetal endocrine disruption (perturbation in development that results in abnormal endocrine function in the offspring), namely: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), thyroid hormone regulation, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor protein gamma (PPARγ), leptin, transforming growth factor beta, epiregulin, growth differentiation factor 15, small nucleolar RNAs, serotonin, and vitamin D. Some of these are well-established as biomarkers of placental-fetal endocrine disruption, while others are not well studied and were selected based on discovery analyses of the placental transcriptome. A literature search on these biomarkers summarizes evidence of placenta-specific production and regulation of each biomarker, and their role in fetal reproductive tract, brain, and other specific domains of fetal development. In this review, we extend the theory of fetal programming to placental-fetal programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Adibi
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Yaqi Zhao
- St. Jude's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hannu Koistinen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Emily S Barrett
- Environmental and Population Health Bio-Sciences, Rutgers University School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Richard Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Thomas G O'Connor
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Xiaoshuang Xun
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hai-Wei Liang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rahel Birru
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Megan Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nora K Moog
- Department of Medical Psychology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Li J, Lyu L, Wen H, Li Y, Wang X, Yao Y, Qi X. Estrogen regulates the transcription of guppy isotocin receptors. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 269:110895. [PMID: 37611819 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2023.110895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen can regulate oxytocin receptor expression, which is mediated through estrogen receptors (ESRs) in mammals, initiating parturition. To further study the reproductive physiological process of ovoviviparous teleosts, guppies (Poecilia reticulata) were employed as the research model in the present study to identify the transcriptional regulation of ESRs on isotocin receptors (itrs). Since guppy embryos develop inside the ovary, in the present study, the levels of itrs in the ovarian stroma of pregnant female guppies treated with estradiol (E2) in vitro were tested. E2 increased only itr2 mRNA levels 3 h post-treatment, with no variation in itr1 mRNA expression levels. In vivo, pregnant guppies were immersed in different concentrations of E2, significantly increasing the relative expression levels of itr1 and itr2 in the ovary. Moreover, based on dual-fluorescence in situ hybridization (ISH), both esrs and itrs mRNAs were localized in the same cells around the embryos in the ovary. To further investigate the regulation of itr transcription by estrogen, a luciferase reporter assay was performed, and the results demonstrated that E2 treatment could induce E2-dependent repression of luciferase activity in cells transfected with ESR1. However, overexpression of ESR2a or ESR2b caused a robust ligand-independent increase in itr2 promoter activity. Deletion analysis of the itr2 promoter indicated that there were novel potential ESR transcription factor-binding sites at -360 bp upstream of the 5' end of the itr2 promoter. Overall, our study provided novel results regarding the ESRs mediating the onset of parturition in ovoviviparous teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianshuang Li
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Likang Lyu
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Haishen Wen
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Yun Li
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Yijia Yao
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, PR China
| | - Xin Qi
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, PR China.
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Ozmen A, Nwabuobi C, Tang Z, Guo X, Larsen K, Guller S, Blas J, Moore M, Kayisli UA, Lockwood CJ, Guzeloglu-Kayisli O. Leptin-Mediated Induction of IL-6 Expression in Hofbauer Cells Contributes to Preeclampsia Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:135. [PMID: 38203306 PMCID: PMC10778808 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Leptin plays a crucial role in regulating energy homoeostasis, neuroendocrine function, metabolism, and immune and inflammatory responses. The adipose tissue is a main source of leptin, but during pregnancy, leptin is also secreted primarily by the placenta. Circulating leptin levels peak during the second trimester of human pregnancy and fall after labor. Several studies indicated a strong association between elevated placental leptin levels and preeclampsia (PE) pathogenesis and elevated serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in PE patients. Therefore, we hypothesized that a local increase in placental leptin production induces IL-6 production in Hofbauer cells (HBCs) to contribute to PE-associated inflammation. We first investigated HBCs-specific IL-6 and leptin receptor (LEPR) expression and compared their immunoreactivity in PE vs. gestational age-matched control placentas. Subsequently, we examined the in vitro regulation of IL-6 as well as the phosphorylation levels of intracellular signaling proteins STAT3, STAT5, NF-κB, and ERK1/2 by increasing recombinant human leptin concentrations (10 to 1000 ng/mL) in primary cultured HBCs. Lastly, HBC cultures were incubated with leptin ± specific inhibitors of STAT3 or STAT5, or p65 NF-κB or ERK1/2 MAPK signaling cascades to determine relevant cascade(s) involved in leptin-mediated IL-6 regulation. Immunohistochemistry revealed ~three- and ~five-fold increases in IL-6 and LEPR expression, respectively, in HBCs from PE placentas. In vitro analysis indicated that leptin treatment in HBCs stimulate IL-6 in a concentration-dependent manner both at the transcriptional and secretory levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, leptin-treated HBC cultures displayed significantly increased phosphorylation levels of STAT5, p65 NF-κB, and ERK1/2 MAPK and pre-incubation of HBCs with a specific ERK1/2 MAPK inhibitor blocked leptin-induced IL-6 expression. Our in situ results show that HBCs contribute to the pathogenesis of PE by elevating IL-6 expression, and in vitro results indicate that induction of IL-6 expression in HBCs is primarily leptin-mediated. While HBCs display an anti-inflammatory phenotype in normal placentas, elevated levels of leptin may transform HBCs into a pro-inflammatory phenotype by activating ERK1/2 MAPK to augment IL-6 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Ozmen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Chinedu Nwabuobi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Zhonghua Tang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (Z.T.); (S.G.)
| | - Xiaofang Guo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Kellie Larsen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Seth Guller
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (Z.T.); (S.G.)
| | - Jacqueline Blas
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Monica Moore
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Umit A. Kayisli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Charles J. Lockwood
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
| | - Ozlem Guzeloglu-Kayisli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.O.); (C.N.); (X.G.); (K.L.); (J.B.); (M.M.); (U.A.K.); (C.J.L.)
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Hojeij B, Rousian M, Sinclair KD, Dinnyes A, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Schoenmakers S. Periconceptional biomarkers for maternal obesity: a systematic review. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2023; 24:139-175. [PMID: 36520252 PMCID: PMC10023635 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09762-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Periconceptional maternal obesity is linked to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Identifying periconceptional biomarkers of pathways affected by maternal obesity can unravel pathophysiologic mechanisms and identify individuals at risk of adverse clinical outcomes. The literature was systematically reviewed to identify periconceptional biomarkers of the endocrine, inflammatory and one-carbon metabolic pathways influenced by maternal obesity. A search was conducted in Embase, Ovid Medline All, Web of Science Core Collection and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, complemented by manual search in PubMed until December 31st, 2020. Eligible studies were those that measured biomarker(s) in relation to maternal obesity, overweight/obesity or body mass index (BMI) during the periconceptional period (14 weeks preconception until 14 weeks post conception). The ErasmusAGE score was used to assess the quality of included studies. Fifty-one articles were included that evaluated over 40 biomarkers. Endocrine biomarkers associated with maternal obesity included leptin, insulin, thyroid stimulating hormone, adiponectin, progesterone, free T4 and human chorionic gonadotropin. C-reactive protein was associated with obesity as part of the inflammatory pathway, while the associated one-carbon metabolism biomarkers were folate and vitamin B12. BMI was positively associated with leptin, C-reactive protein and insulin resistance, and negatively associated with Free T4, progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin. Concerning the remaining studied biomarkers, strong conclusions could not be established due to limited or contradictory data. Future research should focus on determining the predictive value of the optimal set of biomarkers for their use in clinical settings. The most promising biomarkers include leptin, adiponectin, human chorionic gonadotropin, insulin, progesterone and CRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batoul Hojeij
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin D Sinclair
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonnington Campus, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, LE12 6HD, UK
| | - Andras Dinnyes
- BioTalentum Ltd., Godollo, 2100, Hungary
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, 6720, Hungary
- Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Institute of Physiology and Animal Nutrition, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Godollo, 2100, Hungary
| | | | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015GD, The Netherlands.
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Association of serum leptin at 24-28 weeks gestation with initiation and progression of labor in women. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16016. [PMID: 36163455 PMCID: PMC9512924 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19868-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Concentrations of the hormone leptin, which is produced by adipose tissue, increase with increasing BMI, whereas leptin sensitivity often declines with higher BMI. Thus, altered leptin signaling may play a role in reproductive health risks observed with increasing BMI, which include later onset and slow progression of labor. Conflicting evidence from clinical, animal and in vitro studies have suggested that leptin either promotes or inhibits labor. We hypothesized that serum leptin concentrations or serum leptin: body mass index (BMI) ratios in women may be associated with the initiation and progression of labor. Following informed consent, serum samples were collected from 90 women with singleton pregnancies at the time of routine glucose-challenge testing, for measurement of leptin. The potential influence of leptin on gestation length and cervical dilation timing were examined by multiple linear regression. Data were analyzed from 63 participants who met exclusion and inclusion criteria. Leptin concentrations (log-transformed) at 24–28 weeks gestation were not significantly correlated with first trimester BMI . Log serum leptin and leptin: BMI ratio each were significantly associated with shorter total gestation length in uncomplicated, term pregnancies. In contrast, the mid-pregnancy leptin concentrations were not associated with progression of labor, assessed by cervical dilation over time. The association between higher serum leptin and shorter gestation length is consistent with the hypothesis that leptin promotes, or is permissive for, the onset of labor.
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Stern C, Schwarz S, Moser G, Cvitic S, Jantscher-Krenn E, Gauster M, Hiden U. Placental Endocrine Activity: Adaptation and Disruption of Maternal Glucose Metabolism in Pregnancy and the Influence of Fetal Sex. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312722. [PMID: 34884524 PMCID: PMC8657775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is an endocrine fetal organ, which secretes a plethora of steroid- and proteo-hormones, metabolic proteins, growth factors, and cytokines in order to adapt maternal physiology to pregnancy. Central to the growth of the fetus is the supply with nutrients, foremost with glucose. Therefore, during pregnancy, maternal insulin resistance arises, which elevates maternal blood glucose levels, and consequently ensures an adequate glucose supply for the developing fetus. At the same time, maternal β-cell mass and function increase to compensate for the higher insulin demand. These adaptations are also regulated by the endocrine function of the placenta. Excessive insulin resistance or the inability to increase insulin production accordingly disrupts physiological modulation of pregnancy mediated glucose metabolism and may cause maternal gestational diabetes (GDM). A growing body of evidence suggests that this adaptation of maternal glucose metabolism differs between pregnancies carrying a girl vs. pregnancies carrying a boy. Moreover, the risk of developing GDM differs depending on the sex of the fetus. Sex differences in placenta derived hormones and bioactive proteins, which adapt and modulate maternal glucose metabolism, are likely to contribute to this sexual dimorphism. This review provides an overview on the adaptation and maladaptation of maternal glucose metabolism by placenta-derived factors, and highlights sex differences in this regulatory network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Stern
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.S.); (S.S.); (E.J.-K.)
| | - Sarah Schwarz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.S.); (S.S.); (E.J.-K.)
| | - Gerit Moser
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria;
| | - Silvija Cvitic
- Research Unit of Analytical Mass Spectrometry, Cell Biology and Biochemistry of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria;
| | - Evelyn Jantscher-Krenn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.S.); (S.S.); (E.J.-K.)
| | - Martin Gauster
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria;
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (U.H.); Tel.: +43-316385-71896 (M.G.); +43-136385-17837 (U.H.)
| | - Ursula Hiden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.S.); (S.S.); (E.J.-K.)
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (U.H.); Tel.: +43-316385-71896 (M.G.); +43-136385-17837 (U.H.)
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9
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de Knegt VE, Hedley PL, Kanters JK, Thagaard IN, Krebs L, Christiansen M, Lausten-Thomsen U. The Role of Leptin in Fetal Growth during Pre-Eclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094569. [PMID: 33925454 PMCID: PMC8123779 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptin is secreted by the placenta and has a multi-facetted role in the regulation of functions related to pregnancy. Metabolic disorders and insufficient homeostatic compensatory mechanisms involving leptin during pregnancy play a decisive role in the development of pre-eclampsia (PE) and give rise to compromised intrauterine growth conditions and aberrant birth weight of offspring. This review was compiled to elucidate the metabolic background of PE and its relationship with adverse intrauterine growth conditions through the examination of leptin as well as to describe possible mechanisms linking leptin to fetal growth restriction. This review illustrates that leptin in PE is dysregulated in maternal, fetal, and placental compartments. There is no single set of unifying mechanisms within the spectrum of PE, and regulatory mechanisms involving leptin are specific to each situation. We conclude that dysregulated leptin is involved in fetal growth at many levels through complex interactions with parallel pregnancy systems and probably throughout the entirety of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria E. de Knegt
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Danish National Biobank and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institute, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark; (P.L.H.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-50469429
| | - Paula L. Hedley
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Danish National Biobank and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institute, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark; (P.L.H.); (M.C.)
| | - Jørgen K. Kanters
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Science, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Ida N. Thagaard
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Slagelse, Ingemannsvej 18, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark;
| | - Lone Krebs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Hvidovre, Kettegård Alle 30, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark;
| | - Michael Christiansen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Danish National Biobank and Biomarkers, Statens Serum Institute, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark; (P.L.H.); (M.C.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Lausten-Thomsen
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
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10
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Słabuszewska-Jóźwiak A, Malinowska M, Kloska A, Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka J, Gujski M, Bojar I, Raczkiewicz D, Jakiel G. Global Changes of 5-mC/5h-mC Ratio and Methylation of Adiponectin and Leptin Gene in Placenta Depending on Mode of Delivery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3195. [PMID: 33801130 PMCID: PMC8004251 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
It was suggested that the epigenetic alterations of the placenta are associated with obesity, as well as the delivery mode. This study aimed to assess the effect of maternal outcome and delivery procedure on global placental DNA methylation status, as well as selected 5'-Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine-3' (CpG) sites in ADIPOQ and LEP genes. Global DNA methylation profile in the placenta was assessed using the 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) ratio evaluated with the ELISA, followed by target gene methylation patterns at selected gene regions which were determined using methylation-specific qPCR in 70 placentas from healthy, pregnant women with single pregnancy. We found no statistically significant differences in 5-mC/5-hmC ratio between intrapartum cesarean sections (CS) and vaginal deliveries (p = 0.214), as well as between elective cesarean sections and vaginal deliveries (p = 0.221). In intrapartum cesarean sections, the ADIPOQ demethylation index was significantly higher (the average: 1.75) compared to elective cesarean section (the average: 1.23, p = 0.010) and vaginal deliveries (the average: 1.23, p = 0.011). The LEP demethylation index did not significantly differ among elective CS, intrapartum CS, and vaginal delivery groups. The demethylation index of ADIPOQ correlated negatively with LEP in the placenta in the vaginal delivery group (r = -0.456, p = 0.017), but not with the global methylation. The methylation of a singular locus might be different depending on the mode of delivery and uterine contractions. Further studies should be conducted with locus-specific analysis of the whole genome to detect the methylation index of specific genes involved in metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Słabuszewska-Jóźwiak
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Żelazna 90, 01-004 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Marcelina Malinowska
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (M.M.); (A.K.); (J.J.-B.)
| | - Anna Kloska
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (M.M.); (A.K.); (J.J.-B.)
| | - Joanna Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (M.M.); (A.K.); (J.J.-B.)
| | - Mariusz Gujski
- Department of Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Iwona Bojar
- Department of Women’s Health, Institute of Rural Health in Lublin, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Dorota Raczkiewicz
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Kleczewska 61/63, 01-826 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Żelazna 90, 01-004 Warsaw, Poland;
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11
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Vromman A, Ruvkun V, Shvartz E, Wojtkiewicz G, Santos Masson G, Tesmenitsky Y, Folco E, Gram H, Nahrendorf M, Swirski FK, Sukhova GK, Libby P. Stage-dependent differential effects of interleukin-1 isoforms on experimental atherosclerosis. Eur Heart J 2020; 40:2482-2491. [PMID: 30698710 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Targeting interleukin-1 (IL-1) represents a novel therapeutic approach to atherosclerosis. CANTOS demonstrated the benefits of IL-1β neutralization in patients post-myocardial infarction with residual inflammatory risk. Yet, some mouse data have shown a prominent role of IL-1α rather than IL-1β in atherosclerosis, or even a deleterious effect of IL-1 on outward arterial remodelling in atherosclerosis-susceptible mice. To shed light on these disparate results, this study investigated the effect of neutralizing IL-1α or/and IL-1β isoforms starting either early in atherogenesis or later in ApoE-/- mice with established atheroma. METHODS AND RESULTS The neutralization of IL-1α or of both IL-1 isoforms impaired outward remodelling during early atherogenesis as assessed by micro-computed tomographic and histologic assessment. In contrast, the neutralization of IL-1β did not impair outward remodelling either during early atherogenesis or in mice with established lesions. Interleukin-1β inhibition promoted a slant of blood monocytes towards a less inflammatory state during atherogenesis, reduced the size of established atheromata, and increased plasma levels of IL-10 without limiting outward remodelling of brachiocephalic arteries. CONCLUSION This study established a pivotal role for IL-1α in the remodelling of arteries during early experimental atherogenesis, whereas IL-1β drives inflammation during atherogenesis and the evolution of advanced atheroma in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélie Vromman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victoria Ruvkun
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eugenia Shvartz
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gregory Wojtkiewicz
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gustavo Santos Masson
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yevgenia Tesmenitsky
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eduardo Folco
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hermann Gram
- Novartis Institutes of BioMedical Research Forum 1, CH Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Nahrendorf
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Filip K Swirski
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Galina K Sukhova
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter Libby
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, USA
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12
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de Aguiar Greca SC, Kyrou I, Pink R, Randeva H, Grammatopoulos D, Silva E, Karteris E. Involvement of the Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) in Human Placentation. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9020405. [PMID: 32028606 PMCID: PMC7074564 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are environmental chemicals/toxicants that humans are exposed to, interfering with the action of multiple hormones. Bisphenol A (BPA) is classified as an EDC with xenoestrogenic activity with potentially adverse effects in reproduction. Currently, a significant knowledge gap remains regarding the complete spectrum of BPA-induced effects on the human placenta. As such, the present study examined the effects of physiologically relevant doses of BPA in vitro. Methods: qRT-PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, ELISA, microarray analyses, and bioinformatics have been employed to study the effects of BPA using nonsyncytialised (non-ST) and syncytialised (ST) BeWo cells. Results: Treatment with 3 nM BPA led to an increase in cell number and altered the phosphorylation status of p38, an effect mediated primarily via the membrane-bound estrogen receptor (GPR30). Nonbiased microarray analysis identified 1195 and 477 genes that were differentially regulated in non-ST BeWo cells, whereas in ST BeWo cells, 309 and 158 genes had altered expression when treated with 3 and 10 nM, respectively. Enriched pathway analyses in non-ST BeWo identified a leptin and insulin overlap (3 nM), methylation pathways (10 nM), and differentiation of white and brown adipocytes (common). In the ST model, most significantly enriched were the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway (3 nM) and mir-124 predicted interactions with cell cycle and differentiation (10 nM). Conclusion: Collectively, our data offer a new insight regarding BPA effects at the placental level, and provide a potential link with metabolic changes that can have an impact on the developing fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ioannis Kyrou
- Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK;
- Warwickshire Institute for the Study of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (WISDEM), University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
- Institute of Precision Diagnostics and Translational Medicine, UHCW NHS Trust, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (H.R.); (D.G.)
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Ryan Pink
- Dept of Bio. & Med. Sci., Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK;
| | - Harpal Randeva
- Institute of Precision Diagnostics and Translational Medicine, UHCW NHS Trust, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (H.R.); (D.G.)
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Dimitris Grammatopoulos
- Institute of Precision Diagnostics and Translational Medicine, UHCW NHS Trust, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (H.R.); (D.G.)
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Elisabete Silva
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK;
- Correspondence: (E.S.); (E.K.)
| | - Emmanouil Karteris
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK;
- Correspondence: (E.S.); (E.K.)
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13
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Napso T, Yong HEJ, Lopez-Tello J, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. The Role of Placental Hormones in Mediating Maternal Adaptations to Support Pregnancy and Lactation. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1091. [PMID: 30174608 PMCID: PMC6108594 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the mother must adapt her body systems to support nutrient and oxygen supply for growth of the baby in utero and during the subsequent lactation. These include changes in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune and metabolic systems of the mother. Failure to appropriately adjust maternal physiology to the pregnant state may result in pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and abnormal birth weight, which can further lead to a range of medically significant complications for the mother and baby. The placenta, which forms the functional interface separating the maternal and fetal circulations, is important for mediating adaptations in maternal physiology. It secretes a plethora of hormones into the maternal circulation which modulate her physiology and transfers the oxygen and nutrients available to the fetus for growth. Among these placental hormones, the prolactin-growth hormone family, steroids and neuropeptides play critical roles in driving maternal physiological adaptations during pregnancy. This review examines the changes that occur in maternal physiology in response to pregnancy and the significance of placental hormone production in mediating such changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Napso
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah E J Yong
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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14
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Schanton M, Maymó JL, Pérez-Pérez A, Sánchez-Margalet V, Varone CL. Involvement of leptin in the molecular physiology of the placenta. Reproduction 2017; 155:R1-R12. [PMID: 29018059 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Leptin is a homeostatic regulator in the placenta where it promotes proliferation, protein synthesis and the expression of tolerogenic maternal response molecules such as HLA-G. Leptin also exerts an anti-apoptotic action in placenta controlling the expression of p53 master cell cycle regulator under different stress conditions. On the other hand, leptin is an integrative target of different placental stimuli. The expression of leptin in placenta is regulated by hCG, insulin, steroids, hypoxia and many other growth hormones, suggesting that it might have an important endocrine function in the trophoblastic cells. The leptin expression is induced involving the cAMP/PKA or cAMP/Epac pathways which have profound actions upon human trophoblast function. The activation of PI3K and MAPK pathways also participates in the leptin expression. Estrogens play a central role during pregnancy, particularly 17β-estradiol upregulates the leptin expression in placental cells through genomic and non-genomic actions. The leptin promoter analysis reveals specific elements that are active in placental cells. The transcription factors CREB, AP1, Sp1, NFκB and the coactivator CBP are involved in the placental leptin expression. Moreover, placental leptin promoter is a target of epigenetic marks such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation that regulates not only the leptin expression in placenta during pregnancy but also determines the predisposition of acquiring adult metabolism diseases. Taken together, all these results allow a better understanding of leptin function and regulatory mechanisms of leptin expression in human placental trophoblasts, and support the importance of leptin during pregnancy and in programming adult health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malena Schanton
- Departamento de Química BiológicaUniversidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Universidad de Buenos AiresCONICET, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julieta L Maymó
- Departamento de Química BiológicaUniversidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Universidad de Buenos AiresCONICET, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Antonio Pérez-Pérez
- Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología MolecularHospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, España
| | - Víctor Sánchez-Margalet
- Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología MolecularHospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, España
| | - Cecilia L Varone
- Departamento de Química BiológicaUniversidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Buenos Aires, Argentina .,Universidad de Buenos AiresCONICET, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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15
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Schanton M, Maymó J, Pérez-Pérez A, Gambino Y, Maskin B, Dueñas JL, Sánchez-Margalet V, Varone C. Sp1 transcription factor is a modulator of estradiol leptin induction in placental cells. Placenta 2017; 57:152-162. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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16
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Qi X, Gong B, Yu J, Shen L, Jin W, Wu Z, Wang J, Wang J, Li Z. Decreased cord blood estradiol levels in related to mothers with gestational diabetes. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017; 96:e6962. [PMID: 28538390 PMCID: PMC5457870 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000006962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed a link between estradiol (E2) and glucose homeostasis. We aimed to assess the association between cord blood hormone levels and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).A total of 204 pregnant women with GDM and 204 pregnant women without GDM (control) were included in the study. Maternal GDM were diagnosed using a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test at 24 to 26 weeks of gestation. Cord blood samples from neonates were collected immediately post delivery. Controls, which were randomly selected from the study population, were matched (cases to controls ratio: 1:1) to cases by age, sex of fetus, and gestational week.Pregravid body mass index (BMI) (mean ± standard deviation) was (GDM vs. control): 24.5 ± 2.1 versus 22.8 ± 2.4 (P = .001). Cord blood estradiol in the GDM group was significantly lower than in the control group (P < .05). Pregravid BMI in the GDM group was significantly higher than in the control group (P < .05). Estradiol concentrations in cord blood were negatively correlated with birth weight (r = -0.121, P < .05). Conditional logistic regressions showed pregravid BMI, cord blood estradiol, and parity independently and positively predicted GDM. Multivariable regression splines characterize a nonlinear relationship between cord blood estradiol and GDM risk.These results demonstrate a relationship between cord blood estradiol levels and GDM. Estradiol might be involved in the pathophysiology of GDM. Further studies are needed to explore potential mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bo Gong
- Department of Clinical laboratory
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Clinical laboratory
| | - Limin Shen
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai Changning District Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, Changning District, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanling Jin
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai Changning District Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, Changning District, Shanghai, China
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17
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Joy J, Armstrong L, Ardill J, Mcclure N, Cooke I. Biochemical markers of placental dysfunction in assisted conception. HUM FERTIL 2015; 18:282-90. [PMID: 26560488 DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2015.1083620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
A possible mechanism for poor perinatal outcomes in singleton pregnancies conceived following assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and those conceived naturally following a period of infertility (>12 months) is thought to be placental dysfunction. This was investigated by measuring plasma concentrations of biochemical markers: (i) soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase1 (sFlt1); (ii) placental growth factor (PlGF); (iii) leptin; and (iv) plasminogen activator inhibitor 2 (PAI-2), serially at four antenatal time points. Baseline concentrations of each marker after delivery were also measured. The control group was naturally conceived singleton pregnancies with no history of infertility. Non-smoking, age-matched nulliparous women with no significant medical history were recruited to all groups. The ART group had significantly lower mean plasma concentrations of PlGF at all antenatal time points compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The subfertility (SF) group had significantly higher mean serum concentrations of leptin than the other groups at all time points (p < 0.001), even after correction for body mass index. There were no significant differences in sFlt1 and PAI-2 concentrations between the groups. Low plasma PlGF concentrations in the ART group might suggest abnormal placentation and/or abnormal function in ART pregnancies with relevance to pathogenesis of pregnancy complications in these women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolly Joy
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Queen's University Belfast , Belfast , UK and
| | - Lee Armstrong
- b Regional Regulatory Peptide Laboratory , Royal Victoria Hospital , Belfast , UK
| | - Joy Ardill
- b Regional Regulatory Peptide Laboratory , Royal Victoria Hospital , Belfast , UK
| | - Neil Mcclure
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Queen's University Belfast , Belfast , UK and
| | - Inez Cooke
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Queen's University Belfast , Belfast , UK and
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18
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Costa MA. The endocrine function of human placenta: an overview. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 32:14-43. [PMID: 26615903 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, several tightly coordinated and regulated processes take place to enable proper fetal development and gestational success. The formation and development of the placenta is one of these critical pregnancy events. This organ plays essential roles during gestation, including fetal nourishment, support and protection, gas exchange and production of several hormones and other mediators. Placental hormones are mainly secreted by the syncytiotrophoblast, in a highly and tightly regulated way. These hormones are important for pregnancy establishment and maintenance, exerting autocrine and paracrine effects that regulate decidualization, placental development, angiogenesis, endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, immunotolerance and fetal development. In addition, because they are released into maternal circulation, the profile of their blood levels throughout pregnancy has been the target of intense research towards finding potential robust and reliable biomarkers to predict and diagnose pregnancy-associated complications. In fact, altered levels of these hormones have been associated with some pathologies, such as chromosomal anomalies or pre-eclampsia. This review proposes to revise and update the main pregnancy-related hormones, addressing their major characteristics, molecular targets, function throughout pregnancy, regulators of their expression and their potential clinical interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana A Costa
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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19
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Barrientos G, Toro A, Moschansky P, Cohen M, Garcia MG, Rose M, Maskin B, Sánchez-Margalet V, Blois SM, Varone CL. Leptin promotes HLA-G expression on placental trophoblasts via the MEK/Erk and PI3K signaling pathways. Placenta 2015; 36:419-26. [PMID: 25649687 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The development of the human haemochorial placenta requires complex regulatory mechanisms to protect invasive trophoblast cells from cytotoxic responses elicited by maternal immune cells. Leptin, the adipocyte derived hormone encoded by the Lep gene, is synthesized by placental trophoblasts and exerts pleiotropic effects on the immune system, including the promotion of inflammation and the activation of T cell responses. METHODS To address its possible involvement in the modulation of maternal immune responses during pregnancy, we investigated the effect of leptin on the expression of the class Ib histocompatibility antigen HLA-G as one of the chief immunosuppressive strategies used by trophoblast cells. RESULTS In vitro incubation of the trophoblast derived Swan 71 and JEG-3 cell lines with 25-50 ng/ml recombinant leptin significantly boosted HLA-G mRNA and protein expression, and this effect was abrogated upon pharmacological inhibition of the PI3K-Akt and MEK-Erk signaling pathways. A similar stimulatory effect of leptin was observed in term placental tissue explants, though 10-fold higher doses were required for stimulation. Further, JEG-3 cells treated with a leptin antisense oligodeoxynucleotide displayed decreased HLA-G expression levels, which were partially recovered by addition of stimulating doses of exogenous hormone. Immunofluorescence and qPCR analysis confirmed leptin biosynthesis in placental tissue, further showing that invasive extravillous trophoblast cells were a main source of this hormone during the first trimester of normal pregnancies. DISCUSSION Taken together, our results show that leptin acts as an autocrine/paracrine signal promoting HLA-G expression in placental trophoblasts suggesting an important role in the regulation of immune evasion mechanisms at the fetal maternal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Barrientos
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Toro
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P Moschansky
- Charité Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Medicine University Berlin, Germany
| | - M Cohen
- Laboratoire d'Hormonologie, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - M G Garcia
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Derqui-Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Rose
- Charité Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Medicine University Berlin, Germany
| | - B Maskin
- Hospital Nacional Profesor Alejandro Posadas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - V Sánchez-Margalet
- Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - S M Blois
- Charité Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Medicine University Berlin, Germany.
| | - C L Varone
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Abstract
Leptin, as a key hormone in energy homeostasis, regulates neuroendocrine function, including reproduction. It has a permissive role in the initiation of puberty and maintenance of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This is notable in patients with either congenital or acquired leptin deficiency from a state of chronic energy insufficiency. Hypothalamic amenorrhea is the best-studied, with clinical trials confirming a causative role of leptin in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Implications of leptin deficiency have also emerged in the pathophysiology of hypogonadism in type 1 diabetes. At the other end of the spectrum, hyperleptinemia may play a role in hypogonadism associated with obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. In these conditions of energy excess, mechanisms of reproductive dysfunction include central leptin resistance as well as direct effects at the gonadal level. Thus, reproductive dysfunction due to energy imbalance at both ends can be linked to leptin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon H Chou
- Section of Adult and Pediatric EndocrinologyDiabetes and Metabolism, The University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, MC 1027, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USADivision of EndocrinologyDiabetes, and Metabolism, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, FD-876, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USASection of EndocrinologyBoston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christos Mantzoros
- Section of Adult and Pediatric EndocrinologyDiabetes and Metabolism, The University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, MC 1027, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USADivision of EndocrinologyDiabetes, and Metabolism, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, FD-876, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USASection of EndocrinologyBoston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA Section of Adult and Pediatric EndocrinologyDiabetes and Metabolism, The University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, MC 1027, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USADivision of EndocrinologyDiabetes, and Metabolism, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, FD-876, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USASection of EndocrinologyBoston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Pérez-Pérez A, Maymó J, Gambino Y, Guadix P, Dueñas JL, Varone C, Sánchez-Margalet V. Insulin enhances leptin expression in human trophoblastic cells. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:20. [PMID: 23718986 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.109348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptin, one of the adipokines that controls energy metabolism via the central nervous system, also has pleiotropic peripheral effects, acting as a proinflammatory cytokine. Leptin is also produced by trophoblastic cells in the placenta, where leptin seems to function as a trophic autocrine hormone. Leptin expression is regulated by various tissue-specific factors, such as insulin, in the adipocyte. However, the complete regulation of leptin production in the placenta is still poorly understood. That is why we investigated the regulation of leptin expression by insulin in JEG-3 trophoblastic cells and human placental explants from normal pregnancies. Western blot analysis and quantitative real time RT-PCR was performed to determine the leptin expression level after treatment of cells or trophoblast explants with different concentrations of insulin (0.1-100 nM). Leptin promoter activity was evaluated by transient transfection with a plasmid construct containing different promoter regions and the reporter luciferase gene. We found a stimulatory, dose-dependent effect of insulin on endogenous leptin expression in human placental explants. Maximal effect was achieved at 10 nM insulin, and this effect can be totally prevented both by blocking phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) pathways and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Moreover, insulin treatment significantly enhanced leptin promoter activity up to 40% in JEG-3 trophoblastic cells. Deletion analysis demonstrated that a minimal promoter region between -1951 and -1546 bp is necessary to achieve insulin effects. In conclusion, we provide evidence suggesting that insulin induces leptin expression in trophoblastic cells, enhancing the activity of leptin promoter region between -1951 and -1546 bp, via both PI3K- and MAPK-signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Pérez-Pérez
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical School, Virgen Macarena University Hospital, University of Seville, Av. Dr. Fedriani 3, Seville, Spain
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22
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Abstract
The process of embryonic implantation needs coordinated development and communication between the blastocyst and the maternal endometrium. Considerable advances in the understanding of the cell biology of the human embryo and maternal endometrium have been achieved separately. However, the communication between them, and the reciprocal effects on each other, constitute a complicated and yet unsolved question in reproductive medicine that must be further investigated. A paracrine dialogue between the embryo, endometrium and the corpus luteum is known to occur in other species such as rodents and primates. The aim of this work is to present updated information on the embryonic regulation of endometrial epithelial molecules such as adhesion molecules, anti-adhesion molecules, cytoskeletal proteins, chemokines and leptin during the apposition and adhesion phases of human implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Pellicer
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad Foundation (FIVIER), Valencia, Spain.
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23
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Eskild A, Fedorcsak P, Mørkrid L, Tanbo TG. Maternal body mass index and serum concentrations of human chorionic gonadotropin in very early pregnancy. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:905-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 05/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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24
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Gambino Y, Maymó J, Pérez Pérez A, Calvo J, Sánchez-Margalet V, Varone C. Elsevier Trophoblast Research Award Lecture: Molecular mechanisms underlying estrogen functions in trophoblastic cells − Focus on leptin expression. Placenta 2012; 33 Suppl:S63-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2011] [Revised: 12/01/2011] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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25
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Gambino YP, Pérez Pérez A, Dueñas JL, Calvo JC, Sánchez-Margalet V, Varone CL. Regulation of leptin expression by 17beta-estradiol in human placental cells involves membrane associated estrogen receptor alpha. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2012; 1823:900-10. [PMID: 22310000 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2012.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2011] [Revised: 12/26/2011] [Accepted: 01/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The placenta produces a wide number of molecules that play essential roles in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. In this context, leptin has emerged as an important player in reproduction. The synthesis of leptin in normal trophoblastic cells is regulated by different endogenous biochemical agents, but the regulation of placental leptin expression is still poorly understood. We have previously reported that 17β-estradiol (E(2)) up-regulates placental leptin expression. To improve the understanding of estrogen receptor mechanisms in regulating leptin gene expression, in the current study we examined the effect of membrane-constrained E(2) conjugate, E-BSA, on leptin expression in human placental cells. We have found that leptin expression was induced by E-BSA both in BeWo cells and human placental explants, suggesting that E(2) also exerts its effects through membrane receptors. Moreover E-BSA rapidly activated different MAPKs and AKT pathways, and these pathways were involved in E(2) induced placental leptin expression. On the other hand we demonstrated the presence of ERα associated to the plasma membrane of BeWo cells. We showed that E(2) genomic and nongenomic actions could be mediated by ERα. Supporting this idea, the downregulation of ERα level through a specific siRNA, decreased E-BSA effects on leptin expression. Taken together, these results provide new evidence of the mechanisms whereby E(2) regulates leptin expression in placenta and support the importance of leptin in placental physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yésica P Gambino
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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26
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D'Ippolito S, Tersigni C, Scambia G, Di Simone N. Adipokines, an adipose tissue and placental product with biological functions during pregnancy. Biofactors 2012; 38:14-23. [PMID: 22287297 DOI: 10.1002/biof.201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 12/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Latter half of pregnancy is characterized by a "physiological diabetogenic state" since changes in insulin-sensitivity have been well documented. These changes ensure continuous supply of nutrients to the growing fetus. In the last years the role of adipocyte-derived signaling molecules, collectively known as adipokines has been object of different in vitro and in vivo studies. Of interest, adipokines and/or their receptors are expressed in the placental tissue which, therefore, can contribute to development of maternal insulin-resistance and, as a consequence, fetal growth. Leptin, adiponectin, and resistin represent the most well studied adipokines and, with the exception of adiponectin, their serum and placental levels increase as pregnancy progresses. High levels of adipokines have also been detected in umbilical plasma hence suggesting a possible role on fetal development and metabolism; however, it remains still unclear if such adipokines can directly stimulate fetal tissues development acting as growth factors. In addition to their well known metabolic effects, we also reported studies describing the role of adipokines in promoting proliferation and invasiveness of trophoblast cells and affecting local angiogenic processes. These observations strongly suggest that adipokines, by alternatively interfering with placental development, may affect pregnancy outcome and fetal growth. However, further studies are needed to better understand the local regulation of their expression. © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia D'Ippolito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Maymó JL, Pérez Pérez A, Gambino Y, Calvo JC, Sánchez-Margalet V, Varone CL. Review: Leptin gene expression in the placenta--regulation of a key hormone in trophoblast proliferation and survival. Placenta 2011; 32 Suppl 2:S146-53. [PMID: 21303721 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2010] [Revised: 01/03/2011] [Accepted: 01/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Leptin is a 16000 MW protein originally described as an adipocyte-derived signaling molecule for the central control of metabolism. However, pleiotropic effects of leptin have been identified in reproduction and pregnancy. The leptin gene is expressed in placenta, where leptin promotes proliferation and survival of trophoblast cells. Study of the major signaling pathways known to be triggered by leptin receptor has revealed that leptin stimulates JAK/STAT, MAPK and PI3K pathways in placental cells. Leptin also exerts an antiapoptotic action in placenta and this effect is mediated by the MAPK pathway. Moreover, leptin stimulates protein synthesis by activating the translational machinery via both PI3K and MAPK pathways. Expression of leptin in placenta is highly regulated, suggesting that certain key pregnancy molecules participate in such regulation. An important hormone in reproduction, hCG, induces leptin expression in trophoblast cells and this effect involves the MAPK signal transduction pathway. Moreover, the cyclic nucleotide cAMP, which has profound actions upon human trophoblast function, also stimulates leptin expression and this effect seems to be mediated by crosstalk between the PKA and MAPK signaling pathways. Estrogens play a central role in reproduction. 17β-estradiol upregulates leptin expression in placental cells through genomic and non-genomic actions, probably via crosstalk between estrogen receptor-α and the MAPK and PI3K signal transduction pathways. Taken together these findings give a better understanding of the function of leptin and the regulatory mechanisms of leptin expression in human placental trophoblast and further support the importance of leptin in the biology of reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Maymó
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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28
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Ge YC, Li JN, Ni XT, Guo CM, Wang WS, Duan T, Sun K. Cross talk between cAMP and p38 MAPK pathways in the induction of leptin by hCG in human placental syncytiotrophoblasts. Reproduction 2011; 142:369-75. [PMID: 21562093 DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Leptin produced by the placental syncytiotrophoblasts participates in a number of processes in pregnancy including implantation, proliferation of the cytotrophoblasts, and nutrient transfer across the placenta. Despite the functional significance of leptin in pregnancy, the regulation of leptin synthesis is poorly understood in human placental syncytiotrophoblasts. In this study, we investigated the role of endogenous human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the regulation of leptin production as well as the underlying mechanism involving the cross talk between cAMP and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. We found that neutralization of endogenous hCG with its antibody dose dependently decreased leptin mRNA level and secretion, whereas exogenous hCG increased leptin mRNA level and secretion. Activation of the cAMP pathway with dibutyryl cAMP (db cAMP) or forskolin recapitulated the stimulatory effect of hCG on leptin expression. Inhibition of protein kinase A with H89 not only reduced the basal leptin expression but also attenuated the induced leptin expression by hCG. Treatment of the syncytiotrophoblasts with db cAMP and hCG phosphorylated p38 MAPK. Inhibition of p38 MAPK with SB203580 not only reduced the basal leptin production but also attenuated the leptin-induced production by both hCG and db cAMP. These data suggest that endogenous hCG plays a significant role in maintaining leptin production in human placental syncytiotrophoblasts, and this effect involves a cross talk between cAMP and p38 MAPK pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y C Ge
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Health Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200040, People's Republic of China
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29
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Stasenko S, Bradford EM, Piasek M, Henson MC, Varnai VM, Jurasović J, Kusec V. Metals in human placenta: focus on the effects of cadmium on steroid hormones and leptin. J Appl Toxicol 2010; 30:242-53. [PMID: 19847775 DOI: 10.1002/jat.1490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Cadmium and other metallic ions can act as metalloestrogens and endocrine disruptors of reproductive tissues and fetal development in mammals, including humans. The detrimental effects occur with respect to the synthesis of both steroid and polypeptide hormones in the placenta. Leptin is produced by the trophoblast and may regulate fetal organogenesis and development. In human term placentas, concentrations of toxic metals and their effects on steroidogenesis were assessed in healthy parturients (109 non-smokers and 99 smokers) in relation to tobacco smoking. Trace elements (cadmium, lead, iron, zinc and copper) were analyzed in placentas using atomic absorption spectroscopy, and steroid hormones (progesterone and estradiol) were assayed in placental samples by an enzyme-immunometric method. Cadmium concentrations were doubled in placentas of smokers as compared with non-smokers, and placental lead and zinc concentrations increased significantly. Placental concentrations of iron, copper, progesterone and estradiol did not differ. In addition, human trophoblast cells were co-cultured with 0, 5, 10 or 20 microm CdCl(2) for 96 h and leptin mRNA assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Leptin mRNA declined dose-responsively as a result of CdCl(2) exposure. Collectively, the results confirm that human placental tissue offers a unique opportunity to biomonitor cadmium exposure in both the maternal and the internal fetal environments. In addition, the results strongly suggest that cadmium may cause a decline in placental leptin synthesis, as we have previously shown for placental progesterone production. This may constitute further evidence of the endocrine-disrupting effects of cadmium, as a constituent of tobacco smoke, on reproduction in women.
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Gambino YP, Maymó JL, Pérez-Pérez A, Dueñas JL, Sánchez-Margalet V, Calvo JC, Varone CL. 17Beta-Estradiol Enhances Leptin Expression in Human Placental Cells Through Genomic and Nongenomic Actions1. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:42-51. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.083535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
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Lin Q, Poon SL, Chen J, Cheng L, HoYuen B, Leung PCK. Leptin interferes with 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling to inhibit steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:115. [PMID: 19849856 PMCID: PMC2770482 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 10/22/2009] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of female infertility. Leptin, an adipocytokine which is elevated during obesity, may influence gonadal function through modulating steroidogenesis in granulosa cells. METHODS The effect of leptin on progesterone production in simian virus 40 immortalized granulosa (SVOG) cells was examined by Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The effect of leptin on the expression of the steroidogenic enzymes (StAR, P450scc, 3betaHSD) in SVOG cells was examined by real-time PCR and Western blotting. The mRNA expression of leptin receptor isoforms in SVOG cells were examined by using PCR. SVOG cells were co-treated with leptin and specific pharmacological inhibitors to identify the signaling pathways involved in leptin-reduced progesterone production. Silencing RNA against leptin receptor was used to determine that the inhibition of leptin on cAMP-induced steroidogenesis acts in a leptin receptor-dependent manner. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION In the present study, we investigated the cellular mechanisms underlying leptin-regulated steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells. We show that leptin inhibits 8-bromo cAMP-stimulated progesterone production in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, we show that leptin inhibits expression of the cAMP-stimulated steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, the rate limiting de novo protein in progesterone synthesis. Leptin induces the activation of ERK1/2, p38 and JNK but only the ERK1/2 (PD98059) and p38 (SB203580) inhibitors attenuate the leptin-induced inhibition of cAMP-stimulated StAR protein expression and progesterone production. These data suggest that the leptin-induced MAPK signal transduction pathway interferes with cAMP/PKA-stimulated steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells. Moreover, siRNA mediated knock-down of the endogenous leptin receptor attenuates the effect of leptin on cAMP-induced StAR protein expression and progesterone production, suggesting that the effect of leptin on steroidogenesis in granulosa cells is receptor dependent. In summary, leptin acts through the MAPK pathway to downregulate cAMP-induced StAR protein expression and progesterone production in immortalized human granulosa cells. These results suggest a possible mechanism by which gonadal steroidogenesis could be suppressed in obese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3V, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Friendship Hospital-Affiliate of Capital University of Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Song Ling Poon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3V, Canada
| | - Junling Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3V, Canada
| | - Linan Cheng
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, PR China
| | - Basil HoYuen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3V, Canada
| | - Peter CK Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3V, Canada
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Singh HJ, Abu Bakar A, Che Romli A, Nila A. Raised Leptin Concentrations in Feto-Placental Tissues from Women with Preeclampsia. Hypertens Pregnancy 2009; 24:191-9. [PMID: 16036403 DOI: 10.1081/prg-200059877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to estimate the levels of leptin in the amnion, chorion laeve, and placenta and to examine for any differences in leptin levels in these tissues from preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant women. METHOD Fresh samples of amnion, chorion laeve, and placenta were obtained from 10 normotensive and 10 preeclamptic women following vaginal delivery. After repeated washing with Krebs Heinsleit solution, 2 g of each tissue were homogenized separately. Following centrifugation, the supernatant was removed and stored at -80 degrees C for analysis of leptin at a later date. Leptin in supernatants from homogenates was measured using commercially available radioimmunoassay (RIA) Kits. Statistical analysis was performed using student's t-test for independent samples and all results are expressed as mean +/- SEM. RESULTS Leptin concentrations were significantly higher in all the three tissues from preeclamptic women when compared to the corresponding tissues from normotensive controls (0.52 +/- 0.1 vs. 1.15 +/- 0.41; 0.99 +/- 0.16 vs. 2.19 +/- 0.71; and 10.28 +/- 1.06 vs. 13.95 +/- 1.13 in the amnion, chorion laeve, and placenta, respectively, from normotensive pregnant women and women with preeclampsia; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Leptin concentration is significantly raised in fetoplacental tissues from women with preeclampsia. Its role in preeclampsia remains unclear and it is not possible to say from this study if the raised levels of leptin evident in placentas from preeclamptic women are a cause or consequence of preeclampsia, although the latter seems more likely.
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Affiliation(s)
- H J Singh
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Maymó JL, Pérez Pérez A, Sánchez-Margalet V, Dueñas JL, Calvo JC, Varone CL. Up-regulation of placental leptin by human chorionic gonadotropin. Endocrinology 2009; 150:304-13. [PMID: 18787032 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Leptin, the 16,000 molecular weight protein product of the obese gene, was originally considered as an adipocyte-derived signaling molecule for the central control of metabolism. However, leptin has been suggested to be involved in other functions during pregnancy, particularly in placenta, in which it was found to be expressed. In the present work, we have found that recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) added to BeWo choriocarcinoma cell line showed a stimulatory effect on endogenous leptin expression, when analyzed by Western blot. This effect was time and dose dependent. Maximal effect was achieved at hCG 100 IU/ml. Moreover, hCG treatment enhanced leptin promoter activity up to 12.9 times, evaluated by transient transfection with a plasmid construction containing different promoter regions and the reporter gene luciferase. This effect was dose dependent and evidenced with all the promoter regions analyzed, regardless of length. Similar results were obtained with placental explants, thus indicating physiological relevance. Because hCG signal transduction usually involves cAMP signaling, this pathway was analyzed. Contrarily, we found that dibutyryl cAMP counteracted hCG effect on leptin expression. Furthermore, cotransfection with the catalytic subunit of PKA and/or the transcription factor cAMP response element binding protein repressed leptin expression. Thereafter we determined that hCG effect could be partially blocked by pharmacologic inhibition of MAPK pathway with 50 microM PD98059 but not by the inhibition of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway with 0.1 microm wortmannin. Moreover, hCG treatment promoted MAPK kinase and ERK1/ERK2 phosphorylation in placental cells. Finally, cotransfection with a dominant-negative mutant of MAPK blocked the hCG-mediated activation of leptin expression. In conclusion, we provide some evidence suggesting that hCG induces leptin expression in trophoblastic cells probably involving the MAPK signal transduction pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta L Maymó
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidas de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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de Medeiros S, Norman R. Human choriogonadotrophin protein core and sugar branches heterogeneity: basic and clinical insights. Hum Reprod Update 2008; 15:69-95. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmn036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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35
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Human umbilical vascular endothelial cells express estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) and progesterone receptor A (PR-A), but not ERα and PR-B. Histochem Cell Biol 2008; 130:399-405. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-008-0426-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Prast J, Saleh L, Husslein H, Sonderegger S, Helmer H, Knöfler M. Human chorionic gonadotropin stimulates trophoblast invasion through extracellularly regulated kinase and AKT signaling. Endocrinology 2008; 149:979-87. [PMID: 18063683 PMCID: PMC2974217 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chorionic gonadotropin (CG) is indispensable for human pregnancy because it controls implantation, decidualization, and placental development. However, its particular role in the differentiation process of invasive trophoblasts has not been fully unraveled. Here we demonstrate that the hormone promotes trophoblast invasion and migration in different trophoblast model systems. RT-PCR and Western blot analyses revealed expression of the LH/CG receptor in trophoblast cell lines and different trophoblast primary cultures. In vitro, CG increased migration and invasion of trophoblastic SGHPL-5 cells through uncoated and Matrigel-coated transwells, respectively. The hormone also increased migration of first-trimester villous explant cultures on collagen I. Proliferation of the trophoblast cell line and villous explant cultures measured by cumulative cell numbers and in situ 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine labeling, respectively, was unaffected by CG. Addition of the hormone activated ERK-1/2 and AKT in SGHPL-5 cells and pure, extravillous trophoblasts. Inhibition of MAPK kinase/ERK and phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase/AKT blocked phosphorylation of the kinases and attenuated CG-dependent invasion of SGHPL-5 cells. Similarly, the inhibitors decreased hormone-stimulated migration in villous explant cultures. Western blot analyses and gelatin zymography suggested that CG increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 protein levels and activity in both culture systems. Inhibition of ERK or AKT diminished CG-induced MMP-2 expression. In summary, the data demonstrate that CG promotes trophoblast invasion and migration through activation of ERK and AKT signaling involving their downstream effector MMP-2. Because the increase of CG during the first trimester of pregnancy correlates with rising trophoblast motility, the hormone could be a critical regulator of the early invasion process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Prast
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal-Maternal Medicine, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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Lepercq J, Catalano P, Hauguel de Mouzon S. Leptine et grossesse: dogmes, questions et perspectives. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 35:89-95. [PMID: 17276124 DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2006.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2006] [Accepted: 12/28/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Leptin has been primarily considered as a protein secreted by the adipocyte and a regulator of satiety and energy homeostasis. A role for leptin in pregnancy was later suggested as circulating levels of leptin are high in the pregnant woman and leptin is synthetized within the placenta. Placental leptin production is increased in various obstetrical conditions associated with alterations of fetal growth (diabetes, preeclampsia). Furthermore, umbilical leptin can be viewed as a biomarker of fetal adiposity. Our aim is to review the putative roles of leptin in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lepercq
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin-Saint-Vincent-de-Paul (APHP), 82, avenue Denfert-Rochereau, 75674 Paris cedex 14, France.
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Schulz LC, Townsend K, Kunz TH, Widmaier EP. Inhibition of trophoblast invasiveness in vitro by immunoneutralization of leptin in the bat, Myotis lucifugus (Chiroptera). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2007; 150:59-65. [PMID: 16938297 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2006.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2006] [Revised: 07/06/2006] [Accepted: 07/13/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In addition to effects on metabolism and appetite, leptin is a reproductive hormone produced and secreted by the placenta of many, but not all mammalian species. In mice, in which the placenta does not secrete leptin, exogenously added leptin stimulates invasiveness of early (but not late)-gestation trophoblast cells. We report a similar phenomenon occurs in Myotis lucifugus (little brown myotis), a species in which the placenta synthesizes and secretes leptin. Immunoneutralization of endogenously secreted leptin from cultured M. lucifugus trophoblast cells inhibited the ability of these cells to invade a matrigel matrix. The effect was not due to an inhibitory effect of the antibody on cell proliferation, nor was it a non-specific effect of antibody administration. Cell invasion was significantly reduced in untreated cells obtained from late-gestation placentas, and the antibody had no effect at that time. This occurred despite continued expression throughout gestation of the long (OBRb) and short (OBRa) isoforms of leptin receptor mRNA. This study suggests that an important function of leptin during pregnancy is an effect on trophoblast cell invasiveness, at a time when the placenta is becoming established. That this occurs in two phylogenetically unrelated and distant species, regardless of whether the placenta is a source of secreted leptin, suggests that this is a highly conserved reproductive action of leptin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Schulz
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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Aka N, Atalay S, Sayharman S, Kiliç D, Köse G, Küçüközkan T. Leptin and leptin receptor levels in pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2006; 46:274-7. [PMID: 16866785 DOI: 10.1111/j.1479-828x.2006.00590.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between the leptin, leptin receptor and hormone levels and hyperemesis gravidarum, and to determine whether these two parameters may be early markers for hyperemesis gravidarum. METHODS The study group consisted of 18 pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum and the control group consisted of 18 healthy pregnant women. Demographic characteristics were recorded and body mass index (BMI) values were calculated for all the pregnant women. Serum leptin, leptin receptor, insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormone and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) levels were measured. RESULTS When the two groups were compared with respect to leptin levels, the group with hyperemesis gravidarum was found to have significantly higher leptin levels (P = 0.037). No intergroup differences were observed in serum cortisol, insulin, hCG, thyroid hormone levels or BMI values. In the group with hyperemesis gravidarum, an inverse correlation was detected between cortisol and leptin (r = -0.762, P < 0.01), and hCG and thyroid-stimulating hormone (r = -0.503, P < 0.05), whereas a significant correlation was detected between insulin and leptin (r = 0.538, P < 0.05), leptin and BMI (r = 0.711, P < 0.01), and between TT3 and hCG (r = 0.605, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION It was concluded that leptin could play a role in, and be defined as, a marker of hyperemesis gravidarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurettin Aka
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Coya R, Martul P, Algorta J, Aniel-Quiroga MA, Busturia MA, Señarís R. Effect of leptin on the regulation of placental hormone secretion in cultured human placental cells. Gynecol Endocrinol 2006; 22:620-6. [PMID: 17145648 DOI: 10.1080/09513590601012587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Placenta is an important source of leptin during pregnancy that contributes to the high plasma leptin levels in pregnant women. Leptin and its functional receptors are synthesized in trophoblast cells that, in turn, secrete gestational hormones supporting a paracrine or autocrine role for leptin in the endocrine activity of the placenta. In the present study we examined the effect of leptin on in vitro release of gestational hormones (human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen (hPL), progesterone, estrogens and testosterone) by human term placental cells in culture. Placentas at term were obtained immediately after delivery from mothers with uncomplicated pregnancies. Progesterone, hCG, hPL, estradiol, estrone, estriol and testosterone levels were measured by different assays in culture media of cells maintained in monolayer culture after incubation for 12, 24, 48 or 72 h with leptin or placebo. Incubation with leptin did not modify hCG, hPL, progesterone, estriol and estrone secretion for any of the doses and times assayed. However, leptin led to a dose-dependent decrease in estradiol release. This effect was observed when treatment with recombinant human leptin spanned from 12 to 72 h. At this time an increase in testosterone levels was observed in leptin-treated cells versus placebo. These results indicate that leptin can be considered a gestational hormone implied in the endocrine function of the placenta, with an important role in control of the production of steroid reproductive hormones in placental cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Coya
- Hormone Laboratory, Hospital de Cruces, Barakaldo, Spain.
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Leptina, embarazo y reproducción. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN GINECOLOGIA Y OBSTETRICIA 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s0210-573x(06)74112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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White V, González E, Capobianco E, Pustovrh C, Martínez N, Higa R, Baier M, Jawerbaum A. Leptin modulates nitric oxide production and lipid metabolism in human placenta. Reprod Fertil Dev 2006; 18:425-32. [PMID: 16737635 DOI: 10.1071/rd05105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2005] [Accepted: 01/01/2006] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptin has significant effects on appetite, energy expenditure, lipid mobilisation and reproduction. During pregnancy, leptin is produced in the placenta, a tissue in which leptin receptors are highly expressed, suggesting autocrine/paracrine functions for this hormone. In the present study, a putative role of leptin as a regulator of nitric oxide (NO) production and lipid metabolism was evaluated in term human placenta. We demonstrated that leptin enhanced NO production in human placental explants (P < 0.01). Although leptin did not modify the placental levels of cholesteryl esters and phospholipids, leptin decreased levels of triglycerides (P < 0.01) and cholesterol (P < 0.001) in term human placenta. The effect of leptin on lipid mass seems to be independent of the modulation of de novo lipid synthesis because leptin did not modify the incorporation of (14)C-acetate into any of the lipids evaluated. We investigated the effects of leptin on placental lipid catabolism and found that in both term human placental explants and primary cultures of trophoblastic cells, leptin increased glycerol release, an index of the hydrolysis of esterified lipids, in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, we have shown that leptin affects NO production and lipid catabolism in human placenta, providing supportive evidence for a role of leptin in placental functions that would determine the transfer of nutrients to the developing fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica White
- Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO-CONICET, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Hauguel-de Mouzon S, Lepercq J, Catalano P. The known and unknown of leptin in pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2006; 194:1537-45. [PMID: 16731069 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2005.06.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2005] [Revised: 05/16/2005] [Accepted: 06/14/2005] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Leptin, which was identified originally as an adipocyte-derived protein, was regarded for years as an exclusive regulator of satiety and energy homeostasis. A role for leptin in pregnancy was later suggested by the findings that plasma levels during gestation are greater than in nongravid individuals and that leptin is synthesized within the fetoplacental unit. Observational studies have established that leptin production is dysregulated in several pathologic stages of pregnancy in association with alterations of fetal growth. For example, an overproduction of leptin by the placenta in pregnancy with diabetes mellitus or hypertension is associated with maternal hyperleptinemia. Evidence is also accumulating that umbilical leptin levels can be viewed as a biomarker of fetal adiposity. Ten years after its discovery as a hormone, we review the known and unknowns of leptin in pregnancy with particular emphasis on its functions in health and disease. We aim to demonstrate that studies of leptin in pregnancy largely have contributed to insight into the mechanisms of leptin action, both as a hormone and as a cytokine.
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Edwards RG. Changing genetic world of IVF, stem cells and PGD. B. Polarities and gene expression in differentiating embryo cells and stem cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 11:761-76. [PMID: 16417744 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61696-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Novel genetic techniques in the later twentieth century led to new analytical methods for assessing the growth of embryos and stem cells and improve preimplantation diagnosis. Increasing attention to the nature of polarities in mouse and human embryos revealed the existence of an animal-vegetal axis in human oocytes and embryos. Combinations of meridional and transverse cleavage divisions, the latter due to spindle rotation, determined the unequal division of ooplasm to embryonic blastomeres. Blastomeres with differing functions were accordingly formed in 4-cell embryos, including founders of inner cell mass and trophectoderm. New forms of gene analysis led to the polymerase chain reaction, while fluorescence in-situ hybridization revealed astonishingly high degrees of heteroploidy in human embryos. Developmental genetics gained immense analytical power as cDNA libraries, microarrays, transcriptomes RNAi and other methods clarified the roles of hundreds of genes in pre- and early post-implantation embryos and stem cells.
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Edwards RG, Hansis C. Initial differentiation of blastomeres in 4-cell human embryos and its significance for early embryogenesis and implantation. Reprod Biomed Online 2005; 11:206-18. [PMID: 16168219 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60960-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This brief review is devoted to the nature of early blastomere differentiation in human 4-cell embryos and its consequences for embryonic development. Precursor cells of inner cell mass, germline, and trophectoderm may be formed at this stage, the clearest evidence being available for trophectoderm. The sites of these precursor cells in the embryo could be ascertained using markers for animal and vegetal poles, observing specific cleavage planes, and assessing gene and protein expression. This opens new opportunities for studying 4-cell embryos and removing or replacing specific cells. Knowledge of the properties of individual blastomeres should help in improving assisted human reproduction, performing preimplantation genetic diagnosis, and perhaps establishing specific stem cell lines. Special attention is paid to well-characterized trophectoderm, the trophectoderm stem cell, and possible new forms of clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Edwards
- Reproductive BioMedicine Online, Duck End Farm, Dry Drayton, Cambridge CB3 8DB, UK
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Meissner U, Spranger R, Lehner M, Allabauer I, Rascher W, Dötsch J. Hypoxia-induced leptin production in human trophoblasts does not protect from apoptosis. Eur J Endocrinol 2005; 153:455-61. [PMID: 16131609 DOI: 10.1530/eje.1.01979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The ob-gene product, leptin, is an important regulator of placental and fetal development during pregnancy. Leptin, being induced by hypoxia in the placenta, is a known pro-apoptotic molecule in adipose tissue but is also known to inhibit apoptosis in other tissues like neuroblastoma cells. Based on these findings, we investigated if leptin has a pro- or anti-apoptotic effect on a trophoblastic cell line (JAr cells) in the presence or absence of oxygen. METHODS AND RESULTS Measurement of leptin in the supernatant by using ELISA showed hypoxia-induced leptin production in JAr cells in vitro. This could be confirmed by a leptin-specific RT-PCR. By analyzing leptin and/or hypoxia exposed cells with FACS cytometry we found that JAr cells can cope with hypoxia down to oxygen tensions of 1%. At this level, only a small number of cells underwent apoptosis. Interestingly, leptin added to the culture medium in high concentrations was not able to interfere with the rate of proliferation or apoptosis in these cells independent of the oxygen tension. Finally, an anti-caspase-3 and anti-caspase-9 Western blot was performed. Again, no difference in the expression of caspase-3 and -9 under the conditions tested was seen. CONCLUSIONS These results show that leptin, produced by placental cells after hypoxia in vitro, has no influence on the rate of proliferation of these cells. Furthermore, it does not influence apoptotic pathways in the trophoblastic cell line tested under hypoxic and non-hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udo Meissner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Loschgestrasse 15, Erlangen 91054, Germany.
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Demir B, Erel CT, Haberal A, Oztürk N, Güler D, Koçak M. Adjusted leptin level (ALL) is a predictor for hyperemesis gravidarum. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2005; 124:193-6. [PMID: 16051421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2004.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2004] [Revised: 09/19/2004] [Accepted: 11/11/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the maternal serum leptin level according to the gestational week and to assess the relationship between the adjusted serum leptin level and thyroid hormones. In order to obtain this objective a new parameter is developed: adjusted leptin level (ALL: maternal serum leptin level/gestational week). STUDY DESIGN A prospective study was carried out at the early prenatal care unit, SSK Ankara Women's Health and Teaching Hospital. Fifty-four women with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and 42 pregnant women without HG as a control group were included to the study. The groups were compared for age, parity, body mass index, fasting serum TSH, free T3, free T4 and leptin levels. A new parameter; ALL was also calculated in each case. RESULTS Gestational age and body mass index (BMI) were found significantly lower in the HG group than in the control group (p=0.001). ALL was significantly high in the HG group (p=0.009). Serum TSH, free T3, free T4 levels were significantly different in the HG group than in the control group (p=0.003, 0.013, 0.012, respectively). A significant positive correlation was found between ALL and BMI in the HG group (r=0.449 p=0.001). The maternal leptin level was also positively correlated with BMI in the HG group (r=0.313 p=0.025). CONCLUSION Etiology of the hyperemesis gravidarum is multifactorial. However we can postulate the adjusted leptin level is a good predictor for hyperemesis gravidarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berfu Demir
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, SSK Ankara Maternity and Women's Health Teaching Hospital, ODTU-Kent 1904-6, TR-06531 Ankara, Orta Dogu Teknik Universitesi, Turkey.
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Edwards DE, Bohm RP, Purcell J, Ratterree MS, Swan KF, Castracane VD, Henson MC. Two Isoforms of the Leptin Receptor Are Enhanced in Pregnancy-Specific Tissues and Soluble Leptin Receptor Is Enhanced in Maternal Serum with Advancing Gestation in the Baboon1. Biol Reprod 2004; 71:1746-52. [PMID: 15269102 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.104.031112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptin is a polypeptide hormone produced by adipose and other endocrine tissues. Although it has been linked to receptor-mediated pathways that directly influence human conceptus development, mechanisms that regulate the leptin receptor in pregnancy-specific tissues remain unclear. Therefore, we assessed leptin-receptor ontogeny and regulation in the baboon (Papio sp.), a primate model for human pregnancy. Placentae, decidua, and amniochorion were collected from baboons in early (Days 54-63, n = 4), mid (Days 98-103, n = 4), and late (Days 159-165, n = 4) gestation. Regulation by estrogen was assessed by elimination of androgen precursors via removal of the fetus (fetectomy) at midgestation and collection of tissues in late gestation (n = 4; term, approximately 184 days). Maternal serum was sampled with advancing gestation, and the abundance of soluble leptin receptor (solLepR), a potential mediator of gestational hyperleptinemia, was determined. Two placental leptin-receptor isoforms (130 and 150 kDa) increased (P < 0.04 and P < 0.02, respectively) in abundance with advancing gestation. Similarly, the 130-kDa isoform increased approximately fourfold (P < 0.0025) in decidua and approximately 10-fold (P < 0.015) in amniochorion between early and late gestation. Following fetectomy, maternal serum estradiol levels declined approximately 85% (P < 0.03), and the 150-kDa placental leptin-receptor isoform was reduced by more than half (P < 0.002). Maternal serum solLepR concentrations were correlated with gestational age (r = 0.52, P < 0.01) and were unaffected by fetectomy. The presence of leptin-receptor isoforms in pregnancy-specific tissues further denoted leptin's potential to directly influence conceptus development, whereas the 130-kDa solLepR identified in maternal serum suggested a means to facilitate the hyperleptinemia typical of primate pregnancy. Although estrogen did not appear to be the principal regulator of solLepR, it and other factors linked to advancing gestation may be implicated in the regulation of leptin-receptor synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah E Edwards
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70112-2699, USA
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Oktem O, Dedeoğlu N, Oymak Y, Sezen D, Köksal L, Pekin T, Gökaslan H, Kavak ZN. Maternal serum, amniotic fluid and cord leptin levels at term: their correlations with fetal weight. J Perinat Med 2004; 32:266-71. [PMID: 15188803 DOI: 10.1515/jpm.2004.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the relationship between fetal weight and leptin levels in maternal serum, amniotic fluid and umbilical cord. METHODS Forty pregnant women presenting for antenatal care at early weeks of gestation were enrolled for the study. Maternal and cord blood samples for leptin measurement were obtained at birth. Amniotic fluid samples were recovered by amniotomy performed during labor. Maternal body mass index and placental weight were also recorded. Leptin measurement was carried out using the ELISA method. Spearman's correlation test was used for comparison of non-parametric data. RESULTS Leptin concentration in venous cord blood correlated significantly with birth weight and placental weight whereas maternal serum and amniotic fluid leptin levels did not show correlation with birth weight. There were no significant correlations between leptin levels in maternal serum, cord blood and amniotic fluid. CONCLUSION We conclude that lack of correlation between leptin levels in mother, cord and amniotic fluid suggest that these compartments may be non-communicating separate units or have different mechanisms regulating leptin synthesis or degradation, and that leptin in maternal blood and amniotic fluid may not have a direct effect on fetal growth but rather a different role in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgür Oktem
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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Abstract
The hormone leptin is produced by adipose tissue and can function as a signal of nutritional status to the reproductive system. The expression of leptin receptor and, in some species, leptin, in the placenta suggests a role for leptin in placental development, but this role has not been elucidated. Leptin is required at the time of embryo implantation in the leptin-deficient ob/ ob mouse and has been shown to upregulate expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes involved in trophoblast invasion, in cultured human trophoblast cells. This led us to the hypothesis that leptin promotes the invasiveness of trophoblast cells crucial to placental development. We found that leptin stimulated mouse trophoblast cell invasion through a matrigel-coated insert on Day 10, but not Day 18 of pregnancy. Optimal stimulation occurred at a concentration of 50 ng/ml leptin, similar to the peak plasma leptin concentration during pregnancy in the mouse. Leptin treatment did not stimulate proliferation of mouse trophoblast cells in primary culture. Leptin stimulation of invasion was prevented by 25 muM GM6001, an inhibitor of MMP activity. Our results suggest that leptin may play a role in the establishment of the placenta during early pregnancy and that this function is dependent on MMP activity. This effect of leptin may represent one mechanism by which body condition affects placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Schulz
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
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