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Suresh S, Freedman A, Adams M, Hirsch E, Ernst LM. Placental histology for targeted risk assessment of recurrent spontaneous preterm birth. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:452.e1-452.e11. [PMID: 37751829 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.09.018] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spontaneous preterm birth significantly increases the risk for a recurrent preterm birth. Only a few identifiable clinical risk factors can be referenced in counseling for recurrent preterm birth. Furthermore, treatment using progesterone supplementation has not consistently prevented preterm birth among high-risk patients, but it may be effective in a subset of those patients. Placental pathology from a previous pregnancy may be used to predict which patients will experience a recurrent preterm birth or to identify a subset of patients more likely to respond to treatment with antenatal progesterone. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine if histologic patterns are associated with recurrent preterm birth among patients with an index spontaneous preterm birth. A secondary objective was to determine if placental histologic types and/or progesterone receptor density in the decidua are associated with the response to progesterone supplementation with intramuscular 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate. STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort study at a single institution of women with singleton pregnancies with an index spontaneous preterm birth and a subsequent birth within the same hospital system between 2009 and 2019. Patients were included if placental pathology was available for the index spontaneous preterm birth. A logistic regression was used to determine if there were independent associations between 4 histologic types (acute inflammation, maternal vascular malperfusion, fetal vascular malperfusion, chronic inflammation) and recurrent preterm birth. For the secondary endpoint, 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate response was defined as prolonging gestation by >3 weeks beyond the gestational age at delivery in the index pregnancy. Patients who delivered <3 weeks beyond the gestational age in the index pregnancy but at ≥39 weeks' gestation were excluded. A logistic regression was used to assess the independent association between placental histology and 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate response. Sensitivity analyses were completed using only patients with an index birth <36 weeks' gestation, and then excluding those with medically indicated preterm birth in a subsequent pregnancy. A nested case-control immunohistochemical study was done among 20 patients with a subsequent term birth and 20 patients with a subsequent spontaneous preterm birth. The percentage of cells in the maternal decidua positive for progesterone receptors was correlated with the subsequent pregnancy outcome. RESULTS A total of 352 patients were included. Acute inflammation was the most common histologic type seen among patients with spontaneous preterm birth (44.1%), followed by chronic inflammation (40.9%) and maternal vascular malperfusion (31.3%). No histologic type was independently associated with recurrent preterm birth. A total of 155 patients received 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate in a second pregnancy. Low-grade acute inflammation was significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate response. Low-grade maternal vascular malperfusion among those with an index pregnancy delivered at <36 weeks' gestation was significantly associated with a more than 4 times increased likelihood of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate response when excluding those with a subsequent iatrogenic preterm birth. Progesterone receptor staining was not associated with recurrent preterm birth. CONCLUSION Although acute inflammation was prevalent among spontaneous preterm births, more than half of the spontaneous preterm births were not associated with acute inflammation. Low-grade acute inflammation was associated with a significantly decreased response to 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate supplementation. Low-grade maternal vascular malperfusion was associated with a 4-fold increased likelihood of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate response among those with index deliveries <36 weeks' gestation. Further work is needed to determine if placental pathologic examination can be used to target treatment in subsequent pregnancies to prevent recurrent preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunitha Suresh
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL.
| | - Alexa Freedman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL
| | - Marci Adams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL
| | - Emmet Hirsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL; University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Linda M Ernst
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Director of Perinatal Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL
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Palacios-Luna JE, López-Marrufo MV, Bautista-Bautista G, Velarde-Guerra CS, Villeda-Gabriel G, Flores-Herrera O, Osorio-Caballero M, Aguilar-Carrasco JC, Palafox-Vargas ML, García-López G, Díaz-Ruíz O, Arechavaleta-Velasco F, Flores-Herrera H. Progesterone modulates extracellular heat-shock proteins and interlukin-1β in human choriodecidual after Escherichia coli infection. Placenta 2023; 142:85-94. [PMID: 37659254 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.08.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chorioamnionitis is an adverse condition in human pregnancy caused by many bacterial pathogens including Escherichia coli (E. coli); which has been associated with higher risk of preterm birth. We recently reported that human maternal decidua (MDec) tissue responds to E. coli infection by secreting extracellular heat-shock proteins (eHsp)-60, -70 and interlukin-1β (IL-1β). Previous studies have shown that progesterone (P4) regulates the immune response, but it is unknown whether P4 inhibits the secretion of eHsp. The aim of this investigation was to determine the role of P4 on the secretion of eHsp-27, -60, -70 and IL-1β in MDec after 3, 6, and 24 h of E. coli infection. METHODS Nine human feto-maternal interface (HFMi) tissues were included and mounted in the Transwell culture system. Only the maternal decidua (MDec) was stimulated for 3, 6 and 24 h with E. coli alone or in combination with progesterone and RU486. After each treatment, the HFMi tissue was recovered to determine histological changes and the culture medium recovered to evaluate the levels of eHsp-27, -60, -70 and IL-1β by ELISA and mRNA expression by RT-PCR. RESULTS No structural changes were observed in the HFMi tissue treated with P4 and RU486. However, stimulation with E. coli produces diffuse inflammation and ischemic necrosis. E. coli induced infection decreases, in time- and dose-dependent manner, eHsp-27 and increases eHsp-60, eHsp-70 and IL-1β levels. In contrast, incubation of HFMi tissue with E. coli + P4 reversed eHsp and IL-1β secretion levels relative to E. coli stimulation group but not relative to the control group. The same profile was observed on the expression of eHsp-27 and eHsp-60. DISCUSSION we found that progesterone modulates the anti-inflammatory (eHsp-27) and pro-inflammatory (eHsp-60 and eHsp-70) levels of eHsp induced by E. coli infection in human choriodecidual tissue. eHsp-60 and eHsp-70 levels were not completely reversed; maintaining the secretion of IL-1β, which has been associated with adverse events during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelly Estefania Palacios-Luna
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Mariana Victoria López-Marrufo
- Departamento de Ginecología y Obstetricia. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gerardo Bautista-Bautista
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Cinthia Selene Velarde-Guerra
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Graciela Villeda-Gabriel
- Departamento de Inmunología e Infectología, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Oscar Flores-Herrera
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Mauricio Osorio-Caballero
- Departamento de Salud Sexual y Reproductiva. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Jose Carlos Aguilar-Carrasco
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México. Mexico
| | - Martha Leticia Palafox-Vargas
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Guadalupe García-López
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México. Mexico
| | - Oscar Díaz-Ruíz
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Fabián Arechavaleta-Velasco
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Reproductiva. Hospital de Gineco-Obstetricia No. 4 "Luis Castelazo Ayala" Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México. Mexico.
| | - Hector Flores-Herrera
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica. Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de Los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Wu HM, Chen LH, Hsu LT, Lai CH. Immune Tolerance of Embryo Implantation and Pregnancy: The Role of Human Decidual Stromal Cell- and Embryonic-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113382. [PMID: 36362169 PMCID: PMC9658721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo–endometrial communication plays a critical role in embryo implantation and the establishment of a successful pregnancy. Successful pregnancy outcomes involve maternal immune modulation during embryo implantation. The endometrium is usually primed and immunomodulated by steroid hormones and embryo signals for subsequent embryo implantation and the maintenance of pregnancy. The roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and microRNAs for the embryo–maternal interactions have been elucidated recently. New evidence shows that endometrial EVs and trophectoderm-originated EV cargo, including microRNAs, proteins, and lipids in the physiological microenvironment, regulate maternal immunomodulation for embryo implantation and subsequent pregnancy. On the other hand, trophoblast-derived EVs also control the cross-communication between the trophoblasts and immune cells. The exploration of EV functions and mechanisms in the processes of embryo implantation and pregnancy will shed light on a practical tool for the diagnostic or therapeutic approaches to reproductive medicine and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Ming Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Le-Tien Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chyong-Huey Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3-328-1200 (ext. 8254)
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Leimert KB, Xu W, Princ MM, Chemtob S, Olson DM. Inflammatory Amplification: A Central Tenet of Uterine Transition for Labor. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:660983. [PMID: 34490133 PMCID: PMC8417473 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.660983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In preparation for delivery, the uterus transitions from actively maintaining quiescence during pregnancy to an active parturient state. This transition occurs as a result of the accumulation of pro-inflammatory signals which are amplified by positive feedback interactions involving paracrine and autocrine signaling at the level of each intrauterine cell and tissue. The amplification events occur in parallel until they reach a certain threshold, ‘tipping the scale’ and contributing to processes of uterine activation and functional progesterone withdrawal. The described signaling interactions all occur upstream from the presentation of clinical labor symptoms. In this review, we will: 1) describe the different physiological processes involved in uterine transition for each intrauterine tissue; 2) compare and contrast the current models of labor initiation; 3) introduce innovative models for measuring paracrine inflammatory interactions; and 4) discuss the therapeutic value in identifying and targeting key players in this crucial event for preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelycia B Leimert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Wendy Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Magdalena M Princ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Department of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David M Olson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Nagy AM, Sathe SR, Atta AH, Hammam AMM, Hsu WH. Characterization of Nuclear Progesterone Receptor Isoforms in the Term Equine Placenta. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:660177. [PMID: 33869328 PMCID: PMC8047131 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.660177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In equine parturition, the role of progestins along with the nuclear progesterone receptor (nPR) signaling pathway in the placenta is not completely clarified. The progestins play an integral role in maintaining myometrial quiescence during the late stage of pregnancy via acting on nPR isoforms (PRA and PRB; PRB is more active than PRA). The current study aimed to determine the PRA and PRB expressions in the term equine placenta at the gene and protein levels. Six term equine placentas were used in this study. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to quantify the mRNA expression for PRA and PRB. The protein expression was detected using the Western Blot technique. The results revealed that the mRNA and protein expressions for PRA were significantly higher (P < 0.0001) in the term equine placental tissue compared to the mRNA and protein expressions of PRB. These results demonstrated that nPRs are detectable in the term placenta of mares and PRA is the dominant isoform expressed. The present findings raised the possibility that the PRA plays an important role in the parturition process and expulsion of the placenta in mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Nagy
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Veterinary Research Division, National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Swanand R Sathe
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Attia H Atta
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdel Mohsen M Hammam
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Veterinary Research Division, National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Walter H Hsu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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Progesterone receptor isoform B regulates the Oxtr- Plcl2- Trpc3 pathway to suppress uterine contractility. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2011643118. [PMID: 33707208 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2011643118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine contractile dysfunction leads to pregnancy complications such as preterm birth and labor dystocia. In humans, it is hypothesized that progesterone receptor isoform PGR-B promotes a relaxed state of the myometrium, and PGR-A facilitates uterine contraction. This hypothesis was tested in vivo using transgenic mouse models that overexpress PGR-A or PGR-B in smooth muscle cells. Elevated PGR-B abundance results in a marked increase in gestational length compared to control mice (21.1 versus 19.1 d respectively, P < 0.05). In both ex vivo and in vivo experiments, PGR-B overexpression leads to prolonged labor, a significant decrease in uterine contractility, and a high incidence of labor dystocia. Conversely, PGR-A overexpression leads to an increase in uterine contractility without a change in gestational length. Uterine RNA sequencing at midpregnancy identified 1,174 isoform-specific downstream targets and 424 genes that are commonly regulated by both PGR isoforms. Gene signature analyses further reveal PGR-B for muscle relaxation and PGR-A being proinflammatory. Elevated PGR-B abundance reduces Oxtr and Trpc3 and increases Plcl2 expression, which manifests a genetic profile of compromised oxytocin signaling. Functionally, both endogenous PLCL2 and its paralog PLCL1 can attenuate uterine muscle cell contraction in a CRISPRa-based assay system. These findings provide in vivo support that PGR isoform levels determine distinct transcriptomic landscapes and pathways in myometrial function and labor, which may help further the understanding of abnormal uterine function in the clinical setting.
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Huang J, Xie Y, Peng Q, Wang W, Pei C, Zhao Y, Liu R, Huang L, Li T, Nie J, Liu L, Zhang X, Luo X, Luo J, Zhang W. Single-cell transcriptomics analysis showing functional heterogeneity in decidual stromal cells during labor. J Investig Med 2020; 69:jim-2020-001616. [PMID: 33372108 PMCID: PMC8020081 DOI: 10.1136/jim-2020-001616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the heterogeneity of decidual stromal cells (DSCs) and their functional alterations during delivery, we conducted single-cell RNA sequencing analysis to characterize the transcriptomic profiles of DSCs before and after labor onset. According to their transcriptomic profiles, DSCs (6382 cells) were clustered into five subgroups with different functions. Similar to stromal cells, cells in cluster 1 were involved in cell substrate adhesion. On the other hand, cells in clusters 2 and 3 were enriched in signal transduction-related genes. Labor onset led to significant alterations in many pathways, including the activator protein 1 pathway (all clusters), as well as in the response to lipopolysaccharide (clusters 1-3). The downregulated genes were involved in coagulation, ATP synthesis, and oxygen homeostasis, possibly reflecting the oxygen and energy balance during delivery. Our findings highlight that peripartum DSCs are heterogeneous and play multiple roles in labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingrui Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yingming Xie
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiaozhen Peng
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weinan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chenlin Pei
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yanhua Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lihui Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Changsha Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Tieping Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Changsha Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jia Nie
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lijuan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaowen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xianggui Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiefeng Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weishe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Early Life Development and Disease Prevention, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Wijaya JC, Khanabdali R, Georgiou HM, Kalionis B. Ageing in human parturition: impetus of the gestation clock in the decidua†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:695-710. [PMID: 32591788 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite sharing many common features, the relationship between ageing and parturition remains poorly understood. The decidua is a specialized lining of endometrial tissue, which develops in preparation for pregnancy. The structure and location of the decidua support its role as the physical scaffold for the growing embryo and placenta, and thus, it is vital to sustain pregnancy. Approaching term, the physical support properties of the decidua are naturally weakened to permit parturition. In this review, we hypothesize that the natural weakening of decidual tissue at parturition is promoted by the ageing process. Studies of the ageing-related functional and molecular changes in the decidua at parturition are reviewed and classified using hallmarks of ageing as the framework. The potential roles of decidual mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (DMSC) ageing in labor are also discussed because, although stem cell exhaustion is also a hallmark of ageing, its role in labor is not completely understood. In addition, the potential roles of extracellular vesicles secreted by DMSCs in labor, and their parturition-related miRNAs, are reviewed to gain further insight into this research area. In summary, the literature supports the notion that the decidua ages as the pregnancy progresses, and this may facilitate parturition, suggesting that ageing is the probable impetus of the gestational clocks in the decidua. This conceptual framework was developed to provide a better understanding of the natural ageing process of the decidua during parturition as well as to encourage future studies of the importance of healthy ageing for optimal pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan C Wijaya
- Pregnancy Research Centre, Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ramin Khanabdali
- Pregnancy Research Centre, Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Process Development, Exopharm Limited, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harry M Georgiou
- Pregnancy Research Centre, Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bill Kalionis
- Pregnancy Research Centre, Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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The Regulation of Uterine Function During Parturition: an Update and Recent Advances. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:3-28. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00001-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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In Vitro Effect of Estradiol and Progesterone on Ovine Amniotic Epithelial Cells. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:8034578. [PMID: 31049069 PMCID: PMC6458847 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8034578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Amniotic epithelial cells (AECs), an emerging source of extrafoetal stem cells, have recently attracted attention for their great regenerative potential. Since AEC amplifications are accompanied by the loss of their native epithelial phenotype and by the progressive reduction of relevant biological properties, the issue to be addressed is the development of effective culture protocols. In this context, recently, it has been demonstrated that progesterone (P4) supplementation during ovine AEC (oAEC) expansion could prevent the undesirable epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In contrast, there is no information to date on the role of the other pregnancy steroids in culture. With this aim, the present study has been designed to clarify the impact of estradiol (E2), alone or in combination with P4 (12.5 μM and 25 μM), during oAEC amplification. Steroid supplementations were assessed by testing oAEC proliferation, stemness, EMT, and osteogenic or chondrogenic plasticity. The results indicated that EMT can be prevented exclusively in the presence of high doses of P4, while it occurred rapidly in cells exposed to E2 as denoted by protein (cytokeratin-8 and alpha-SMA) and gene expression (vimentin and snail) profiles. Moreover, steroid exposure was able to influence highly oAEC plasticity. Particularly, P4-treated cells displayed a precommitment towards osteogenic lineage, confirmed by the upregulation of OCN, RUNX2, and the greater deposition of calcium nodules. Conversely, P4 exposure inhibited oAEC chondrogenic differentiation, which was induced in E2-treated cells as confirmed by the upregulation of chondrogenesis-related genes (SOX9, ACAN, and COL2A1) and by the accumulation of Alcian blue-positive extracellular matrix. Simultaneously, E2-treated cells remained unresponsive to osteogenic inductive stimuli. In conclusion, media supplementation with high doses of steroids may be adopted to modulate phenotype and plasticity during oAEC amplification. Relevantly, the osteo or chondro steroid-induced precommitment may open unprecedented cell-based therapies to face the unsolved orthopaedic issues related to osteochondral regeneration.
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Grazul-Bilska AT, Bairagi S, Kraisoon A, Dorsam ST, Reyaz A, Navanukraw C, Borowicz PP, Reynolds LP. Placental development during early pregnancy in sheep: nuclear estrogen and progesterone receptor mRNA expression in the utero-placental compartments. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2019; 66:27-34. [PMID: 30391829 PMCID: PMC6281792 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones are major regulators of uterine and placental growth and functions, as well as many other biological processes. To examine the mRNA expression of nuclear estrogen (ESR1 and 2) and progesterone (PGRAB and B) receptors in different compartments of the uterus and placenta, tissues were collected in experiment 1 on days 16, 20, and 28 after natural mating (NAT) and on day 10 after estrus (nonpregnant controls [NP]); and in experiment 2 on day 22 of NAT, and pregnancies established after transfer of embryos generated through mating of FSH-treated ewes (NAT-ET), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or in vitro activation (parthenotes). In experiment 1, ESR1 expression in endometrial stroma (ES), endometrial glands (EGs), and myometrial blood vessels (MBVs), ESR2 in endometrial blood vessels (EBV), PGRAB in ES, and PGRB in ES, EG, and MBV was greater in pregnant than NP ewes depending on the day of pregnancy. The day of pregnancy affected the expression of ESR1 in MBV, ESR2 in EBV and MBV, and PGRAB in ES. In experiment 2, ESR1, PGRAB, and PGRB in EG, but not in other compartments, was greater in NAT-ET than NAT, and PGRB was greater for NAT-ET than IVF. These data demonstrate that ESR and PGR expression differ in pregnant versus NP ewes in selected compartments and was affected by pregnancy stage or embryo origin in selected utero-placental compartments. Thus, sex steroid hormone mRNA expression is differentially regulated in a spatiotemporal manner in the uterus and placenta and is affected by the application of assisted reproductive technology in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna T Grazul-Bilska
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA.
| | - Soumi Bairagi
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - Aree Kraisoon
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center for Sustainable Economy (ABRCSE), Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology: (AG-BIO/PERDO-CHE), Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Sheri T Dorsam
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - Arshi Reyaz
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - Chainarong Navanukraw
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center for Sustainable Economy (ABRCSE), Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology: (AG-BIO/PERDO-CHE), Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Pawel P Borowicz
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - Lawrence P Reynolds
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
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12
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Hirst JJ, Palliser HK, Shaw JC, Crombie G, Walker DW, Zakar T. Birth and Neonatal Transition in the Guinea Pig: Experimental Approaches to Prevent Preterm Birth and Protect the Premature Fetus. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1802. [PMID: 30618814 PMCID: PMC6297273 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) displays many features of gestational physiology that makes it the most translationally relevant rodent species. Progesterone production undergoes a luteal to placental shift as in human pregnancy with levels rising during gestation and with labor and delivery occurring without a precipitous decline in maternal progesterone levels. In contrast to other laboratory rodents, labor in guinea pigs is triggered by a functional progesterone withdrawal, which involves the loss of uterine sensitivity to progesterone like in women. In both species the amnion membrane is a major source of labor-inducing prostaglandins, which promote functional progesterone withdrawal by modifying myometrial progesterone receptor expression. These similar features appear to result from convergent evolution rather than closer evolutionally relationship to primates compared to other rodents. Nevertheless, the similarities in the production, metabolism and actions of progesterone and prostaglandins allow information gained in pregnant guinea pigs to be extended to pregnant women with confidence. This includes exploring the effects of pregnancy complications including growth restriction and the mechanisms by which stressful conditions increase the incidence of preterm labor. The relatively long gestation of the guinea pig and the maturity of the pups at birth particularly in brain development means that a greater proportion of brain development happens in utero. This allows adverse intrauterine conditions to make a sustained impact on the developing brain like in compromised human pregnancies. In addition, the brain is exposed to a protective neurosteroid environment in utero, which has been suggested to promote development in the guinea pig and the human. Moreover, in utero stresses that have been shown to adversely affect long term neurobehavioral outcomes in clinical studies, can be modeled successfully in guinea pigs. Overall, these parallels to the human have led to increasing interest in the guinea pig for translational studies of treatments and therapies that potentially improve outcomes following adverse events in pregnancy and after preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan J Hirst
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah K Palliser
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Julia C Shaw
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Gabrielle Crombie
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Tamas Zakar
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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13
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House M, Kelly J, Klebanov N, Yoshida K, Myers K, Kaplan DL. Mechanical and Biochemical Effects of Progesterone on Engineered Cervical Tissue. Tissue Eng Part A 2018; 24:1765-1774. [PMID: 29855229 PMCID: PMC6302671 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2018.0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in newborns. Babies born prematurely are at increased risk of lifelong health problems, including neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Cervical shortening precedes preterm birth in many women. Cervical shortening is caused, in part, by excessive softening of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the cervical stroma. In clinical obstetrics, cervical shortening prompts treatment with supplemental progesterone to prevent preterm birth. However, progesterone-mediated effects on the cervical ECM are not well understood. This research sought to study progesterone-mediated remodeling of ECM produced by human cervical fibroblasts in vitro. A previously developed three-dimensional (3D) engineered model of the cervical ECM was used for experiments. Cervical fibroblasts were seeded on porous scaffolds and cultured in spinner flasks to promote ECM synthesis. Scaffolds were exposed to two conditions: 10-8 M estradiol versus 10-8 M estradiol +10-6 M progesterone for 4 weeks. To measure ECM strength, two scaffolds were mounted end-to-end on a wire and cultured such that ECM filled the gap between the scaffolds. The force required to pull the scaffolds apart was measured. Collagen content and collagen crosslinks were measured with ultra performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Whole-transcriptome RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to quantify gene expression between the two experimental conditions. Zymography was used to study the quantity and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) in the scaffolds. The study found that exposure to progesterone increased tissue softness of the engineered ECM over 28 days. Increased tissue softness correlated with decreased collagen content. With RNA-seq, progesterone exposure resulted in gene expression changes consistent with known progesterone effects. Pathway analysis of the RNA-seq data suggested MMPs were significantly dysregulated in progesterone-exposed engineered ECM. Increased expression of active MMP2 was confirmed in the progesterone-exposed engineered ECM. In summary, progesterone increased the softness of the ECM, which was correlated with decreased collagen production and altered histology. These results are important for deciphering the role of progesterone in preventing preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael House
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Jeannie Kelly
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nikolai Klebanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Kyoko Yoshida
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Kristin Myers
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - David L. Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
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Placental development during early pregnancy in sheep: Progesterone and estrogen receptor protein expression. Theriogenology 2018; 114:273-284. [PMID: 29665573 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the pattern of protein expression of the steroid receptor isoforms of nuclear progesterone receptors (PGR) A and B, and estrogen receptors (ESR1 and 2) in utero-placental compartments during early pregnancy. Utero-placental tissues were collected from days 14-30 (n = 4 ewes/day), and uterine tissues were collected from non-pregnant ewes on day 10 after estrus (n = 4). Cross sections of formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded tissues were immunofluorescently stained to detect PGRAB, PGRB, ESR1 and ESR2, followed by image generation of entire cross-sections of uterine and utero-placental tissues, confocal imaging of individual uterine and utero-placental compartments, and image and statistical analyses. PGRAB, PGRB, ESR1 and ESR2 were detected in several compartments of uterine and utero-placental tissues. Quantitative image analysis of staining intensity demonstrated that compared to non-pregnant controls 1) expression of PGRAB and PGRB was less in luminal epithelium and endometrial glands from day 14-16 till 30; 2) PGRAB expression tended to be greater in endometrial and myometrial blood vessels on days 28 and/or 30; 3) PGRB expression in myometrum was lower on days 16 and 28; 4) ESR1 in endometrial stroma was lower in all days of pregnancy; 5) ESR2 expression was similar in all compartments and not affected by pregnancy stage; and 6) in FM, expression of steroid receptors was similar. Thus, we have demonstrated spatial and temporal expression of nuclear PGR and ESR isoforms in utero-placental compartments during early pregnancy.
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Preciado-Martínez E, García-Ruíz G, Flores-Espinosa P, Bermejo-Martínez L, Espejel-Nuñez A, Estrada-Gutiérrez G, Razo-Aguilera G, Granados-Cepeda M, Helguera-Repetto AC, Irles C, Zaga-Clavellina V. Progesterone suppresses the lipopolysaccharide-induced pro-inflammatory response in primary mononuclear cells isolated from human placental blood. Immunol Invest 2017; 47:181-195. [PMID: 29236553 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2017.1413112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone is an essential hormone that induces deep immune adaptations favoring pregnancy maintenance. We aimed at evaluating the effects of progesterone on the synthesis of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines by mononuclear cells isolated from human placental blood stimulated with lipopolysaccharide, emulating an infection-inflammation environment. Mononuclear cells isolated form human placental blood were obtained from nine women undergoing elective cesarean delivery at term (not in labor), isolated by density gradient sedimentation, cultured and co-stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (500 ng/ml) from Escherichia coli in the presence or not of progesterone (0.01, 0.1, or 1.0 µM) for 24 h. Culture supernatants were assayed for pro-inflammatory (IL-1β, TNFα, IL-6), anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines, chemokines (IL-8, MIP-1α) and total MMP-9 by ELISA. In comparison with basal conditions, lipopolysaccharide treatment induced IL-1β, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, MIP-1α, and MMP-9 synthesis. lipopolysaccharide co-treatment with progesterone significantly decreased the bacterial endotoxin-induced IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and MIP-1α secretion. In contrast, co-treatment with progesterone increased the level of IL-10 secreted to the culture medium. The present results support the concept that progesterone can modulate--partially--the inflammatory response of professional immune cells isolated from placental blood. Therefore, progesterone might be part of the natural compensatory mechanism that limits the cytotoxic effects associated with an intrauterine infection process during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Preciado-Martínez
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México.,b Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Estado de México , México
| | - G García-Ruíz
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México.,b Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán , Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Estado de México , México
| | - P Flores-Espinosa
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - L Bermejo-Martínez
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - A Espejel-Nuñez
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - G Estrada-Gutiérrez
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - G Razo-Aguilera
- c Human Genetic and Genomic Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - M Granados-Cepeda
- d Neonatology Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - A C Helguera-Repetto
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - C Irles
- e Physiology and Cellular Development Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
| | - V Zaga-Clavellina
- a Inmunobiochemistry Branch , Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" , México City , México
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16
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In an in-vitro model using human fetal membranes, 17-α hydroxyprogesterone caproate is not an optimal progestogen for inhibition of fetal membrane weakening. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017; 217:695.e1-695.e14. [PMID: 29031893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The progestogen 17-α hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC) is 1 of only 2 agents recommended for clinical use in the prevention of spontaneous preterm delivery, and studies of its efficacy have been conflicting. We have developed an in-vitro model to study the fetal membrane weakening process that leads to rupture in preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes (pPROM). Inflammation/infection associated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induction and decidual bleeding/abruption associated thrombin release are leading causes of preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes. Both agents (TNF-α and thrombin) cause fetal membrane weakening in the model system. Furthermore, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is a critical intermediate for both TNF-α and thrombin-induced fetal membrane weakening. In a previous report, we demonstrated that 3 progestogens, progesterone, 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), each inhibit both TNF-α- and thrombin-induced fetal membrane weakening at 2 distinct points of the fetal membrane weakening pathway. Each block both the production of and the downstream action of the critical intermediate granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to characterize the inhibitory effects of 17-OHPC on TNF-α- and thrombin-induced fetal membrane weakening in vitro. STUDY DESIGN Full-thickness human fetal membrane fragments from uncomplicated term repeat cesarean deliveries were mounted in 2.5 cm Transwell inserts and cultured with/without 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate (10-9 to 10-7 M). After 24 hours, medium (supernatant) was removed and replaced with/without the addition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (20 ng/mL) or thrombin (10 U/mL) or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (200 ng/mL). After 48 hours of culture, medium from the maternal side compartment of the model was assayed for granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and the fetal membrane fragments were rupture strength tested. RESULTS Tumor necrosis factor-alpha and thrombin both weakened fetal membranes (43% and 62%, respectively) and increased granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor levels (3.7- and 5.9-fold, respectively). Pretreatment with 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate inhibited both tumor necrosis factor-alpha- and thrombin-induced fetal membrane weakening and concomitantly inhibited the induced increase in granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in a concentration-dependent manner. However, contrary to our prior reports regarding progesterone and other progestogens, 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate did not also inhibit granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor-induced fetal membrane weakening. CONCLUSION 17-Alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate blocks tumor necrosis factor-alpha- and thrombin-induced fetal membrane weakening by inhibiting the production of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. However, 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate did not also inhibit granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor-induced weakening. We speculate that progestogens other than 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate may be more efficacious in preventing preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes-related spontaneous preterm birth.
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17
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Canciello A, Russo V, Berardinelli P, Bernabò N, Muttini A, Mattioli M, Barboni B. Progesterone prevents epithelial-mesenchymal transition of ovine amniotic epithelial cells and enhances their immunomodulatory properties. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3761. [PMID: 28630448 PMCID: PMC5476612 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03908-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The in vitro expansion is detrimental to therapeutic applications of amniotic epithelial cells (AEC), an emerging source of fetal stem cells. This study provides molecular evidences of progesterone (P4) role in preventing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in ovine AEC (oAEC). oAEC amplified under standard conditions spontaneously acquired mesenchymal properties through the up-regulation of EMT-transcription factors. P4 supplementation prevented phenotype shift by inhibiting the EMT-inducing mechanism such as the autocrine production of TGF-β and the activation of intracellular-related signaling. The effect of P4 still persisted for one passage after steroid removal from culture as well as steroid supplementation promptly reversed mesenchymal phenotype in oAEC which have experienced EMT during amplification. Furthermore, P4 promoted an acute up-regulation of pluripotent genes whereas enhanced basal and LPS-induced oAEC anti-inflammatory response with an increase in anti-inflammatory and a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines expression. Altogether, these results indicate that P4 supplementation is crucial to preserve epithelial phenotype and to enhance biological properties in expanded oAEC. Therefore, an innovative cultural approach is proposed in order to improve therapeutic potential of this promising source of epithelial stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Canciello
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Valentina Russo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Aurelio Muttini
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Mattioli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise (IZSAM) "G. Caporale", Campo Boario, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
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Bairagi S, Quinn K, Crane A, Ashley R, Borowicz P, Caton J, Redden R, Grazul-Bilska A, Reynolds L. Maternal environment and placental vascularization in small ruminants. Theriogenology 2016; 86:288-305. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Human Decidual Stromal Cells as a Component of the Implantation Niche and a Modulator of Maternal Immunity. J Pregnancy 2016; 2016:8689436. [PMID: 27239344 PMCID: PMC4864559 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8689436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The human decidua is a specialized tissue characterized by embryo-receptive properties. It is formed during the secretory phase of menstrual cycle from uterine mucosa termed endometrium. The decidua is composed of glands, immune cells, blood and lymph vessels, and decidual stromal cells (DSCs). In the process of decidualization, which is controlled by oestrogen and progesterone, DSCs acquire specific functions related to recognition, selection, and acceptance of the allogeneic embryo, as well as to development of maternal immune tolerance. In this review we discuss the relationship between the decidualization of DSCs and pathological obstetrical and gynaecological conditions. Moreover, the critical influence of DSCs on local immune cells populations as well as their relationship to the onset and maintenance of immune tolerance is described.
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Ortega HH, Marelli BE, Rey F, Amweg AN, Díaz PU, Stangaferro ML, Salvetti NR. Molecular aspects of bovine cystic ovarian disease pathogenesis. Reproduction 2015; 149:R251-64. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cystic ovarian disease (COD) is one of the main causes of reproductive failure in cattle and causes severe economic loss to the dairy farm industry because it increases both days open in the post partum period and replacement rates due to infertility. This disease is the consequence of the failure of a mature follicle to ovulate at the time of ovulation in the estrous cycle. This review examines the evidence for the role of altered steroid and gonadotropin signaling systems and the proliferation/apoptosis balance in the ovary with cystic structures. This evidence suggests that changes in the expression of ovarian molecular components associated with these cellular mechanisms could play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of COD. The evidence also shows that gonadotropin receptor expression in bovine cystic follicles is altered, which suggests that changes in the signaling system of gonadotropins could play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of conditions characterized by altered ovulation, such as COD. Ovaries from animals with COD exhibit a disrupted steroid receptor pattern with modifications in the expression of coregulatory proteins. These changes in the pathways of endocrine action would trigger the changes in proliferation and apoptosis underlying the aberrant persistence of follicular cysts.Free Spanish abstract: A Spanish translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/149/6/R251/suppl/DC1.
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Zhuang Y, Cui H, Liu S, Zheng D, Liu C. Progesterone receptor B promoter hypermethylation in human placenta after labor onset. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:335-42. [PMID: 25015900 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114542013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To determine the methylation status of progesterone receptor B (PR-B) promoter and how PR-B regulates progesterone action in placenta during human pregnancy. Placentas were obtained from the pregnancy women at term who underwent cesarean delivery and vaginal delivery. The methylation status of the PR-B promoter was analyzed using the methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and bisulfite sequencing PCR. And the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of the PR-B and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) were determined by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot. Compared with the cesarean group, the placentas of vaginal delivery group had greater levels of PR-B DNA methylation, and the PR-B, DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b mRNA and protein expression were significantly decreased. Progesterone receptor B methylation occurs with high frequency after labor onset and may play an important epigenetic mechanism of labor-related PR-B negative expression, thereby mediating the biological process of functional progesterone withdrawal at term for parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Zhuang
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Hong Cui
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Sishi Liu
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Dongming Zheng
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Caixia Liu
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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22
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Pineda-Torres M, Flores-Espinosa P, Espejel-Nunez A, Estrada-Gutierrez G, Flores-Pliego A, Maida-Claros R, Zaga-Clavellina V. Evidence of an immunosuppressive effect of progesterone upon in vitro secretion of proinflammatory and prodegradative factors in a model of choriodecidual infection. BJOG 2014; 122:1798-807. [PMID: 25315965 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.13113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether progesterone (P4) is able to modulate the secretion of tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) after choriodecidual stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). DESIGN Chorioamnionitis-elicited preterm delivery is associated with an uncontrolled secretion of proinflammatory cytokines that may induce MMPs, which modify the fine immunological and structural equilibrium at the fetal-maternal interface. SETTING Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico City. SAMPLE Twelve human fetal membranes at term from healthy patients were placed in a two-chamber culture system. METHODS Choriodecidual and amniotic regions were preincubated with 1.0, 0.1, or 0.01 μmol/l P4 for 24 hours; after which the choriodecidual region was costimulated with 1000 ng/ml of LPS for 24 hours. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Descriptive statistics were obtained for each variable. Data distribution was tested for normality using Kolmogorov-Smirnoff and Shapiro-Wilk tests. When distribution was normal, Student's t test was used to analyse for differences among groups. Mann-Whitney's U test was used when data were not normally distributed. RESULTS Pretreatment with 1.0 μmol/l P4 significantly blunted the secretion of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10. MMP-9 was inhibited with 0.1 μmol/l P4. Mifepristone (RU486) blocked the immunosuppressive effect of P4, suggesting a P4 effect mediated by its receptor. CONCLUSION These results offer evidence to support the concept that P4 can protect the fetal-placental unit through a compensatory mechanism that partially limits the secretion of proinflammatory and prodegradative modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pineda-Torres
- Immunobiochemistry Branch, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | - P Flores-Espinosa
- Immunobiochemistry Branch, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | - A Espejel-Nunez
- Immunobiochemistry Branch, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | - G Estrada-Gutierrez
- Immunobiochemistry Branch, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | - A Flores-Pliego
- Immunobiochemistry Branch, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | - R Maida-Claros
- Neonatology Branch, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | - V Zaga-Clavellina
- Immunobiochemistry Branch, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico, DF, Mexico
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Welsh TN, Hirst JJ, Palliser H, Zakar T. Progesterone receptor expression declines in the guinea pig uterus during functional progesterone withdrawal and in response to prostaglandins. PLoS One 2014; 9:e105253. [PMID: 25157946 PMCID: PMC4144885 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0105253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone withdrawal is essential for parturition, but the mechanism of this pivotal hormonal change is unclear in women and other mammals that give birth without a pre-labor drop in maternal progesterone levels. One possibility suggested by uterine tissue analyses and cell culture models is that progesterone receptor levels change at term decreasing the progesterone responsiveness of the myometrium, which causes progesterone withdrawal at the functional level and results in estrogen dominance enhancing uterine contractility. In this investigation we have explored whether receptor mediated functional progesterone withdrawal occurs during late pregnancy and labor in vivo. We have also determined whether prostaglandins that induce labor cause functional progesterone withdrawal by altering myometrial progesterone receptor expression. Pregnant guinea pigs were used, since this animal loses progesterone responsiveness at term and gives birth in the presence of high maternal progesterone level similarly to primates. We found that progesterone receptor mRNA and protein A and B expression decreased in the guinea pig uterus during the last third of gestation and in labor. Prostaglandin administration reduced while prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor treatment increased progesterone receptor A protein abundance. Estrogen receptor-1 protein levels remained unchanged during late gestation, in labor and after prostaglandin or prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor administration. Steroid receptor levels were higher in the non-pregnant than in the pregnant uterine horns. We conclude that the decreasing expression of both progesterone receptors A and B is a physiological mechanism of functional progesterone withdrawal in the guinea pig during late pregnancy and in labor. Further, prostaglandins administered exogenously or produced endogenously stimulate labor in part by suppressing uterine progesterone receptor A expression, which may cause functional progesterone withdrawal, promote estrogen dominance and foster myometrial contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toni N. Welsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan J. Hirst
- School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hannah Palliser
- School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tamas Zakar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
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Flores-Espinosa P, Pineda-Torres M, Vega-Sánchez R, Estrada-Gutiérrez G, Espejel-Nuñez A, Flores-Pliego A, Maida-Claros R, Paredes-Vivas Y, Morales-Méndez I, Sosa-González I, Chávez-Mendoza A, Zaga-Clavellina V. Progesterone elicits an inhibitory effect upon LPS-induced innate immune response in pre-labor human amniotic epithelium. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 71:61-72. [PMID: 24128422 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Infection of human fetal membranes elicits secretion of pro-inflammatory modulators through its innate immune capacities. We investigated the effect of lipopolysacharide (LPS) and progesterone (P4) upon expression of TLR-4/MyD88, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and HBD2 on the human amniotic epithelium. METHOD OF STUDY Explants of the human amniotic epithelium were pre-treated with 0.01, 0.1, and 1.0 μM of P4; then cotreated with 1000 ng/mL LPS. TLR-4 was immuno-detected, and concentrations of MyD88, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and HBD2 were quantified by ELISA. RESULTS P4 significantly reduced the expression of LPS-induced TLR-4/MyD88. LPS increased the concentrations of TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and HBD2 by factors of 30-, eight, three, three, and fivefold, respectively. P4 at 1.0 μM was the most effective dose to blunt the secretion of TNFα, IL-6, and HBD-2. RU-486 blocks the effect of P4. CONCLUSION P4 inhibited LPS-induced TLR-4/MyD88 and pro-inflammatory factors in the human amniotic epithelium. These results could explain partially how P4 can protect the amniotic region of fetal membranes and generate a compensatory mechanism that limits the secretion of pro-inflammatory modulators, which could jeopardize the immune privilege during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Department of Cell Biology, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología 'Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes', Mexico City, Mexico; Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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Cha J, Bartos A, Egashira M, Haraguchi H, Saito-Fujita T, Leishman E, Bradshaw H, Dey SK, Hirota Y. Combinatory approaches prevent preterm birth profoundly exacerbated by gene-environment interactions. J Clin Invest 2013; 123:4063-75. [PMID: 23979163 DOI: 10.1172/jci70098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There are currently more than 15 million preterm births each year. We propose that gene-environment interaction is a major contributor to preterm birth. To address this experimentally, we generated a mouse model with uterine deletion of Trp53, which exhibits approximately 50% incidence of spontaneous preterm birth due to premature decidual senescence with increased mTORC1 activity and COX2 signaling. Here we provide evidence that this predisposition provoked preterm birth in 100% of females exposed to a mild inflammatory insult with LPS, revealing the high significance of gene-environment interactions in preterm birth. More intriguingly, preterm birth was rescued in LPS-treated Trp53-deficient mice when they were treated with a combination of rapamycin (mTORC1 inhibitor) and progesterone (P4), without adverse effects on maternal or fetal health. These results provide evidence for the cooperative contributions of two sites of action (decidua and ovary) toward preterm birth. Moreover, a similar signature of decidual senescence with increased mTORC1 and COX2 signaling was observed in women undergoing preterm birth. Collectively, our findings show that superimposition of inflammation on genetic predisposition results in high incidence of preterm birth and suggest that combined treatment with low doses of rapamycin and P4 may help reduce the incidence of preterm birth in high-risk women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeeyeon Cha
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Research Foundation, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229-3039, USA
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Allen TK, Feng L, Grotegut CA, Murtha AP. Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 as the mediator of the inhibitory effect of progestins on cytokine-induced matrix metalloproteinase 9 activity in vitro. Reprod Sci 2013; 21:260-8. [PMID: 23813454 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113493514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) and the progestin, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate, are clinically used to prevent preterm births (PTBs); however, their mechanism of action remains unclear. Cytokine-induced matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) activity plays a key role in preterm premature rupture of the membranes and PTB. We demonstrated that the primary chorion cells and the HTR8/SVneo cells (cytotrophoblast cell line) do not express the classical progesterone receptor (PGR) but instead a novel progesterone receptor, progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), whose role remains unclear. Using HTR8/SVneo cells in culture, we further demonstrated that 6 hours pretreatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and dexamethasone (Dex) but not P4 or 17α-hydroxyprogesterone hexanoate significantly attenuated tumor necrosis factor α-induced MMP-9 activity after a 24-hour incubation period. The inhibitory effect of MPA, but not Dex, was attenuated when PGRMC1 expression was successfully reduced by PGRMC1 small interfering RNA. Our findings highlight a possible novel role of PGRMC1 in mediating the effects of MPA and in modulating cytokine-induced MMP-9 activity in cytotrophoblast cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terrence K Allen
- 1Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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Zhao Y, Koga K, Osuga Y, Izumi G, Takamura M, Harada M, Hirata T, Hirota Y, Yoshino O, Inoue S, Fujii T, Kozuma S. Cyclic stretch augments production of neutrophil chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases-1 (MMP-1) from human decidual cells, and the production was reduced by progesterone. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:454-62. [PMID: 23418737 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of mechanical stretch caused by uterine contraction and progesterone (P₄) on decidual cells (DC), neutrophil chemokines, and MMP-1 expression. METHOD OF STUDY DC were cultured, and cyclic stretch was applied using a computer-operated cell stretch system. Interleukin (IL)-8, growth-regulated oncogene (GRO) α, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, and mRNA and/or protein expression/activity was measured using RT-PCR and ELISA. Neutrophil chemotactic activity in conditioned media was evaluated using migration assays. The effect of P₄ was also studied. RESULTS Cyclic mechanical stretch increased IL-8, GROα, mRNA and protein, and MMP-1 production and activity level. Supernatant from stretched cells induced neutrophil chemotactic activity significantly. P₄ suppressed the effect of stretch. CONCLUSION The current study demonstrates that cyclic mechanical stretch stimulates the production of neutrophil chemokines and MMP-1 from human decidual cells, and the production was reduced by progesterone. These findings suggest that decidual cells are responding to mechanical and endocrine signals and induce biochemical factors and thereby contribute to the regulation of human labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Zhao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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Salvetti NR, Alfaro NS, Velázquez MML, Amweg AN, Matiller V, Díaz PU, Ortega HH. Alteration in localization of steroid hormone receptors and coregulatory proteins in follicles from cows with induced ovarian follicular cysts. Reproduction 2012; 144:723-35. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cystic ovarian disease (COD) is an important cause of infertility in cattle. The altered follicular dynamics and cellular differentiation observed in COD may be mediated through a disruption of the expression of steroid receptors and their associated transcriptional cofactors. The aim of this study was to determine the protein expression profiles of ESR1, ESR2, PGR, AR, NCOA3, NCOR2, and PHB2 (REA) in ovarian follicles in an experimental model of COD induced by the administration of ACTH. Ovaries were collected and follicles were dissected from heifers during the follicular phase (control) or from heifers treated with ACTH to induce the formation of ovarian follicular cysts. Ovaries were fixed, sectioned, and stained immunohistochemically for steroid receptors and the associated transcription factors. The relative expression of ESR1 was similar in follicular cysts and in tertiary follicles from both control and cystic cows and was significantly higher than in secondary follicles. The expression of ESR2 in the granulosa was higher in cystic follicles. No differences were seen for PGR. The expression of androgen receptor was significantly increased in tertiary follicles with lower immunostaining in cysts. The expression of NCOA3 was observed in the granulosa and theca with a significantly increased expression in the theca interna of cystic follicles. The highest levels of NCOR2 expression in granulosa, theca interna, and theca externa were observed in cysts. In granulosa cells, NCOR2 levels increase progressively as follicles mature and the treatment had no effect. In summary, ovaries from animals with induced COD exhibited altered steroid receptor expression compared with normal animals, as well as changes in the expression of their regulators. It is reasonable to suggest that in conditions characterized by altered ovulation and follicular persistence, such as COD, changes in the intra-ovarian expression of these proteins could play a role in their pathogenesis.
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29
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Hayashi A, Tanabe A, Kawabe S, Hayashi M, Yuguchi H, Yamashita Y, Okuda K, Ohmichi M. Dienogest increases the progesterone receptor isoform B/A ratio in patients with ovarian endometriosis. J Ovarian Res 2012; 5:31. [PMID: 23113924 PMCID: PMC3541078 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-5-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 10/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED BACKGROUND The resistance of endometriotic tissue to progesterone can be explained by alterations in the distribution of progesterone receptor (PR) and estrogen receptor (ER) isoforms. The aims of this study were to examine the expressions of PR-A, PR-B, ERα and ERβ in endometrioma and assess whether these expressions are affected by dienogest or leuprolide acetate (LA) treatment. METHODS We enrolled 60 females, including 43 patients with endometriosis (14 who received no medical treatment, 13 who received dienogest and 16 who received LA before undergoing laparoscopic surgery) and 17 patients with leiomyoma. The expression levels of PR and ER isoforms in eutopic and ectopic endometrium were assayed with quantitative real-time PCR, and confirmed with immunohistochemistry. RESULTS A decreased PR-B/PR-A ratio and an increased ERβ/ERα ratio were demonstrated in ectopic endometrium derived from females with endometriosis compared with the ratios observed in eutopic endometrium obtained from females without endometriosis. Although LA treatment did not affect the PR-B/PR-A and ERβ/ERα ratios, dienogest treatment increased the PR-B/PR-A ratio and decreased the ERβ/ERα ratio in patients with endometriomas. CONCLUSIONS Dienogest may improve progesterone resistance in endometriotic tissue by increasing the relative expressions of PR-B and PR-A, and decreasing the relative expressions of ERβ and ERα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Hayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Osaka Medical College, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki city, Osaka, 569-8686, Japan.
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Lockwood CJ, Kayisli UA, Stocco C, Murk W, Vatandaslar E, Buchwalder LF, Schatz F. Abruption-induced preterm delivery is associated with thrombin-mediated functional progesterone withdrawal in decidual cells. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 181:2138-48. [PMID: 23058370 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2012] [Revised: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Plasma progesterone levels remain elevated throughout human pregnancy, suggesting that reduced reproductive-tract progesterone receptor (PR) initiates labor. Placental abruption and excess thrombin generation elicit preterm delivery (PTD). PR, glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and total and p-ERK1/2 in decidual cells (DCs) and interstitial trophoblasts (IT) were assessed via immunohistochemical staining in abruption-associated PTD versus gestational-age matched control placentas, and in cultured DCs incubated with estradiol (E2) ± medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) ± thrombin. Immunostaining for PR was lower in DC nuclei in abruption versus control decidua and was absent from ITs; GR was higher in IT than DCs, with no abruption-related changes in either cell type; p-ERK1/2 was higher in DCs in abruption than control decidua, with total ERK 1/2 unchanged. Immunoblotting of cultured DCs demonstrated strong E2, weak MPA, and intermediate E2+MPA mediated elevation of PR-A and PR-B levels, with constitutive GR expression. In cultured DCs, thrombin inhibited PR but not GR mRNA levels, reduced PR binding to DNA and [(3)H]progesterone binding to PR, and enhanced phosphorylated but not total ERK1/2 levels. Coincubation with a specific p-ERK1/2 inhibitor reversed thrombin-enhanced p-ERK1/2 and lowered PR levels. Thus, abruption-associated PTD is initiated by functional progesterone withdrawal, as indicated by significantly reduced DC nuclear expression of PR-A and PR-B. Functional withdrawal of progesterone results in increased p-ERK1/2, and is thus one pathway initiating abruption-associated PTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles J Lockwood
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ohio State University College of Medicine, 460 West 12th Ave., Columbus,OH 43210, USA
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Christensen A, Bentley GE, Cabrera R, Ortega HH, Perfito N, Wu TJ, Micevych P. Hormonal regulation of female reproduction. Horm Metab Res 2012; 44:587-91. [PMID: 22438212 PMCID: PMC3647363 DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1306301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Reproduction is an event that requires the coordination of peripheral organs with the nervous system to ensure that the internal and external environments are optimal for successful procreation of the species. This is accomplished by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis that coordinates reproductive behavior with ovulation. The primary signal from the central nervous system is gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which modulates the activity of anterior pituitary gonadotropes regulating follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) release. As ovarian follicles develop they release estradiol, which negatively regulates further release of GnRH and FSH. As estradiol concentrations peak they trigger the surge release of GnRH, which leads to LH release inducing ovulation. Release of GnRH within the central nervous system helps modulate reproductive behaviors providing a node at which control of reproduction is regulated. To address these issues, this review focuses on several critical questions. How is the HPG axis regulated in species with different reproductive strategies? What internal and external conditions modulate the synthesis and release of GnRH? How does GnRH modulate reproductive behavior within the hypothalamus? How does disease shift the activity of the HPG axis?
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Affiliation(s)
- A Christensen
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Alfaro NS, Salvetti NR, Velazquez MM, Stangaferro ML, Rey F, Ortega HH. Steroid receptor mRNA expression in the ovarian follicles of cows with cystic ovarian disease. Res Vet Sci 2012; 92:478-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2011.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2010] [Revised: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Expression of Nuclear Receptor Coactivators in the Human Fetal Membranes at Term before and after Labor. Obstet Gynecol Int 2012; 2012:717294. [PMID: 23316238 PMCID: PMC3539340 DOI: 10.1155/2012/717294] [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: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human fetal membranes play an important role in term and preterm labor and are responsive to steroids. We examined the expression of steroid receptor coactivators in fetal membranes obtained prior to and following labor at term. Proteins were localized by immunohistochemistry, Western analysis was carried out in nuclear extracts, and mRNA levels were determined by real-time RT-PCR. SRC-1, SRC-2, p300, and PCAF proteins were present in all nuclear extracts. The amnion nuclei expressed higher levels of SRC-1, p300, and PCAF than nuclei from the chorion-decidua, whereas the reverse was true for SRC-2. Chorion-decidua from patients before labor expressed higher levels of SRC-1 than those from patients after labor. Also, the PCAF level was higher in the amnion obtained before labor than the same tissue obtained after labor. In contrast to the protein expression, mRNA levels of SRC-1 and p300 were higher in the chorion-decidua compared to the amnion, whereas there was no difference in levels of SRC-2 and PCAF mRNAs between these two tissues. These data underline that the regulation of the expression of the coactivators in these tissues occurs during labor and is complex and tissue specific.
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Jiang Z, Guo Y, Ren H, Zou Y, Fan M, Lv Y, Han P, De W, Sun L. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α upregulates progesterone receptor-A by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway in human decidua after labor onset. Placenta 2012; 33:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2011] [Revised: 08/12/2011] [Accepted: 09/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Mesiano
- Departments of Reproductive Biology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yuguang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Errol R. Norwitz
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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Lockwood CJ, Stocco C, Murk W, Kayisli UA, Funai EF, Schatz F. Human labor is associated with reduced decidual cell expression of progesterone, but not glucocorticoid, receptors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010; 95:2271-5. [PMID: 20237167 PMCID: PMC2869548 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-2136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Unchanging plasma progesterone (P4) levels suggest that human labor is initiated by reduced P4 receptor (PR) expression, which elicits functional P4 withdrawal. The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is also implicated in this process. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to compare PR and GR staining in human decidual cells (DCs) and interstitial trophoblasts (ITs) of gestational age-matched pre- and postcontraction specimens and to evaluate steroid effects on PR and GR expression in human DC cultures. INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Decidua basalis and parietalis sections were immunostained for PR or GR and then for the cytoplasmic DC and IT markers vimentin and cytokeratin. Western blotting measured PR and GR levels in nuclear extracts of cultured leukocyte-free term DCs after incubation with estradiol-17beta (E2) with or without medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). RESULTS PR histological scores (HSCOREs) were significantly higher in DC nuclei from pre- vs. post-uterine-contraction decidua basalis and parietalis sections with PR immunostaining absent from ITs. In contrast, immunoreactive GR was localized in IT and DC nuclei. GR HSCORES were significantly higher in ITs than DCs but similar in pre- vs. post-uterine-contraction specimens. In term DC monolayers, PR-A and PR-B were enhanced by E2 and inhibited by MPA, whereas E2 plus MPA produced intermediate PR expression. The GR was constitutively expressed. CONCLUSIONS In post- vs. pre-uterine-contraction specimens, significantly lower HSCOREs in DC nuclei, but not IT, and unchanging GR levels in DCs and ITs suggest that functional P4 withdrawal may occur in DCs and is unlikely to involve the GR. Nuclear extracts from DC monolayer cultures express steroid-regulated PR-A and PR-B and constitutive GR.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Lockwood
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
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Indraccolo U, Traini E, Baldoni E, Indraccolo SR, Vitaioli L. Arylsulphatase A activity and sulphatide concentration in placenta, membranes and cord after delivery. J Perinat Med 2010; 37:497-502. [PMID: 19492918 DOI: 10.1515/jpm.2009.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM We evaluated variations in behavior of arylsulphatase A activity (an enzyme that catabolizes sulphatides) and of sulphatide concentration in the placenta, cord and membranes of healthy gravidas at term pregnancy, following spontaneous birth. METHODS We extracted and biochemically determined arylsulphatase A and sulphatide concentration in placenta, cord and membranes (far from and close to internal uterine os) in 14 patients. RESULTS Activity of arylsulphatase A decreased in the cord, in membranes far from the internal uterine os, in membranes close to the internal uterine os and in the placenta. Sulphatide concentration was minimal in the cord and maximal in placenta, with intermediate values in the membranes. No correlation was found between arylsulphatase A activity and sulphatide concentration, nor among arylsulphatase A activities, nor among sulphatide concentrations among the different tissues. It seems that multiparity may increase and the duration of active labor may decrease arylsulphatase A activity in membranes far from the internal uterine os, while active labor duration does not appear to have any implication on sulphatide concentration in membranes close to the internal uterine os. CONCLUSIONS Arylsulphatase A activities and sulphatide concentrations in fetal adnexa show significant differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Indraccolo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.
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Endocrine activity of extraembryonic membranes extends beyond placental amniotes. PLoS One 2009; 4:e5452. [PMID: 19424488 PMCID: PMC2674930 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0005452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2009] [Accepted: 04/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During development, all amniotes (mammals, reptiles, and birds) form extraembryonic membranes, which regulate gas and water exchange, remove metabolic wastes, provide shock absorption, and transfer maternally derived nutrients. In viviparous (live-bearing) amniotes, both extraembryonic membranes and maternal uterine tissues contribute to the placenta, an endocrine organ that synthesizes, transports, and metabolizes hormones essential for development. Historically, endocrine properties of the placenta have been viewed as an innovation of placental amniotes. However, an endocrine role of extraembryonic membranes has not been investigated in oviparous (egg-laying) amniotes despite similarities in their basic structure, function, and shared evolutionary ancestry. In this study, we ask whether the oviparous chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chicken (Gallus gallus) has the capability to synthesize and receive signaling of progesterone, a major placental steroid hormone. Methodology/Principal Findings We quantified mRNA expression of key steroidogenic enzymes involved in progesterone synthesis and found that 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which converts pregnenolone to progesterone exhibited a 464 fold increase in the CAM from day 8 to day 18 of embryonic development (F5, 68 = 89.282, p<0.0001). To further investigate progesterone synthesis, we performed explant culture and found that the CAM synthesizes progesterone in vitro in the presence of a steroid precursor. Finally, we quantified mRNA expression and performed protein immunolocalization of the progesterone receptor in the CAM. Conclusions/Significance Collectively, our data indicate that the chick CAM is steroidogenic and has the capability to both synthesize progesterone and receive progesterone signaling. These findings represent a paradigm shift in evolutionary reproductive biology by suggesting that endocrine activity of extraembryonic membranes is not a novel characteristic of placental amniotes. Rather, we hypothesize that these membranes may share an additional unifying characteristic, steroidogenesis, across amniotes at large.
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Taylor AH, McParland PC, Taylor DJ, Bell SC. The cytoplasmic 60 kDa progesterone receptor isoform predominates in the human amniochorion and placenta at term. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:22. [PMID: 19284643 PMCID: PMC2669089 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanism that initiates human parturition has been proposed to be 'functional progesterone withdrawal' whereby the 116 kDa B-isoform of the progesterone receptor (PR-B) switches in favour of the 94 kDa A-isoform (PR-A) in reproductive tissues. Recently, other PR isoforms, PR-S, PR-C and PR-M generated from the same gene have been identified and partially characterised. METHODS AND RESULTS Using immunohistochemical, western blotting and RT-PCR techniques, evidence is provided that indicates the major PR isoform present in human term fetal membranes (amnion and chorion) and syncytiotrophoblast of the placenta is neither of the classical nuclear PR-B or PR-A isoforms but is the N-terminally truncated 60 kDa PR-C isoform. Evidence is also provided that this 60 kDa isoform resides in the cytoplasm of the expressing cell types. Data are also presented to show that PR-B, PR-A and PR-S isoforms are essentially absent from the amnion and chorion, whereas PR isoforms A, B, C and S are all present in the decidua, with PR-A being the major isoform. The syncytiotrophoblast of the placenta contains the cytoplasmic 60 kDa isoform, but not isoforms PR-A, PR-B or PR-S. CONCLUSION The major PR isoform in the amnion, chorion and placenta is a 60 kDa protein that could be PR-C, suggesting that the cytoplasmic isoform has a specific role in extra-embryonic tissues and may be involved in the regulation of human parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony H Taylor
- Preterm Birth Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Penny C McParland
- Preterm Birth Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 7LX, UK
| | - David J Taylor
- Preterm Birth Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Stephen C Bell
- Preterm Birth Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 7LX, UK
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Merlino A, Welsh T, Erdonmez T, Madsen G, Zakar T, Smith R, Mercer B, Mesiano S. Nuclear progesterone receptor expression in the human fetal membranes and decidua at term before and after labor. Reprod Sci 2009; 16:357-63. [PMID: 19196877 DOI: 10.1177/1933719108328616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To explore how progesterone affects human pregnancy, we identified the progesterone target cells within the fetal membranes (amnion, chorion, and decidua) at term by assessing the extent of expression and localization of the nuclear progesterone receptors, progesterone receptor-A and progesterone receptor-B. Fetal membranes (separated into amnion and chorion-decidua) were obtained after term cesarean deliveries performed before (n = 7) and after (n = 7) labor onset. Nuclear progesterone receptor expression was determined by the abundance of nuclear progesterone receptor mRNAs (by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction) and proteins (by western blotting). Localization of nPRs was determined by immunohistochemistry. Progesterone receptor-A and progesterone receptor-B mRNA and protein levels were highest in the chorion-decidua and did not change in association with labor. Nuclear progesterone receptor mRNAs and proteins were barely detectable in amnion. Nuclear progesterone receptor immunostaining was detected only in the nucleus of decidual cells. These findings suggest that the decidua, and not the amnion and chorion, is a direct target for nuclear progesterone receptor-mediated progesterone actions during human pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Merlino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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41
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Klebanoff MA, Meis PJ, Dombrowski MP, Zhao Y, Moawad AH, Northen A, Sibai BM, Iams JD, Varner MW, Caritis SN, O'Sullivan MJ, Leveno KJ, Miodovnik M, Conway D, Wapner RJ, Carpenter M, Mercer BM, Ramin SM, Thorp JM, Peaceman AM. Salivary progesterone and estriol among pregnant women treated with 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate or placebo. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2008; 199:506.e1-7. [PMID: 18456237 PMCID: PMC2794481 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2008.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2007] [Revised: 12/05/2007] [Accepted: 03/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objectives of the study was to determine whether salivary progesterone (P) or estriol (E3) concentration at 16-20 weeks' gestation predicts preterm birth or the response to 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17OHPC) and whether 17OHPC treatment affected the trajectory of salivary P and E3 as pregnancy progressed. STUDY DESIGN This was a secondary analysis of a clinical trial of 17OHPC to prevent preterm birth. Baseline saliva was assayed for P and E3. Weekly salivary samples were obtained from 40 women who received 17OHPC and 40 who received placebo in a multicenter randomized trial of 17OHPC to prevent recurrent preterm delivery. RESULTS Both low and high baseline saliva P and E3 were associated with a slightly increased risk of preterm birth. However, 17OHPC prevented preterm birth comparably, regardless of baseline salivary hormone concentrations. 17OHPC did not alter the trajectory of salivary P over pregnancy, but it significantly blunted the rise in salivary E3 as well as the rise in the E3/P ratio. CONCLUSION 17OHPC flattened the trajectory of E3 in the second half of pregnancy, suggesting that the drug influences the fetoplacental unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Klebanoff
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Samalecos A, Gellersen B. Systematic expression analysis and antibody screening do not support the existence of naturally occurring progesterone receptor (PR)-C, PR-M, or other truncated PR isoforms. Endocrinology 2008; 149:5872-87. [PMID: 18617611 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Functional progesterone withdrawal associated with human parturition has been ascribed to various mechanisms modulating the function of the classical progesterone receptors (PRs), B and A, in utero. These include up-regulation of the inhibitory PR-C isoform, described as a 60-kDa protein occurring from translation initiation at codon 595. Our initial attempts to detect PR-C yielded uninterpretable results. To systematically validate antibodies for immunodetection of PR isoforms, we generated expression vectors for PR variants originating from putative start codons AUG-289, -301, -595, -632, and -692 in addition to those for PR-B and PR-A, and for alternative splice variants PR-T, PR-S, and PR-M. All constructs were subjected to in vitro and in vivo translation and immunoblotting with a panel of 13 PR antibodies. Antibodies raised against full-length PR were generally not capable of detecting N-terminally truncated forms, whereas C-terminal antibodies did not or only weakly reacted with PR-B and PR-A but produced prominent nonspecific signals. Thus, immunodetection of N-terminally truncated PR isoforms is prone to artifacts. Proteins of about 64 kDa were expressed from PR-289 and -301, but no corresponding endogenous forms were observed. PR-T, PR-S, and PR-M cDNAs yielded no detectable translation products. No protein was translated from AUG-595 in our PR-C expression vector unless a Kozak sequence was introduced, and the product was not 60 but 38 kDa in size. Thus, the 60-kDa protein called PR-C does not originate from AUG-595 and is not a naturally occurring PR isoform.
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Salvetti NR, Baravalle C, Mira GA, Gimeno EJ, Dallard BE, Rey F, Ortega HH. Heat shock protein 70 and sex steroid receptors in the follicular structures of induced ovarian cysts. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 44:805-14. [PMID: 18992127 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01086.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to estimate the expression and relative amounts of estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR) and their isoforms as well as heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in ovaries of rats with induced cystic ovarian disease (COD). Primary, secondary, tertiary, atretic and cystic follicles were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and total ovarian proteins were analyzed by Western blot. In the granulosa layer, growing and cystic follicles in the treated group have a higher expression of ERalpha than growing follicles of control individuals. In the theca interna layer, tertiary follicles presented a significantly higher expression of ERalpha in the treated group. An increase in total ERalpha protein was detected in the treated group. Granulosa cells of all growing, atretic and cystic follicles show a lower expression of ERbeta in animals with COD, and the total protein expression of ERbeta was lower in this group. The expression of PR was lower in the granulosa cell layer of tertiary and cystic follicles in treated animals, and theca interna layer had less intense immunostaining in this group. Although there were no differences in the expression of PR-B by Western blotting, the expression of PR-A was higher and the expression of PR-C was smaller in the treated group. An intense HSP70 immunostaining was observed in the cells of cystic follicles. By Western blotting, higher protein expression of HSP70 was detected in the ovarian samples of the control group than those of the treated ones. Ovaries of animals with COD exhibited an altered steroid receptor expression and subtype balance as compared with control animals, and an increase in HSP70 immunoexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Salvetti
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Center for Experimental Biology and Laboratory Animals Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of Litoral, Argentina
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44
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Inflammatory processes in preterm and term parturition. J Reprod Immunol 2008; 79:50-7. [PMID: 18550178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2008.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 360] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2006] [Revised: 02/20/2008] [Accepted: 04/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A role for the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) is evident in term and preterm delivery, and this is independent of the presence of infection. All uterine tissues progress through a staged transformation near the end of pregnancy that leads from relative uterine quiescence and maintenance of pregnancy to the activation of the uterus that prepares it for the work of labour and production of stimulatory molecules that trigger the onset of labour and delivery. The uterus is activated by pro-inflammatory cytokines through stimulation of the expression and production of uterine activation proteins (UAPs). One of these actions is the stimulation of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Particularly important for labour is PGF(2alpha) and its receptor, PTGFR. In addition, pro-inflammatory cytokines are able to increase the synthesis of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the progesterone receptor C isoform, which leads to decreased tissue progesterone responsiveness. Some of these effects are replicated by PGF(2alpha), suggesting that it may act via its receptor to amplify the direct actions of cytokines. In turn, VEGF may enhance leukocyte recruitment to the uterus, and MMP-9 may promote activation of inactive pro-form cytokines. Pro-inflammatory cytokines also decrease the activity of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which likely increases intrauterine cortisol concentrations. In turn, cortisol may drive PG synthesis. Together these feed-forward mechanisms activate the uterus, trigger the production of uterine contractile stimulants and lead to labour and delivery.
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45
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Bukulmez O, Hardy DB, Carr BR, Word RA, Mendelson CR. Inflammatory status influences aromatase and steroid receptor expression in endometriosis. Endocrinology 2008; 149:1190-204. [PMID: 18048499 PMCID: PMC2275353 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-0665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant up-regulation of aromatase in eutopic endometrium and implants from women with endometriosis has been reported. Aromatase induction may be mediated by increased cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Recently, we demonstrated that progesterone receptor (PR)-A and PR-B serve an antiinflammatory role in the uterus by antagonizing nuclear factor kappaB activation and COX-2 expression. PR-C, which antagonizes PR-B, is up-regulated by inflammation. Although estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) is implicated in endometriosis, an antiinflammatory role of ERbeta has been suggested. We examined stage-specific expression of aromatase, COX-2, ER, and PR isoform expression in eutopic endometrium, implants, peritoneum, and endometrioma samples from endometriosis patients. Endometrial and peritoneal biopsies were obtained from unaffected women and those with fibroids. Aromatase expression in eutopic endometrium from endometriosis patients was significantly increased compared with controls. Aromatase expression in endometriosis implants was markedly increased compared with eutopic endometrium. Aromatase mRNA levels were increased significantly in red implants relative to black implants and endometrioma cyst capsule. Moreover, COX-2 expression was increased in implants and in eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis as compared with control endometrium. As observed for aromatase mRNA, the highest levels of COX-2 mRNA were found in red implants. The ratio of ERbeta/ERalpha mRNA was significantly elevated in endometriomas compared with endometriosis implants and eutopic endometrium. Expression of PR-C mRNA relative to PR-A and PR-B mRNA was significantly increased in endometriomas compared with eutopic and control endometrium. PR-A protein was barely detectable in endometriomas. Thus, whereas PR-C may enhance disease progression, up-regulation of ERbeta may play an antiinflammatory and opposing role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Bukulmez
- Department of Obstetrics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas 75390-9032, USA
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46
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Yellon SM, Ebner CA, Sugimoto Y. Parturition and recruitment of macrophages in cervix of mice lacking the prostaglandin F receptor. Biol Reprod 2008; 78:438-44. [PMID: 18003949 PMCID: PMC4237585 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.063404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Parturition does not occur in transgenic mice lacking the prostaglandin F receptor (Ptgfr(-/-)) because luteolysis is forestalled and progesterone production persists. Ovariectomy of pregnant Ptgfr(-/-) mice leads to a decline in circulating progesterone and delivery of live pups. The objective of the present study was to test the hypothesis that immigration of macrophages and increased innervation of the cervix of Ptgfr(-/-) mice was associated with ripening and parturition. The cervix of pregnant Ptgfr(-/-) mice was studied on Days 15-21 after breeding; additional groups were ovariectomized on Day 19 of pregnancy, and the cervix obtained on Day 20 of pregnancy before birth or the next day at about 24 h after birth. On Days 18-19 of pregnancy, macrophage numbers and nerve fiber density increased more than 3-fold compared with findings in nonpregnant or Day 15 or 21 pregnant Ptgfr(-/-) mice. The magnitude and time course of these changes were comparable to those found in wild-type controls that delivered on Day 19 after breeding. Thus, the mechanism regulating macrophage immigration, innervation, and cervical remodeling in Ptgfr(-/-) mice with delayed parturition is similar to wild-type controls that deliver at term. By contrast, ovariectomy forestalled the decrease in cervical macrophages in Ptgfr(-/-) mice. By Day 21 after breeding, macrophage numbers more than double those after ovariectomy, relative to those found in pregnant Ptgfr(-/-) mice, whereas nerve fiber density was the same regardless of birth. Density of collagen structure in these mice directly matched macrophage traffic in the cervix. The findings indicate that the prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor and progesterone withdrawal are a necessary part of the final common pathway for ripening of the cervix and the process of parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Yellon
- Department of Physiology, Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
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47
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Chen C, Opazo JC, Erez O, Uddin M, Santolaya-Forgas J, Goodman M, Grossman LI, Romero R, Wildman DE. The human progesterone receptor shows evidence of adaptive evolution associated with its ability to act as a transcription factor. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2008; 47:637-49. [PMID: 18375150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2007.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2007] [Revised: 12/06/2007] [Accepted: 12/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The gene encoding the progesterone receptor (PGR) acts as a transcription factor, and participates in the regulation of reproductive processes including menstruation, implantation, pregnancy maintenance, parturition, mammary development, and lactation. Unlike other mammals, primates do not exhibit progesterone withdrawal at the time of parturition. Because progesterone-mediated reproductive features vary among mammals, PGR is an attractive candidate gene for studies of adaptive evolution. Thus, we sequenced the progesterone receptor coding regions in a diverse range of species including apes, Old World monkeys, New World monkeys, prosimian primates, and other mammals. Adaptive evolution occurred on the human and chimpanzee lineages as evidenced by statistically significant increases in nonsynonymous substitution rates compared to synonymous substitution rates. Positive selection was rarely observed in other lineages. In humans, amino acid replacements occurred mostly in a region of the gene that has been shown to have an inhibitory function (IF) on the ability of the progesterone receptor to act as a transcription factor. Moreover, many of the nonsynonymous substitutions in primates occurred in the N-terminus. This suggests that cofactor interaction surfaces might have been altered, resulting in altered progesterone-regulated gene transcriptional effects. Further evidence that the changes conferred an adaptive advantage comes from SNP analysis indicating only one of the IF changes is polymorphic in humans. In chimpanzees, amino acid changes occurred in both the inhibitory and transactivation domains. Positive selection provides the basis for the hypothesis that changes in structure and function of the progesterone receptor during evolution contribute to the diversity of primate reproductive biology, especially in parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caoyi Chen
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Goldman S, Shalev E. Progesterone receptor isoforms profile, modulate matrix metalloproteinase 2 expression in the decidua. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2007; 197:604.e1-8. [PMID: 17678863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2007.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2006] [Revised: 03/12/2007] [Accepted: 04/12/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explores the effect of progesterone and the role of the progesterone receptor (PR) profile on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 expression in human decidua. STUDY DESIGN Zymography was conducted for MMP secretion. Semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was performed to examine MMP2 transcripts. Progesterone's effect on the MMP2 promoter was determined testing luciferase activity. The role of PR isoform on MMP2 expression was studied using human PR complementary DNA encoding PR isoforms PRA, PRB, or PRC. RESULTS In decidua with overexpressed PRB, progesterone decreased MMP2 expression. Progesterone increased pro-MMP2 expression in decidua with overexpressed PRA or PRC. MMP2 promoter activity was unchanged following transfection with human PRA in the absence or presence of progesterone. Decreased promoter activity was observed following transfection with human PRB or human PRC. Progesterone increased promoter activity with overexpressed human PRC. CONCLUSION Progesterone hampers MMP2 expression in the decidua via PRB. PRA has a repressive effect on PRB, whereas PRC seems to have a repressive effect on both PRA and PRB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shlomit Goldman
- Laboratory for Research in Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
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49
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Goldman S, Weiss A, Shalev E. The effect of progesterone on gelatinase expression in the decidua and fetal membranes before and after contractions. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2007; 197:521.e1-7. [PMID: 17980194 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2007.03.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2006] [Revised: 03/13/2007] [Accepted: 03/26/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was aimed to explore the effect of progesterone on gelatinase expression in the decidua and fetal membranes before and after contractions. STUDY DESIGN Zymography was conducted for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion. Semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was performed to examine MMP2 transcripts, and the effect of progesterone on MMP2 promoter activity was determined with the use of luciferase activity. RESULTS Progesterone decreased pro-MMP2 secretion, expression, and promoter activity in decidua before contractions began. The effect of progesterone was reversed completely by mifepristone (RU486). Progesterone failed to inhibit MMP2 expression in the amnion and chorion before contractions began. After contractions, progesterone failed to inhibit MMP2 expression in both the decidua and fetal membranes. CONCLUSION MMP2 expression is inhibited by progesterone only in the decidua and only before contractions begin.
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50
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Schumacher M, Guennoun R, Ghoumari A, Massaad C, Robert F, El-Etr M, Akwa Y, Rajkowski K, Baulieu EE. Novel perspectives for progesterone in hormone replacement therapy, with special reference to the nervous system. Endocr Rev 2007; 28:387-439. [PMID: 17431228 DOI: 10.1210/er.2006-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The utility and safety of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy has recently been put into question by large clinical trials. Their outcome has been extensively commented upon, but discussions have mainly been limited to the effects of estrogens. In fact, progestagens are generally only considered with respect to their usefulness in preventing estrogen stimulation of uterine hyperplasia and malignancy. In addition, various risks have been attributed to progestagens and their omission from hormone replacement therapy has been considered, but this may underestimate their potential benefits and therapeutic promises. A major reason for the controversial reputation of progestagens is that they are generally considered as a single class. Moreover, the term progesterone is often used as a generic one for the different types of both natural and synthetic progestagens. This is not appropriate because natural progesterone has properties very distinct from the synthetic progestins. Within the nervous system, the neuroprotective and promyelinating effects of progesterone are promising, not only for preventing but also for reversing age-dependent changes and dysfunctions. There is indeed strong evidence that the aging nervous system remains at least to some extent sensitive to these beneficial effects of progesterone. The actions of progesterone in peripheral target tissues including breast, blood vessels, and bones are less well understood, but there is evidence for the beneficial effects of progesterone. The variety of signaling mechanisms of progesterone offers exciting possibilities for the development of more selective, efficient, and safe progestagens. The recognition that progesterone is synthesized by neurons and glial cells requires a reevaluation of hormonal aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schumacher
- INSERM UMR 788, 80, rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
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