1
|
Varley A, Koschinski A, Johnson MR, Zaccolo M. cAMP Compartmentalisation in Human Myometrial Cells. Cells 2023; 12:718. [PMID: 36899855 PMCID: PMC10001376 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth is the leading cause of childhood mortality and morbidity. A better understanding of the processes that drive the onset of human labour is essential to reduce the adverse perinatal outcomes associated with dysfunctional labour. Beta-mimetics, which activate the myometrial cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) system, successfully delay preterm labour, suggesting a key role for cAMP in the control of myometrial contractility; however, the mechanisms underpinning this regulation are incompletely understood. Here we used genetically encoded cAMP reporters to investigate cAMP signalling in human myometrial smooth muscle cells at the subcellular level. We found significant differences in the dynamics of the cAMP response in the cytosol and at the plasmalemma upon stimulation with catecholamines or prostaglandins, indicating compartment-specific handling of cAMP signals. Our analysis uncovered significant disparities in the amplitude, kinetics, and regulation of cAMP signals in primary myometrial cells obtained from pregnant donors compared with a myometrial cell line and found marked response variability between donors. We also found that in vitro passaging of primary myometrial cells had a profound impact on cAMP signalling. Our findings highlight the importance of cell model choice and culture conditions when studying cAMP signalling in myometrial cells and we provide new insights into the spatial and temporal dynamics of cAMP in the human myometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Varley
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Level 3, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Andreas Koschinski
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Sherrington Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - Mark R. Johnson
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Level 3, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Manuela Zaccolo
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Sherrington Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford OX4 2PG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Walker AR, Larsen CB, Kundu S, Stavrinidis C, Kim SH, Inoue A, Woodward DF, Lee YS, Migale R, MacIntyre DA, Terzidou V, Fanelli F, Khanjani S, Bennett PR, Hanyaloglu AC. Functional rewiring of G protein-coupled receptor signaling in human labor. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111318. [PMID: 36070698 PMCID: PMC9638024 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Current strategies to manage preterm labor center around inhibition of uterine myometrial contractions, yet do not improve neonatal outcomes as they do not address activation of inflammation. Here, we identify that during human labor, activated oxytocin receptor (OTR) reprograms the prostaglandin E2 receptor, EP2, in the pregnant myometrium to suppress relaxatory/Gαs-cAMP signaling and promote pro-labor/inflammatory responses via altered coupling of EP2 from Gαq/11 to Gαi/o. The ability of EP2 to signal via Gαi/o is recapitulated with in vitro OT and only following OTR activation, suggesting direct EP2-OTR crosstalk. Super-resolution imaging with computational modeling reveals OT-dependent reorganization of EP2-OTR complexes to favor conformations for Gαi over Gαs activation. A selective EP2 ligand, PGN9856i, activates the relaxatory/Gαs-cAMP pathway but not the pro-labor/inflammatory responses in term-pregnant myometrium, even following OT. Our study reveals a mechanism, and provides a potential therapeutic solution, whereby EP2-OTR functional associations could be exploited to delay preterm labor. EP2 activity is reprogrammed toward pro-inflammatory pathways during human labor Oxytocin downregulates EP2-Gαs signaling and switches EP2-Gαq/11 signaling to Gαi/o EP2/OTR heterotetramers are reorganized by oxytocin to conformations favoring Gαi EP2 agonist PGN9856i does not activate pro-labor signals even after oxytocin treatment
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail R Walker
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Camilla B Larsen
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Samit Kundu
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Christina Stavrinidis
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sung Hye Kim
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Asuka Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - David F Woodward
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Yun S Lee
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Roberta Migale
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - David A MacIntyre
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Vasso Terzidou
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Francesca Fanelli
- Department Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy; Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Shirin Khanjani
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; Reproductive Medicine Unit, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Aylin C Hanyaloglu
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lai PF, Young RC, Tribe RM, Johnson MR. Evaluating aminophylline and progesterone combination treatment to modulate contractility and labor-related proteins in pregnant human myometrial tissues. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2021; 9:e00818. [PMID: 34223706 PMCID: PMC8256431 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) are regarded as pro-quiescent factors that suppress uterine contractions during pregnancy. We previously used human primary cells in vitro and mice in vivo to demonstrate that simultaneously enhancing myometrial P4 and cAMP levels may reduce inflammation-associated preterm labor. Here, we assessed whether aminophylline (Ami; phosphodiesterase inhibitor) and P4 can reduce myometrial contractility and contraction-associated proteins (CAPs) better together than individually; both agents are clinically used drugs. Myometrial tissues from pregnant non-laboring women were treated ex vivo with Ami acutely (while spontaneous contracting) or throughout 24-h tissue culture (±P4); isometric tension measurements, PKA assays, and Western blotting were used to assess tissue contractility, cAMP action, and inflammation. Acute (1 h) treatment with 250 and 750 μM Ami reduced contractions by 50% and 84%, respectively, which was not associated with a directly proportional increase in whole tissue PKA activity. Sustained myometrial relaxation was observed during 24-h tissue culture with 750 μM Ami, which did not require P4 nor reduce CAPs. COX-2 protein can be reduced by 300 nM P4 but this did not equate to myometrial relaxation. Ami (250 μM) and P4 (100 and 300 nM) co-treatment did not prevent oxytocin-augmented contractions nor reduce CAPs during interleukin-1β stimulation. Overall, Ami and P4 co-treatment did not suppress myometrial contractions more than either agent alone, which may be attributed to low specificity and efficacy of Ami; cAMP and P4 action at in utero neighboring reproductive tissues during pregnancy should also be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei F. Lai
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental BiologyDepartment of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Rachel M. Tribe
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSchool of Life Course SciencesKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Mark R. Johnson
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental BiologyDepartment of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Transcription factors regulated by cAMP in smooth muscle of the myometrium at human parturition. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:997-1011. [PMID: 33860781 PMCID: PMC8106496 DOI: 10.1042/bst20201173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) contributes to maintenance of a quiescent (relaxed) state in the myometrium (i.e. uterine smooth muscle) during pregnancy, which most commonly has been attributed to activation of protein kinase A (PKA). PKA-mediated phosphorylation of cytosolic contractile apparatus components in myometrial smooth muscle cells (mSMCs) are known to promote relaxation. Additionally, PKA also regulates nuclear transcription factor (TF) activity to control expression of genes important to the labour process; these are mostly involved in actin-myosin interactions, cell-to-cell connectivity and inflammation, all of which influence mSMC transition from a quiescent to a contractile (pro-labour) phenotype. This review focuses on the evidence that cAMP modulates the activity of TFs linked to pro-labour gene expression, predominantly cAMP response element (CRE) binding TFs, nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), activator protein 1 (AP-1) family and progesterone receptors (PRs). This review also considers the more recently described exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC) that may oppose the pro-quiescent effects of PKA, as well as explores findings from other cell types that have the potential to be of novel relevance to cAMP action on TF function in the myometrium.
Collapse
|
5
|
George T, Chakraborty M, Giembycz MA, Newton R. A bronchoprotective role for Rgs2 in a murine model of lipopolysaccharide-induced airways inflammation. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2018; 14:40. [PMID: 30305828 PMCID: PMC6166284 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-018-0266-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Asthma exacerbations are associated with the recruitment of neutrophils to the lungs. These cells release proteases and mediators, many of which act at G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that couple via Gq to promote bronchoconstriction and inflammation. Common asthma therapeutics up-regulate expression of the regulator of G protein signalling (RGS), RGS2. As RGS2 reduces signaling from Gq-coupled GPCRs, we have defined role(s) for this GTPase-activating protein in an acute neutrophilic model of lung inflammation. Methods Wild type and Rgs2−/− C57Bl6 mice were exposed to nebulized lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Lung function (respiratory system resistance and compliance) was measured using a SCIREQ flexivent small animal ventilator. Lung inflammation was assessed by histochemistry, cell counting and by cytokine and chemokine expression in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. Results Lipopolysaccharide inhalation induced transient airways hyperreactivity (AHR) and neutrophilic lung inflammation. While AHR and inflammation was greatest 3 h post-LPS exposure, BAL neutrophils persisted for 24 h. At 3 h post-LPS inhalation, multiple inflammatory cytokines (CSF2, CSF3, IL6, TNF) and chemokines (CCL3, CCL4, CXCL1, CXCL2) were highly expressed in the BAL fluid, prior to declining by 24 h. Compared to wild type counterparts, Rgs2−/− mice developed significantly greater airflow resistance in response to inhaled methacholine (MCh) at 3 h post-LPS exposure. At 24 h post-LPS exposure, when lung function was recovering in the wild type animals, MCh-induced resistance was increased, and compliance decreased, in Rgs2−/− mice. Thus, Rgs2−/− mice show AHR and stiffer lungs 24 h post-LPS exposure. Histological markers of inflammation, total and differential cell counts, and major cytokine and chemokine expression in BAL fluid were similar between wild type and Rgs2−/− mice. However, 3 and 24 h post-LPS exposure, IL12B expression was significantly elevated in BAL fluid from Rgs2−/− mice compared to wild type animals. Conclusions While Rgs2 is bronchoprotective in acute neutrophilic inflammation, no clear anti-inflammatory effect was apparent. Nevertheless, elevated IL12B expression in Rgs2−/− animals raises the possibility that RGS2 could dampen Th1 responses. These findings indicate that up-regulation of RGS2, as occurs in response to inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β2-adrenoceptor agonists, may be beneficial in acute neutrophilic exacerbations of airway disease, including asthma. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13223-018-0266-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tresa George
- 1Airways Inflammation Research Group, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6 Canada
| | - Mainak Chakraborty
- 2Immunology Research Group, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6 Canada
| | - Mark A Giembycz
- 1Airways Inflammation Research Group, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6 Canada
| | - Robert Newton
- 1Airways Inflammation Research Group, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yulia A, Singh N, Lei K, Sooranna SR, Johnson MR. Cyclic AMP Effectors Regulate Myometrial Oxytocin Receptor Expression. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4411-4422. [PMID: 27673556 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The factors that initiate human labor are poorly understood. We have tested the hypothesis that a decline in cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) function leads to the onset of labor. Initially, we identified myometrial cAMP/PKA-responsive genes (six up-regulated and five down-regulated genes) and assessed their expression in myometrial samples taken from different stages of pregnancy and labor. We found that the oxytocin receptor (OTR) was one of the cAMP-repressed genes, and, given the importance of OTR in the labor process, we studied the mechanisms involved in greater detail using small interfering RNA, chemical agonists, and antagonists of the cAMP effectors. We found that cAMP-repressed genes, including OTR, increased with the onset of labor. Our in vitro studies showed that cAMP acting via PKA reduced OTR expression but that in the absence of PKA, cAMP acts via exchange protein activated by cAMP (EPAC) to increase OTR expression. In early labor myometrial samples, PKA levels and activity declined and Epac1 levels increased, perhaps accounting for the increase in myometrial OTR mRNA and protein levels at this time. In vitro exposure of myometrial cells to stretch and IL-1β increased OTR levels and reduced basal and forskolin-stimulated cAMP and PKA activity, as judged by phospho-cAMP response element-binding protein levels, but neither stretch nor IL-1β had any effect on PKA or EPAC1 levels. In summary, there is a reduction in the activity of the cAMP/PKA pathway with the onset of human labor potentially playing a critical role in regulating OTR expression and the transition from myometrial quiescence to activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Yulia
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; and Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Natasha Singh
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; and Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Kaiyu Lei
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; and Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Suren R Sooranna
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; and Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Johnson
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; and Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (A.Y., N.S., K.L., S.R.S., M.R.J.), London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lai PF, Tribe RM, Johnson MR. Differential impact of acute and prolonged cAMP agonist exposure on protein kinase A activation and human myometrium contractile activity. J Physiol 2016; 594:6369-6393. [PMID: 27328735 DOI: 10.1113/jp272320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Over 15 million babies are born prematurely each year with approximately 1 million of these babies dying as a direct result of preterm delivery. β2 -Adrenoreceptor agonists that act via cAMP can reduce uterine contractions to delay preterm labour, but their ability to repress uterine contractions lasts ≤ 48 h and their use does not improve neonatal outcomes. Previous research has suggested that cAMP inhibits myometrial contractions via protein kinase A (PKA) activation, but this has yet to be demonstrated with PKA-specific agonists. We investigated the role of PKA in mediating cAMP-induced human myometrial relaxation, and the impact of prolonged cAMP elevation on myometrial contractility. Our findings suggest that PKA is not the sole mediator of cAMP-induced myometrial relaxation and that prolonged prophylactic elevation of cAMP alone is unlikely to prevent preterm labour (PTL). ABSTRACT Acute cAMP elevation inhibits myometrial contractility, but the mechanisms responsible are not fully elucidated and the long-term effects are uncertain. Both need to be defined in pregnant human myometrium before the therapeutic potential of cAMP-elevating agents in the prevention of preterm labour can be realised. In the present study, we tested the hypotheses that PKA activity is necessary for cAMP-induced myometrial relaxation, and that prolonged cAMP elevation can prevent myometrial contractions. Myometrial tissues obtained from term, pre-labour elective Caesarean sections were exposed to receptor-independent cAMP agonists to determine the relationship between myometrial contractility (spontaneous and oxytocin-induced), PKA activity, HSP20 phosphorylation and expression of contraction-associated and cAMP signalling proteins. Acute (1 h) application of cAMP agonists promoted myometrial relaxation, but this was weakly related to PKA activation. A PKA-specific activator, 6-Bnz-cAMP, increased PKA activity (6.8 ± 2.0 mean fold versus vehicle; P = 0.0313) without inducing myometrial relaxation. Spontaneous myometrial contractility declined after 24 h but was less marked when tissues were constantly exposed to cAMP agonists, especially for 8-bromo-cAMP (4.3 ± 1.2 mean fold versus vehicle; P = 0.0043); this was associated with changes to calponin, cofilin and HSP20 phosphorylated/total protein levels. Oxytocin-induced contractions were unaffected by pre-incubation with cAMP agonists despite treatments being able to enhance PKA activity and HSP20 phosphorylation. These data suggest that cAMP-induced myometrial relaxation is not solely dependent on PKA activity and the ability of cAMP agonists to repress myometrial contractility is lost with prolonged exposure. We conclude that cAMP agonist treatment alone may not prevent preterm labour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei F Lai
- Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College London, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Rachel M Tribe
- Division of Women's Health, Kings College London and Women's Health Academic Centre, Kings Health Partners, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Mark R Johnson
- Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College London, London, SW10 9NH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Singh N, Prasad P, Kumar P, Singh LC, Das B, Rastogi S. Does aberrant expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and prostaglandin-E2 receptor genes lead to abortion in Chlamydia trachomatis-infected women. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2015; 29:1010-5. [PMID: 25812673 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2015.1031741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to characterize the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) genes in spontaneously aborted tissues from women infected with Chlamydia trachomatis. METHODS A total of 135 spontaneous aborters (Group I) and 45 induced aborters (controls; Group II) attending Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at Safdarjung hospital (New Delhi, India), were enrolled. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was performed to detect C. trachomatis DNA in endometrial curettage tissue (ECT). Differential expression of COX-2 and PGE2 receptors at mRNA level was analysed in ECT using reverse transcription PCR and real-time PCR. RESULTS In total, 14.8% patients were diagnosed as C. trachomatis-positive in Group I whereas all control patients were C. trachomatis-negative. Qualitative expression of COX-2 (p < 0.05) and PGE2 (p < 0.0001) receptors was found increased in C. trachomatis-positive patients (Group I) in comparison to controls. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis also showed upregulation in transcript levels of both COX-2 (p < 0.002) and PGE2 (p < 0.0001) receptors in infected patients (Group I) versus Group II. COX-2 and PGE2 expression was higher (p < 0.002) in recurrent spontaneous aborters in comparison to sporadic spontaneous aborters. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that chlamydial infection leads to upregulation of COX-2 in C. trachomatis-positive recurrent spontaneous aborters, which probably mediates increased prostaglandin synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Namita Singh
- a Microbiology Laboratory , National Institute of Pathology (ICMR) , New Delhi , India
| | - Priya Prasad
- a Microbiology Laboratory , National Institute of Pathology (ICMR) , New Delhi , India
| | - Praveen Kumar
- a Microbiology Laboratory , National Institute of Pathology (ICMR) , New Delhi , India
| | | | - Banashree Das
- c Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , Vardhaman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) & Safdarjung Hospital , New Delhi , India
| | - Sangita Rastogi
- a Microbiology Laboratory , National Institute of Pathology (ICMR) , New Delhi , India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sykes L, MacIntyre DA, Teoh TG, Bennett PR. Anti-inflammatory prostaglandins for the prevention of preterm labour. Reproduction 2014; 148:R29-40. [PMID: 24890751 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth occurs in 10-12% of pregnancies and is the primary cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Tocolytic therapies have long been the focus for the prevention of preterm labour, yet they do not significantly improve neonatal outcome. A direct causal link exists between infection-induced inflammation and preterm labour. As inflammation and infection are independent risk factors for poor neonatal outcome, recent research focus has been shifted towards exploring the potential for anti-inflammatory strategies. Nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) is a transcription factor that controls the expression of many labour-associated genes including PTGS2 (COX2), prostaglandins (PGs) and the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) as well as key inflammatory genes. Targeting the inhibition of NFκB is therefore an attractive therapeutic approach for both the prevention of preterm labour and for reducing neonatal exposure to inflammation. While PGs are considered to be pro-labour and pro-inflammatory, the cyclopentenone PG 15-deoxy-Δ(12,14)PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2) exhibits anti-inflammatory properties via the inhibition of NFκB in human amniocytes, myocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro. 15d-PGJ2 also delays inflammation-induced preterm labour in the mouse and significantly increases pup survival. This review examines the current understanding of inflammation in the context of labour and discusses how anti-inflammatory PGs may hold promise for the prevention of preterm labour and improved neonatal outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynne Sykes
- Parturition Research GroupDepartment of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UKSt Mary's HospitalImperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W1 2NY, UK
| | - David A MacIntyre
- Parturition Research GroupDepartment of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UKSt Mary's HospitalImperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W1 2NY, UK
| | - Tiong Ghee Teoh
- Parturition Research GroupDepartment of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UKSt Mary's HospitalImperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W1 2NY, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Parturition Research GroupDepartment of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UKSt Mary's HospitalImperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W1 2NY, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Diverse roles of prostaglandins in blastocyst implantation. ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:968141. [PMID: 24616654 PMCID: PMC3925584 DOI: 10.1155/2014/968141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandins (PGs), derivatives of arachidonic acid, play an indispensable role in embryo implantation. PGs have been reported to participate in the increase in vascular permeability, stromal decidualization, blastocyst growth and development, leukocyte recruitment, embryo transport, trophoblast invasion, and extracellular matrix remodeling during implantation. Deranged PGs syntheses and actions will result in implantation failure. This review summarizes up-to-date literatures on the role of PGs in blastocyst implantation which could provide a broad perspective to guide further research in this field.
Collapse
|
11
|
Wakabayashi A, Sawada K, Nakayama M, Toda A, Kimoto A, Mabuchi S, Kinose Y, Nakamura K, Takahashi K, Kurachi H, Kimura T. Targeting interleukin-6 receptor inhibits preterm delivery induced by inflammation. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 19:718-26. [PMID: 23969038 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine infection is still a common trigger of preterm delivery (PTD) and also a determinant risk factor for the subsequent development of neurodevelopmental abnormalities in neonates. In this study, we examined the expressional pattern of various inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in placentae complicated with severe chorioamnionitis (CAM) and found that IL-6 is mainly expressed in macrophages in villous mesenchyme by immunohistochemical analysis with anti-CD-68 antibody. Using an experimental lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PTD model, the therapeutic potential of targeting this cytokine was investigated. Anti-IL-6 receptor antibody (MR16-1) was delivered 6 h before LPS treatment. Mice in the MR16-1 group had a significantly lower rate of PTD (17%) than in the controls (53%, P = 0.026). As a result, MR16-1 treatment significantly prolonged the gestational period (control; 18.4 ± 1.7d, MR16-1; 19.8 ± 1.5d, P = 0.007) without any apparent adverse events on the mice and their pups. In primary human amniotic epithelial cells, pretreatment with a humanized anti-human IL-6 receptor antibody, tocilizumab, significantly inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2 induced by IL-6. In conclusion, IL-6 was strongly expressed mainly in macrophages in villous mesenchyme in placentae complicated with CAM. Anti-IL-6R antibody significantly decreased the rate of PTD in LPS-induced inflammatory model in mice, and inhibited PGE2 production from human primary amniotic epithelial cells. Targeting IL-6 signaling could be a promising option for the prevention of PTD and needs to be further explored for future clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Wakabayashi
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Butler T, Paul J, Europe-Finner N, Smith R, Chan EC. Role of serine-threonine phosphoprotein phosphatases in smooth muscle contractility. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2013; 304:C485-504. [PMID: 23325405 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00161.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The degree of phosphorylation of myosin light chain 20 (MLC20) is a major determinant of force generation in smooth muscle. Myosin phosphatases (MPs) contain protein phosphatase (PP) 1 as catalytic subunits and are the major enzymes that dephosphorylate MLC20. MP regulatory targeting subunit 1 (MYPT1), the main regulatory subunit of MP in all smooth muscles, is a key convergence point of contractile and relaxatory pathways. Combinations of regulatory mechanisms, including isoform splicing, multiple phosphorylation sites, and scaffolding proteins, modulate MYPT1 activity with tissue and agonist specificities to affect contraction and relaxation. Other members of the PP1 family that do not target myosin, as well as PP2A and PP2B, dephosphorylate a range of proteins that affect smooth muscle contraction. This review discusses the role of phosphatases in smooth muscle contractility with a focus on MYPT1 in uterine smooth muscle. Myometrium shares characteristics of vascular and other visceral smooth muscles yet, during healthy pregnancy, undergoes hypertrophy, hyperplasia, quiescence, and labor as physiological processes. Myometrium presents an accessible model for the study of normal and pathological smooth muscle function, and a better understanding of myometrial physiology may allow the development of novel therapeutics for the many disorders of myometrial physiology from preterm labor to dysmenorrhea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trent Butler
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Faculty of Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dan P, Rosenblat G, Yedgar S. Phospholipase A2 activities in skin physiology and pathology. Eur J Pharmacol 2012; 691:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2012.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2011] [Revised: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 07/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
|
14
|
Buenestado A, Grassin-Delyle S, Guitard F, Naline E, Faisy C, Israël-Biet D, Sage E, Bellamy JF, Tenor H, Devillier P. Roflumilast inhibits the release of chemokines and TNF-α from human lung macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 165:1877-1890. [PMID: 21913898 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01667.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Lung macrophages are critically involved in respiratory diseases. This study assessed the effects of the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast and its active metabolite, roflumilast N-oxide on the release of a range of chemokines (CCL2, 3, 4, CXCL1, 8, 10) and of TNF-α, from human lung macrophages, stimulated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide LPS. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Lung macrophages isolated from resected human lungs were incubated with roflumilast, roflumilast N-oxide, PGE(2), the COX inhibitor indomethacin, the COX-2 inhibitor NS-398 or vehicle and stimulated with LPS (24 h). Chemokines, TNF-α, PGE(2) and 6-keto PGF(1α) were measured in culture supernatants by immunoassay. COX-2 mRNA expression was assessed with RT-qPCR. PDE activities were determined in macrophage homogenates. KEY RESULTS Expression of PDE4 in lung macrophages was increased after incubation with LPS. Roflumilast and roflumilast N-oxide concentration-dependently reduced the LPS-stimulated release of CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CXCL10 and TNF-α from human lung macrophages, whereas that of CXCL1 or CXCL8 was not altered. This reduction by the PDE4 inhibitors was further accentuated by exogenous PGE(2) (10 nM) but abolished in the presence of indomethacin or NS-398. Conversely, addition of PGE(2) (10 nM), in the presence of indomethacin restored inhibition by roflumilast. LPS also increased PGE(2) and 6-keto PGF(1α) release from lung macrophages which was associated with an up-regulation of COX-2 mRNA. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Roflumilast and roflumilast N-oxide reduced LPS-induced release of CCL2, 3, 4, CXCL10 and TNF-α in human lung macrophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Buenestado
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - S Grassin-Delyle
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - F Guitard
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - E Naline
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - C Faisy
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - D Israël-Biet
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - E Sage
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - J F Bellamy
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - H Tenor
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| | - P Devillier
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Pharmacology UPRES EA220, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceMedical Intensive Care Unit, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Pneumology University Paris-Descartes, APHP, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Paris, FranceDepartment of Thoracic Surgery, Foch Hospital, University Versailles Saint-Quentin, Suresnes, FranceThoracic Surgery, Val d'Or Clinic, Saint-Cloud, FranceDepartment of Biology, Nycomed, Konstanz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Verli J, Klukovits A, Kormányos Z, Hajagos-Tóth J, Ducza E, Seres AB, Falkay G, Gáspár R. Uterus-relaxing effect of β2-agonists in combination with phosphodiesterase inhibitors: studies on pregnant rat in vivo and on pregnant human myometrium in vitro. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2012; 39:31-9. [PMID: 22765375 DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2012.01929.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Our aims were to examine the effects of a simultaneous stimulation of β(2) -adrenergic receptors and inhibition of uterine phosphodiesterases (PDE), in the pregnant rat uterus in vivo and on human uterine tissue in vitro. We also set out to measure cAMP levels and detect the expressions of the isoenzymes PDE4B and PDE4D in human uterine tissue samples. MATERIAL AND METHODS Preterm birth was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats with bacterial lipopolysaccharide. The uterine effects of terbutaline alone or in combination with rolipram were tested in vivo. Human myometrial strips from cesarean sections at full-term pregnancy and at preterm labor were stimulated with oxytocin, and the inhibitory effects of theophylline, rolipram and terbutaline were studied. The myometrial accumulation of cAMP in the presence of rolipram and terbutaline was determined by enzyme immunoassay. The expressions of PDE4B and PDE4D proteins were detected by Western blotting. RESULTS The selective PDE4 inhibitor rolipram was more effective than the non-selective PDE inhibitor theophylline in inhibiting the oxytocin-induced contractions in the human uterus. The uterus-relaxing effects of low doses of terbutaline were markedly potentiated by rolipram, both in rats and in human tissues. The changes in uterine cAMP levels correlated with these results. At preterm labor, PDE4B was the predominant form of PDE4 expressed; at full term, PDE4D was expressed more strongly. CONCLUSIONS A combination of selective PDE4 inhibitors and β(2) -agonists should be considered for the treatment of preterm contractions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judit Verli
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mosher AA, Rainey KJ, Giembycz MA, Wood S, Slater DM. Prostaglandin E2 represses interleukin 1 beta-induced inflammatory mediator output from pregnant human myometrial cells through the EP2 and EP4 receptors. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:7, 1-10. [PMID: 22517618 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.100099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory mediators, including prostaglandins, cytokines, and chemokines, are strongly implicated in the mechanism of human labor, though their precise roles remain unknown. Here we demonstrate that interleukin 1 beta (IL-1beta) significantly increased the expression and release of interleukin-8 (CXCL8), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (CCL2), and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (CSF2) by primary human myometrial cells. However, this effect was repressed by prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)). As PGE(2) can activate four distinct PGE(2) receptors (EP(1), EP(2), EP(3), and EP(4)) to elicit various responses, we sought to define the EP receptor(s) responsible for this repression. Using selective EP receptor agonists and a selective EP(4) antagonist, we show that PGE(2) mediates the repression of IL-1beta-induced release of CXCL8, CCL2, and CSF2 via activation of the EP(2) and EP(4) receptors. The use of siRNA gene-specific knockdown further confirmed a role for both receptors. Real-time RT-PCR demonstrated that EP(2) was the most highly expressed of all four EP receptors at the mRNA level in human myometrial cells, and immunocytochemistry showed that EP(2) protein is abundantly present throughout the cells. Interestingly, PGE(2) does not appear to reduce mRNA expression of CXCL8, CCL2, and CSF2. Our results demonstrate that PGE(2) can elicit anti-inflammatory responses via activation of the EP(2) and EP(4) receptors in lower segment term pregnant human myometrial cells. Further elucidation of the EP receptor-mediated signaling pathways in the pregnant human uterus may be beneficial for optimizing the maintenance of pregnancy, induction of labor or indeed treatment of preterm labor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea A Mosher
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Vercelli CA, Aisemberg J, Cella M, Salazar AI, Wolfson ML, Franchi AM. Opposite effects of methanandamide on lipopolysaccharide-induced prostaglandin E2 and F2α synthesis in uterine explants from pregnant mice. PLoS One 2012; 7:e39532. [PMID: 22792180 PMCID: PMC3390336 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0039532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandins (PG) are effective abortifacients and are important mediators of lipopolisaccharide (LPS)-induced embryonic resorption (ER). Besides, anandamide (AEA) has been described as one of the major endocannabinoids present in the uterus suggesting that it might play a role in reproduction. It has been reported that high levels of AEA are associated with pregnancy failure and that LPS increases AEA production. Also, it has been observed that AEA modulates PG production in different tissues. In this sense, we studied whether LPS-induced PG production is modulated by AEA and we also assessed the effect of this endocannabinoid on PG metabolism in an in vitro model. Uterine explants from BALB/c implantation sites were cultured in the presence of LPS plus cannabinoid receptor (CB) specific antagonists and PG production was assessed. Then, we studied the effect of exogenous AEA on different steps of PG metabolic pathway. We showed that AEA is involved in LPS-induced PG biosynthesis. Also, we observed that AEA exerts opposite effects on PGE(2) and PGF(2α) biosynthesis, by inhibiting PGE(2) production and increasing PGF(2α) levels. We suggest that AEA could be involved in the mechanisms implicated in LPS-induced ER. A better understanding of how AEA could be affecting ER could help developing specific interventions to prevent this pathology.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Arachidonic Acids/administration & dosage
- Arachidonic Acids/pharmacology
- Dinoprost/biosynthesis
- Dinoprostone/biosynthesis
- Endocannabinoids/metabolism
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Lipopolysaccharides/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice
- Pregnancy
- Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases/genetics
- Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Uterus/drug effects
- Uterus/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia A Vercelli
- Laboratory of Physiopathology of Pregnancy and Labor, Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (National Research Council-School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (CABA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Khan AH, Ashwani A, Javed T, Nelson SM, Carson RJ. Effect of femto to nano molar concentrations of prostaglandin analogues on pregnant rat uterine contractility. Eur J Pharmacol 2008; 581:185-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2007.11.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2007] [Revised: 11/14/2007] [Accepted: 11/21/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
19
|
Mandache E, Popescu LM, Gherghiceanu M. Myocardial interstitial Cajal-like cells (ICLC) and their nanostructural relationships with intercalated discs: shed vesicles as intermediates. J Cell Mol Med 2008; 11:1175-84. [PMID: 17979892 PMCID: PMC4401282 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2007.00117.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Intercalated discs (ID) are complex junctional units that connect cardiac myocytes mechanically and electrochemically. However, there is limited information concerning the cardiomyocyte interaction with interstitial non-muscle cells. Our previous studies showed that myocardial interstitial Cajal-like cells (ICLC) are located in between cardiomyocytes, blood capillaries and nerve fibres. Typically, ICLC have several very long, moniliform, cytoplasmic processes which establish closed contacts with nerve fibres, as well as each other. We report here ultrastructural evidence concerning the relationships of ICLC processes with ID. The ICLC cytoplasmic prolongations (tens micrometers length) preferentially pass by or stop nearby the ID. Transmission electron microscopy emphasized three distinct connecting features between the tips of ICLC extensions and myocytes at the ‘mouth’ of ID: free or budding shed vesicles, exocytotic multi-vesicular bodies and direct contacts. In the last case, electron-dense repetitive nanostructures (‘pillars’) (35–40 nm high and 100–150 nm wide, similar to adhesion molecules) fasten the ICLC to the myocytes. All these features suggest a juxtacrine and/or paracrine intercellular mutual modulation of ICLC and cardiomyocytes in the microenvironment of ID, possibly monitoring the cardiac functions, particularly the electrical activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Mandache
- Victor Babeçs National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Blanks AM, Shmygol A, Thornton S. Preterm labour. Myometrial function in prematurity. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2007; 21:807-19. [PMID: 17446138 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2007.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The primary function of the uterus during gestation is to harbour the growing conceptus in a largely quiescent environment. Upon maturation of the fetus to a point sufficient for extrauterine survival, the uterus must remodel itself sufficiently to generate forceful contractions during labour. During preterm delivery, the process of remodelling of the myometrium occurs early due to a number of different causes, although the underlying basis for myometrial contraction remains the same. This review summarises the anatomical, physiological and molecular basis for contraction. We describe the fibre structure of the human uterus and how this relates to the spread of electrical excitation during a contraction. The process of excitation within a single myometrial cell is described, as well as how this relates to contraction. We then focus on how excitation-contraction coupling is modulated by intercellular communication, pharmacomechanical-coupling and hormonal milieu. Lastly, we consider the actions of the commonly accepted uterine agonists oxytocin, prostaglandin F(2alpha), and prostaglandin E(2), and the tocolytic ritodrine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Blanks
- Clinical Sciences Research Institute, University of Warwick, University Hospitals of Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Astle S, Newton R, Thornton S, Vatish M, Slater DM. Expression and regulation of prostaglandin E synthase isoforms in human myometrium with labour. Mol Hum Reprod 2006; 13:69-75. [PMID: 17105783 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gal093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the controversies regarding the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and selective cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 antagonists for the treatment of preterm labour (PTL), more emphasis has been placed on investigating the terminal synthases involved in the production of prostaglandins (PGs) to allow more targeted therapy in PTL. Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) is synthesized by one of three enzymes, cytosolic prostaglandin E synthase (cPGES), microsomal PGES-1 (mPGES-1) and microsomal PGES-2 (mPGES-2). We have determined (i) the immuno-localization of all three PGES enzymes in lower segment pregnant human myometrium, (ii) the expression of PGES and COX-2 mRNA expression at term and preterm gestation with and without labour and (iii) the effect of interleukin (IL)-1beta on COX-2 and PGES mRNA and protein expression in human myometrial smooth muscle (HMSM) cell cultures. We show mPGES-1 protein located predominantly in myometrial and vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), whilst mPGES-2 protein is largely in stromal cells surrounding the SMC and cPGES is diffusely located throughout the myometrium. Expression of mPGES-2 mRNA increased with term labour and PTL and expression of COX-2 and mPGES-1 mRNA with term labour, whereas cPGES expression did not change. IL-1beta stimulated release of PGE(2) by HMSM cells and increased COX-2 and mPGES-1 mRNA and protein expression. Thus, COX-2 expression and mPGES-1 expression are co-ordinately up-regulated in lower segment myometrium with term labour and with IL-1beta treatment in HMSM cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Astle
- Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Warwick Medical School, UHCW Trust, Coventry, UK
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|