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Butt Z, Tinning H, O'Connell MJ, Fenn J, Alberio R, Forde N. Understanding conceptus-maternal interactions: what tools do we need to develop? Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 36:81-92. [PMID: 38064186 DOI: 10.1071/rd23181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Communication between the maternal endometrium and developing embryo/conceptus is critical to support successful pregnancy to term. Studying the peri-implantation period of pregnancy is critical as this is when most pregnancy loss occurs in cattle. Our current understanding of these interactions is limited, due to the lack of appropriate in vitro models to assess these interactions. The endometrium is a complex and heterogeneous tissue that is regulated in a transcriptional and translational manner throughout the oestrous cycle. While there are in vitro models to study endometrial function, they are static and 2D in nature or explant models and are limited in how well they recapitulate the in vivo endometrium. Recent developments in organoid systems, microfluidic approaches, extracellular matrix biology, and in silico approaches provide a new opportunity to develop in vitro systems that better model the in vivo scenario. This will allow us to investigate in a more high-throughput manner the fundamental molecular interactions that are required for successful pregnancy in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenab Butt
- Discovery and Translational Sciences Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Haidee Tinning
- Discovery and Translational Sciences Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Mary J O'Connell
- Computational and Molecular Evolutionary Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Jonathan Fenn
- Computational and Molecular Evolutionary Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ramiro Alberio
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Niamh Forde
- Discovery and Translational Sciences Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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2
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Le TTV, Lam HM, Nguyen MTN, Phan NTH, Huynh TNK, Le HNT, Pham CTH, Tang VKH, Hoang TTT, Hoang TTD, Tran HLB. Effect of Blood Gel Derivatives on Wound Healing in Mouse Injured Tissue Models. Gels 2023; 9:785. [PMID: 37888358 PMCID: PMC10606021 DOI: 10.3390/gels9100785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Several previous studies in the field of assisted reproduction have focused on the use of blood gel derivatives, such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), as a treatment for endometrial rehabilitation. However, the ability to release growth factors and the gel form of this product led to the evolution of platelet lysates. In this study, blood gel derivatives, including PRF lysate, which was in liquid form, and PRF gel, were collected and evaluated for growth factors. It was shown to be effective in endometrial wound healing and regeneration in mouse injured uterine tissue models through structure and function (pinopode expression, embryo implantation) evaluation. The results demonstrated that the concentrations of growth factors, including PDGF-AB and VEGF-A, were higher in the PRF lysate compared to the PRF gel (p < 0.05). PRF lysate could release these growth factors for 8 days. Furthermore, both PRF gel and PRF lysate restored the morphology of injured endometrial tissues in terms of luminal and glandular epithelia, as well as uterine gland secretory activity. However, the presence of pinopodes and embryonic implantation were only observed in the PRF lysate group. It can be concluded that PRF lysate promotes wound healing in mouse injured tissue models in vitro, which can act as healing products in tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuyet Thi Vi Le
- Department of Physiology and Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.T.V.L.); (M.T.N.N.); (N.T.H.P.)
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Materials, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam;
- Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Minh Lam
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Materials, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam;
- Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - My Thi Ngoc Nguyen
- Department of Physiology and Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.T.V.L.); (M.T.N.N.); (N.T.H.P.)
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Materials, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam;
- Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Nghia Thi Hieu Phan
- Department of Physiology and Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.T.V.L.); (M.T.N.N.); (N.T.H.P.)
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Materials, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam;
- Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Trang Nguyen Khanh Huynh
- Hung Vuong Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.N.K.H.); (H.N.T.L.); (C.T.H.P.); (V.K.H.T.); (T.T.T.H.); (T.T.D.H.)
| | - Hien Nguyen Trong Le
- Hung Vuong Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.N.K.H.); (H.N.T.L.); (C.T.H.P.); (V.K.H.T.); (T.T.T.H.); (T.T.D.H.)
| | - Chau Thi Hai Pham
- Hung Vuong Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.N.K.H.); (H.N.T.L.); (C.T.H.P.); (V.K.H.T.); (T.T.T.H.); (T.T.D.H.)
| | - Van Kim Hoang Tang
- Hung Vuong Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.N.K.H.); (H.N.T.L.); (C.T.H.P.); (V.K.H.T.); (T.T.T.H.); (T.T.D.H.)
| | - Trang Thi Thuy Hoang
- Hung Vuong Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.N.K.H.); (H.N.T.L.); (C.T.H.P.); (V.K.H.T.); (T.T.T.H.); (T.T.D.H.)
| | - Tuyet Thi Diem Hoang
- Hung Vuong Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.N.K.H.); (H.N.T.L.); (C.T.H.P.); (V.K.H.T.); (T.T.T.H.); (T.T.D.H.)
| | - Ha Le Bao Tran
- Department of Physiology and Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (T.T.V.L.); (M.T.N.N.); (N.T.H.P.)
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Materials, University of Science, VNU-HCM, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam;
- Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
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Chen Z, E Y, Xiong J, Li W, Chen X, Li N, Long J, Tong C, He J, Li F, Zhang C, Wang Y, Gao R. Dysregulated glycolysis underpins high-fat-associated endometrial decidualization impairment during early pregnancy in mice. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166659. [PMID: 36740105 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy complications are more likely to occur in obese women because of defective decidualization. However, the specific mechanism of glycolysis in decidual modulation associated with obesity remains unknown. Therefore, we explored the role of glycolysis in the endometrium of obese pregnant mice during decidualization. C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce obesity. All obesity related parameters were significantly higher in the HFD mice than control. Furthermore, the HFD mice had fewer implantation sites, a smaller decidual area growth, and decreased decidualization marker protein expression than control. The HFD mice also had significantly decreased lactate production and glycolytic enzyme expression. To confirm the functional role of glycolysis during the decidual period in obese pregnant mice, we extracted endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and treated them with oleic acid (OA) and palmitic acid (PA) to mimic a high-fat environment. Decidualization and glycolysis were significantly restricted in the OA-and PA-treated groups. Moreover, we administered a glycolytic inhibitor, 2-DG, and an agonist, pioglitazone. 2-DG treatment considerably decreased the cells' glycolysis and decidualization. However, pioglitazone treatment improved glycolysis and alleviated defective decidualization. In conclusion, obesity-induced endometrial glycolysis modifications and key glycolytic enzyme downregulation during early pregnancy might cause abnormal decidualization, leading to an unsustainable pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Chen
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yiwen E
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Xiong
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weike Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Na Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Long
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chao Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Junlin He
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cuihua Zhang
- Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rufei Gao
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China.
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4
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Bergmann S, Schindler M, Munger C, Penfold CA, Boroviak TE. Building a stem cell-based primate uterus. Commun Biol 2021; 4:749. [PMID: 34140619 PMCID: PMC8211708 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02233-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterus is the organ for embryo implantation and fetal development. Most current models of the uterus are centred around capturing its function during later stages of pregnancy to increase the survival in pre-term births. However, in vitro models focusing on the uterine tissue itself would allow modelling of pathologies including endometriosis and uterine cancers, and open new avenues to investigate embryo implantation and human development. Motivated by these key questions, we discuss how stem cell-based uteri may be engineered from constituent cell parts, either as advanced self-organising cultures, or by controlled assembly through microfluidic and print-based technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Bergmann
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Magdalena Schindler
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Clara Munger
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Christopher A Penfold
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK.
- Wellcome Trust - Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Thorsten E Boroviak
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK.
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Torky H, Ahmad A, Hussein A, El-Desouky ES, Aly R, Ragab M, Abo-Louz A. Comparing sequential vs day 3 vs day 5 embryo transfers in cases with recurrent implantation failure: randomized controlled trial. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:185-192. [PMID: 33739797 PMCID: PMC8083859 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The recent improvement in sequential media has refocused its attention on the role of human blastocysts in ART, not only because of its advantages but also because of the possible cancellation of embryo transfer when relying on blastocyst transfer only. Hence, the idea of sequential transfer on day 3 and day 5 was proposed. Objective: To compare the pregnancy outcomes of sequential embryo transfer on day 3 and day 5, versus cleavage transfer on day 3 and blastocyst transfer on day 5 in cases of recurrent implantation failure. METHODS This was a prospective and randomized trial, in which 210 qualified patients with recurrent implantation failures undergoing IVF/ICSI were randomized into three groups, each group included 70 patients. Embryo transfer was performed in day 3 in the first group, day 5 (blastocyst transfer) in the second group and sequential embryo transfer in days 3 and 5 in the third group. We assessed pregnancy outcomes from all the three groups. Results: Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were significantly higher in the sequential group than either group day-3 or day-5 of embryo transfer in cases with recurrent implantation failures. CONCLUSIONS Sequential embryo transfer in cases with recurrent implantation failures and adequate number of retrieved oocytes is associated with higher implantation and clinical pregnancy rates, and it is advocated for patients having an adequate number of good quality embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitham Torky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, October 6th University & Air-Force Specialized Hospital- Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Ahmad
- Obstetrics &Gynecology Department, Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital & Air-Force Specialized Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Hussein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, October 6th University & Air-Force Specialized Hospital- Cairo, Egypt
| | - El-Sayed El-Desouky
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Al-Azhar University & Air-Force Specialized Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania Aly
- Obstetrics &Gynecology Department, Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital & Air-Force Specialized Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona Ragab
- Obstetrics &Gynecology Department, Al-Galaa Teaching Hospital & Air-Force Specialized Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Abo-Louz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, October 6th University & Air-Force Specialized Hospital- Cairo, Egypt
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Su Y, Zhang JJ, He JL, Liu XQ, Chen XM, Ding YB, Tong C, Peng C, Geng YQ, Wang YX, Gao RF. Endometrial autophagy is essential for embryo implantation during early pregnancy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:555-567. [PMID: 32072231 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-019-01849-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation is an essential and complex process in mammalian reproduction. However, little evidence has indicated the involvement of autophagy during embryo implantation. To determine the possible role of autophagy in uterine of pregnant mice during the peri-implantation stage, we first examined the expression of autophagy-related markers ATG5 and LC3 on day 4, 5, and 6 of pregnancy (D4, D5, and D6, respectively). Compared with expression on D4, downregulation of the autophagy-related markers was observed on D5 and D6, the days after the embryo attached to the receptivity endometrium. Further examination showed that autophagy-related markers ATG5, ATG12, LC3, cathepsin B, and P62 at the implantation site were significantly decreased when comparing with the inter-implantation site. Fewer number of autophagosomes at the implantation site were also observed by transmission electron microscopy. To confirm the functional role of autophagy during embryo implantation in mice, we administered the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine and chloroquine to mice. After treated with 3-methyladenine, the expression of decidual markers HOXA10 and progesterone receptor were significantly reduced. Furthermore, a reduction in implantation sites and increase in the HOXA10 and PR protein levels were observed in response to chloroquine treatment. In addition, impaired uterine decidualization and dysregulation of the PR and HOXA10 protein levels was observed after autophagy inhibited by 3-methyladenine and chloroquine in in vivo artificial decidualization mouse model. In the last, LC3 and P62 were also observed in normal human proliferative, secretory, and decidua tissues. In conclusion, endometrial autophagy may be essential for embryo implantation, and it may be associated with endometrial decidualization during early pregnancy. KEY MESSAGE: • Autophagy-related markers were significantly decreased at implantation site. • Autophagy inhibition results in abnormal decidualization. • Autophagy is essential for embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Su
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Juan-Juan Zhang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 32 South Renmin Road, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Jun-Lin He
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xue-Qing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xue-Mei Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chao Tong
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chuan Peng
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yan-Qing Geng
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Ru-Fei Gao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction&Development, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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Tissue-engineered multi-cellular models of the uterine wall. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2020; 19:1629-1639. [PMID: 31997029 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-020-01296-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The human uterus is composed of three layers: endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium. It remodels during the monthly menstrual cycle and more significantly during the complex stages of reproduction. In vivo studies of the human uterine wall are yet incomplete due to ethical and technical limitations. The objective of this study was to develop in vitro uterine wall models that mimic the in vivo structure in humans. We co-cultured multiple cellular models of endometrial epithelial cells, endometrial stromal cells and smooth muscle cells on a synthetic membrane mounted in multi-purpose custom-designed wells. Immunofluorescence staining and confocal imaging confirmed that the new model represents the in vivo anatomical architecture of the inner uterine wall. Hormonal treatment with progesterone and β-estradiol demonstrated increased expression of progestogen-associated endometrial protein, which is associated with the in vivo receptive uterus. The new tissue-engineered in vitro models of the uterine wall will enable deeper investigation of molecular and biomechanical aspects of the blastocyst-uterus interaction during the window of implantation.
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Development of an in vitro model to study uterine functions and early implantation using rat uterine explants. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 370:501-512. [PMID: 28956162 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2679-8] [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] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to develop an in vitro model using rat uterine explants to explore complex uterine functions. Rat uterine explants (1-2 mm) were isolated, cultured and further characterized. Steroid hormone treatment of cultured explants showed that both Muc1 and Pr were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) by E2. Areg was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) by P4 and Igfbp1 was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) by the combination of E2 and P4, although, in rat, Igfbp1 is E2-dependent. In vitro decidualization of cultured explants was induced and two potential markers of decidualization, Prl8a2 and Bmp2, were examined. Real-time quantitative PCR data revealed that both Prl8a2 and Bmp2 were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) in MPA- and db-cAMP-treated explants compared to the control group of explants. Then, an individual hatched blastocyst and cultured explant was placed in a 96-well (round-bottom U-shaped) plate. Co-culture results showed that stable attachments were observed after 48 h, where embryos were stably attached to the explants and could not be dislodged after mild shaking and/or pipetting. The rates of attachment of embryos to the explants were increased significantly in the P4-treated group (63.6%) compared to the control group (35.5%), after steroid hormone treatment. The rates of attachment were reduced significantly in the E2-treated group (0.0%), where no stable attachments were observed. Despite the necessity of comprehensive investigation, our results suggest that the cultured rat uterine explants can be a useful in vitro model to study uterine functions and early implantation.
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Mice endometrium receptivity in early pregnancy is impaired by maternal hyperinsulinemia. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:2503-2510. [PMID: 28447735 PMCID: PMC5428841 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have investigated the lower embryo implantation rates in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity and type 2 diabetes, and specifically the association between the abnormal oocyte and embryo and hyperinsulinemia. The importance of hyperinsulinemia on maternal endometrium receptivity remains to be elucidated. The present study used a hyperinsulinemic mouse model to determine whether hyperinsulinemia may affect endometrial receptivity. An insulin intervention mouse model was first established. The serum levels of insulin, progesterone and estradiol were subsequently detected by ELISA assay analysis. The number of implantation sites was recorded using Trypan blue dye and the morphology of mice uteri was investigated using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The expression levels of molecular markers associated with endometrial receptivity were detected by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and immunohistochemistry analyses. Finally, the importance of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) expression following insulin treatment was determined. Mice treated with insulin developed insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. The number of implantation sites following insulin treatment did not differ between the control and insulin‑treated groups. Additionally, no significant morphological alterations in mice uteri between control and insulin‑treated groups were observed. However, the expression levels of estrogen receptor (Esr) 1, Esr2, progesterone receptor and homeobox A10 associated with endometrial receptivity, were imbalanced during endometrium receptivity when maternal hyperinsulinemia was induced. Western blot analysis revealed that expression levels of endometrial phosphorylated (p)‑mTOR and p‑ribosomal protein S6 kinase β‑1 were significantly greater in the insulin‑treated group. These results demonstrated that although an embryo may implant into endometrium, mice endometrium receptivity in early pregnancy may be impaired by maternal hyperinsulinemia. In addition, mTOR signaling may be involved in this process. The present study provides preliminary results demonstrating that female reproduction may be compromised during hyperinsulinemia, which requires further investigation in future studies.
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10
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Ismail Madkour WA, Noah B, Zaheer H, Al-Bahr A, Abdelhamid AM, Shaeer M, Moawad A. Does sequential embryo transfer improve pregnancy rate in patients with repeated implantation failure? A randomized control study. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2015.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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11
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Pawar S, Hantak AM, Bagchi IC, Bagchi MK. Minireview: Steroid-regulated paracrine mechanisms controlling implantation. Mol Endocrinol 2014; 28:1408-22. [PMID: 25051170 DOI: 10.1210/me.2014-1074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation is an essential process during establishment of pregnancy in mammals. It is initiated with the attachment of the blastocyst to a receptive uterine epithelium followed by its invasion into the stromal tissue. These events are profoundly regulated by the steroid hormones 17β-estradiol and progesterone. During the past several years, mouse models harboring conditional gene knockout mutations have become powerful tools for determining the functional roles of cellular factors involved in various aspects of implantation biology. Studies using these genetic models as well as primary cultures of human endometrial cells have established that the estrogen receptor α, the progesterone receptor, and their downstream target genes critically regulate uterine growth and differentiation, which in turn control embryo-endometrial interactions during early pregnancy. These studies have uncovered a diverse array of molecular cues, which are produced under the influence of estrogen receptor α and progesterone receptor and exchanged between the epithelial and stromal compartments of the uterus during the progressive phases of implantation. These paracrine signals are critical for acquisition of uterine receptivity and functional interactions with the embryo. This review highlights recent work describing paracrine mechanisms that govern steroid-regulated uterine epithelial-stromal dialogue during implantation and their roles in fertility and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Pawar
- Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology (S.P., A.M.H., M.K.B.) and Comparative Biosciences (I.C.B.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801
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Differentiation of menstrual blood-derived stem cells toward nucleus pulposus-like cells in a coculture system with nucleus pulposus cells. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2014; 39:754-60. [PMID: 24503685 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000000261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Human stromal stem cells derived from menstrual blood (MenSCs) and nucleus pulposus (NP) cells were cocultured under normal or low oxygen (O2) condition. OBJECTIVE To assess the differentiation capability of MenSCs toward nucleus pulposus cells under normal or low oxygen condition. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Given the proliferative capacity and pluripotentiality of mesenchymal stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells transplantation is thought to be a promising approach to managing intervertebral disc degeneration. METHODS Using coculture plates with 0.4-μm pore size polyethylene terephthalate track-etched inserts, MenSCs and NP cells (1:1 ratio) were cocultured with cell-to-cell contact for 2 weeks in normal (20% O2) or low oxygen tension (2% O2), respectively. Extracellular matrix accumulation was quantified by dimethylmethylene blue assay, histological staining, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Novel characteristic human NP markers cytokeratin-19 (KRT19), carbonic anhydrase XII (CA12), and forkhead box F1 (FoxF1) were also detected by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The result of quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction showed that aggrecan and COL2A1 genes expression was significantly increased in differentiated MenSCs (P < 0.05). There was significantly more COL2A1 gene expression in normoxic group than that in low O2 group (P < 0.05). But no significant difference was observed in aggrecan gene expression between normoxic group and low O2 group. These aforementioned results were also confirmed by histological analysis. We also found that the characteristic NP markers (KRT19, CA12, FoxF1) were significantly upregulated in differentiated MenSCs. Moreover, low O2 tension (2%) further enhanced these genes expression (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION In our study, MenSCs were successfully differentiated into NP-like cells and may become a new source of seed cells for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration in the future. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.
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Bhagwat SR, Redij T, Phalnikar K, Nayak S, Iyer S, Gadkar S, Chaudhari U, Kholkute SD, Sachdeva G. Cell surfactomes of two endometrial epithelial cell lines that differ in their adhesiveness to embryonic cells. Mol Reprod Dev 2014; 81:326-40. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sonali R. Bhagwat
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Tejashree Redij
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Kruttika Phalnikar
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Sumeet Nayak
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Swati Iyer
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Sushama Gadkar
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Uddhav Chaudhari
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Sanjeeva D. Kholkute
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Geetanjali Sachdeva
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
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Chen Q, Zhang Y, Elad D, Jaffa AJ, Cao Y, Ye X, Duan E. Navigating the site for embryo implantation: Biomechanical and molecular regulation of intrauterine embryo distribution. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:1024-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Fang C, Huang R, Li TT, Jia L, Li LL, Liang XY. Day-2 and day-3 sequential transfer improves pregnancy rate in patients with repeated IVF–embryo transfer failure: a retrospective case–control study. Reprod Biomed Online 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2012.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Ye TM, Pang RT, Leung CO, Liu W, Yeung WS. Development and characterization of an endometrial tissue culture model for study of early implantation events. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:1581-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2011] [Revised: 08/10/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Sakurai T, Bai H, Bai R, Arai M, Iwazawa M, Zhang J, Konno T, Godkin JD, Okuda K, Imakawa K. Coculture System That Mimics In Vivo Attachment Processes in Bovine Trophoblast Cells1. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:60. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.100180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Gao R, Ding Y, Liu X, Chen X, Wang Y, Long C, Li S, Guo L, He J. Effect of folate deficiency on promoter methylation and gene expression of Esr1, Cdh1 and Pgr, and its influence on endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2756-65. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Zhang D, Lv P, Zhang R, Luo Q, Ding G, Yin L, Li J, Xu G, Qu F, Sheng J, Huang H. A new model for embryo implantation: coculture of blastocysts and Ishikawa cells. Gynecol Endocrinol 2012; 28:288-92. [PMID: 22106944 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2011.631623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore and develop a new in vitro implantation model that reflects the main process of embryo attachment and invasion. STUDY DESIGN One of the limitations in human embryo implantation research is lack of an available in vitro model that faithfully replicates human embryo-uterine interactions. In the present study, we examined the attachment and invasiveness of blastocysts from mice in Ishikawa cell (IK), a human endometrial cell, to clarify whether this new model is suitable to study implantation of embryos. We used IK and placed it in contact with blastocysts to initiate coculture experiments using a specifically designed medium. The culture medium was composed of Ham F-12/Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium (1:1), 30% fetal calf serum, 63.5 nmol/L progesterone, 7.14 nmol/L estradiol-17β, 100 mg/ml of insulin, and 20 ng/ml epidermal growth factor. The culture for 24 h clearly demonstrated that embryos were capable of attachment to the IK and displayed partial invasion. RESULTS Our results showed that embryos attached to the IK and displayed partial invasion after coculture of blastocysts with IK for 48 h. CONCLUSIONS The model is capable of demonstrating the procedure of attachment and invasion of embryo into the endometrial cells and has promises to be used in studies related to early embryo implantation in human endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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He Y, Sun Z, Shi Y, Jiang Y, Jia Z, Du Y, Salamonsen LA, Li Z, Wang J. Immunosuppressive Factor MNSFβ Regulates Cytokine Secretion by Mouse Lymphocytes and Is Involved in Interactions between the Mouse Embryo and Endometrial Cells In Vitro. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.5402/2011/186541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Immune tolerance at the fetomaternal interface must be established during the processes of implantation and pregnancy. Monoclonal nonspecific suppressor factor beta (MNSFβ) is a secreted protein that possesses antigen-nonspecific immune-suppressive function. It was previously reported that intrauterine immunoneutralization of MNSFβ significantly inhibited embryo implantation in mice. In the present study, MNSFβ protein expression was up- or downregulated by overexpression or RNA interference, respectively, in HCC-94 cells and the culture supernatants used to determine effects of MNSFβ on the secretion of IL-4 and TNFα from mouse lymphocytes as detected by ELISA. A coculture model of mouse embryos and endometrial stromal cells was also utilized to determine the effects of a specific anti-MNSFβ antibody on hatching and growth of embryos in vitro. The results show that MNSFβ induced secretion of IL-4 and inhibited secretion of TNFα from mouse lymphocytes. Following immunoneutralization of MNSFβ protein in the HCC-94 supernatant, the stimulatory effect of MNSFβ on IL-4 secretion from mouse lymphocytes was reduced, while the inhibitory effect on secretion of TNFα was abrogated. Expression of MNSFβ was detected in both embryonic and endometrial stromal cells, and its immunoneutralization inhibited the hatching and spreading of embryos in an in vitro coculture model. These results indicated that MNSFβ may play critical roles during the peri-implantation process by regulating cytokine secretion of lymphocytes and by mediating the crosstalk between embryonic cells and endometrial stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping He
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhaogui Sun
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yan Shi
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yahong Jiang
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhefu Jia
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yanbo Du
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lois A. Salamonsen
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Zhuoya Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jian Wang
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
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Blitek A, Morawska E, Kiewisz J, Ziecik AJ. Effect of conceptus secretions on HOXA10 and PTGS2 gene expression, and PGE2 release in co-cultured luminal epithelial and stromal cells of the porcine endometrium at the time of early implantation. Theriogenology 2011; 76:954-66. [PMID: 21705055 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2010] [Revised: 04/05/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Homeobox A10 (HOXA10) gene expression was demonstrated in the endometrium of adult porcine uteri, however there is little information concerning the role of this gene in the pig. Objectives of the present study were to examine: 1) the expression of HOXA10 in the endometrium of cyclic and early pregnant gilts; 2) the effect of estradiol (E(2)) and progesterone (P(4)) on HOXA10 expression in porcine luminal epithelial (LE) and stromal (ST) cells in vitro; 3) the effect of E(2) and conceptus-exposed medium (CEM) on HOXA10 and prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase (PTGS2) gene expression and prostaglandin (PG) E(2) secretion from LE and ST cells in a co-culture model. The abundance of HOXA10 mRNA was increased on day 15 of pregnancy in comparison to day 15 of the estrous cycle. Moreover, increased HOXA10 mRNA level was detected in ST cells after E(2) and P(4) treatment. E(2) stimulated the expression of HOXA10 in LE cells cultured on collagen and pre-treated with steroids, but not in LE on plastic surfaces. Addition of CEM to LE cells cultured in collagen-coated inserts of the co-culture system resulted in elevated HOXA10 and PTGS2 gene expression and PGE(2) secretion in these cells, but not in ST cells cultured in basal compartments. ST cells directly treated with E(2) or CEM showed higher levels of HOXA10 and PTGS2 expression. Blocking of estrogen receptors with ICI-182,780 did not influence the stimulatory effect of CEM. We conclude that HOXA10 expression in the porcine endometrium is closely related to the implantation process and stimulated by conceptus products. Moreover, the co-culture system of LE and ST cells is a promising model for the study of endometrial response to conceptus-derived factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Blitek
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland.
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FU TY, LIN CT, TANG PC. Steroid Hormone-regulated let-7b Mediates Cell Proliferation and Basigin Expression in the Mouse Endometrium. J Reprod Dev 2011; 57:627-35. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.11-018e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Yen FU
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Chun-Ting LIN
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan, R. O. C
| | - Pin-Chi TANG
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan, R. O. C
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Na J, Lykke-Andersen K, Padilla MET, Meihac S, Zernicka-Goetz M. Dishevelled proteins regulate cell adhesion in mouse blastocyst and serve to monitor changes in Wnt signaling. Dev Biol 2006; 302:40-9. [PMID: 17005174 PMCID: PMC3353122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2006.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2006] [Accepted: 08/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling is essential for the regulation of cell polarity and cell fate in the early embryogenesis of many animal species. Multiple Wnt genes and its pathway members are expressed in the mouse early embryo, raising the question whether they play any roles in preimplantation development. Dishevelled is an important transducer of divergent Wnt pathways. Here we show that three of the mouse Dishevelled proteins are not only expressed in oocytes and during preimplantation development, but also display distinct spatio-temporal localization. Interestingly, as embryos reach blastocyst stage, Dishevelled 2 becomes increasingly associated with cell membrane in trophectoderm cells, while at E4.5, Dishevelled 3 is highly enriched in the cytoplasm of ICM cells. These changes are coincident with an increase in the active form of beta-catenin, p120catenin transcription and decrease of Kaiso expression, indicating an upregulation of Wnt signaling activity before implantation. When Dishevelled-GFP fusion proteins are overexpressed in single blastomeres of the 4-cell stage embryo, the progeny of this cell show reduction in cell adhesiveness and a rounded shape at the blastocyst stage. This suggests that perturbing Dvl function interferes with cell-cell adhesion through the non-canonical Wnt pathway in blastocysts.
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Srinivasan KR, Dwivedi A, Jain SK, Mehrotra PK. Demonstration of uterine receptivity in vitro by co-culture of rat epithelial cells and blastocyst. Cell Tissue Res 2006; 325:135-41. [PMID: 16528553 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-005-0109-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2005] [Accepted: 10/25/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Uterine receptivity is prerequisite for the attachment of the embryo to the uterine epithelium and involves a specialized polarity-dependent property of uterine epithelial (UE) cells. These UE cells, when polarized in culture, behave like cells in utero by exhibiting apico-basal polarity. In order to develop an implantation model in vitro, UE cells were polarized on extracellular matrix (ECM), and polarity was validated by response to estradiol-17beta administered exogenously. UE cells of pregnant rats at day-3 and day-4 post-coitum (p.c.) and of non-pregnant rats were cultured on bare and extracellular-matrix-coated petri dishes until confluency. Hatched blastocysts were transferred to the cultures, and adhesion was monitored every 24 h. Although blastocysts attached to UE cells that were taken from non-pregnant rats and from rats of day-3 p.c. and cultured on bare plastic, they failed to attach to these cells polarized on ECM. However, blastocysts attached firmly to UE cells that had been taken from rats of day-4 p.c. and polarized on ECM. Receptivity of UE cells taken from non-pregnant and pregnant (day-4 p.c.) rats was quantitated by flow cytometric estimation of cellular levels of beta3 integrin. The expression of beta3 integrin in UE cells from rats of day-4 p.c. was highly significant (P<0.01) when compared with its expression in UE cells from non-pregnant rats. The expression of beta3 integrin in UE cells of day-4 p.c. confirmed the receptivity of these cells to blastocyst implantation. Uterine receptivity was also validated in vivo by inducing the decidual cell reaction in rats ovariectomized on day-3 and day-4 p.c. Whereas remarkable deciduoma was noticed in the animals of day-4 p.c., it was absent in the animals of day-3 p.c., thereby indicating that the uterus was receptive on day-4 p.c. only. Thus, blastocysts do not attach to polarized UE cells that have been obtained from a non-receptive uterus. Attachment will occur only if the cells are obtained from a receptive uterus. UE cell receptivity is therefore essential for mimicking the process of implantation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Srinivasan
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, P.O. Box-173, 226 001 Lucknow, India
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