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Mendoza M, Ballesteros A, Rendon-Correa E, Tonk R, Warren J, Snow AL, Stowell SR, Blois SM, Dveksler G. Modulation of galectin-9 mediated responses in monocytes and T-cells by pregnancy-specific glycoprotein 1. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107638. [PMID: 39121996 PMCID: PMC11403483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy relies on a coordinated interplay between endocrine, immune, and metabolic processes to sustain fetal growth and development. The orchestration of these processes involves multiple signaling pathways driving cell proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, and immune regulation necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Among the molecules supporting placental development and maternal tolerance, the families of pregnancy-specific glycoproteins and galectins are of great interest in reproductive biology. We previously found that PSG1 can bind to galectin-1 (GAL-1). Herein, we characterized the interaction between PSG1 and other members of the galectin family expressed during pregnancy, including galectin-3, -7, -9, and -13 (GAL-3, GAL-7, GAL-9, and GAL-13). We observed that PSG1 binds to GAL-1, -3, and -9, with the highest apparent affinity seen for GAL-9, and that the interaction of PSG1 with GAL-9 is carbohydrate-dependent. We further investigated the ability of PSG1 to regulate GAL-9 responses in human monocytes, a murine macrophage cell line, and T-cells, and determined whether PSG1 binds to both carbohydrate recognition domains of GAL-9. Additionally, we compared the apparent affinity of GAL-9 binding to PSG1 with other known GAL-9 ligands in these cells, Tim-3 and CD44. Lastly, we explored functional conservation between murine and human PSGs by determining that Psg23, a highly expressed member of the murine Psg family, can bind some murine galectins despite differences in amino acid composition and domain structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirian Mendoza
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Angela Ballesteros
- Section on Sensory Physiology and Biophysics, National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Elizabeth Rendon-Correa
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Rohan Tonk
- Section on Sensory Physiology and Biophysics, National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - James Warren
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew L Snow
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sean R Stowell
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Glyco-HAM, a cooperation of Universität Hamburg, Technology Platform Mass Spectrometry and University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriela Dveksler
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
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2
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Li Y, Sang Y, Chang Y, Xu C, Lin Y, Zhang Y, Chiu PCN, Yeung WSB, Zhou H, Dong N, Xu L, Chen J, Zhao W, Liu L, Yu D, Zang X, Ye J, Yang J, Wu Q, Li D, Wu L, Du M. A Galectin-9-Driven CD11c high Decidual Macrophage Subset Suppresses Uterine Vascular Remodeling in Preeclampsia. Circulation 2024; 149:1670-1688. [PMID: 38314577 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.064391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is a serious disease of pregnancy that lacks early diagnosis methods or effective treatment, except delivery. Dysregulated uterine immune cells and spiral arteries are implicated in preeclampsia, but the mechanistic link remains unclear. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics were used to identify immune cell subsets associated with preeclampsia. Cell-based studies and animal models including conditional knockout mice and a new preeclampsia mouse model induced by recombinant mouse galectin-9 were applied to validate the pathogenic role of a CD11chigh subpopulation of decidual macrophages (dMφ) and to determine its underlying regulatory mechanisms in preeclampsia. A retrospective preeclampsia cohort study was performed to determine the value of circulating galectin-9 in predicting preeclampsia. RESULTS We discovered a distinct CD11chigh dMφ subset that inhibits spiral artery remodeling in preeclampsia. The proinflammatory CD11chigh dMφ exhibits perivascular enrichment in the decidua from patients with preeclampsia. We also showed that trophoblast-derived galectin-9 activates CD11chigh dMφ by means of CD44 binding to suppress spiral artery remodeling. In 3 independent preeclampsia mouse models, placental and plasma galectin-9 levels were elevated. Galectin-9 administration in mice induces preeclampsia-like phenotypes with increased CD11chigh dMφ and defective spiral arteries, whereas galectin-9 blockade or macrophage-specific CD44 deletion prevents such phenotypes. In pregnant women, increased circulating galectin-9 levels in the first trimester and at 16 to 20 gestational weeks can predict subsequent preeclampsia onset. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight a key role of a distinct perivascular inflammatory CD11chigh dMφ subpopulation in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. CD11chigh dMφ activated by increased galectin-9 from trophoblasts suppresses uterine spiral artery remodeling, contributing to preeclampsia. Increased circulating galectin-9 may be a biomarker for preeclampsia prediction and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Li
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University Shanghai, China (Y. Li, M.D.)
| | - Yifei Sang
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Yunjian Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Chunfang Xu
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Yikong Lin
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Yao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China (P.C.N.C., W.S.B.Y.)
| | - Haisheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Ningzheng Dong
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Prevention, Soochow University, Suzhou, China (N.D., Q.W.)
| | - Ling Xu
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Weijie Zhao
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
| | - Lu Liu
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Di Yu
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute (D.Y.), Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Ian Frazer Centre for Children's Immunotherapy Research, Child Health Research Centre (D.Y.), Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Xingxing Zang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY (X.Z.)
| | - Jiangfeng Ye
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, Singapore City, Singapore (J. Ye)
| | - Jinying Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
| | - Qingyu Wu
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Prevention, Soochow University, Suzhou, China (N.D., Q.W.)
| | - Dajin Li
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China (Y.C., Y.Z., H.Z., L.W.)
| | - Meirong Du
- Laboratory of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, China (Y. Li, Y.S., C.X., Y. Lin, L.X., J.C., W.Z., L.L., D.L., M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Clinical Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China (Y. Li, Y. Lin, W.Z., J. Yang, M.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University Shanghai, China (Y. Li, M.D.)
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, China (M.D.)
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3
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Thiele K, Arck PC. Towards decoding the space-time continuum of pregnancy. Trends Immunol 2023; 44:859-861. [PMID: 37867113 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2023.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is likely nature's most elaborate model of dynamic adaptations occurring over a distinct period of time at specific sites of the maternal body. Spatially-resolved transcriptomic analyses now enable the comprehensive decoding of these dynamic adaptations during the early onset stages of mammalian pregnancies and throughout fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Thiele
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Petra Clara Arck
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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4
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Galectin-1 and Galectin-9 Concentration in Maternal Serum: Implications in Pregnancies Complicated with Preterm Prelabor Rupture of Membranes. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11216330. [PMID: 36362558 PMCID: PMC9658671 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11216330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (pPROM) accounts for nearly half of premature births. Although several risk factors have been identified, no markers allowing for effective prevention have been discovered. In this study, we investigated how the maternal serum levels of galectin-1 and galectin-9 change in patients with pPROM in comparison to uncomplicated pregnancies. A total of 75 patients were enrolled to both study and control group (37 vs. 38, respectively). The serum concentration of galectin-1 and galectin-9 were assayed in duplicate using an enzyme-linked immunoassay. All analyses were performed using PQ Stat v. 1.8.4 software. Galectin-1 levels were significantly higher in the controls (13.32 vs. 14.71 ng/mL, p = 0.02). Galectin-9 levels were similar in both groups (13.31 vs. 14.76 ng/mL, p = 0.30). Lower galectin levels were detected for early pPROM (before 32nd GW) in comparison to late pPROM and the controls (8.85 vs. 14.45 vs. 14.71 ng/mL, p = 0.0004). Similar trend was observed in galectin-9 levels, although no statistical significance was found (11.57 vs. 14.25 vs. 14.76 ng/mL, p = 0.26). Low galectin-1 maternal serum level is associated with the incidence of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Galectin-9 maternal serum levels were not significantly correlated with pPROM. However, in order to investigate gal-1 and gal-9 levels as potential, promising markers of pPROM, further clinical studies on larger groups are required.
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5
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Sanjurjo L, Broekhuizen EC, Koenen RR, Thijssen VLJL. Galectokines: The Promiscuous Relationship between Galectins and Cytokines. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1286. [PMID: 36139125 PMCID: PMC9496209 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins, a family of glycan-binding proteins, are well-known for their role in shaping the immune microenvironment. They can directly affect the activity and survival of different immune cell subtypes. Recent evidence suggests that galectins also indirectly affect the immune response by binding to members of another immunoregulatory protein family, i.e., cytokines. Such galectin-cytokine heterodimers, here referred to as galectokines, add a new layer of complexity to the regulation of immune homeostasis. Here, we summarize the current knowledge with regard to galectokine formation and function. We describe the known and potential mechanisms by which galectokines can help to shape the immune microenvironment. Finally, the outstanding questions and challenges for future research regarding the role of galectokines in immunomodulation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Sanjurjo
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Barcelona Ave., 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Esmee C. Broekhuizen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rory R. Koenen
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Victor L. J. L. Thijssen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology & Immunology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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6
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Chen M, Shi JL, Zheng ZM, Lin Z, Li MQ, Shao J. Galectins: Important Regulators in Normal and Pathologic Pregnancies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710110. [PMID: 36077508 PMCID: PMC9456357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins (Gal) are characterized by their affinity for galactoside structures on glycoconjugates. This relationship is mediated by carbohydrate recognition domains, which are multifunctional regulators of basic cellular biological processes with high structural similarity among family members. They participate in both innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as in reproductive immunology. Recently, the discovery that galectins are highly expressed at the maternal–fetal interface has garnerd the interest of experts in human reproduction. Galectins are involved in a variety of functions such as maternal–fetal immune tolerance, angiogenesis, trophoblast invasion and placental development and are considered to be important mediators of successful embryo implantation and during pregnancy. Dysregulation of these galectins is associated with abnormal and pathological pregnancies (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth). Our work reviews the regulatory mechanisms of galectins in normal and pathological pregnancies and has implications for clinicians in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jia-Lu Shi
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zi-Meng Zheng
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zhi Lin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Correspondence: (M.-Q.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Jun Shao
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Department of Obstetrics, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Correspondence: (M.-Q.L.); (J.S.)
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7
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Menkhorst E, Than NG, Jeschke U, Barrientos G, Szereday L, Dveksler G, Blois SM. Medawar's PostEra: Galectins Emerged as Key Players During Fetal-Maternal Glycoimmune Adaptation. Front Immunol 2022; 12:784473. [PMID: 34975875 PMCID: PMC8715898 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.784473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lectin-glycan interactions, in particular those mediated by the galectin family, regulate many processes required for a successful pregnancy. Over the past decades, increasing evidence gathered from in vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that members of the galectin family specifically bind to both intracellular and membrane bound carbohydrate ligands regulating angiogenesis, immune-cell adaptations required to tolerate the fetal semi-allograft and mammalian embryogenesis. Therefore, galectins play important roles in fetal development and placentation contributing to maternal and fetal health. This review discusses the expression and role of galectins during the course of pregnancy, with an emphasis on maternal immune adaptions and galectin-glycan interactions uncovered in the recent years. In addition, we summarize the galectin fingerprints associated with pathological gestation with particular focus on preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecological Research Centre, The Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Systems Biology of Reproduction Research Group, Institute of Enyzmology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laszlo Szereday
- Medical School, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Gabriela Dveksler
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Jovanović Krivokuća M, Vilotić A, Nacka-Aleksić M, Pirković A, Ćujić D, Legner J, Dekanski D, Bojić-Trbojević Ž. Galectins in Early Pregnancy and Pregnancy-Associated Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:69. [PMID: 35008499 PMCID: PMC8744741 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are a family of conserved soluble proteins defined by an affinity for β-galactoside structures present on various glycoconjugates. Over the past few decades, galectins have been recognized as important factors for successful implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated their involvement in trophoblast cell function and placental development. In addition, several lines of evidence suggest their important roles in feto-maternal immune tolerance regulation and angiogenesis. Changed or dysregulated galectin expression is also described in pregnancy-related disorders. Although the data regarding galectins' clinical relevance are still at an early stage, evidence suggests that some galectin family members are promising candidates for better understanding pregnancy-related pathologies, as well as predicting biomarkers. In this review, we aim to summarize current knowledge of galectins in early pregnancy as well as in pregnancy-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Žanka Bojić-Trbojević
- Institute for Application of Nuclear Energy Department for Biology of Reproduction, University of Belgrade, Banatska 31b, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.J.K.); (A.V.); (M.N.-A.); (A.P.); (D.Ć.); (J.L.); (D.D.)
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9
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MicroRNA Bta-miR-24-3p Suppressed Galectin-9 Expression through TLR4/NF-ĸB Signaling Pathway in LPS-Stimulated Bovine Endometrial Epithelial Cells. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123299. [PMID: 34943807 PMCID: PMC8699331 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometritis is a major infectious disease affecting dairy development. MicroRNAs are recognized as critical regulators of the innate immune response. However, the role and mechanism of Bta-miR-24-3p in the development of endometritis are still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Bta-miR-24-3p on the inflammatory response triggered by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and to clarify the possible mechanism. LPS-treated bovine endometrial epithelial cells (BEECs) were cultured to investigate the role of Bta-miR-24-3p. The expression levels of Bta-miR-24-3p were downregulated, and galectin-9 (LGALS9) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The LPS-induced inflammatory response was assessed by the elevated secretion of inflammatory cytokines measured by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and TLR4 pathway was assessed by Western blot. The interaction between Bta-miR-24-3p and LGALS9 was validated by bioinformatics analysis and a luciferase reporter assay. LPS-induction in BEECs with Bta-miR-24-3p was overexpressed leads inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, LGALS9 expression, and TLR4/NF-ĸB pathway deactivation. Knockdown of LGALS9 inhibited the LPS-induced inflammatory response in BEECs. LGALS9 was validated as a target of Bta-miR-24-3p. Cloned overexpression of LGALS9 failed to alter the effect of Bta-miR-24-3p on the inflammatory response in BEECs. Overall, Bta-miR-24-3p attenuated the LPS-induced inflammatory response via targeting LGALS9. The immunotherapeutic stabilisation of Bta-miR-24-3p could give a therapeutic option for endometritis and other disorders commonly associated with endometritis, suggesting a novel avenue for endometritis treatment.
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Chaney HL, Grose LF, LaBarbara JM, Sirk AW, Blancke AM, Sánchez JM, Passaro C, Lonergan P, Mathew DJ. Galectin-1 Confers Endometrial Gene Expression and Protein Related to Maternal-Conceptus Immune Tolerance in Cattle. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:487-502. [PMID: 34792096 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Conceptus secretory factors include galectins, a family of carbohydrate binding proteins that elicit cell adhesion and immune suppression by interacting with intracellular and extracellular glycans. In rodents, galectin-1 (LGALS1) promotes maternal-fetal immune tolerance in the decidua through expansion of tolerogenic CD11c+ dendritic cells, increased anti-inflammatory IL-10, and activation of FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Treg). This study characterized galectin expression in early ruminant conceptuses and endometrium. We also tested the effect of recombinant bovine LGALS1 (rbLGALS1) and progesterone (P4) on endometrial expression of genes and protein related to maternal-fetal immune tolerance in cattle. Elongating bovine and ovine conceptuses expressed several galectins, particularly, LGALS1, LGALS3 and LGALS8. Within bovine endometrium, expression of LGALS3, LGALS7 and LGALS9 was greater on Day 16 of pregnancy compared to the estrous cycle. Within ovine endometrium, LGALS7 was greater during pregnancy compared to the estrous cycle and endometrium of pregnant sheep tended to have greater LGALS9 and LGALS15. Expression of endometrial LGALS4 was less during pregnancy in sheep. Treating bovine endometrium with rbLGALS1 increased endometrial expression of CD11c, IL-10 and FOXP3, within 24 h. Specifically, within caruncular endometrium, both rbLGALS1 and P4 increased FOXP3, suggesting that both ligands may promote Treg expansion. Using IHC, FOXP3+ cells with a leukocyte phenotype were localized to the bovine uterine stratum compactum near the uterine surface and increased in response to rbLGALS1. We hypothesize that galectins have important functions during establishment of pregnancy in ruminants and bovine conceptus LGALS1 and luteal P4 confer mechanisms of maternal-conceptus immune tolerance in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Chaney
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Lindsay F Grose
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jeanna M LaBarbara
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Adam W Sirk
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Alyssa M Blancke
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jose M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Claudia Passaro
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Mathew
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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11
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Freitag N, Xie Y, Adam LM, Borowski S, Blois SM, Barrientos G. Expression of the alternative splicing regulator Rbfox2 during placental development is differentially regulated in preeclampsia mouse models. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13491. [PMID: 34363260 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Proper placental development is pivotal to ensure healthy pregnancy outcomes. Among the multiple cellular mechanisms involved in the orchestration of this process, little is known on the role of alternative splicing events in the modulation of trophoblast cell biology. Here, we evaluated the expression of the alternative splicing regulator Rbfox2 in the pre- and post-placentation period in mouse pregnancies in both healthy and pathological settings. METHOD OF STUDY Immunofluorescence analysis of Rbfox2 expression in mouse implantation sites collected during the pre-placentation period (E5-E7) and post-placentation (E13). RESULTS We identified a progressive increase of Rbfox2 levels throughout the peri-implantation period with a shift from a cytoplasmatic expression on E5-E6 to a predominantly nuclear expression on E7, together with a prominent expression of this factor in both subcellular compartments of the primitive placenta. Our results further showed that in contrast to healthy gestations, Rbfox2 expression decreased in preeclamptic models during the post-placentation period. Finally, we further demonstrated enhanced expression of Rbfox2 proteins in allogeneic pregnancy compared to syngeneic models. CONCLUSIONS Our findings uncover a novel role for Rbfox2-controlled splicing events in the modulation of trophoblast function, with potential implications for the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and other pregnancy complications originated from defective placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Freitag
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, AG GlycoImmunology, and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yiran Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Taihe Hospital, Hubei Medical University, Shiyan, China
| | - Lisa-Marie Adam
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Borowski
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, AG GlycoImmunology, and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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12
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Development of Multidrug Resistance in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Is Associated with Alterations of the LPHN1/GAL-9/TIM-3 Signaling Pathway. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143629. [PMID: 34298843 PMCID: PMC8304048 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
P-glycoprotein (known as ABCB1 transporter) expression in myeloid blasts of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) leads to the commonly observed multidrug resistance. Overexpression of latrophilin-1 was detected in leukemic cells from AML patients. In a previous study, we showed that ABCB1 overexpression is associated with decreased latrophilin-1 expression in MOLM-13/VCR and SKM-1/VCR AML cell variants derived from MOLM-13 and SKM-1 cells by vincristine selection/adaptation. In the present study, we found that if ABCB1 overexpression occurs in myeloid blasts of newly diagnosed MDS patients, latrophilin-1 expression is attenuated. Latrophilin-1 may initiate TIM-3- and galectin-9-mediated immune escape. We demonstrated changes in the expression of both proteins by comparing ABCB1-positive cell variants (MOLM-13/VCR, SKM-1/VCR) with their ABCB1-negative counterparts. Galectin-9 was present in our cell lines in eight protein isoforms for which we identified the respective transcription variants resulting from alternative splicing, and we verified their structure by sequencing. The isoform profile of galectin-9 was different between ABCB1-positive and ABCB1-negative cell variants. The interaction partner of galectin-9 is CD44, and its expression was altered in the ABCB1-positive variants MOLM-13/VCR and SKM-1/VCR compared to their ABCB1-negative counterparts.
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13
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Wu X, Wu Y, Zheng R, Tang F, Qin L, Lai D, Zhang L, Chen L, Yan B, Yang H, Wang Y, Li F, Zhang J, Wang F, Wang L, Cao Y, Ma M, Liu Z, Chen J, Huang X, Wang J, Jin R, Wang P, Sun Q, Sha W, Lyu L, Moura‐Alves P, Dorhoi A, Pei G, Zhang P, Chen J, Gao S, Randow F, Zeng G, Chen C, Ye X, Kaufmann SHE, Liu H, Ge B. Sensing of mycobacterial arabinogalactan by galectin-9 exacerbates mycobacterial infection. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e51678. [PMID: 33987949 PMCID: PMC8256295 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202051678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterial arabinogalactan (AG) is an essential cell wall component of mycobacteria and a frequent structural and bio-synthetical target for anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug development. Here, we report that mycobacterial AG is recognized by galectin-9 and exacerbates mycobacterial infection. Administration of AG-specific aptamers inhibits cellular infiltration caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) or Mycobacterium bovis BCG, and moderately increases survival of Mtb-infected mice or Mycobacterium marinum-infected zebrafish. AG interacts with carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) 2 of galectin-9 with high affinity, and galectin-9 associates with transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) via CRD2 to trigger subsequent activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) as well as induction of the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Moreover, deletion of galectin-9 or inhibition of MMPs blocks AG-induced pathological impairments in the lung, and the AG-galectin-9 axis aggravates the process of Mtb infection in mice. These results demonstrate that AG is an important virulence factor of mycobacteria and galectin-9 is a novel receptor for Mtb and other mycobacteria, paving the way for the development of novel effective TB immune modulators.
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14
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Iwasaki-Hozumi H, Chagan-Yasutan H, Ashino Y, Hattori T. Blood Levels of Galectin-9, an Immuno-Regulating Molecule, Reflect the Severity for the Acute and Chronic Infectious Diseases. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11030430. [PMID: 33804076 PMCID: PMC7998537 DOI: 10.3390/biom11030430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Galectin-9 (Gal-9) is a β-galactoside-binding lectin capable of promoting or suppressing the progression of infectious diseases. This protein is susceptible to cleavage of its linker-peptides by several proteases, and the resulting cleaved forms, N-terminal carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) and C-terminal CRD, bind to various glycans. It has been suggested that full-length (FL)-Gal-9 and the truncated (Tr)-Gal-9s could exert different functions from one another via their different glycan-binding activities. We propose that FL-Gal-9 regulates the pathogenesis of infectious diseases, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, HIV co-infected with opportunistic infection (HIV/OI), dengue, malaria, leptospirosis, and tuberculosis (TB). We also suggest that the blood levels of FL-Gal-9 reflect the severity of dengue, malaria, and HIV/OI, and those of Tr-Gal-9 markedly reflect the severity of HIV/OI. Recently, matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9) was suggested to be an indicator of respiratory failure from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as well as useful for differentiating pulmonary from extrapulmonary TB. The protease cleavage of FL-Gal-9 may lead to uncontrolled hyper-immune activation, including a cytokine storm. In summary, Gal-9 has potential to reflect the disease severity for the acute and chronic infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Iwasaki-Hozumi
- Department of Health Science and Social Welfare, Kibi International University, Takahashi 716-8508, Japan; (H.I.-H.); (H.C.-Y.)
| | - Haorile Chagan-Yasutan
- Department of Health Science and Social Welfare, Kibi International University, Takahashi 716-8508, Japan; (H.I.-H.); (H.C.-Y.)
- Mongolian Psychosomatic Medicine Department, International Mongolian Medicine Hospital of Inner Mongolia, Hohhot 010065, China
| | - Yugo Ashino
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sendai City Hospital, Sendai 982-8502, Japan;
| | - Toshio Hattori
- Department of Health Science and Social Welfare, Kibi International University, Takahashi 716-8508, Japan; (H.I.-H.); (H.C.-Y.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-866-22-9454
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15
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Moar P, Tandon R. Galectin-9 as a biomarker of disease severity. Cell Immunol 2021; 361:104287. [PMID: 33494007 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2021.104287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Galectin-9 (Gal-9) is a β-galactoside binding lectin known for its immunomodulatory role in various microbial infections. Gal-9 is expressed in all organ systems and localized in the nucleus, cell surface, cytoplasm and the extracellular matrix. It mediates host-pathogen interactions and regulates cell signalling via binding to its receptors. Gal-9 is involved in many physiological functions such as cell growth, differentiation, adhesion, communication and death. However, recent studies have emphasized on the elevated levels of Gal-9 in autoimmune disorders, viral infections, parasitic invasion, cancer, acute liver failure, atopic dermatitis, chronic kidney disease, type-2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis and benign infertility-related gynecological disorders. In this paper we have reviewed the potential of Gal-9 as a reliable, sensitive and non-invasive biomarker of disease severity. Tracking changes in Gal-9 levels and its implementation as a biomarker in clinical practice will be an important tool to monitor disease activity and facilitate personalized treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Moar
- Laboratory of AIDS Research and Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India.
| | - Ravi Tandon
- Laboratory of AIDS Research and Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India.
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16
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Blois SM, Verlohren S, Wu G, Clark G, Dell A, Haslam SM, Barrientos G. Role of galectin-glycan circuits in reproduction: from healthy pregnancy to preterm birth (PTB). Semin Immunopathol 2020; 42:469-486. [PMID: 32601855 PMCID: PMC7508936 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-020-00801-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that galectins, an evolutionarily conserved family of glycan-binding proteins, fulfill key roles in pregnancy including blastocyst implantation, maternal-fetal immune tolerance, placental development, and maternal vascular expansion, thereby establishing a healthy environment for the growing fetus. In this review, we comprehensively present the function of galectins in shaping cellular circuits that characterize a healthy pregnancy. We describe the current understanding of galectins in term and preterm labor and discuss how the galectin-glycan circuits contribute to key immunological pathways sustaining maternal tolerance and preventing microbial infections. A deeper understanding of the glycoimmune pathways regulating early events in preterm birth could offer the broader translational potential for the treatment of this devastating syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Blois
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, AG GlycoImmunology, Berlin, Germany. .,Institute for Medical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany. .,Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Stefan Verlohren
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gang Wu
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Gary Clark
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Anne Dell
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Stuart M Haslam
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Hospital Alemán, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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17
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Different Expression Pattern of TIM-3 and Galectin-9 Molecules by Peripheral and Peritoneal Lymphocytes in Women with and without Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072343. [PMID: 32231038 PMCID: PMC7177301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological condition that is associated with chronic pelvic inflammation, pain, and infertility. Although substantial evidence supports that immunological alterations contribute to its pathogenesis and we previously posed a pivotal role of Galectin-9 (Gal-9) in this disorder, the involvement of the TIM-3/Gal-9 pathway in the development of endometriosis-associated immunological abnormalities is not yet known. In the present study, multicolor flow cytometry was used to compare the immunophenotype and cell surface expression of TIM-3 and Gal-9 molecules on peripheral blood (PB) and peritoneal fluid (PF) lymphocytes of women with and without endometriosis. We found an altered distribution of different lymphocyte subpopulations, a markedly decreased TIM-3 labeling on all T and NK subsets and a significantly increased Gal-9 positivity on peripheral CD4+ T and Treg cells of the affected cohort. Furthermore, a significantly increased TIM-3 expression on CD4+T-cells and elevated Gal-9 labeling on all T and NK subsets was also revealed in the PF of the examined patients. In conclusion, our results suggest a persistent activation and disturbed TIM-3/Gal-9-dependent regulatory function in endometriosis, which may be involved in the impaired immune surveillance mechanisms, promotes the survival of ectopic lesions, and aids the evolution of reproductive failures in endometriosis.
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18
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Blois SM, Dveksler G, Vasta GR, Freitag N, Blanchard V, Barrientos G. Pregnancy Galectinology: Insights Into a Complex Network of Glycan Binding Proteins. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1166. [PMID: 31231368 PMCID: PMC6558399 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are a phylogenetically conserved family of soluble β-galactoside binding proteins, consisting of 15 different types, each with a specific function. Galectins contribute to placentation by regulating trophoblast development, migration, and invasion during early pregnancy. In addition, galectins are critical players regulating maternal immune tolerance to the embedded embryo. Recently, the role of galectins in angiogenesis during decidualization and in placenta formation has gained attention. Altered expression of galectins is associated with abnormal pregnancies and infertility. This review focuses on the role of galectins in pregnancy-associated processes and discusses the relevance of galectin-glycan interactions as potential therapeutic targets in pregnancy disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Blois
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Dveksler
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Gerardo R Vasta
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, UMB, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nancy Freitag
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Véronique Blanchard
- Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Hospital Alemán, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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19
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Lajko A, Meggyes M, Polgar B, Szereday L. The immunological effect of Galectin-9/TIM-3 pathway after low dose Mifepristone treatment in mice at 14.5 day of pregnancy. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0194870. [PMID: 29566059 PMCID: PMC5864070 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0194870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The abortifacient Mifepristone (RU486) has proven to be a safe, effective, acceptable option for millions of women seeking abortion during the first and second trimester of pregnancy although its precise mechanism of action is not well understood. The main objective of this study was to investigate the impact of low dose Mifepristone administration on placental Galectin-9 (Gal-9) expression, as well as its effect on the cell surface expression of Gal-9, TIM-3 and CD107a molecules by different T and NK cell subsets. A model of Mifepristone-induced immunological changes was established in syngeneic pregnant BALB/c mice. RU486-induced alteration in placental Gal-9 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. For immunophenotypic analysis, mid-pregnancy decidual lymphocytes and peripheral mononuclear cells were obtained from Mifepristone treated and control mice at the 14.5 day of gestation. TIM-3 and Gal-9 expression by peripheral and decidual immune cells were examined by flow cytometry. Our results revealed a dramatically decreased intracellular Gal-9 expression in the spongiotrophoblast layer of the haemochorial placenta in Mifepristone treated pregnant mice. Although low dose RU486 treatment did not cause considerable change in the phenotypic distribution of decidual and peripheral immune cells, it altered the Gal-9 and TIM-3 expression by different NK and T cell subsets. In addition, the treatment significantly decreased the CD107a expression by decidual TIM-3+ NK cells, but increased its expression by decidual NKT cell compared to the peripheral counterparts. These findings suggest that low dose Mifepristone administration might induce immune alterations in both progesterone dependent and independent way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienn Lajko
- University of Pecs, Medical School, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Matyas Meggyes
- University of Pecs, Medical School, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Pecs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Beata Polgar
- University of Pecs, Medical School, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Pecs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Szereday
- University of Pecs, Medical School, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Pecs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, Pecs, Hungary
- * E-mail:
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20
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Brubel R, Bokor A, Pohl A, Schilli GK, Szereday L, Bacher-Szamuel R, Rigo J, Polgar B. Serum galectin-9 as a noninvasive biomarker for the detection of endometriosis and pelvic pain or infertility-related gynecologic disorders. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:1016-1025.e2. [PMID: 29202955 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the usefulness of soluble galectin-9 (Gal-9) in the noninvasive laboratory diagnosis of endometriosis and various gynecologic disorders. DESIGN Prospective case-control study. SETTING University medical centers. PATIENT(S) A total of 135 women of reproductive age were involved in the study, 77 endometriosis patients, 28 gynecologic controls, and 30 healthy women. INTERVENTION(S) Diagnostic laparoscopy and collection of tissue biopsies, peritoneal cells, and native peripheral blood from different case groups of gynecology patients and healthy women. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The expression of mRNA and serum concentration of Gal-9. RESULT(S) Semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis and serum soluble Gal-9 ELISA were performed on three different cohorts of patients: those with endometriosis, those with benign gynecologic disorders, and healthy controls. Differences in the Gal-9 concentrations between the investigated groups and the stability of Gal-9 in the serum and diagnostic characteristics of Gal-9 ELISA were determined by statistical evaluation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Significantly elevated Gal-9 levels were found in both minimal-mild (I-II) and moderate-severe (III-IV) stages of endometriosis in comparison with healthy controls. At a cutoff of 132 pg/mL, ROC analysis revealed an excellent diagnostic value of Gal-9 ELISA in endometriosis (area under the curve = 0.973) with a sensitivity of 94% and specificity of 93.75%, indicating better diagnostic potential than that of other endometriosis biomarkers. Furthermore, various pelvic pain or infertility-associated benign gynecologic conditions were also associated with increased serum Gal-9 levels. CONCLUSION(S) Our results suggest that Gal-9 could be a promising noninvasive biomarker of endometriosis and a predictor of various infertility or pelvic pain-related gynecologic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reka Brubel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Bokor
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Akos Pohl
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Krisztina Schilli
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary; Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Szereday
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary; Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Reka Bacher-Szamuel
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary; Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Janos Rigo
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Beata Polgar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary; Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, Pecs, Hungary.
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21
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Enninga EAL, Harrington SM, Creedon DJ, Ruano R, Markovic SN, Dong H, Dronca RS. Immune checkpoint molecules soluble program death ligand 1 and galectin-9 are increased in pregnancy. Am J Reprod Immunol 2017; 79. [PMID: 29205636 PMCID: PMC5814874 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Pregnancy requires balance between tolerance to the haploidentical fetus and the mother's ability to mount immune responses. There are parallels to this phenomenon that occur in metastatic cancer. We assessed soluble program death ligand-1 soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1) and galectin-9 in the blood of pregnant women during gestation as these molecules are highly involved in immune suppression during cancer. METHOD OF STUDY Maternal blood was collected from 30 primigravida women at monthly intervals during pregnancy, delivery and 6-week post-partum. Blood was analyzed for sPD-L1 and galectin-9 concentrations by ELISA. Term placentas were collected in formalin and IHC was completed for PD-L1 and galectin-9 expression. RESULTS Maternal blood levels of sPD-L1 (0.438 ng/mL) and galectin-9 (1976 pg/mL) were elevated early in normal pregnancies compared to non-pregnant controls (0.242 ng/mL and 773 pg/mL, respectively). sPD-L1 increased throughout gestation, whereas galectin-9 remained elevated until parturition; both proteins returned to control levels post-partum. Women carrying male fetuses had significantly higher galectin-9 levels, but not sPD-L1, than those carrying females (2263 pg/mL vs 1874 pg/mL; P = .0005). Trophoblast cells of the term placenta coexpress galectin-9 and PD-L1. CONCLUSION Immune-regulatory molecules galectin-9 and sPD-L1 increased during pregnancy and may play a role in immune tolerance that is critical for the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Douglas J Creedon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine at the Children's Hospital of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Rodrigo Ruano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Haidong Dong
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Roxana S Dronca
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Cancer Therapy Due to Apoptosis: Galectin-9. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18010074. [PMID: 28045432 PMCID: PMC5297709 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of apoptosis is a major hallmark in cancer biology that might equip tumors with a higher malignant potential and chemoresistance. The anti-cancer activities of lectin, defined as a carbohydrate-binding protein that is not an enzyme or antibody, have been investigated for over a century. Recently, galectin-9, which has two distinct carbohydrate recognition domains connected by a linker peptide, was noted to induce apoptosis in thymocytes and immune cells. The apoptosis of these cells contributes to the development and regulation of acquired immunity. Furthermore, human recombinant galectin-9, hG9NC (null), which lacks an entire region of the linker peptide, was designed to resist proteolysis. The hG9NC (null) has demonstrated anti-cancer activities, including inducing apoptosis in hematological, dermatological and gastrointestinal malignancies. In this review, the molecular characteristics, history and apoptosis-inducing potential of galectin-9 are described.
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Reduced Expression of Galectin-9 Contributes to a Poor Outcome in Colon Cancer by Inhibiting NK Cell Chemotaxis Partially through the Rho/ROCK1 Signaling Pathway. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0152599. [PMID: 27028892 PMCID: PMC4814049 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0152599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectin-9 is a widely expressed protein that is involved in immune regulation and tumorpathogenesis and serves as a marker of a poor prognosis in various types of cancers. However, the clinical impact and the precise mechanism by which this protein contributes to colon tumor progression are unclear. In the present study, we detected the expression of galectin-9 and CD56 cells using immunohistochemistry. Spearman's rank correlation was used to clarify the association between galectin-9 expression and natural killer (NK) cell infiltration. The influence of galectin-9 on NK-92 cell migration was evaluated in vitro using transwell chemotaxis assays. The role of rh-galectin-9 in F-actin polarization in NK-92 cells was investigated using laser scanning confocal microscopy. We showed that galectin-9 was expressed in 101 (78.91%) colon tumor tissues and that was expressed at lower levels in these tissues than in para-tumor tissues. Low levels of galectin-9 expression were positively correlated with a poor histological grade and lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). A Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed that overall survival was longer in patients with high galectin-9 expression in an 8-year follow-up (P<0.05). Spearman's rank correlation indicated that there was a linear correlation between galectin-9 expression and CD56+ NK cell infiltration (R(2) = 0.658; P<0.0001). Galectin-9 stimulated migration in human NK-92 cells by affecting F-actin polarization through the Rho/ROCK1 signaling pathway. These results suggest that galectin-9 expression potentially represents a novel mechanism for tumors to escape immune surveillance in colon tumors.
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Conrad ML, Freitag N, Diessler ME, Hernandez R, Barrientos G, Rose M, Casas LA, Barbeito CG, Blois SM. Differential Spatiotemporal Patterns of Galectin Expression are a Hallmark of Endotheliochorial Placentation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 75:317-25. [PMID: 26589652 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Galectins influence the progress of pregnancy by regulating key processes associated with embryo-maternal cross talk, including angiogenesis and placentation. Galectin family members exert multiple roles in the context of hemochorial and epitheliochorial placentation; however, the galectin prolife in endotheliochorial placenta remains to be investigated. METHOD OF STUDY Here, we used immunohistochemistry to analyze galectin (gal)-1, gal-3 and gal-9 expression during early and late endotheliochorial placentation in two different species (dogs and cats). RESULTS We found that during early feline gestation, all three galectin members were more strongly expressed on trophoblast and maternal vessels compared to the decidua. This was accompanied by an overall decrease of gal-1, gal-3 and gal-9 expressions in late feline gestation. In canine early pregnancy, we observed that gal-1 and gal-9 were expressed strongly in cytotrophoblast (CTB) cells compared to gal-3, and no galectin expression was observed in syncytiotrophoblast (STB) cells. Progression of canine gestation was accompanied by increased gal-1 and gal-3 expressions on STB cells, whereas gal-9 expression remained similar in CTB and STB. CONCLUSION These data suggest that both the maternal and fetal compartments are characterized by a spatiotemporal regulation of galectin expression during endotheliochorial placentation. This strongly suggests the involvement of the galectin family in important developmental processes during gestation including immunemodulation, trophoblast invasion and angiogenesis. A conserved functional role for galectins during mammalian placental development emerges from these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie L Conrad
- Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nancy Freitag
- Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mónica E Diessler
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rocío Hernandez
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matthias Rose
- Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Claudio G Barbeito
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,CONICET (Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Than NG, Romero R, Balogh A, Karpati E, Mastrolia SA, Staretz-Chacham O, Hahn S, Erez O, Papp Z, Kim CJ. Galectins: Double-edged Swords in the Cross-roads of Pregnancy Complications and Female Reproductive Tract Inflammation and Neoplasia. J Pathol Transl Med 2015; 49:181-208. [PMID: 26018511 PMCID: PMC4440931 DOI: 10.4132/jptm.2015.02.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Galectins are an evolutionarily ancient and widely expressed family of lectins that have unique glycan-binding characteristics. They are pleiotropic regulators of key biological processes, such as cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, signal transduction, and pre-mRNA splicing, as well as homo- and heterotypic cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. Galectins are also pivotal in immune responses since they regulate host-pathogen interactions, innate and adaptive immune responses, acute and chronic inflammation, and immune tolerance. Some galectins are also central to the regulation of angiogenesis, cell migration and invasion. Expression and functional data provide convincing evidence that, due to these functions, galectins play key roles in shared and unique pathways of normal embryonic and placental development as well as oncodevelopmental processes in tumorigenesis. Therefore, galectins may sometimes act as double-edged swords since they have beneficial but also harmful effects for the organism. Recent advances facilitate the use of galectins as biomarkers in obstetrical syndromes and in various malignancies, and their therapeutic applications are also under investigation. This review provides a general overview of galectins and a focused review of this lectin subfamily in the context of inflammation, infection and tumors of the female reproductive tract as well as in normal pregnancies and those complicated by the great obstetrical syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandor Gabor Than
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences Budapest, Budapest, Hungary
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hangary
- First Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Andrea Balogh
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Immunology, Eotvos Lorand University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eva Karpati
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences Budapest, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Immunology, Eotvos Lorand University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Salvatore Andrea Mastrolia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Sinuhe Hahn
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Offer Erez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Zoltan Papp
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hangary
| | - Chong Jai Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Blois SM, Conrad ML, Freitag N, Barrientos G. Galectins in angiogenesis: consequences for gestation. J Reprod Immunol 2014; 108:33-41. [PMID: 25622880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2014.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Members of the galectin family have been shown to exert several roles in the context of reproduction. They contribute to placentation, maternal immune regulation and facilitate angiogenesis encompassing decidualisation and placenta formation during pregnancy. In the context of neo-vascularisation, galectins have been shown to augment signalling pathways that lead to endothelial cell activation, cell proliferation, migration and tube formation in vitro in addition to angiogenesis in vivo. Angiogenesis during gestation ensures not only proper foetal growth and development, but also maternal health. Consequently, restriction of placental blood flow has major consequences for both foetus and mother, leading to pregnancy diseases. In this review we summarise both the established and the emerging roles of galectin in angiogenesis and discuss the possible implications during healthy and pathological gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Blois
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité-Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Psychosomatik, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Melanie L Conrad
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité-Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Psychosomatik, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nancy Freitag
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité-Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Psychosomatik, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Schulkens IA, Heusschen R, van den Boogaart V, van Suylen RJ, Dingemans AMC, Griffioen AW, Thijssen VL. Galectin expression profiling identifies galectin-1 and Galectin-9Δ5 as prognostic factors in stage I/II non-small cell lung cancer. PLoS One 2014; 9:e107988. [PMID: 25259711 PMCID: PMC4178059 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 30–40% of the patients with early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) will present with recurrent disease within two years of resection. Here, we performed extensive galectin expression profiling in a retrospective study using frozen and paraffin embedded tumor tissues from 87 stage I/II NSCLC patients. Our data show that galectin mRNA expression in NSCLC is confined to galectin-1, -3, -4, -7, -8, and -9. Next to stage, univariable Cox regression analysis identified galectin-1, galectin-9FL and galectin-9Δ5 as possible prognostic markers. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates revealed that overall survival was significantly shorter in patients that express galectin-1 above median levels, i.e., 23.0 (2.9–43.1) vs. 59.9 (47.7–72.1) months (p = 0.020) as well as in patients that express galectin-9Δ5 or galectin-9FL below the median, resp. 59.9 (41.9–75.9) vs. 32.8 (8.7–56.9) months (p = 0.014) or 23.2 (−0.4–46.8) vs. 58.9 (42.9–74.9) months (p = 0.042). All three galectins were also prognostic for disease free survival. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that for OS, the most significant prognostic model included stage, age, gal-1 and gal-9Δ5 while the model for DFS included stage, age and gal-9Δ5. In conclusion, the current study confirms the prognostic value of galectin-1 and identifies galectin-9Δ5 as novel potential prognostic markers in early stage NSCLC. These findings could help to identify early stage NSCLC patients that might benefit most from adjuvant chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris A. Schulkens
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, VU University medical center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roy Heusschen
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, VU University medical center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vivian van den Boogaart
- Department of Pulmonology, Maastricht University medical center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW - School for oncology and developmental biology, Maastricht University medical center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Robert-Jan van Suylen
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University medical center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne-Marie C. Dingemans
- Department of Pulmonology, Maastricht University medical center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW - School for oncology and developmental biology, Maastricht University medical center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan W. Griffioen
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, VU University medical center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Victor L. Thijssen
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Oncology, VU University medical center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiotherapy, VU University medical center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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28
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Menkhorst E, Gamage T, Cuman C, Kaitu'u-Lino T, Tong S, Dimitriadis E. Galectin-7 acts as an adhesion molecule during implantation and increased expression is associated with miscarriage. Placenta 2014; 35:195-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Blois SM, Barrientos G. Galectin signature in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 101-102:127-134. [PMID: 23953090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2013.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Revised: 05/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Members of the galectin family are expressed within the female reproductive tract and have been shown to be involved in multiple biological functions that support the progression of pregnancy. Specific expression patterns of different members of this family have been identified at the maternal decidua and on the placental side. In some cases, mechanisms by which galectins exert their functions have been delineated in adverse pregnancy outcomes. This review summarizes studies on galectins that have been documented to be important for pregnancy maintenance, either supporting the maternal adaptation to pregnancy or the placentation process. In addition, we focus our discussion on the role of galectins in preeclampsia, a specific life-threatening pregnancy disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Blois
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité-Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Molecular Placentaria, Instituto de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Expression and function of galectins in the endometrium and at the human feto-maternal interface. Placenta 2013; 34:863-72. [PMID: 23911101 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Revised: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Galectins are classified as lectins that share structural similarities and bind β-galactosides via a conserved carbohydrate recognition domain. So far 16 out of 19 identified galectins were shown to be present in humans and numerous studies revealed galectins as pivotal modulators of cell death, differentiation and growth. Galectins were highlighted to interact with both the adaptive and innate immune response. In the field of reproductive medicine and placenta research different roles for galectins have been proposed. Several galectins, being abundantly present at the human feto-maternal interphase and endometrium, were hypothesized to significantly contribute to endometrial receptivity and pregnancy physiology. Hence, this review outlines selected aspects of galectin action within endometrial function and at the feto-maternal interphase. Further current knowledge on galectins in reproductive and pregnancy disorders like endometriosis, abortion or preeclampsia is summarized.
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Heusschen R, Griffioen AW, Thijssen VL. Galectin-9 in tumor biology: a jack of multiple trades. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2013; 1836:177-85. [PMID: 23648450 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2013.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2013] [Revised: 04/25/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Galectin family members have been shown to exert multiple roles in the context of tumor biology. Several recent findings support a similar multi-faceted role for galectin-9. Galectin-9 expression is frequently altered in cancer as compared to normal tissues. In addition, an increasing amount of evidence suggests that galectin-9 is involved in several aspects of tumor progression, including tumor cell adhesion and survival, immune escape and angiogenesis. Also, galectin-9 shows potential as a prognostic marker and a therapeutic target for several malignancies. In this review we summarize both the established and the emerging roles of galectin-9 in tumor biology and discuss the potential application of galectin-9 in anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Heusschen
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Blidner AG, Rabinovich GA. ‘Sweetening’ Pregnancy: Galectins at the Fetomaternal Interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:369-82. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ada G. Blidner
- Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires; Argentina
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