1
|
Kobayashi R, Tajika Y, Kohmaru J, Morita S, Horii T, Mizukami Y, Aikawa S, Hirota Y, Hatada I. The histone methyltransferase KMT2D is essential for embryo implantation via regulating precise differentiation of endometrial cells. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:357. [PMID: 39117610 PMCID: PMC11310208 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02134-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation failures are a major challenge in reproductive medicine, but the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Successful implantation requires dynamic remodeling of the endometrium through integrated proliferation and differentiation of endometrial cells including luminal epithelial, glandular epithelial, and stromal cells. Conversely, their disruption causes infertility. Spatiotemporal control of transcription is required for these processes; however, the underlying epigenetic regulation is largely unknown. In this study, we examined expression data from the human endometrium during implantation and discovered that expression of the histone lysine methyltransferase KMT2D was significantly suppressed in patients with recurrent implantation failure. Further study revealed that uterine deletion of Kmt2d in mice caused infertility due to implantation failure. Morphological analysis discovered a reduction in the number of uterine glands and aberrant differentiation of the luminal and glandular epithelium into stratified phenotypes in Kmt2d knockout uteri. Administration of leukemia inhibitory factor protein, which is expressed in uterine glands and is essential for implantation, did not rescue implantation failure in Kmt2d knockout mice, suggesting that infertility was not solely due to uterine gland dysfunction. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that Kmt2d knockout uteri displayed suppressed expression of genes involved in ion homeostasis, which may affect the uterine luminal morphology. Our study suggests that KMT2D plays an essential role in facilitating successful embryo implantation by regulating the coordinated differentiation of endometrial cells, providing valuable insights into unexplained implantation failures in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Genome Science, Biosignal Genome Resource Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yuki Tajika
- Department of Anatomy, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
- Gunma Prefectural College of Health Sciences, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Junki Kohmaru
- Laboratory of Genome Science, Biosignal Genome Resource Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Sumiyo Morita
- Laboratory of Genome Science, Biosignal Genome Resource Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takuro Horii
- Laboratory of Genome Science, Biosignal Genome Resource Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yoichi Mizukami
- Institute of Gene Research, Science Research Center, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Izuho Hatada
- Laboratory of Genome Science, Biosignal Genome Resource Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan.
- Viral Vector Core, Gunma University Initiative for Advanced Research (GIAR), Gunma, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dias Da Silva I, Wuidar V, Zielonka M, Pequeux C. Unraveling the Dynamics of Estrogen and Progesterone Signaling in the Endometrium: An Overview. Cells 2024; 13:1236. [PMID: 39120268 PMCID: PMC11312103 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is crucial for the perpetuation of human species. It is a complex and dynamic tissue lining the inner wall of the uterus, regulated throughout a woman's life based on estrogen and progesterone fluctuations. During each menstrual cycle, this multicellular tissue undergoes cyclical changes, including regeneration, differentiation in order to allow egg implantation and embryo development, or shedding of the functional layer in the absence of pregnancy. The biology of the endometrium relies on paracrine interactions between epithelial and stromal cells involving complex signaling pathways that are modulated by the variations of estrogen and progesterone levels across the menstrual cycle. Understanding the complexity of estrogen and progesterone receptor signaling will help elucidate the mechanisms underlying normal reproductive physiology and provide fundamental knowledge contributing to a better understanding of the consequences of hormonal imbalances on gynecological conditions and tumorigenesis. In this narrative review, we delve into the physiology of the endometrium, encompassing the complex signaling pathways of estrogen and progesterone.
Collapse
Grants
- J.0165.24, 7.6529.23, J.0153.22, 7.4580.21F, 7.6518.21, J.0131.19 Fund for Scientific Research
- FSR-F-2023-FM, FSR-F-2022-FM, FSR-F-2021-FM, FSR-F-M-19/6761 University of Liège
- 2020, 2021, 2022 Fondation Léon Fredericq
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Christel Pequeux
- Tumors and Development, Estrogen-Sensitive Tissues and Cancer Team, GIGA-Cancer, Laboratory of Biology, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (I.D.D.S.); (V.W.); (M.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kharamani A, Mashayekhi F, Salehi Z. Association of Fibroblast Growth Factor-1 Promoter Polymorphism and its Serum Concentrations with Repeated Implantation Failure after In vitro Fertilisation: A Cross-sectional Study. J Hum Reprod Sci 2024; 17:121-127. [PMID: 39091443 PMCID: PMC11290713 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_68_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) play a key role in embryo implantation and support endometrial trophoblastic interaction. Aim The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between FGF-1 (rs34011) gene variety and its serum concentration with repeated implantation failure (RIF). Setting and Design The design of the study was a cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods Four hundred infertile women with a history of RIF and 400 healthy women undergoing the first in vitro fertilisation-embryo transfer attempt with successful delivery (controls) were enrolled in the study. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leucocytes and genotyped by Tetra-Primer Amplification Refractory Mutation System-Polymerase Chain Reaction. Serum FGF-1 concentration was evaluated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical Analysis Used The ANOVA test was used to analyse the difference between the means of the groups. Results In RIF group, the genotype frequencies of the GG, GA and AA were 59%, 33.5% and 7.5%, respectively, whereas in controls were 72.5%, 24% and 3.5%, respectively. The G and A allele frequencies in the RIF group were 75.75% and 24.25%, while in controls were 84.5% and 15.5%, respectively (P < 0.0001). We have also shown that serum FGF-1 concentration in RIF and control groups was 17 ± 3.55 and 23.62 ± 4.91 pg/mL, respectively (P = 0.008). We have also shown that AA genotype is significantly associated with decreased serum FGF-1 concentration in RIF (AA, GA and GG serum levels were 9.55 ± 2.65, 14 ± 3.35 and 22.55 ± 7.26 pg/mL, and in controls were 12.22 ± 2.27, 18.44 ± 5.98 and 26.66 ± 8.29 pg/mL, respectively). Conclusion The current study suggests that a significant association between FGF-1 (rs34011) promoter polymorphism and its serum concentration with RIF. The study also suggests that AA genotype is linked to lower FGF-1 serum levels and may play a risk factor for RIF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Afshin Kharamani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Farhad Mashayekhi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Zivar Salehi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liao Z, Tang S, Nozawa K, Shimada K, Ikawa M, Monsivais D, Matzuk M. Affinity-tagged SMAD1 and SMAD5 mouse lines reveal transcriptional reprogramming mechanisms during early pregnancy. eLife 2024; 12:RP91434. [PMID: 38536963 PMCID: PMC10972565 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization, a prerequisite for successful pregnancies, relies on transcriptional reprogramming driven by progesterone receptor (PR) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-SMAD1/SMAD5 signaling pathways. Despite their critical roles in early pregnancy, how these pathways intersect in reprogramming the endometrium into a receptive state remains unclear. To define how SMAD1 and/or SMAD5 integrate BMP signaling in the uterus during early pregnancy, we generated two novel transgenic mouse lines with affinity tags inserted into the endogenous SMAD1 and SMAD5 loci (Smad1HA/HA and Smad5PA/PA). By profiling the genome-wide distribution of SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR in the mouse uterus, we demonstrated the unique and shared roles of SMAD1 and SMAD5 during the window of implantation. We also showed the presence of a conserved SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR genomic binding signature in the uterus during early pregnancy. To functionally characterize the translational aspects of our findings, we demonstrated that SMAD1/5 knockdown in human endometrial stromal cells suppressed expressions of canonical decidual markers (IGFBP1, PRL, FOXO1) and PR-responsive genes (RORB, KLF15). Here, our studies provide novel tools to study BMP signaling pathways and highlight the fundamental roles of SMAD1/5 in mediating both BMP signaling pathways and the transcriptional response to progesterone (P4) during early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Martin Matzuk
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pavličev M, McDonough-Goldstein CE, Zupan AM, Muglia L, Hu YC, Kong F, Monangi N, Dagdas G, Zupančič N, Maziarz J, Sinner D, Zhang G, Wagner G, Muglia L. A common allele increases endometrial Wnt4 expression, with antagonistic implications for pregnancy, reproductive cancers, and endometriosis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1152. [PMID: 38346980 PMCID: PMC10861470 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45338-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The common human SNP rs3820282 is associated with multiple phenotypes including gestational length and likelihood of endometriosis and cancer, presenting a paradigmatic pleiotropic variant. Deleterious pleiotropic mutations cause the co-occurrence of disorders either within individuals, or across population. When adverse and advantageous effects are combined, pleiotropy can maintain high population frequencies of deleterious alleles. To reveal the causal molecular mechanisms of this pleiotropic SNP, we introduced this substitution into the mouse genome by CRISPR/Cas 9. Previous work showed that rs3820282 introduces a high-affinity estrogen receptor alpha-binding site at the Wnt4 locus. Here, we show that this mutation upregulates Wnt4 transcription in endometrial stroma, following the preovulatory estrogen peak. Effects on uterine transcription include downregulation of epithelial proliferation and induction of progesterone-regulated pro-implantation genes. We propose that these changes increase uterine permissiveness to embryo invasion, whereas they decrease resistance to invasion by cancer and endometriotic foci in other estrogen-responsive tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Pavličev
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Complexity Science Hub, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | | - Lisa Muglia
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Fansheng Kong
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Nagendra Monangi
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Gülay Dagdas
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nina Zupančič
- University Medical Center Ljubljana, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jamie Maziarz
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Debora Sinner
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ge Zhang
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Günter Wagner
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Systems Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Louis Muglia
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Burroughs Wellcome Fund, Research Triangle Park, NC, Durham, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liao Z, Tang S, Nozawa K, Shimada K, Ikawa M, Monsivais D, Matzuk MM. Affinity-tagged SMAD1 and SMAD5 mouse lines reveal transcriptional reprogramming mechanisms during early pregnancy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.25.559321. [PMID: 38106095 PMCID: PMC10723262 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.25.559321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization, a prerequisite for successful pregnancies, relies on transcriptional reprogramming driven by progesterone receptor (PR) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-SMAD1/SMAD5 signaling pathways. Despite their critical roles in early pregnancy, how these pathways intersect in reprogramming the endometrium into a receptive state remains unclear. To define how SMAD1 and/or SMAD5 integrate BMP signaling in the uterus during early pregnancy, we generated two novel transgenic mouse lines with affinity tags inserted into the endogenous SMAD1 and SMAD5 loci (Smad1HA/HA and Smad5PA/PA). By profiling the genome-wide distribution of SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR in the mouse uterus, we demonstrated the unique and shared roles of SMAD1 and SMAD5 during the window of implantation. We also showed the presence of a conserved SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR genomic binding signature in the uterus during early pregnancy. To functionally characterize the translational aspects of our findings, we demonstrated that SMAD1/5 knockdown in human endometrial stromal cells suppressed expressions of canonical decidual markers (IGFBP1, PRL, FOXO1) and PR-responsive genes (RORB, KLF15). Here, our studies provide novel tools to study BMP signaling pathways and highlight the fundamental roles of SMAD1/5 in mediating both BMP signaling pathways and the transcriptional response to progesterone (P4) during early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Martin M. Matzuk
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kiezun M, Dobrzyn K, Kiezun J, Kaminski T, Smolinska N. Chemerin affects the expression of angiogenesis-related factors in the porcine endometrium during early pregnancy and the oestrous cycle: an in vitro study. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:692-707. [PMID: 37955271 DOI: 10.1071/rd23148] [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: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The appropriate course of angiogenesis in the endometrium is crucial for pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Very little is known about the factors linking vessel formation and immune system functioning. AIMS We hypothesised that chemerin, an adipokine known for its involvement in the regulation of energy balance and immunological functions, may act as a potent regulator of endometrial angiogenesis during early pregnancy in pigs. METHODS Porcine endometrial tissue explants were obtained from pregnant pigs on days 10-11, 12-13, 15-16 and 27-28, and on days 10-12 of the oestrous cycle. The explants were in vitro cultured for 24h in the presence of chemerin (100, 200ng/mL) or in medium alone (control). We evaluated the in vitro effect of chemerin on the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factors A-D (VEGF-A-D), placental growth factor (PlGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and angiopoietin 1 and 2 (ANG-1, ANG-2) with the ELISA method. The protein abundance of angiogenesis-related factor receptors, VEGF receptors 1-3 (VEGFR1-3), FGF receptors 1 and 2 (FGFR1-2) and ANG receptor (TIE2) was evaluated with the Western blot (WB) method. We also analysed the influence of chemerin on the phosphorylation of AMPK using WB. KEY RESULTS We found that in the studied endometrial samples, chemerin up-regulated the secretion of VEGF-A, VEGF-B and PlGF, and protein expression of VEGFR3. The adipokine caused a decrease in VEGF-C, VEGF-D and ANG-1 release. Chemerin effect on bFGF and ANG-2 secretion, and protein content of VEGFR1, VEGFR2, FGFR1, FGFR2 and TIE2 were dependent on the stage of pregnancy. Chemerin was found to down-regulate AMPK phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS The obtained in vitro results suggest that chemerin could be an important factor in the early pregnant uterus by its influence on angiogenic factors' secretion and signalling. IMPLICATIONS The obtained results on the role of chemerin in the process of endometrial angiogenesis may, in the long term perspective, contribute to the elaboration of more effective methods of modifying reproductive processes and maintaining energy homeostasis in farm animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kiezun
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| | - Kamil Dobrzyn
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego Street 5, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| | - Jacek Kiezun
- Department of Human Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Warszawska St. 30, Olsztyn 10-082, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Kaminski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| | - Nina Smolinska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fang X, Gu B, Chen M, Sun R, Zhang J, Zhao L, Zhao Y. Genome-Wide Association Study of the Reproductive Traits of the Dazu Black Goat ( Capra hircus) Using Whole-Genome Resequencing. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1960. [PMID: 37895309 PMCID: PMC10606515 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive traits are the basic economic traits of goats and important indicators in goat breeding. In this study, Dazu black goats (DBGs; n = 150), an important Chinese local goat breed with excellent reproductive performance, were used to screen for important variation loci and genes of reproductive traits. Through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), 18 SNPs were found to be associated with kidding traits (average litter size, average litter size in the first three parity, and average litter size in the first six parity), and 10 SNPs were associated with udder traits (udder depth, teat diameter, teat length, and supernumerary teat). After gene annotation of the associated SNPs and in combination with relevant references, the candidate genes, namely ATP1A1, LRRC4C, SPCS2, XRRA1, CELF4, NTM, TMEM45B, ATE1, and FGFR2, were associated with udder traits, while the ENSCHIG00000017110, SLC9A8, GLRB, GRIA2, GASK1B, and ENSCHIG00000026285 genes were associated with litter size. These SNPs and candidate genes can provide useful biological information for improvement of the reproductive traits of goats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingqiang Fang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (X.F.); (B.G.); (M.C.); (R.S.); (J.Z.); (L.Z.)
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Bowen Gu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (X.F.); (B.G.); (M.C.); (R.S.); (J.Z.); (L.Z.)
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Meixi Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (X.F.); (B.G.); (M.C.); (R.S.); (J.Z.); (L.Z.)
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Ruifan Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (X.F.); (B.G.); (M.C.); (R.S.); (J.Z.); (L.Z.)
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Jipan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (X.F.); (B.G.); (M.C.); (R.S.); (J.Z.); (L.Z.)
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Le Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (X.F.); (B.G.); (M.C.); (R.S.); (J.Z.); (L.Z.)
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yongju Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (X.F.); (B.G.); (M.C.); (R.S.); (J.Z.); (L.Z.)
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, Chongqing 400715, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kelleher AM, Allen CC, Davis DJ, Spencer TE. Prss29 Cre recombinase mice are useful to study adult uterine gland function. Genesis 2022; 60:e23493. [PMID: 35866844 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23493] [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: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
All mammalian uteri contain glands in their endometrium that develop only or primarily after birth. In mice, those endometrial glands govern post implantation pregnancy establishment via regulation of blastocyst implantation, stromal cell decidualization, and placental development. Here, we describe a new uterine glandular epithelium (GE) specific Cre recombinase mouse line that is useful for the study of uterine gland function during pregnancy. Utilizing CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, Cre recombinase was inserted into the endogenous serine protease 29 precursor (Prss29) gene. Both Prss29 mRNA and Cre recombinase activity was specific to the GE of the mouse uterus following implantation, but was absent from other areas of the female reproductive tract. Next, Prss29-Cre mice were crossed with floxed forkhead box A2 (Foxa2) mice to conditionally delete Foxa2 specifically in the endometrial glands. Foxa2 was absent in the glands of the post-implantation uterus, and Foxa2 deleted mice exhibited complete infertility after their first pregnancy. These results establish that Prss29-Cre mice are a valuable resource to elucidate and explore the functions of glands in the adult uterus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Kelleher
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Carolyn C Allen
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Daniel J Davis
- Animal Modeling Core, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chávez-Genaro R, Toledo A, Hernández K, Anesetti G. Structural and functional changes in rat uterus induced by neonatal androgenization. J Mol Histol 2022; 53:903-914. [PMID: 36201133 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-022-10106-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Fetal or neonatal androgen exposure has a programming effect on ovarian function inducing a polycystic ovarian syndrome-like condition. Its effects on uterine structure and function are poorly studied. The aim of this work was to characterize the temporal course of changes in the rat uterine structure induced by neonatal exposure to aromatizable or not aromatizable androgens. Rats were daily treated with testosterone, dihydrotestosterone or vehicle during follicle assembly period (postnatal days 1 to 5). Uterine histoarchitecture, hormonal milieu, endometrial stromal collagen and capillary density were analyzed at prepubertal, pubertal and adult ages. Our data shows that neonatal androgen exposure induces early and long-lasting deleterious effects on uterine development, including altered adenogenesis and superficial epithelial alterations and suggest a role for altered serum estradiol levels in the maintenance and worsening of the situation. Our results suggest that alterations of the neonatal androgenic environment on the uterus could be responsible for alterations in the processes of implantation and maintenance of the embryo in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Chávez-Genaro
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Agustina Toledo
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Karina Hernández
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gabriel Anesetti
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fang X, Ni N, Wang X, Tian Y, Ivanov I, Rijnkels M, Bayless KJ, Lydon JP, Li Q. EZH2 and Endometrial Cancer Development: Insights from a Mouse Model. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050909. [PMID: 35269532 PMCID: PMC8909840 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a core component of polycomb repressive complex 2, plays an important role in cancer development. As both oncogenic and tumor suppressive functions of EZH2 have been documented in the literature, the objective of this study is to determine the impact of Ezh2 deletion on the development and progression of endometrial cancer induced by inactivation of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), a tumor suppressor gene frequently dysregulated in endometrial cancer patients. To this end, we created mice harboring uterine deletion of both Ezh2 and Pten using Cre recombinase driven by the progesterone receptor (Pgr) promoter. Our results showed reduced tumor burden in Ptend/d; Ezh2d/d mice compared with that of Ptend/d mice during early carcinogenesis. The decreased Ki67 index in EZH2 and PTEN-depleted uteri versus that in PTEN-depleted uteri indicated an oncogenic role of EZH2 during early tumor development. However, mice harboring uterine deletion of both Ezh2 and Pten developed unfavorable disease outcome, accompanied by exacerbated epithelial stratification and heightened inflammatory response. The observed effect was non-cell autonomous and mediated by altered immune response evidenced by massive accumulation of intraluminal neutrophils, a hallmark of endometrial carcinoma in Ptend/d; Ezh2d/d mice during disease progression. Hence, these results reveal dual roles of EZH2 in endometrial cancer development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Fang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.F.); (N.N.); (M.R.)
| | - Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.F.); (N.N.); (M.R.)
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA;
| | - Yanan Tian
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (Y.T.); (I.I.)
| | - Ivan Ivanov
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (Y.T.); (I.I.)
| | - Monique Rijnkels
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.F.); (N.N.); (M.R.)
| | - Kayla J. Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA;
| | - John P. Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.F.); (N.N.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-979-862-2009; Fax: +1-979-847-8981
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kang J, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Yan W, Wu Y, Su R. The Influence of the Prolactins on the Development of the Uterus in Neonatal Mice. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:818827. [PMID: 35252420 PMCID: PMC8891943 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.818827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrial gland is one of the most important components of the mammalian uterus. However, few studies have been conducted on the regulatory mechanisms of adenogenesis during the development of endometrium. In the present study, we detected the genes expression of 35 different prolactin family members (PRLs) together with the prolactin receptor (PRL-R) in the endometrium of neonatal mice along with the adenogenesis process, to address which prolactin-like genes play a key role during gland development in mice. We found that: (1) The expression of Prl1a1, Prl3d1, Prl5a1, Prl7a1, Prl7a2, Prl7d1, Prl8a6, Prl8a8, and Prl8a9 genes were significantly increased along with the development of uterine glands. Prl7c1 and Prl8a1 were observably up-regulated on Postnatal day 5 (PND5) when the uterine glandular bud invagination begins. Prl3a1, Prl3b1, and Prl7b1 suddenly increased significantly on PND9. But, Prl3c1 and Prl8a2 were markedly down-regulated on PND5 and the expression of Prl6a1 and Prlr were stable extremely. (2) After continuous injection of Progesterone (P4), a well-known method to suppress the endometrial adenogenesis, the expression of Prl1a1, Prl3d1, Prl5a1, Prl7a1, Prl7a2, Prl7d1, Prl8a6, Prl8a8, Prl8a9, and Prlr were suppressed on PND7. And on PND9, Prl1a1, Prl3d1, Prl8a6, Prl8a8, and Prl8a9 were significantly inhibited. (3) Further analysis of the epithelial and stroma showed that these PRLs were mainly expressed in the endometrial stroma of neonatal mice. Our results indicate that multiple PRLs are involved in uterine development and endometrial adenogenesis. Continued progesterone therapy may alter the expression pattern of these PRLs in endometrial stromal cells, thereby altering the interaction and communication between stroma and epithelium, and ultimately leading to complete suppression of endometrial adenogenesis.
Collapse
|
13
|
Poh QH, Rai A, Carmichael II, Salamonsen LA, Greening DW. Proteome reprogramming of endometrial epithelial cells by human trophectodermal small extracellular vesicles reveals key insights into embryo implantation. Proteomics 2021; 21:e2000210. [PMID: 33860638 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202000210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation into the receptive endometrium is critical in pregnancy establishment, initially requiring reciprocal signalling between outer layer of the blastocyst (trophectoderm cells) and endometrial epithelium; however, factors regulating this crosstalk remain poorly understood. Although endometrial extracellular vesicles (EVs) are known to signal to the embryo during implantation, the role of embryo-derived EVs remains largely unknown. Here, we provide a comprehensive proteomic characterisation of a major class of EVs, termed small EVs (sEVs), released by human trophectoderm cells (Tsc-sEVs) and their capacity to reprogram protein landscape of endometrial epithelium in vitro. Highly purified Tsc-sEVs (30-200 nm, ALIX+ , TSG101+ , CD9/63/81+ ) were enriched in known players of implantation (LIFR, ICAM1, TAGLN2, WNT5A, FZD7, ROR2, PRICKLE2), antioxidant activity (SOD1, PRDX1/4/6), tissue integrity (EZR, RAC1, RHOA, TNC), and focal adhesions (FAK, ITGA2/V, ITGB1/3). Functionally, Tsc-sEVs were taken up by endometrial cells, altered transepithelial electrical resistance, and upregulated proteins implicated in embryo attachment (ITGA2/V, ITGB1/3), immune regulation (CD59, CD276, LGALS3), and antioxidant activity (GPX1/3/4, PRDX1/2/4/5/6): processes that are critical for successful implantation. Collectively, we provide critical insights into Tsc-sEV-mediated regulation of endometrial function that contributes to our understanding of the molecular basis of implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Hui Poh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alin Rai
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Irena Iśka Carmichael
- Monash Micro Imaging, Monash, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - David W Greening
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
van der Weijden VA, Puntar B, Rudolf Vegas A, Milojevic V, Schanzenbach CI, Kowalewski MP, Drews B, Ulbrich SE. Endometrial luminal epithelial cells sense embryo elongation in the roe deer independent of interferon-tau†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:882-892. [PMID: 31317179 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz129] [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: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous intrauterine changes take place across species during embryo development. Following fertilization in July/August, the European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) embryo undergoes diapause until embryonic elongation in December/January. Embryonic elongation prior to implantation is a common feature among ungulates. Unlike many other ruminants, the roe deer embryo does not secrete interferon-tau (IFNτ). This provides the unique opportunity to unravel IFNτ-independent signaling pathways associated with maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP). This study aimed at identifying the cell-type-specific endometrial gene expression changes associated with the MRP at the time of embryo elongation that are independent of IFNτ in roe deer. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of genes known to be involved in embryo-maternal communication in cattle, pig, sheep, and mice was analyzed in laser capture microdissected (LMD) endometrial luminal, glandular epithelial, as well as stromal cells. The mRNA transcript abundances of the estrogen (ESR1), progesterone receptor (PGR), and IFNτ-stimulated genes were lower in the luminal epithelium in the presence of an elongated embryo compared to diapause. Retinol Binding Protein-4 (RBP4), a key factor involved in placentation, was more abundant in the luminal epithelium in the presence of an elongated embryo. The progesterone receptor localization was visualized by immunohistochemistry, showing an absence in the luminal epithelium and an overall lower abundance with time and thus prolonged progesterone exposure. Our data show a developmental stage-specific mRNA expression pattern in the luminal epithelium, indicating that these cells sense the presence of an elongated embryo in an IFNτ-independent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brina Puntar
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alba Rudolf Vegas
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vladimir Milojevic
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Corina I Schanzenbach
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mariusz P Kowalewski
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Drews
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li R, Wu SP, Zhou L, Nicol B, Lydon JP, Yao HHC, DeMayo FJ. Increased FOXL2 expression alters uterine structures and functions†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:951-965. [PMID: 32948877 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) regulates sex differentiation and reproductive function. Elevated levels of this transcription factor have been observed in the diseases of the uterus, such as endometriosis. However, the impact of elevated FOXL2 expression on uterine physiology remains unknown. In order to determine the consequences of altered FOXL2 in the female reproductive axis, we generated mice with over-expression of FOXL2 (FOXL2OE) by crossing Foxl2LsL/+ with the Progesterone receptor Pgrcre model. FOXL2OE uterus showed severe morphological abnormality including abnormal epithelial stratification, blunted adenogenesis, increased endometrial fibrosis, and disrupted myometrial morphology. In contrast, increasing FOXL2 levels specifically in uterine epithelium by crossing the Foxl2LsL/+ with the lactoferrin Ltficre mice resulted in the eFOXL2OE mice with uterine epithelial stratification but without defects in endometrial fibrosis and adenogenesis, demonstrating a role of the endometrial stroma in the uterine abnormalities of the FOXL2OE mice. Transcriptomic analysis of 12 weeks old Pgrcre and FOXL2OE uterus at diestrus stage showed multiple signaling pathways related with cellular matrix, wnt/β-catenin, and altered cell cycle. Furthermore, we found FOXL2OE mice were sterile. The infertility was caused in part by a disruption of the hypophyseal ovarian axis resulting in an anovulatory phenotype. The FOXL2OE mice failed to show decidual responses during artificial decidualization in ovariectomized mice demonstrating the uterine contribution to the infertility phenotype. These data support that aberrantly increased FOXL2 expressions in the female reproductive tract can disrupt ovarian and uterine functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Lecong Zhou
- Integrative Bioinformatics, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Barbara Nicol
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Humphrey H-C Yao
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kang ML, Goo JTT, Lee DJK. CHOP Protocol: streamlining access to definitive intervention for major trauma victims. Singapore Med J 2020; 62:620-622. [PMID: 32728086 DOI: 10.11622/smedj.2020113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Min Li Kang
- Department of Surgery, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Campo H, Murphy A, Yildiz S, Woodruff T, Cervelló I, Kim JJ. Microphysiological Modeling of the Human Endometrium. Tissue Eng Part A 2020; 26:759-768. [PMID: 32348708 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2020.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of clinical medicine, the human uterus has held the fascination of clinicians and researchers, given its critical role in the reproduction of our species. The endometrial lining provides residence for the embryo; however, this symbiotic interaction can be disrupted if the timing is not correct and the endometrium is not receptive. Diseases associated with the endometrium interfere with the reproductive process and cause a life-altering burden of pain and even death. With the advancement of technologies and new insights into the biology of the endometrium, much has been uncovered about the dynamic and essential changes that need to occur for normal endometrial function, as well as aberrations that lead to endometrial diseases. As expected, the more that is uncovered, the more the complexity of the endometrium is made evident. In this study, we bring together three areas of scientific advancement that remain in their infancy, but which together have the potential to mirror this complexity and enable understanding. Studies on induced pluripotent stem cells, three-dimensional tissue mimics, and microfluidic culture platforms will be reviewed with a focus on the endometrium. These unconventional approaches will provide new perspectives and appreciation for the elegance and complexity of the endometrium. Impact statement The ability of the human endometrium to regenerate on a monthly basis for ∼4 decades of reproductive years exemplifies its complexity as well as its susceptibility to disease. Restrictions on the types of research that can be done in the human endometrium motivate the development of new technologies and model systems. The three areas of technological advancement reviewed here-induced pluripotent stem cells, three-dimensional model systems, and microfluidic culture systems-will highlight some of the tools that can be applied to studying the human endometrium in ways that have not been done before.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannes Campo
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alina Murphy
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sule Yildiz
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Teresa Woodruff
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Irene Cervelló
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Julie Kim
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Saatcioglu HD, Kano M, Horn H, Zhang L, Samore W, Nagykery N, Meinsohn MC, Hyun M, Suliman R, Poulo J, Hsu J, Sacha C, Wang D, Gao G, Lage K, Oliva E, Morris Sabatini ME, Donahoe PK, Pépin D. Single-cell sequencing of neonatal uterus reveals an Misr2+ endometrial progenitor indispensable for fertility. eLife 2019; 8:46349. [PMID: 31232694 PMCID: PMC6650247 DOI: 10.7554/elife.46349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mullerian ducts are the anlagen of the female reproductive tract, which regress in the male fetus in response to MIS. This process is driven by subluminal mesenchymal cells expressing Misr2, which trigger the regression of the adjacent Mullerian ductal epithelium. In females, these Misr2+ cells are retained, yet their contribution to the development of the uterus remains unknown. Here, we report that subluminal Misr2+ cells persist postnatally in the uterus of rodents, but recede by week 37 of gestation in humans. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we demonstrate that ectopic postnatal MIS administration inhibits these cells and prevents the formation of endometrial stroma in rodents, suggesting a progenitor function. Exposure to MIS during the first six days of life, by inhibiting specification of the stroma, dysregulates paracrine signals necessary for uterine development, eventually resulting in apoptosis of the Misr2+ cells, uterine hypoplasia, and complete infertility in the adult female. In the womb, mammals possess all of the preliminary sexual structures necessary to become either male or female. This includes the Mullerian duct, which develops into the Fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, and vagina in female fetuses. In male fetuses, the testis secretes a hormone called Mullerian inhibiting substance (MIS). This triggers the activity of a small group of cells, known as Misr2+ cells, that cause the Mullerian duct to degenerate, preventing males from developing female sexual organs. It was not clear what happens to Misr2+ cells in female fetuses or if they affect how the uterus develops. Saatcioglu et al. now show that in newborn female mice and rats, a type of Misr2+ cell that sits within a thin inner layer of the developing uterus still responds to MIS. At this time, the uterus is in a critical early period of development. Treating the mice and rats with MIS protein during their first six days of life eventually caused the Misr2+ cells to die. The treatment also prevented a layer of connective tissue, known as the endometrial stroma, from forming in the uterus. As a result, the mice and rats were infertile and had severely underdeveloped uteri. While the Misr2+ cells are present in newborn rats and mice, Saatcioglu et al. found that they disappeared before birth in humans. However, the overall results suggest that Misr2+ cells act as progenitor cells that develop into the cells of the endometrial stroma. Future work could investigate the roles these cells play in causing uterine developmental disorders and infertility disorders. Furthermore, the finding that MIS inhibits the Misr2+ cells could help researchers to develop treatments for uterine cancer and other conditions where the cells of the uterus grow and divide too much.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hatice Duygu Saatcioglu
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Motohiro Kano
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Heiko Horn
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Stanley Center, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, United States
| | - Lihua Zhang
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Wesley Samore
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Nicholas Nagykery
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Marie-Charlotte Meinsohn
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Minsuk Hyun
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Rana Suliman
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Joy Poulo
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Stanley Center, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, United States
| | - Jennifer Hsu
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Massachussets General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Caitlin Sacha
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Massachussets General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Dan Wang
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, United States
| | - Kasper Lage
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Stanley Center, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, United States
| | - Esther Oliva
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Mary E Morris Sabatini
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Massachussets General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Patricia K Donahoe
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - David Pépin
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fang X, Ni N, Lydon JP, Ivanov I, Bayless KJ, Rijnkels M, Li Q. Enhancer of Zeste 2 Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 Subunit Is Required for Uterine Epithelial Integrity. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 189:1212-1225. [PMID: 30954472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2019.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Normal proliferation and differentiation of uterine epithelial cells are critical for uterine development and function. Enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit (EZH2), a core component of polycomb repressive complexes 2, possesses histone methyltransferase activity that catalyzes the trimethylation of lysine 27 of histone H3. EZH2 has been involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a key event in development and carcinogenesis. However, its role in uterine epithelial cell function remains unknown. To determine the role of uterine EZH2, Ezh2 was conditionally deleted using progesterone receptor Cre recombinase, which is expressed in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments of the uterus. Loss of EZH2 promoted stratification of uterine epithelium, an uncommon and detrimental event in the uterus. The abnormal epithelium expressed basal cell markers, including tumor protein 63, cytokeratin 5 (KRT5), KRT6A, and KRT14. These results suggest that EZH2 serves as a guardian of uterine epithelial integrity, partially via inhibiting the differentiation of basal-like cells and preventing epithelial stratification. The observed epithelial abnormality was accompanied by fertility defects, altered uterine growth and function, and the development of endometrial hyperplasia. Thus, the Ezh2 conditional knockout mouse model may be useful to explore mechanisms that regulate endometrial homeostasis and uterine function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Fang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Ivan Ivanov
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; Center for Translational Environmental Health Research, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, Texas
| | - Monique Rijnkels
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wang P, Wu SP, Brooks KE, Kelleher AM, Milano-Foster JJ, DeMayo FJ, Spencer TE. Generation of Mouse for Conditional Expression of Forkhead Box A2. Endocrinology 2018; 159:1897-1909. [PMID: 29546371 PMCID: PMC6018745 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Forkhead box A2 (FOXA2) is a pioneer transcription factor involved in organ development, function, and cancer. In the uterus, FOXA2 is essential for pregnancy and expressed specifically in the glands of the endometrium. Loss of FOXA2 function occurs during development of endometrial cancer in humans. The current study describes the development of a mouse model for conditional expression of mouse FOXA2. Using a system consisting of a minigene located at the Rosa26 locus, we generated a CAG-S-mFOXA2 allele in embryonic stem cells and subsequently in mice; before activation, the minigene is silent because of a floxed stop cassette inserted between the promoter and the transgene. To validate functionality, mice with the CAG-S-mFOXA2 allele were crossed with progesterone receptor (Pgr)-Cre mice and lactotransferrin (Ltf)-iCre mice that express Cre in the immature and adult uterus, respectively. In immature Pgr-Cre-CAG-S-mFoxa2 mice, FOXA2 protein was expressed in the luminal epithelium (LE), glandular epithelium (GE), stroma, and inner layer of the myometrium. Interestingly, FOXA2 protein was not observed in most of the LE of uteri from adult Pgr-Cre-CAG-S-mFoxa2 mice, although FOXA2 was maintained in the stroma, GE, and myometrium. The adult Pgr-Cre-CAG-S-mFoxa2 females were completely infertile. In contrast, Ltf-iCre-CAG-S-mFoxa2 mice were fertile with no detectable histological differences in the uterus. The adult uterus of Pgr-Cre-CAG-S-mFoxa2 mice was smaller, contained few endometrial glands, and displayed areas of partially stratified LE and GE. This transgenic mouse line is a valuable resource to elucidating and exploring FOXA2 function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Wang
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle, North Carolina
| | - Kelsey E Brooks
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Andrew M Kelleher
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | | | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle, North Carolina
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Retinoic acid signaling determines the fate of uterine stroma in the mouse Müllerian duct. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:14354-14359. [PMID: 27911779 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1608808113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The Müllerian duct develops into the oviduct, uterus, and vagina, all of which are quite distinct in their morphology and function. The epithelial fate of these female reproductive organs in developing mice is determined by factors secreted from the stroma; however, how stromal differentiation occurs in the female reproductive organs derived from the Müllerian duct is still unclear. In the present study, roles of retinoic acid (RA) signaling in developing female reproductive tracts were investigated. Retinol dehydrogenase 10 (RDH10) and aldehyde dehydrogenase family 1 subfamily A2 (ALDH1A2) mRNAs and proteins and transactivation activity of endogenous RA were found in the stroma of proximal Müllerian ducts and gradually decreased from the proximal to caudal regions in fetal mice. In organ-cultured Müllerian ducts, retinaldehyde or RA treatment induced uterine epithelial differentiation, defined as a layer of columnar epithelial cells negative for oviductal and vaginal epithelial markers. In contrast, inhibition of RA receptor (RAR) signaling induced vaginal epithelial differentiation, characterized as vaginal epithelial marker genes-positive stratified epithelium. Grafting experiments of the organ-cultured Müllerian duct revealed irreversible epithelial fate determination. Although RAR did not directly bind to the homeobox A10 (Hoxa10) promoter region, RA-RAR signaling stimulated Hoxa10 expression. Thus, RA-RAR signaling in the Müllerian duct determines the fate of stroma to form the future uterus and vagina.
Collapse
|
22
|
Terakawa J, Rocchi A, Serna VA, Bottinger EP, Graff JM, Kurita T. FGFR2IIIb-MAPK Activity Is Required for Epithelial Cell Fate Decision in the Lower Müllerian Duct. Mol Endocrinol 2016; 30:783-95. [PMID: 27164167 DOI: 10.1210/me.2016-1027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell fate of lower Müllerian duct epithelium (MDE), to become uterine or vaginal epithelium, is determined by the absence or presence of ΔNp63 expression, respectively. Previously, we showed that SMAD4 and runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) were independently required for MDE to express ΔNp63. Here, we report that vaginal mesenchyme directs vaginal epithelial cell fate in MDE through paracrine activation of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor-MAPK pathway. In the developing reproductive tract, FGF7 and FGF10 were enriched in vaginal mesenchyme, whereas FGF receptor 2IIIb was expressed in epithelia of both the uterus and vagina. When Fgfr2 was inactivated, vaginal MDE underwent uterine cell fate, and this differentiation defect was corrected by activation of MEK-ERK pathway. In vitro, FGF10 in combination with bone morphogenetic protein 4 and activin A (ActA) was sufficient to induce ΔNp63 in MDE, and ActA was essential for induction of RUNX1 through SMAD-independent pathways. Accordingly, inhibition of type 1 receptors for activin in neonatal mice induced uterine differentiation in vaginal epithelium by down-regulating RUNX1, whereas conditional deletion of Smad2 and Smad3 had no effect on vaginal epithelial differentiation. In conclusion, vaginal epithelial cell fate in MDE is induced by FGF7/10-MAPK, bone morphogenetic protein 4-SMAD, and ActA-RUNX1 pathway activities, and the disruption in any one of these pathways results in conversion from vaginal to uterine epithelial cell fate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jumpei Terakawa
- Department of Molecular Virology Immunology and Medical Genetics (J.T., V.A.S., T.K.), The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (A.R.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611; The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine (E.P.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mt Sinai, New York, New York 10029; and Developmental Biology (J.M.G.), Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Altea Rocchi
- Department of Molecular Virology Immunology and Medical Genetics (J.T., V.A.S., T.K.), The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (A.R.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611; The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine (E.P.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mt Sinai, New York, New York 10029; and Developmental Biology (J.M.G.), Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Vanida A Serna
- Department of Molecular Virology Immunology and Medical Genetics (J.T., V.A.S., T.K.), The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (A.R.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611; The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine (E.P.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mt Sinai, New York, New York 10029; and Developmental Biology (J.M.G.), Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Erwin P Bottinger
- Department of Molecular Virology Immunology and Medical Genetics (J.T., V.A.S., T.K.), The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (A.R.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611; The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine (E.P.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mt Sinai, New York, New York 10029; and Developmental Biology (J.M.G.), Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Jonathan M Graff
- Department of Molecular Virology Immunology and Medical Genetics (J.T., V.A.S., T.K.), The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (A.R.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611; The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine (E.P.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mt Sinai, New York, New York 10029; and Developmental Biology (J.M.G.), Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Takeshi Kurita
- Department of Molecular Virology Immunology and Medical Genetics (J.T., V.A.S., T.K.), The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (A.R.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611; The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine (E.P.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mt Sinai, New York, New York 10029; and Developmental Biology (J.M.G.), Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Robertshaw I, Bian F, Das SK. Mechanisms of uterine estrogen signaling during early pregnancy in mice: an update. J Mol Endocrinol 2016; 56:R127-38. [PMID: 26887389 PMCID: PMC4889031 DOI: 10.1530/jme-15-0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Adherence of an embryo to the uterus represents the most critical step of the reproductive process. Implantation is a synchronized event between the blastocyst and the uterine luminal epithelium, leading to structural and functional changes for further embryonic growth and development. The milieu comprising the complex process of implantation is mediated by estrogen through diverse but interdependent signaling pathways. Mouse models have demonstrated the relevance of the expression of estrogen-modulated paracrine factors to uterine receptivity and implantation window. More importantly, some factors seem to serve as molecular links between different estrogen pathways, promoting cell growth, acting as molecular chaperones, or amplifying estrogenic effects. Abnormal expression of these factors can lead to implantation failure and infertility. This review provides an overview of several well-characterized signaling pathways that elucidates the molecular cross talk involved in the uterus during early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Robertshaw
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Cincinnati, West Chester, Ohio, USA Division of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - F Bian
- Division of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA Perinatal InstituteCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - S K Das
- Division of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA Perinatal InstituteCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA Department of PediatricsUniversity of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Rosario GX, Stewart CL. The Multifaceted Actions of Leukaemia Inhibitory Factor in Mediating Uterine Receptivity and Embryo Implantation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2016; 75:246-55. [PMID: 26817565 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation is mediated by the combined actions of the ovarian hormones E2 and P4 on the uterus. In addition, the pro-inflammatory cytokine, leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), plays a pivotal role in regulating uterine receptivity. LIF is expressed in the endometrial glands and has a robust action on the uterine luminal epithelium (LE). In mice, LIF is induced by nidatory E2 and functions to convert the LE from a non-receptive to an embryo-responsive state. LIF mediates its actions by activating the JAK-STAT pathway specifically in the LE. Activation of JAK-STAT pathway results in the induction of many additional pathways, including some 40 + transcription factors, many of which initiate a cascade of changes affecting epithelial polarity, epithelial-mesenchymal interactions, angiogenesis, stromal cell decidualization, and inhibiting cell proliferation. This review discusses the role of LIF and the recent analysis of its action on the uterine LE in regulating endometrial receptivity and implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gracy Xavier Rosario
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Institute of Medical Biology, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Colin L Stewart
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Institute of Medical Biology, Singapore City, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tu Z, Wang Q, Cui T, Wang J, Ran H, Bao H, Lu J, Wang B, Lydon JP, DeMayo F, Zhang S, Kong S, Wu X, Wang H. Uterine RAC1 via Pak1-ERM signaling directs normal luminal epithelial integrity conducive to on-time embryo implantation in mice. Cell Death Differ 2015; 23:169-81. [PMID: 26184908 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2015.98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Revised: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful embryo implantation requires functional luminal epithelia to establish uterine receptivity and blastocyst-uterine adhesion. During the configuration of uterine receptivity from prereceptive phase, the luminal epithelium undergoes dynamic membrane reorganization and depolarization. This timely regulated epithelial membrane maturation and precisely maintained epithelial integrity are critical for embryo implantation in both humans and mice. However, it remained largely unexplored with respect to potential signaling cascades governing this functional epithelial transformation prior to implantation. Using multiple genetic and cellular approaches combined with uterine conditional Rac1 deletion mouse model, we demonstrated herein that Rac1, a small GTPase, is spatiotemporally expressed in the periimplantation uterus, and uterine depletion of Rac1 induces premature decrease of epithelial apical-basal polarity and defective junction remodeling, leading to disrupted uterine receptivity and implantation failure. Further investigations identified Pak1-ERM as a downstream signaling cascade upon Rac1 activation in the luminal epithelium necessary for uterine receptivity. In addition, we also demonstrated that Rac1 via P38 MAPK signaling ensures timely epithelial apoptotic death at postimplantation. Besides uncovering a potentially important molecule machinery governing uterine luminal integrity for embryo implantation, our finding has high clinical relevance, because Rac1 is essential for normal endometrial functions in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Z Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | - Q Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - T Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | - J Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - H Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | - H Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | - J Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - B Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - J P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - F DeMayo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - S Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - S Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - X Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - H Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chung D, Gao F, Jegga AG, Das SK. Estrogen mediated epithelial proliferation in the uterus is directed by stromal Fgf10 and Bmp8a. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 400:48-60. [PMID: 25451979 PMCID: PMC4751583 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To define endometrial stromal-derived paracrine mediators that participate in estradiol-17β (E2)-induced epithelial proliferation, microarray analysis of gene expression was carried out in mouse uterine epithelial-stromal co-culture systems under the condition of E2 or vehicle (control). Our results demonstrated gene alteration by E2: in epithelial cells, we found up-regulation of 119 genes and down-regulation of 28 genes, while in stroma cells we found up-regulation of 144 genes and down-regulation of 184 genes. A functional enrichment analysis of the upregulated epithelial genes implicated them for proliferation, while upregulated stromal genes were associated with extracellular functions. Quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization results confirmed differential gene expression in both cell cultures and ovariectomized uteri after the above treatments. Based on our identification of stromal secretory factors, we found evidence that suppression by siRNA specifically for Bmp8a and/or Fgf10 in the stromal layer caused significant inhibition of proliferation by E2 in the co-culture system, suggesting Bmp8a and Fgf10 act as paracrine mediators during E2-dependent control of uterine proliferation. The localization of receptors and receptor activation signaling in epithelial cells in both the co-culture system and uteri was consistent with their involvement in ligand-receptor signaling. Interestingly, loss of Bmp8a or Fgf10 also caused abrogation of E2-regulated epithelial receptor signaling in co-culture systems, suggesting that stroma-derived Fgf10 and Bmp8a are responsible for epithelial communication. Overall, stromal Fgf10 and Bmp8a serve as potential paracrine factors for E2-dependent regulation of epithelial proliferation in the uterus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daesuk Chung
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Fei Gao
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Anil G Jegga
- Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Sanjoy K Das
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gao Y, Duran S, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Burghardt RC, Bayless KJ, Bartholin L, Li Q. Constitutive activation of transforming growth factor Beta receptor 1 in the mouse uterus impairs uterine morphology and function. Biol Reprod 2014; 92:34. [PMID: 25505200 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.125146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite increasing evidence pointing to the essential involvement of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) superfamily in reproduction, a definitive role of TGFB signaling in the uterus remains to be unveiled. In this study, we generated a gain-of-function mouse model harboring a constitutively active (CA) TGFB receptor 1 (TGFBR1), the expression of which was conditionally induced by the progesterone receptor (Pgr)-Cre recombinase. Overactivation of TGFB signaling was verified by enhanced phosphorylation of SMAD2 and increased expression of TGFB target genes in the uterus. TGFBR1 Pgr-Cre CA mice were sterile. Histological, cellular, and molecular analyses demonstrated that constitutive activation of TGFBR1 in the mouse uterus promoted formation of hypermuscled uteri. Accompanying this phenotype was the upregulation of a battery of smooth muscle genes in the uterus. Furthermore, TGFB ligands activated SMAD2/3 and stimulated the expression of a smooth muscle maker gene, alpha smooth muscle actin (ACTA2), in human uterine smooth muscle cells. Immunofluorescence microscopy identified a marked reduction of uterine glands in TGFBR1 Pgr-Cre CA mice within the endometrial compartment that contained myofibroblast-like cells. Thus, constitutive activation of TGFBR1 in the mouse uterus caused defects in uterine morphology and function, as evidenced by abnormal myometrial structure, dramatically reduced uterine glands, and impaired uterine decidualization. These results underscore the importance of a precisely controlled TGFB signaling system in establishing a uterine microenvironment conducive to normal development and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Samantha Duran
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Robert C Burghardt
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Laurent Bartholin
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Université Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| |
Collapse
|