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Bostan IS, Mihaila M, Roman V, Radu N, Neagu MT, Bostan M, Mehedintu C. Landscape of Endometrial Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Target Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2027. [PMID: 38893147 PMCID: PMC11171255 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112027] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is one the most prevalent gynecological cancers and, unfortunately, has a poor prognosis due to low response rates to traditional treatments. However, the progress in molecular biology and understanding the genetic mechanisms involved in tumor processes offers valuable information that has led to the current classification that describes four molecular subtypes of endometrial cancer. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of endometrial cancers, such as genetic mutations, defects in the DNA mismatch repair pathway, epigenetic changes, or dysregulation in angiogenic or hormonal signaling pathways. The preclinical genomic and molecular investigations presented allowed for the identification of some molecules that could be used as biomarkers to diagnose, predict, and monitor the progression of endometrial cancer. Besides the therapies known in clinical practice, targeted therapy is described as a new cancer treatment that involves identifying specific molecular targets in tumor cells. By selectively inhibiting these targets, key signaling pathways involved in cancer progression can be disrupted while normal cells are protected. The connection between molecular biomarkers and targeted therapy is vital in the fight against cancer. Ongoing research and clinical trials are exploring the use of standard therapy agents in combination with other treatment strategies like immunotherapy and anti-angiogenesis therapy to improve outcomes and personalize treatment for patients with endometrial cancer. This approach has the potential to transform the management of cancer patients. In conclusion, enhancing molecular tools is essential for stratifying the risk and guiding surgery, adjuvant therapy, and cancer treatment for women with endometrial cancer. In addition, the information from this review may have an essential value in the personalized therapy approach for endometrial cancer to improve the patient's life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mirela Mihaila
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Center of Immunology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (M.M.); (V.R.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Titu Maiorescu University, 040314 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Viviana Roman
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Center of Immunology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (M.M.); (V.R.)
| | - Nicoleta Radu
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 011464 Bucharest, Romania;
- Biotechnology Department, National Institute for Chemistry and Petrochemistry R&D of Bucharest, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Teodora Neagu
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Marinela Bostan
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Center of Immunology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (M.M.); (V.R.)
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Claudia Mehedintu
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania; (I.-S.B.); (C.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, 050471 Bucharest, Romania
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Ingaramo PI, Alarcón R, Caglieris ML, Varayoud J, Muñoz-de-Toro M, Luque EH. Altered uterine angiogenesis in rats treated with a glyphosate-based herbicide. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 296:118729. [PMID: 34953950 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are the agrochemicals most used around the globe. However, they might have adverse effects on human and animal health. Previously, we showed that female rats neonatally exposed to GBHs exhibit altered expression of morphogenetic molecules and biomarkers of uterine development. We also observed a reduction in the size of implantation sites, altered expression of decidualization-related molecules, and increased post-implantation losses. Since decidualization comprises morphogenetic, biochemical and vascular changes, here we investigated the effects of neonatal GBH exposure on uterine angiogenesis in neonatal and pregnant rats. To achieve this, Wistar female rats were exposed to saline solution or GBH (2 mg glyphosate/kg-bw/day) on post-natal days (PND) 1, 3, 5 and 7. On PND8, uterine samples were collected for developmental studies. On PND90, the remaining females were mated and in the morning of gestational day (GD) 9, the implantation sites were collected. Angiogenesis-related molecules and cells involved in this process were identified and/or measured by immunohistochemistry or RT-PCR. On PND8, GBH-treated rats showed increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and decreased Notch1, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and Angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) mRNA levels. Vascular area, vessel diameter, endothelial cell proliferation, VEGF and Nestin protein expression, and VEGF, Notch1, iNOS and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) genes were downregulated in implantation sites of exposed females, while Ang2, VEGF receptor 1 and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were increased. Mast cells and macrophages were increased on PND8 and GD9 of treated rats. The increased Transforming growth factor-beta expression in the antimesometrial zone and IL-10 mRNA expression suggest that the M2 type is the predominant population of macrophages on implantation sites. In conclusion, neonatal GBH exposure alters the expression of angiogenesis-related molecules at neonatal uterine development and decidual reaction, suggesting altered vascular support. These alterations might contribute to the increased post-implantation losses observed in GBH-treated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola I Ingaramo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Ramiro Alarcón
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María L Caglieris
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mónica Muñoz-de-Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
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Chemerinski A, Liu C, Morelli SS, Babwah AV, Douglas NC. Mouse Cre drivers: tools for studying disorders of the human female neuroendocrine-reproductive axis†. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:835-853. [PMID: 35084017 PMCID: PMC9113446 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac012] [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: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Benign disorders of the human female reproductive system, such primary ovarian insufficiency and polycystic ovary syndrome are associated with infertility and recurrent miscarriage, as well as increased risk of adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. For many of these conditions, the contributing molecular and cellular processes are poorly understood. The overarching similarities between mice and humans have rendered mouse models irreplaceable in understanding normal physiology and elucidating pathological processes that underlie disorders of the female reproductive system. The utilization of Cre-LoxP recombination technology, which allows for spatial and temporal control of gene expression, has identified the role of numerous genes in development of the female reproductive system and in processes, such as ovulation and endometrial decidualization, that are required for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in mammals. In this comprehensive review, we provide a detailed overview of Cre drivers with activity in the neuroendocrine-reproductive axis that have been used to study disruptions in key intracellular signaling pathways. We first summarize normal development of the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovary, and uterus, highlighting similarities and differences between mice and humans. We then describe human conditions resulting from abnormal development and/or function of the organ. Finally, we describe loss-of-function models for each Cre driver that elegantly recapitulate some key features of the human condition and are associated with impaired fertility. The examples we provide illustrate use of each Cre driver as a tool for elucidating genetic and molecular underpinnings of reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anat Chemerinski
- Correspondence: Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB E561, Newark, NJ 07103, USA. Tel: 301-910-6800; Fax: 973-972-4574. E-mail:
| | | | - Sara S Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, USA
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Lee B, Shin H, Oh JE, Park J, Park M, Yang SC, Jun JH, Hong SH, Song H, Lim HJ. An autophagic deficit in the uterine vessel microenvironment provokes hyperpermeability through deregulated VEGFA, NOS1, and CTNNB1. Autophagy 2021; 17:1649-1666. [PMID: 32579471 PMCID: PMC8354601 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2020.1778292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus undergoes vascular changes during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy. Steroid hormone deprivation induces macroautophagy/autophagy in major uterine cell types. Herein, we explored the functions of uterine autophagy using the Amhr2-Cre-driven atg7 deletion model. Deletion of Atg7 was confirmed by functional deficit of autophagy in uterine stromal, myometrial, and vascular smooth muscle cells, but not in endothelial cells. atg7d/d uteri exhibited enhanced stromal edema accompanied by dilation of blood vessels. Ovariectomized atg7d/d uteri showed decreased expression of endothelial junction-related proteins, such as CTNNB1/beta-catenin, with increased vascular permeability, and increased expression of VEGFA and NOS1. Nitric oxide (NO) was shown to mediate VEGFA-induced vascular permeability by targeting CTNNB1. NO involvement in maintaining endothelial junctional stability in atg7d/d uteri was confirmed by the reduction in extravasation following treatment with a NOS inhibitor. We also showed that atg7d/d uterine phenotype improved the fetal weight:placental weight ratio, which is one of the indicators of assessing the status of preeclampsia. We showed that autophagic deficit in the uterine vessel microenvironment provokes hyperpermeability through the deregulation of VEGFA, NOS1, and CTNNB1.Abbreviations: ACTA2: actin, alpha 2, smooth muscle, aortic; Amhr2: anti-Mullerian hormone type 2 receptor; ANGPT1: angiopoietin 1; ATG: autophagy-related; CDH5: cadherin 5; CLDN5: claudin 5; COL1A1: collagen, type I, alpha 1; CSPG4/NG2: chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4; CTNNB1: catenin (cadherin associated protein), beta 1; DES: desmin; EDN1: endothelin 1; EDNRB: endothelin receptor type B; F3: coagulation factor III; KDR/FLK1/VEGFR2: kinase insert domain protein receptor; LYVE1: lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1; MAP1LC3B: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MCAM/CD146: melanoma cell adhesion molecule; MYL2: myosin, light polypeptide 2, regulatory, cardiac, slow; MYLK: myosin, light polypeptide kinase; NOS1/nNOS: nitric oxide synthase 1, neuronal; NOS2/iNOS: nitric oxide synthase 2, inducible; NOS3/eNOS: nitric oxide synthase 3, endothelial cell; OVX: ovariectomy; PECAM1/CD31: platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1; POSTN: periostin, osteoblast specific factor; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TEK/Tie2: TEK receptor tyrosine kinase; TJP1/ZO-1: tight junction protein 1; TUBB1, tubulin, beta 1 class VI; USC: uterine stromal cell; VEGFA: vascular endothelial growth factor A; VSMC: vascular smooth muscle cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bora Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyejin Shin
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Oh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaekyoung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Seung Chel Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jin-Hyun Jun
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Eulji University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Eulji Medi-Bio Research Institute, Graduate School, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seok-Ho Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Kangwon-do, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Hyunjung Jade Lim
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
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5
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Cao Y, Liu L, Lin J, Sun P, Guo K, Li S, Li X, Lan ZJ, Wang H, Lei Z. Dysregulation of Notch-FGF signaling axis in germ cells results in cystic dilation of the rete testis in mice. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 16:75-92. [PMID: 34101112 PMCID: PMC8688682 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00628-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Numb (Nb) and Numb-like (Nbl) are functionally redundant adaptor proteins that critically regulate cell fate and morphogenesis in a variety of organs. We selectively deleted Nb and Nbl in testicular germ cells by breeding Nb/Nbl floxed mice with a transgenic mouse line Tex101-Cre. The mutant mice developed unilateral or bilateral cystic dilation in the rete testis (RT). Dye trace indicated partial blockages in the testicular hilum. Morphological and immunohistochemical evaluations revealed that the lining epithelium of the cysts possessed similar characteristics of RT epithelium, suggesting that the cyst originated from dilation of the RT lumen. Spermatogenesis and the efferent ducts were unaffected. In comparisons of isolated germ cells from mutants to control mice, the Notch activity considerably increased and the expression of Notch target gene Hey1 significantly elevated. Further studies identified that germ cell Fgf4 expression negatively correlated the Notch activity and demonstrated that blockade of FGF receptors mediated FGF4 signaling induced enlargement of the RT lumen in vitro. The crucial role of the FGF4 signaling in modulation of RT development was verified by the selective germ cell Fgf4 ablation, which displayed a phenotype similar to that of germ cell Nb/Nbl null mutant males. These findings indicate that aberrant over-activation of the Notch signaling in germ cells due to Nb/Nbl abrogation impairs the RT development, which is through the suppressing germ cell Fgf4 expression. The present study uncovers the presence of a lumicrine signal pathway in which secreted/diffusible protein FGF4 produced by germ cells is essential for normal RT development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Cao
- Department of Andrology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingyun Liu
- Department of Andrology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health, MDR Building, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 511 South Floyd Street, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Penghao Sun
- Department of Andrology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaimin Guo
- Department of Andrology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengqiang Li
- Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health, MDR Building, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 511 South Floyd Street, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
- Fujian Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350003, China
| | - Xian Li
- Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health, MDR Building, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 511 South Floyd Street, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Zi-Jian Lan
- Division of Life Sciences, Alltech, Nicholasville, KY, 40356, USA
| | - Hongliang Wang
- Department of Andrology, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhenmin Lei
- Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health, MDR Building, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 511 South Floyd Street, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA.
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Orzechowska M, Anusewicz D, Bednarek AK. Functional Gene Expression Differentiation of the Notch Signaling Pathway in Female Reproductive Tract Tissues-A Comprehensive Review With Analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:592616. [PMID: 33384996 PMCID: PMC7770115 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.592616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch pathway involves evolutionarily conserved signaling regulating the development of the female tract organs such as breast, ovary, cervix, and uterine endometrium. A great number of studies revealed Notch aberrancies in association with their carcinogenesis and disease progression, the management of which is still challenging. The present study is a comprehensive review of the available literature on Notch signaling during the normal development and carcinogenesis of the female tract organs. The review has been enriched with our analyses of the TCGA data including breast, cervical, ovarian, and endometrial carcinomas concerning the effects of Notch signaling at two levels: the core components and downstream effectors, hence filling the lack of global overview of Notch-driven carcinogenesis and disease progression. Phenotype heterogeneity regarding Notch signaling was projected in two uniform manifold approximation and projection algorithm dimensions, preceded by the principal component analysis step reducing the data burden. Additionally, overall and disease-free survival analyses were performed with the optimal cutpoint determination by Evaluate Cutpoints software to establish the character of particular Notch components in tumorigenesis. In addition to the review, we demonstrated separate models of the examined cancers of the Notch pathway and its targets, although expression profiles of all normal tissues were much more similar to each other than to its cancerous compartments. Such Notch-driven cancerous differentiation resulted in a case of opposite association with DFS and OS. As a consequence, target genes also show very distinct profiles including genes associated with cell proliferation and differentiation, energy metabolism, or the EMT. In conclusion, the observed Notch associations with the female tract malignancies resulted from differential expression of target genes. This may influence a future analysis to search for new therapeutic targets based on specific Notch pathway profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dorota Anusewicz
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Andrzej K Bednarek
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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7
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Selvaraj V, Morohaku K, Koganti PP, Zhang J, He W, Quirk SM, Stocco DM. Commentary: Amhr2-Cre-Mediated Global Tspo Knockout. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:472. [PMID: 32793121 PMCID: PMC7393387 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vimal Selvaraj
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Vimal Selvaraj
| | - Kanako Morohaku
- Division of Animal Science, School of Science and Technology, Institute of Agriculture, Shinshu University, Nagano, Japan
| | - Prasanthi P. Koganti
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Jianmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Immunology, Research Center on Pediatric Development Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei He
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Immunology, Research Center on Pediatric Development Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Susan M. Quirk
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Douglas M. Stocco
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
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The human endosalpinx: anatomical three-dimensional study and reconstruction using confocal microtomography. Pol J Radiol 2019; 84:e281-e288. [PMID: 31482002 PMCID: PMC6717942 DOI: 10.5114/pjr.2019.86824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate in three dimensions (3D) the human endosalpinx and reconstruct its surface
along its different anatomical segments, without the injection or insertion of luminal
contrasts, using confocal microtomography (micro-CT). Material and methods 15 fallopian tubes (FT) from 14 women in reproductive age from procedures for benign
disease or sterilization were selected. The specimens were fixed in formalin and stained
with Lugol solution. Micro-CT studies were conducted on the specimens using protocols
adapted from biological studies, to acquire images to reconstruct in 3D the endosalpinx
surface. Results From these specimens, 6 presented the intra-mural segment, 14 presented the isthmus and
15 presented the ampulla and fimbria segment of the FT. The specimen presented tissue
definition, and contrast sufficient for FT endosalpinx morphological analysis and lumen
definition. The intramural portion presented initially a mucosal projection toward the
lumen, bending on its own axis, and increased numbers of projections towards the isthmic
portion, where the projections become longer more numerous. The endosalpinx becomes more
tortuous, the lumen diameter increases and the mucosal projections become more bulky in
the ampullary portion, with the projections less present on the antimesenteric side. The
infundibular portion is marked with the organized and predictable endosalpinx, the
abdominal ostium is cleared demonstrated, with the reduction of the endosalpinx volume.
The fimbria demonstrated a small relation between fringes and intratubal
endosalpinx. Conclusions Microscopic anatomy of different segments of the human FT mucosa can be analyzed and
reconstructed in 3D with histological correlation using micro-CT.
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Yang MH, Chang KJ, Li B, Chen WS. Arsenic Trioxide Suppresses Tumor Growth through Antiangiogenesis via Notch Signaling Blockade in Small-Cell Lung Cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:4647252. [PMID: 31093499 PMCID: PMC6481139 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4647252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly malignant type of lung cancer with no effective second-line chemotherapy drugs. Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) was reported to exert antiangiogenesis activities against lung cancer and induce poor development of vessel structures, similar to the effect observed following the blockade of Notch signaling. However, there are no direct evidences on the inhibitory effects of As2O3 on tumor growth and angiogenesis via blockade of Notch signaling in SCLC. Here, we found that As2O3 significantly inhibited the tumor growth and angiogenesis in SCLC and reduced the microvessel density. As2O3 disturbed the morphological development of tumor vessels and downregulated the protein levels of delta-like canonical Notch ligand 4 (Dll4), Notch1, and Hes1 in vivo. DAPT, a Notch signaling inhibitor, exerted similar effects in SCLC. We found that both As2O3 treatment and Notch1 expression knockdown resulted in the interruption of tube formation by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) on Matrigel. As2O3 had no effects on Dll4 level in HUVECs but significantly inhibited the expression of Notch1 and its downstream gene Hes1 regardless of Dll4 overexpression or Notch1 knockdown. These findings suggest that the antitumor activity of As2O3 in SCLC was mediated via its antiangiogenic effect through the blockade of Notch signaling, probably owing to Notch1 targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Hang Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Ke-Jie Chang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Wan-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
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Wang X, Mittal P, Castro CA, Rajkovic G, Rajkovic A. Med12 regulates ovarian steroidogenesis, uterine development and maternal effects in the mammalian egg. Biol Reprod 2019; 97:822-834. [PMID: 29126187 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcriptional factor MED12 is part of the essential mediator transcriptional complex that acts as a transcriptional coactivator in all eukaryotes. Missense gain-of-function mutations in human MED12 are associated with uterine leiomyomas, yet the role of MED12 deficiency in tumorigenesis and reproductive biology has not been fully explored. We generated a Med12 reproductive conditional knockout mouse model to evaluate its role in uterine mesenchyme, granulosa cells, and oocytes. Mice heterozygous for Med12 deficiency in granulosa cells and uterus (Med12fl/+ Amhr2-Cre) were subfertile, while mice homozygous for Med12 deficiency in granulosa cells and uterus (Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre) were infertile. Morphological and histological analysis of the Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre reproductive tract revealed atrophic uteri and hyperchromatic granulosa cells with disrupted expression of Lhcgr, Esr1, and Esr2. Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre mice estrous cycle was disrupted, and serum analysis showed blunted rise in estradiol in response to pregnant mare serum gonadotropin. Uterine atrophy was partially rescued by exogenous steroid supplementation with dysregulation of Notch1 and Smo expression in steroid supplemented Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre uteri, indicating intrinsic uterine defects. Oocyte-specific ablation of Med12 caused infertility without disrupting normal folliculogenesis and ovulation, consistent with maternal effects of Med12 in early embryo development. These results show the critical importance of Med12 in reproductive tract development and that Med12 loss of function does not cause tumorigenesis in reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinye Wang
- Tsinghua MD Program, Tsinghua University School of Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Priya Mittal
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Carlos A Castro
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gabriel Rajkovic
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Aleksandar Rajkovic
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Brehm E, Rattan S, Gao L, Flaws JA. Prenatal Exposure to Di(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate Causes Long-Term Transgenerational Effects on Female Reproduction in Mice. Endocrinology 2018; 159:795-809. [PMID: 29228129 PMCID: PMC5774227 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-03004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer in many consumer products. Although DEHP is a known endocrine disruptor, little is known about the effects of DEHP exposure on female reproduction. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that prenatal DEHP exposure affects follicle numbers, estrous cyclicity, and hormone levels in multiple generations of mice. Pregnant CD-1 mice were orally dosed with corn oil (vehicle control) or DEHP (20 and 200 µg/kg/d and 500 and 750 mg/kg/d) from gestational day 11 until birth. The F1 females were mated with untreated males to create the F2 generation, and the F2 females were mated with untreated males to create the F3 generation. At 1 year, ovaries, hormones, and estrous cycles were analyzed in each generation. Prenatal DEHP exposure altered estrous cyclicity (750 mg/kg/d), increased the presence of ovarian cysts (750 mg/kg/d), and decreased total follicle numbers (750 mg/kg/d) in the F1 generation. It also decreased anogenital distance (200 µg/kg/d) and altered follicle numbers (200 µg/kg/d and 500 mg/kg/d) in the F2 generation, and it altered estrous cyclicity (20 and 200 µg/kg/d and 500 and 750 mg/kg/d) and decreased folliculogenesis (200 µg/kg/d and 500 mg/kg/d) in the F3 generation. Further, prenatal DEHP increased estradiol levels (F1 and F3), decreased testosterone levels (F1, F2, and F3), decreased progesterone levels (F2), altered gonadotropin hormone levels (F1 and F3), and decreased inhibin B levels (F1 and F3). Collectively, these data show that prenatal exposure to DEHP has multigenerational and transgenerational effects on female reproduction and it may accelerate reproductive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61802
| | - Saniya Rattan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61802
| | - Liying Gao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61802
| | - Jodi A. Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61802
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12
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Bose B, Sen U, Shenoy P S. Breast Cancer Stem Cell Therapeutics, Multiple Strategies Versus Using Engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cells With Notch Inhibitory Properties: Possibilities and Perspectives. J Cell Biochem 2017; 119:141-149. [PMID: 28590064 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Relapse cases of cancers are more vigorous and difficult to control due to the preponderance of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Such CSCs that had been otherwise dormant during the first incidence of cancer gradually appear as radiochemoresistant cancer cells. Hence, cancer therapeutics aimed at CSCs would be an effective strategy for mitigating the cancers during relapse. Alternatively, CSC therapy can also be proposed as an adjuvant therapy, along-with the conventional therapies. As regenerative stem cells (RSCs) are known for their trophic effects, anti-tumorogenicity, and better migration toward an injury site, this review aims to address the use of adult stem cells such as dental pulp derived; cord blood derived pure populations of regenerative stem cells for targeting CSCs. Indeed, pro-tumorogenicity of RSCs is of concern and hence has also been dealt with in relation to breast CSC therapeutics. Furthermore, as notch signaling pathways are upregulated in breast cancers, and anti-notch antibody based and sh-RNA based therapies are already in the market, this review focuses the possibilities of engineering RSCs to express notch inhibitory proteins for breast CSC therapeutics. Also, we have drawn a comparison among various possibilities of breast CSC therapeutics, about, notch1 inhibition. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 141-149, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bipasha Bose
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Yenepoya Research Center, Yenepoya University, University Road, Mangalore 575018, Karnataka, India
| | - Utsav Sen
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Yenepoya Research Center, Yenepoya University, University Road, Mangalore 575018, Karnataka, India
| | - Sudheer Shenoy P
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Yenepoya Research Center, Yenepoya University, University Road, Mangalore 575018, Karnataka, India
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13
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Vanorny DA, Mayo KE. The role of Notch signaling in the mammalian ovary. Reproduction 2017; 153:R187-R204. [PMID: 28283672 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Notch pathway is a contact-dependent, or juxtacrine, signaling system that is conserved in metazoan organisms and is important in many developmental processes. Recent investigations have demonstrated that the Notch pathway is active in both the embryonic and postnatal ovary and plays important roles in events including follicle assembly and growth, meiotic maturation, ovarian vasculogenesis and steroid hormone production. In mice, disruption of the Notch pathway results in ovarian pathologies affecting meiotic spindle assembly, follicle histogenesis, granulosa cell proliferation and survival, corpora luteal function and ovarian neovascularization. These aberrations result in abnormal folliculogenesis and reduced fertility. The knowledge of the cellular interactions facilitated by the Notch pathway is an important area for continuing research, and future studies are expected to enhance our understanding of ovarian function and provide critical insights for improving reproductive health. This review focuses on the expression of Notch pathway components in the ovary, and on the multiple functions of Notch signaling in follicle assembly, maturation and development. We focus on the mouse, where genetic investigations are possible, and relate this information to the human ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas A Vanorny
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive ScienceNorthwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Kelly E Mayo
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive ScienceNorthwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
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14
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Zhou C, Gao L, Flaws JA. Prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture disrupts reproduction in F1 female mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 318:49-57. [PMID: 28126412 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are used in a large variety of products, such as building materials, medical devices, and personal care products. Most previous studies on the toxicity of phthalates have focused on single phthalates, but it is also important to study the effects of phthalate mixtures because humans are exposed to phthalate mixtures. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture adversely affects female reproduction in mice. To test this hypothesis, pregnant CD-1 dams were orally dosed with vehicle (tocopherol-stripped corn oil) or a phthalate mixture (20 and 200μg/kg/day, 200 and 500mg/kg/day) daily from gestational day 10 to birth. The mixture was based on the composition of phthalates detected in urine samples from pregnant women in Illinois. The mixture included 35% diethyl phthalate, 21% di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, 15% dibutyl phthalate, 15% diisononyl phthalate, 8% diisobutyl phthalate, and 5% benzylbutyl phthalate. Female mice born to the exposed dams were subjected to tissue collections and fertility tests at different ages. Our results indicate that prenatal exposure to the phthalate mixture significantly increased uterine weight and decreased anogenital distance on postnatal days 8 and 60, induced cystic ovaries at 13months, disrupted estrous cyclicity, reduced fertility-related indices, and caused some breeding complications at 3, 6, and 9months of age. Collectively, our data suggest that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture disrupts aspects of female reproduction in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changqing Zhou
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802, IL, USA
| | - Liying Gao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802, IL, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802, IL, USA.
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15
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Notch signalling in placental development and gestational diseases. Placenta 2017; 56:65-72. [PMID: 28117145 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.01.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Activation of Notch signalling upon cell-cell contact of neighbouring cells controls a plethora of cellular processes such as stem cell maintenance, cell lineage determination, cell proliferation, and survival. Accumulating evidence suggests that the pathway also critically regulates these events during placental development and differentiation. Herein, we summarize our present knowledge about Notch signalling in murine and human placentation and discuss its potential role in the pathophysiology of gestational disorders. Studies in mice suggest that Notch controls trophectoderm formation, decidualization, placental branching morphogenesis and endovascular trophoblast invasion. In humans, the particular signalling cascade promotes formation of the extravillous trophoblast lineage and regulates trophoblast proliferation, survival and differentiation. Expression patterns as well as functional analyses indicate distinct roles of Notch receptors in different trophoblast subtypes. Altered effects of Notch signalling have been detected in choriocarcinoma cells, consistent with its role in cancer development and progression. Moreover, deregulation of Notch signalling components were observed in pregnancy disorders such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. In summary, Notch plays fundamental roles in different developmental processes of the placenta. Abnormal signalling through this pathway could contribute to the pathogenesis of gestational diseases with aberrant placentation and trophoblast function.
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Li S, Winuthayanon W. Oviduct: roles in fertilization and early embryo development. J Endocrinol 2017; 232:R1-R26. [PMID: 27875265 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Animal oviducts and human Fallopian tubes are a part of the female reproductive tract that hosts fertilization and pre-implantation development of the embryo. With an increasing understanding of roles of the oviduct at the cellular and molecular levels, current research signifies the importance of the oviduct on naturally conceived fertilization and pre-implantation embryo development. This review highlights the physiological conditions within the oviduct during fertilization, environmental regulation, oviductal fluid composition and its role in protecting embryos and supplying nutrients. Finally, the review compares different aspects of naturally occurring fertilization and assisted reproductive technology (ART)-achieved fertilization and embryo development, giving insight into potential areas for improvement in this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Li
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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