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Graton ME, Spaans F, He R, Chatterjee P, Kirschenman R, Quon A, Phillips TJ, Case CP, Davidge ST. Sex-specific differences in the mechanisms for enhanced thromboxane A 2-mediated vasoconstriction in adult offspring exposed to prenatal hypoxia. Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:52. [PMID: 38898532 PMCID: PMC11188502 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00627-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal hypoxia, a common pregnancy complication, leads to impaired cardiovascular outcomes in the adult offspring. It results in impaired vasodilation in coronary and mesenteric arteries of the adult offspring, due to reduced nitric oxide (NO). Thromboxane A2 (TxA2) is a potent vasoconstrictor increased in cardiovascular diseases, but its role in the impact of prenatal hypoxia is unknown. To prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease by prenatal hypoxia, we have tested a maternal treatment using a nanoparticle-encapsulated mitochondrial antioxidant (nMitoQ). We hypothesized that prenatal hypoxia enhances vascular TxA2 responses in the adult offspring, due to decreased NO modulation, and that this might be prevented by maternal nMitoQ treatment. METHODS Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats received a single intravenous injection (100 µL) of vehicle (saline) or nMitoQ (125 µmol/L) on gestational day (GD)15 and were exposed to normoxia (21% O2) or hypoxia (11% O2) from GD15 to GD21 (term = 22 days). Coronary and mesenteric arteries were isolated from the 4-month-old female and male offspring, and vasoconstriction responses to U46619 (TxA2 analog) were evaluated using wire myography. In mesenteric arteries, L-NAME (pan-NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor) was used to assess NO modulation. Mesenteric artery endothelial (e)NOS, and TxA2 receptor expression, superoxide, and 3-nitrotyrosine levels were assessed by immunofluorescence. RESULTS Prenatal hypoxia resulted in increased U46619 responsiveness in coronary and mesenteric arteries of the female offspring, and to a lesser extent in the male offspring, which was prevented by nMitoQ. In females, there was a reduced impact of L-NAME in mesenteric arteries of the prenatal hypoxia saline-treated females, and reduced 3-nitrotyrosine levels. In males, L-NAME increased U46619 responses in mesenteric artery to a similar extent, but TxA2 receptor expression was increased by prenatal hypoxia. There were no changes in eNOS or superoxide levels. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal hypoxia increased TxA2 vasoconstrictor capacity in the adult offspring in a sex-specific manner, via reduced NO modulation in females and increased TP expression in males. Maternal placental antioxidant treatment prevented the impact of prenatal hypoxia. These findings increase our understanding of how complicated pregnancies can lead to a sex difference in the programming of cardiovascular disease in the adult offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murilo E Graton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Rose He
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Paulami Chatterjee
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Raven Kirschenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Anita Quon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Tom J Phillips
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - C Patrick Case
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1QU, UK
| | - Sandra T Davidge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada.
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada.
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Deepak V, El-Balawi L, Harris LK. Placental Drug Delivery to Treat Pre-Eclampsia and Fetal Growth Restriction. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2311165. [PMID: 38745536 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202311165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR) continue to cause unacceptably high levels of morbidity and mortality, despite significant pharmaceutical and technological advances in other disease areas. The recent pandemic has also impacted obstetric care, as COVID-19 infection increases the risk of poor pregnancy outcomes. This review explores the reasons why it lacks effective drug treatments for the placental dysfunction that underlies many common obstetric conditions and describes how nanomedicines and targeted drug delivery approaches may provide the solution to the current drug drought. The ever-increasing range of biocompatible nanoparticle formulations available is now making it possible to selectively deliver drugs to uterine and placental tissues and dramatically limit fetal drug transfer. Formulations that are refractory to placental uptake offer the possibility of retaining drugs within the maternal circulation, allowing pregnant individuals to take medicines previously considered too harmful to the developing baby. Liposomes, ionizable lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and adenoviral vectors have all been used to create efficacious drug delivery systems for use in pregnancy, although each approach offers distinct advantages and limitations. It is imperative that recent advances continue to be built upon and that there is an overdue investment of intellectual and financial capital in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkataraman Deepak
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
- St Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Lujain El-Balawi
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Lynda K Harris
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
- St Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
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Koma R, Shibaguchi T, Yamada T, Nonaka Y, Jue T, Yamazaki A, Masuda K. Endurance training increases mitochondrial myoglobin and enhances its interaction with complex IV in rat plantaris muscle. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14139. [PMID: 38509816 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14139] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
AIM Endurance exercise training is known to increase mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscle. However, the molecular mechanisms behind this are not fully understood. Myoglobin (Mb) is a member of the globin family, which is highly expressed in skeletal and cardiac muscles. We recently found that Mb localizes inside mitochondria in skeletal muscle and interacts with cytochrome c oxidase subunit IV (COXIV), a subunit of mitochondrial complex IV, which regulates respiration by augmenting complex IV activity. In the present study, we investigated the effect of endurance training on Mb-COXIV interaction within mitochondria in rat skeletal muscle. METHODS Eight-week-old male Wistar rats were subjected to 6-week treadmill running training. Forty-eight hours after the last training session, the plantaris muscle was removed under anesthesia and used for biochemical analysis. RESULTS The endurance training increased mitochondrial content in the skeletal muscle. It also augmented complex IV-dependent oxygen consumption and complex IV activity in isolated mitochondria from skeletal muscle. Furthermore, endurance training increased Mb expression at the whole muscle level. Importantly, mitochondrial Mb content and Mb-COXIV binding were increased by endurance training. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that an increase in mitochondrial Mb and the concomitant enhancement of Mb interaction with COXIV may contribute to the endurance training-induced upregulation of mitochondrial respiration by augmenting complex IV activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikuhide Koma
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Research Fellowship for Young Scientists, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsubasa Shibaguchi
- Institute of Liberal Arts and Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Yamada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Yudai Nonaka
- Institute of Liberal Arts and Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Thomas Jue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Ayaka Yamazaki
- Graduate School of Frontier Science Initiative, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kazumi Masuda
- Institute of Human and Social Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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Wang Z, Camm EJ, Nuzzo AM, Spiroski AM, Skeffington KL, Ashmore TJ, Rolfo A, Todros T, Logan A, Ma J, Murphy MP, Niu Y, Giussani DA. In vivo mitochondria-targeted protection against uterine artery vascular dysfunction and remodelling in rodent hypoxic pregnancy. J Physiol 2024; 602:1211-1225. [PMID: 38381050 DOI: 10.1113/jp286178] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Gestational hypoxia adversely affects uterine artery function, increasing complications. However, an effective therapy remains unidentified. Here, we show in rodent uterine arteries that hypoxic pregnancy promotes hypertrophic remodelling, increases constrictor reactivity via protein kinase C signalling, and triggers compensatory dilatation via nitric oxide-dependent mechanisms and stimulation of large conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ -channels. Maternal in vivo oral treatment with the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant MitoQ in hypoxic pregnancy normalises uterine artery reactivity and prevents vascular remodelling. From days 6-20 of gestation (term ∼22 days), female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to normoxic or hypoxic (13-14% O2 ) pregnancy ± daily maternal MitoQ treatment (500 µm in drinking water). At 20 days of gestation, maternal, placental and fetal tissue was frozen to determine MitoQ uptake. The uterine arteries were harvested and, in one segment, constrictor and dilator reactivity was determined by wire myography. Another segment was fixed for unbiased stereological analysis of vessel morphology. Maternal administration of MitoQ in both normoxic and hypoxic pregnancy crossed the placenta and was present in all tissues analysed. Hypoxia increased uterine artery constrictor responses to norepinephrine, angiotensin II and the protein kinase C activator, phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate. Hypoxia enhanced dilator reactivity to sodium nitroprusside, the large conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ -channel activator NS1619 and ACh via increased nitric oxide-dependent mechanisms. Uterine arteries from hypoxic pregnancy showed increased wall thickness and MitoQ treatment in hypoxic pregnancy prevented all effects on uterine artery reactivity and remodelling. The data support mitochondria-targeted therapy against adverse changes in uterine artery structure and function in high-risk pregnancy. KEY POINTS: Dysfunction and remodelling of the uterine artery are strongly implicated in many pregnancy complications, including advanced maternal age, maternal hypertension of pregnancy, maternal obesity, gestational diabetes and pregnancy at high altitude. Such complications not only have immediate adverse effects on the growth of the fetus, but also they can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in the mother and offspring. Despite this, there is a significant unmet clinical need for therapeutics that treat uterine artery vascular dysfunction in adverse pregnancy. Here, we show in a rodent model of gestational hypoxia that in vivo oral treatment of the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant MitoQ protects against uterine artery vascular dysfunction and remodelling, supporting the use of mitochondria-targeted therapy against adverse changes in uterine artery structure and function in high-risk pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongchao Wang
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Congenital Heart Disease, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
| | - Emily J Camm
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Anna Maria Nuzzo
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Ana-Mishel Spiroski
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Cardiovascular Strategic Research Initiative, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Katie L Skeffington
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Thomas J Ashmore
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alessandro Rolfo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Tullia Todros
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Angela Logan
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jin Ma
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Michael P Murphy
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Youguo Niu
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Cardiovascular Strategic Research Initiative, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Cardiovascular Strategic Research Initiative, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Li W, Liu D, Chen B, Chen X, Yu H. Ferulic acid improves cognitive impairment by regulating jumonji C domain-containing protein 6 and synaptophysin in the hippocampus in neonatal and juvenile rats with intrauterine hypoxia during pregnancy. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2023; 306:2636-2645. [PMID: 36922637 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25203] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the impacts of ferulic acid (FA) on jumonji C domain-containing protein 6 (JMJD6) and synaptophysin in the tissues of the hippocampus in neonatal and juvenile rats with intrauterine hypoxia-induced cognitive impairment. The Sprague-Dawley pregnant rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, hypoxia, and hypoxia + FA. On day 14 of pregnancy, the intrauterine hypoxia model was created by placing pregnant rats in the hypoxic and low-pressure experimental chamber for 2 hr a day for 3 days. In the hypoxia + FA group, pregnant rats were injected intraperitoneally with 4% FA, once a day for 7 days. The hypoxia group was treated with equal amounts of saline. After delivery, JMJD6 and synaptophysin mRNA and proteins in the hippocampus regions were detected by in situ hybridization and western blotting. The Morris water maze was used to evaluate cognitive function. The neonatal and juvenile rats in the hypoxia group had significantly increased expression of JMJD6 and decreased expression of synaptophysin protein and synaptophysin I mRNA in the hippocampus than those in the control group. Meanwhile, hypoxia also clearly prolonged the escape latency and shortened the stay time in the target quadrant. FA decreased the expression of JMJD6 and increased the expression of synaptophysin and improved cognitive function compared with those in the hypoxia group. FA probably ameliorated the cognitive impairment by regulating JMJD6 and synaptophysin in the hippocampus of neonatal and juvenile rats who had intrauterine hypoxia during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Dunyu Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingshu Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Chongqing Institute of Neuroscience, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
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Chatterjee P, Holody CD, Kirschenman R, Graton ME, Spaans F, Phillips TJ, Case CP, Bourque SL, Lemieux H, Davidge ST. Sex-Specific Effects of Prenatal Hypoxia and a Placental Antioxidant Treatment on Cardiac Mitochondrial Function in the Young Adult Offspring. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13624. [PMID: 37686430 PMCID: PMC10487956 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713624] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal hypoxia is associated with placental oxidative stress, leading to impaired fetal growth and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in the adult offspring; however, the mechanisms are unknown. Alterations in mitochondrial function may result in impaired cardiac function in offspring. In this study, we hypothesized that cardiac mitochondrial function is impaired in adult offspring exposed to intrauterine hypoxia, which can be prevented by placental treatment with a nanoparticle-encapsulated mitochondrial antioxidant (nMitoQ). Cardiac mitochondrial respiration was assessed in 4-month-old rat offspring exposed to prenatal hypoxia (11% O2) from gestational day (GD)15-21 receiving either saline or nMitoQ on GD 15. Prenatal hypoxia did not alter cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity in the male offspring. In females, the NADH + succinate pathway capacity decreased by prenatal hypoxia and tended to be increased by nMitoQ. Prenatal hypoxia also decreased the succinate pathway capacity in females. nMitoQ treatment increased respiratory coupling efficiency in prenatal hypoxia-exposed female offspring. In conclusion, prenatal hypoxia impaired cardiac mitochondrial function in adult female offspring only, which was improved with prenatal nMitoQ treatment. Therefore, treatment strategies targeting placental oxidative stress in prenatal hypoxia may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in adult offspring by improving cardiac mitochondrial function in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulami Chatterjee
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (R.K.); (M.E.G.); (F.S.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (S.L.B.); (H.L.)
| | - Claudia D. Holody
- Faculty Saint-Jean, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Raven Kirschenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (R.K.); (M.E.G.); (F.S.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (S.L.B.); (H.L.)
| | - Murilo E. Graton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (R.K.); (M.E.G.); (F.S.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (S.L.B.); (H.L.)
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (R.K.); (M.E.G.); (F.S.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (S.L.B.); (H.L.)
| | - Tom J. Phillips
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK;
| | - C. Patrick Case
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK;
| | - Stephane L. Bourque
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (S.L.B.); (H.L.)
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Hélène Lemieux
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (S.L.B.); (H.L.)
- Faculty Saint-Jean, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Sandra T. Davidge
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (R.K.); (M.E.G.); (F.S.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (S.L.B.); (H.L.)
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van Kammen CM, van Woudenberg SJ, Schiffelers R, Terstappen F, Lely AT. Nanomedicines: An approach to treat placental insufficiency and the current challenges. J Control Release 2023; 360:57-68. [PMID: 37330012 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.06.003] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction are common pregnancy complications that significantly impact perinatal health and offspring development later in life. The origin of these complex syndromes overlap in placental insufficiency. Progress in developing treatments for maternal, placental or fetal health is mainly limited by the risk of maternal and fetal toxicity. Nanomedicines are a promising approach to safely treat pregnancy complications since they can regulate drug interaction with the placenta to enhance efficacy of the treatment while minimizing exposure of the fetus. METHODS This narrative review discusses the current developments and challenges of nanomedicines during pregnancy with a focus on preclinical models of placenta insufficiency syndromes. Firstly, we outline the safety requirements and potential therapeutic maternal and placental targets. Secondly, we review the prenatal therapeutic effects of the nanomedicines that have been tested in experimental models of placental insufficiency syndromes. RESULTS The majority of liposomes and polymeric drug delivery system show promising results regarding the prevention of trans-placental passage nanomedicines in uncomplicated and complicated pregnancies. The others two studied classes, quantum dots and silicon nanoparticles, have been investigated to a limited extent in placental insufficiency syndromes. Characteristics of the nanoparticles such as charge, size, and timing of administration have been shown to influence the trans-placental passage. The few available preclinical therapeutic studies on placental insufficiency syndromes predominantly show beneficial effects of nanomedicines on both maternal and fetal health, but demonstrate contradicting results on placental health. Interpretation of results in this field is complicated by the fact that results are influenced by the choice of animal species and model, gestational age, placental maturity and integrity, and nanoparticle administration route. CONCLUSION Nanomedicines form a promising therapeutic approach during (complicated) pregnancies mainly by reducing fetal toxicity and regulating drug interaction with the placenta. Different nanomedicines have been proven to effectively prevent trans-placental passage of encapsulated agents. This can be expected to dramatically reduce risks for fetal adverse effects. Furthermore, a number of these nanomedicines positively impacted maternal and fetal health in animal models for placental insufficiency. Demonstrating that effective drug concentrations can be reached in the target tissue. While these first animal studies are encouraging, more research is needed to better understand the influence of the pathophysiology of this multi-factorial disease before implementation in clinical practice can be considered. Therefore, extensive evaluation of safety and efficacy of these targeted nanoparticles is needed within multiple animal, in vitro, and/or ex vivo models. This may be complemented by diagnostic tools to assess the disease status to identify the best time to initiate treatment. Together these investigations should contribute to building confidence in the safety of nanomedicines for treating mother and child, as safety has, understandably, the highest priority in this sensitive patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M van Kammen
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department CDL research, Nano medicine, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - S J van Woudenberg
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Department of Woman and Baby, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - R Schiffelers
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department CDL research, Nano medicine, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - F Terstappen
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Department of Woman and Baby, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A T Lely
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Department of Woman and Baby, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Mallette JH, Crudup BF, Alexander BT. Growth Restriction in Preeclampsia: Lessons from Animal Models. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 32:100647. [PMID: 36968132 PMCID: PMC10035651 DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2023.100647] [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] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia remains a major health concern for mother and child. Yet, treatment options remain limited to early delivery. Placental dysfunction in preeclampsia occurs in response to an increase in oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines with vasoactive and anti-angiogenic factors contributing to impaired maternal and fetal health. Moreover, recent studies indicate a potential role for epigenetic mediators in the pathophysiology of placental ischemia. Numerous animal models are utilized to explore the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. This review provides a brief overview of recent progress in preclinical studies regarding potential therapeutic targets for the treatment and prevention of preeclampsia with an emphasis on fetal growth restriction and the fetal programming of increased cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan H. Mallette
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS USA
| | - Breland F. Crudup
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS USA
| | - Barbara T. Alexander
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS USA
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Salazar-Petres E, Pereira-Carvalho D, Lopez-Tello J, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. Maternal and Intrauterine Influences on Feto-Placental Growth Are Accompanied by Sexually Dimorphic Changes in Placental Mitochondrial Respiration, and Metabolic Signalling Pathways. Cells 2023; 12:797. [PMID: 36899933 PMCID: PMC10000946 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Adverse maternal environments such as small size, malnutrition, and metabolic conditions are known to influence fetal growth outcomes. Similarly, fetal growth and metabolic alterations may alter the intrauterine environment and affect all fetuses in multiple gestation/litter-bearing species. The placenta is the site of convergence between signals derived from the mother and the developing fetus/es. Its functions are fuelled by energy generated by mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The aim of this study was to delineate the role of an altered maternal and/or fetal/intrauterine environment in feto-placental growth and placental mitochondrial energetic capacity. To address this, in mice, we used disruptions of the gene encoding phosphoinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) p110α, a growth and metabolic regulator to perturb the maternal and/or fetal/intrauterine environment and study the impact on wildtype conceptuses. We found that feto-placental growth was modified by a perturbed maternal and intrauterine environment, and effects were most evident for wildtype males compared to females. However, placental mitochondrial complex I+II OXPHOS and total electron transport system (ETS) capacity were similarly reduced for both fetal sexes, yet reserve capacity was additionally decreased in males in response to the maternal and intrauterine perturbations. These were also sex-dependent differences in the placental abundance of mitochondrial-related proteins (e.g., citrate synthase and ETS complexes), and activity of growth/metabolic signalling pathways (AKT and MAPK) with maternal and intrauterine alterations. Our findings thus identify that the mother and the intrauterine environment provided by littermates modulate feto-placental growth, placental bioenergetics, and metabolic signalling in a manner dependent on fetal sex. This may have relevance for understanding the pathways leading to reduced fetal growth, particularly in the context of suboptimal maternal environments and multiple gestation/litter-bearing species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Salazar-Petres
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomás, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Daniela Pereira-Carvalho
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Amanda N. Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
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10
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Tong W, Ganguly E, Villalobos-Labra R, Quon A, Spaans F, Giussani DA, Davidge ST. Sex-Specific Differences in the Placental Unfolded Protein Response in a Rodent Model of Gestational Hypoxia. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1994-1997. [PMID: 36574145 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01157-w] [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: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Gestational hypoxia is a major contributor to fetal growth restriction (FGR) and perinatal morbidity and mortality and has been closely linked to the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in the placenta. Recent studies on adverse pregnancy conditions show differential adaptive responses in pregnancies carrying male or female fetuses. Here, we use an established rat model of hypoxic pregnancy and FGR to test the hypothesis that chronic hypoxia promotes sexually dimorphic activation of the placental UPR. Our data showed that gestational hypoxia increased glucose regulatory protein 78 (GRP78) expression in male placentae, increased activating transcription factor 6 activation (ATF6) in female placentae, and did not induce changes in other UPR markers. In addition, gestational hypoxia reduced fetal weight only in males and ATF6 activation correlated with an increase in the fetal crown-rump-length/body weight ratio only in females. These results suggest sex-specific divergence in the placental adaptive response to gestational hypoxia, which may account for the sexual dimorphism observed in placental function and pregnancy outcomes in complicated pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Tong
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Esha Ganguly
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Roberto Villalobos-Labra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anita Quon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sandra T Davidge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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11
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Zhang X, Chen Y, Sun D, Zhu X, Ying X, Yao Y, Fei W, Zheng C. Emerging pharmacologic interventions for pre-eclampsia treatment. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:739-759. [PMID: 36223503 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2134779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication and a major global concern for the mortality of both mother and fetus. Existing symptomatic treatments do not delay disease progression; thus, timely delivery of the baby is the most effective measure. However, the risk of various maternal and fetal injuries remains. AREAS COVERED In this review, we summarize the potential strategies for pharmacologic interventions in pre-eclamptic therapy. Specifically, we discuss the pathophysiological process of various effective candidate therapeutics that act on potential pathways and molecular targets to inhibit key stages of the disease. We refer to this pathogenesis-focused drug discovery model as a pathogenesis-target-drug (P-T-D) strategy. Finally, we discuss the introduction of nanotechnologies to improve the safety and efficacy of therapeutics via their specific placental targeting ability and placental retention effects. EXPERT OPINION Despite the active development of novel pharmacological treatments based on our current knowledge of pre-eclamptic pathogenesis, investigations are still in the early phase. Thus, further exploration of the pathological mechanisms, integrated with the P-T-D strategy and novel nanosystems, could encourage the development of more effective and safer strategies. Such advances could lead to a shift from expectant management to mechanistic-based therapy for pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Dongli Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xia Ying
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Weidong Fei
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Caihong Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
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12
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Pereira-Carvalho D, Salazar-Petres E, Lopez-Tello J, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. Maternal and Fetal PI3K-p110α Deficiency Induces Sex-Specific Changes in Conceptus Growth and Placental Mitochondrial Bioenergetic Reserve in Mice. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9090501. [PMID: 36136716 PMCID: PMC9506205 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9090501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth is reliant on placental formation and function, which, in turn, requires the energy produced by the mitochondria. Prior work has shown that both mother and fetus operate via the phosphoinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-p110α signalling pathway to modify placental development, function, and fetal growth outcomes. This study in mice used genetic inactivation of PI3K-p110α (α/+) in mothers and fetuses and high resolution respirometry to investigate the influence of maternal and fetal PI3K-p110α deficiency on fetal and placental growth, in relation to placental mitochondrial bioenergetics, for each fetal sex. The effect of PI3K-p110α deficiency on maternal body composition was also determined to understand more about the maternal-driven changes in feto-placental development. These data show that male fetuses were more sensitive than females to fetal PI3K-p110α deficiency, as they had greater reductions in fetal and placental weight, when compared to their WT littermates. Placental weight was also altered in males only of α/+ dams. In addition, α/+ male, but not female, fetuses showed an increase in mitochondrial reserve capacity, when compared to their WT littermates in α/+ dams. Finally, α/+ dams exhibited reduced adipose depot masses, compared to wild-type dams. These findings, thus, demonstrate that maternal nutrient reserves and ability to apportion nutrients to the fetus are reduced in α/+ dams. Moreover, maternal and fetal PI3K-p110α deficiency impacts conceptus growth and placental mitochondrial bioenergetic function, in a manner dependent on fetal sex.
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13
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Size-dependent placental retention effect of liposomes in ICR pregnant mice: Potential superiority in placenta-derived disease therapy. Int J Pharm 2022; 625:122121. [PMID: 35987320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122121] [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: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The great challenge in developing safe medications for placenta-derived diseases is to reduce or eliminate fetal drug exposure while still providing the necessary therapeutic effect. Rapid advances in nanotechnology have brought opportunities for the therapy of placenta-derived disease through accumulating the drug in the placenta while reducing its placental penetration. Among various nanocarriers, liposomes are regarded as an ideal type of carrier for placental drug delivery due to their biosafety and biodegradability. However, their placental retention effect with different particle sizes has not been studied. This research aimed to explore a suitable size of liposomes for placenta drug delivery. Cy 5 dye was chosen as a model molecule for tracing the distribution of three different-sized liposomes (∼80 nm, 200 nm, and 500 nm) in ICR pregnant mice. The stability, cytotoxicity, and cellular uptake study of Cy 5-loaded liposomes were performed. The in vivo fluorescence studies on ICR pregnant mice suggested that the particle size of liposomes was positively correlated with the degree of liposome aggregation in the placenta. The ratio of fluorescence in the placenta and fetus section (P/F value) was proposed to evaluate the placental retention effect of different-sized liposomes. The results showed that the liposomes with 500 nm had the highest P/F value and thus exhibited the strongest placental retention effect and the weakest placental penetration ability. Moreover, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the reliability of the fluorescence section analysis in exploring the placental retention effect of nanovehicles. In general, this study introduced a simple and intuitive method to evaluate the placental retention effect of nanoplatforms and defined a suitable size of liposomes for placenta-derived disease drug delivery.
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14
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Hu XQ, Song R, Dasgupta C, Romero M, Juarez R, Hanson J, Blood AB, Wilson SM, Zhang L. MicroRNA-210-mediated mitochondrial reactive oxygen species confer hypoxia-induced suppression of spontaneous transient outward currents in ovine uterine arteries. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:4640-4654. [PMID: 35776536 PMCID: PMC9474621 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15914] [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: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Hypoxia during pregnancy is associated with increased uterine vascular resistance and elevated blood pressure both in women and female sheep. A previous study demonstrated a causal role of microRNA‐210 (miR‐210) in gestational hypoxia‐induced suppression of Ca2+ sparks/spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs) in ovine uterine arteries, but the underlying mechanisms remain undetermined. We tested the hypothesis that miR‐210 perturbs mitochondrial metabolism and increases mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) that confer hypoxia‐induced suppression of STOCs in uterine arteries. Experimental Approach Resistance‐sized uterine arteries were isolated from near‐term pregnant sheep and were treated ex vivo in normoxia and hypoxia (10.5% O2) for 48 h. Key Results Hypoxia increased mtROS and suppressed mitochondrial respiration in uterine arteries, which were also produced by miR‐210 mimic to normoxic arteries and blocked by antagomir miR‐210‐LNA in hypoxic arteries. Hypoxia or miR‐210 mimic inhibited Ca2+ sparks/STOCs and increased uterine arterial myogenic tone, which were inhibited by the mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant MitoQ. Hypoxia and miR‐210 down‐regulated iron–sulfur cluster scaffold protein (ISCU) in uterine arteries and knockdown of ISCU via siRNAs suppressed mitochondrial respiration, increased mtROS, and inhibited STOCs. In addition, blockade of mitochondrial electron transport chain with antimycin and rotenone inhibited large‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ channels, decreased STOCs and increased uterine arterial myogenic tone. Conclusion and Implications This study demonstrates a novel mechanistic role for the miR‐210‐ISCU‐mtROS axis in inhibiting Ca2+ sparks/STOCs in the maladaptation of uterine arteries and provides new insights into the understanding of mitochondrial perturbations in the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications resulted from hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Qun Hu
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Rui Song
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Chiranjib Dasgupta
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Monica Romero
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Rucha Juarez
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Jenna Hanson
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Arlin B Blood
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Sean M Wilson
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
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15
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Preeclampsia complicates 5-10% of all pregnancies and is a leading cause of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. The placenta plays a pivotal role in determining pregnancy outcome by supplying the fetus with oxygen and nutrients and by synthesizing hormones. Placental function is highly dependent on energy supplied by mitochondria. It is well-known that preeclampsia is originated from placental dysfunction, although the etiology of it remains elusive. RECENT FINDINGS During the last three decades, substantial evidence suggests that mitochondrial abnormality is a major contributor to placental dysfunction. In addition, mitochondrial damage caused by circulating bioactive factors released from the placenta may cause endothelial dysfunction and subsequent elevation in maternal blood pressure. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of mitochondrial abnormality in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and discuss therapeutic approaches targeting mitochondria for treatment of preeclampsia.
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16
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The Impact of Oxidative Stress of Environmental Origin on the Onset of Placental Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11010106. [PMID: 35052610 PMCID: PMC8773163 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) plays a pivotal role in placental development; however, abnormal loads in oxidative stress molecules may overwhelm the placental defense mechanisms and cause pathological situations. The environment in which the mother evolves triggers an exposure of the placental tissue to chemical, physical, and biological agents of OS, with potential pathological consequences. Here we shortly review the physiological and developmental functions of OS in the placenta, and present a series of environmental pollutants inducing placental oxidative stress, for which some insights regarding the underlying mechanisms have been proposed, leading to a recapitulation of the noxious effects of OS of environmental origin upon the human placenta.
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17
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Wang B, Zeng H, Liu J, Sun M. Effects of Prenatal Hypoxia on Nervous System Development and Related Diseases. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:755554. [PMID: 34759794 PMCID: PMC8573102 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.755554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The fetal origins of adult disease (FOAD) hypothesis, which was proposed by David Barker in the United Kingdom in the late 1980s, posited that adult chronic diseases originated from various adverse stimuli in early fetal development. FOAD is associated with a wide range of adult chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and neurological disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and autism. Intrauterine hypoxia/prenatal hypoxia is one of the most common complications of obstetrics and could lead to alterations in brain structure and function; therefore, it is strongly associated with neurological disorders such as cognitive impairment and anxiety. However, how fetal hypoxia results in neurological disorders remains unclear. According to the existing literature, we have summarized the causes of prenatal hypoxia, the effects of prenatal hypoxia on brain development and behavioral phenotypes, and the possible molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hongtao Zeng
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jingliu Liu
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Miao Sun
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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18
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Hu XQ, Zhang L. Hypoxia and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Pregnancy Complications. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10030405. [PMID: 33800426 PMCID: PMC7999178 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is a common and severe stress to an organism's homeostatic mechanisms, and hypoxia during gestation is associated with significantly increased incidence of maternal complications of preeclampsia, adversely impacting on the fetal development and subsequent risk for cardiovascular and metabolic disease. Human and animal studies have revealed a causative role of increased uterine vascular resistance and placental hypoxia in preeclampsia and fetal/intrauterine growth restriction (FGR/IUGR) associated with gestational hypoxia. Gestational hypoxia has a major effect on mitochondria of uteroplacental cells to overproduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress. Excess mitochondrial ROS in turn cause uteroplacental dysfunction by damaging cellular macromolecules, which underlies the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and FGR. In this article, we review the current understanding of hypoxia-induced mitochondrial ROS and their role in placental dysfunction and the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications. In addition, therapeutic approaches selectively targeting mitochondrial ROS in the placental cells are discussed.
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