1
|
Yu S, Wang B, Rao Y, Liu M, Liang L, Gou K. Trans 10, cis 12-conjugated linoleic acid reduced reproductive ability by disrupting the estrus cycle in female mice. Anim Reprod 2024; 21:e20240010. [PMID: 38756621 PMCID: PMC11095849 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2024-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
As a positional and geometrical isomer of linoleic acid, trans 10, cis 12 conjugated linoleic acid (t10c12-CLA) reduces white fat by reducing food intake, modulating lipid metabolism, and stimulating energy expenditure. However, the t10c12-CLA products are mostly mixtures, making it difficult to obtain accurate results. Studies are needed to investigate the effects of pure t10c12-CLA on animals and humans. In this study, we used the biallelic transgenic (tg) mice, which could produce t10c12-CLA itself, to investigate the effects of pure t10c12-CLA on female reproductive ability. The results showed that the body and relative ovary weights had no significant difference between tg and wild-type (wt) littermates at ages 3 or 10 weeks. While the fecundity test found that tg mice had a significantly longer first litter time (32.0 ± 4.70 days vs. 21.3 ± 2.31 days, P<0.05), and a significantly lower number of litters (4.75 ± 2.75 vs. 6.67 ± 0.57, P<0.05) when compared with wt mice during continuous mating within seven months. Hormone profiles showed that serum estradiol levels did not change in tg mice; however, significantly (P<0.05) decreased progesterone and increased prostaglandin E2 levels were observed in tg mice compared with those of wt mice. Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed no pathological characteristics in tg ovaries, except for the increased atresia follicles (P<0.05). Moreover, the tg mice had a significantly more extended diestrus period than the wt mice (48.4 ± 6.38% vs. 39.6 ± 3.81%, P<0.05). In summary, t10c12-CLA could affect serum progesterone and prostaglandin E2 levels, lead to a disordered estrus cycle, and impact the reproductive performance of female mice. This study provided theoretical and biosafety recommendations for applying t10c12-CLA in female mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Yu
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Baozhu Wang
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yu Rao
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Luwen Liang
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kemian Gou
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hai L, Maurya VK, DeMayo FJ, Lydon JP. Establishment of Murine Pregnancy Requires the Promyelocytic Leukemia Zinc Finger Transcription Factor. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3451. [PMID: 38542422 PMCID: PMC10970820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25063451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Using an established human primary cell culture model, we previously demonstrated that the promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) transcription factor is a direct target of the progesterone receptor (PGR) and is essential for progestin-dependent decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). These in vitro findings were supported by immunohistochemical analysis of human endometrial tissue biopsies, which showed that the strongest immunoreactivity for endometrial PLZF is detected during the progesterone (P4)-dominant secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. While these human studies provided critical clinical support for the important role of PLZF in P4-dependent HESC decidualization, functional validation in vivo was not possible due to the absence of suitable animal models. To address this deficiency, we recently generated a conditional knockout mouse model in which PLZF is ablated in PGR-positive cells of the mouse (Plzf d/d). The Plzf d/d female was phenotypically analyzed using immunoblotting, real-time PCR, and immunohistochemistry. Reproductive function was tested using the timed natural pregnancy model as well as the artificial decidual response assay. Even though ovarian activity is not affected, female Plzf d/d mice exhibit an infertility phenotype due to an inability of the embryo to implant into the Plzf d/d endometrium. Initial cellular and molecular phenotyping investigations reveal that the Plzf d/d endometrium is unable to develop a transient receptive state, which is reflected at the molecular level by a blunted response to P4 exposure with a concomitant unopposed response to 17-β estradiol. In addition to a defect in P4-dependent receptivity, the Plzf d/d endometrium fails to undergo decidualization in response to an artificial decidual stimulus, providing the in vivo validation for our earlier HESC culture findings. Collectively, our new Plzf d/d mouse model underscores the physiological importance of the PLZF transcription factor not only in endometrial stromal cell decidualization but also uterine receptivity, two uterine cellular processes that are indispensable for the establishment of pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Hai
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.H.); (V.K.M.)
| | - Vineet K. Maurya
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.H.); (V.K.M.)
| | - Francesco J. DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA;
| | - John P. Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.H.); (V.K.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Garg A, Zielinska AP, Yeung AC, Abdelmalak R, Chen R, Hossain A, Israni A, Nelson SM, Babwah AV, Dhillo WS, Abbara A. Luteal phase support in assisted reproductive technology. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:149-167. [PMID: 38110672 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00921-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Infertility affects one in six couples, with in vitro fertilization (IVF) offering many the chance of conception. Compared to the solitary oocyte produced during the natural menstrual cycle, the supraphysiological ovarian stimulation needed to produce multiple oocytes during IVF results in a dysfunctional luteal phase that can be insufficient to support implantation and maintain pregnancy. Consequently, hormonal supplementation with luteal phase support, principally exogenous progesterone, is used to optimize pregnancy rates; however, luteal phase support remains largely 'black-box' with insufficient clarity regarding the optimal timing, dosing, route and duration of treatment. Herein, we review the evidence on luteal phase support and highlight remaining uncertainties and future research directions. Specifically, we outline the physiological luteal phase, which is regulated by progesterone from the corpus luteum, and evaluate how it is altered by the supraphysiological ovarian stimulation used during IVF. Additionally, we describe the effects of the hormonal triggers used to mature oocytes on the degree of luteal phase support required. We explain the histological transformation of the endometrium during the luteal phase and evaluate markers of endometrial receptivity that attempt to identify the 'window of implantation'. We also cover progesterone receptor signalling, circulating progesterone levels associated with implantation, and the pharmacokinetics of available progesterone formulations to inform the design of luteal phase support regimens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Garg
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Agata P Zielinska
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Arthur C Yeung
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Abdelmalak
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Runzhi Chen
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Aleena Hossain
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Alisha Israni
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Scott M Nelson
- School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The Fertility Partnership (TFP), Oxford, UK
| | - Andy V Babwah
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ali Abbara
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jin F, Ruan X, Qin S, Xu X, Yang Y, Gu M, Li Y, Cheng J, Du J, Yin X, Mueck AO. Traditional Chinese medicine Dingkun pill to increase fertility in women with a thin endometrium-a prospective randomized study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1168175. [PMID: 37842304 PMCID: PMC10569311 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1168175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study is to optimize the treatment methods of infertility, which is suggested to be mainly caused by thin endometrium, using a special form of traditional Chinese medicine, the Dingkun pill (DKP), to increase the beneficial endometrial effect of conventional hormone/progestogen therapy. Methods A total of 307 patients visiting our specialized gynecological endocrinology department because of infertility, which we suggested to be caused by thin endometrium [endometrial thickness (EMT) < 7 mm], were randomly assigned to the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group was treated with estradiol + sequential dydrogesterone + DKP (every day); the control group received hormonal treatment without the Chinese medicine. All patients were monitored in terms of follicle diameter, EMT, and endometrial type every 2 days from the 8th to the 10th day of the menstrual cycle until ovulation day during three menstrual cycles. Serum progesterone levels on 7-8 days after ovulation were measured, and the cumulative pregnancy rate during three menstrual cycles between the two groups was compared. Results EMT on ovulation day in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (7.88 vs. 7.15 mm; p < 0.001). The proportion of type A and type B endometrium in total was significantly higher in the experimental group than that in the control group (83.2% vs. 77.7%; p < 0.05). Progesterone levels were significantly higher in the experimental group than those in the control group (10.874 vs. 10.074 ng/mL; p < 0.001). The cumulative pregnancy rate, the main outcome of the study, was significantly higher in the experimental group than that in the control group (29.2% vs. 15.7%; p < 0.05). Conclusion DKP added to conventional estrogen/progestogen therapy can significantly improve EMT and luteal function in patients attending due to infertility. Because this regimen increased the cumulative pregnancy rate in our study, we conclude that DKP can be used to increase the so-called "thin endometrium infertility".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fengyu Jin
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyan Ruan
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Qin
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Xu
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Muqing Gu
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanqiu Li
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaojiao Cheng
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodan Yin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Alfred O. Mueck
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Women’s Health, University of Tuebingen, University Women’s Hospital and Research Centre for Women’s Health, Tuebingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang Y, Yin B, Li S, Cui Y, Liu J. Friend leukemia integration 1 overexpression decreases endometrial receptivity and induces embryo implantation failure by promoting PART1 transcription in the endometrial epithelial cells. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16105. [PMID: 37780395 PMCID: PMC10540769 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is a crucial assisted reproductive technology for treating infertility. However, recurrent implantation failure (RIF), a significant challenge in IVF-ET success, remains unresolved. This study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of FLI1 in endometrial receptivity and RIF. Methods Differential endometrial cell proportions between patients with RIF and control subjects were assessed using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. The chromatin accessibility of FLI1 in the luteal endometrial tissue of patients with RIF and control subjects was examined using the single-cell assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (scATAC-seq). FLI1 mRNA and protein levels were gauged by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. Cell viability and migration were examined via cell counting kit (CCK)-8 and scratch healing assays. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers were analyzed using western blotting. Mechanisms underlying FLI1's regulation of PART1 transcription and expression in endometrial epithelial cells were explored using chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) carrying epithelial cell-specific FLI1/PART1 overexpression sequences was uterinely injected in mice to assess FLI1/PART1 effects. Results scRNA-seq revealed diminished endometrial epithelial cell proportions in RIF patients. Meanwhile, scATAC-seq indicated enhanced chromatin accessibility of FLI1 in these cells. FLI1 exhibited specific expression in RIF patients' endometrial epithelial cells. Specific FLI1 overexpression inhibited embryo implantation, while knockdown enhanced it. Pregnant mice injected with AAV encoding FLI1 overexpression had significantly lower implantation than AAV-negative controls. FLI1 binding to PART1 promoter heightened PART1 transcription and expression in endometrial epithelial cells. Rescue experiments illustrated FLI1's role in embryo implantation by boosting PART1 expression. PART1 was notably elevated in RIF patients' luteal endometrial tissue and non-receptive endometrial epithelial cells (HEC-1-A). Specific PART1 overexpression dampened embryo implantation, whereas knockdown promoted it. Pregnant mice injected with AAV encoding PART1 had lower implantation than negative controls. PART1 knockdown mitigated FLI1's inhibitory impact on HEC-1-A cell viability and migration. Conclusions FLI1 overexpression in the endometrial epithelial cells of patients with RIF inhibited embryo implantation by binding to the PART1 promoter region to promote PART1 expression. These findings can aid in the development of novel therapeutic targets for RIF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yile Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Provincial People’s hospital, Taiyuan, China
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Beining Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sichen Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yueyue Cui
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianrong Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Provincial People’s hospital, Taiyuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pandur E, Pap R, Jánosa G, Horváth A, Sipos K. Fractalkine Improves the Expression of Endometrium Receptivity-Related Genes and Proteins at Desferrioxamine-Induced Iron Deficiency in HEC-1A Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097924. [PMID: 37175630 PMCID: PMC10177787 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097924] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Fractalkine (CX3CL1/FKN) is a unique chemokine belonging to the CX3C chemokine subclass. FKN exists in two forms: a membrane-bound form expressed by both endometrium cells and trophoblasts thought to be implicated in maternal-fetal interaction and a soluble form expressed by endometrium cells. Endometrium receptivity is crucial in embryo implantation and a complex process regulated by large numbers of proteins, e.g., cytokines, progesterone receptor (PR), SOX-17, prostaglandin receptors (PTGER2), and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). It has also been reported that iron is important in fertility and affects the iron status of the mother. Therefore, iron availability in the embryo contributes to fertilization and pregnancy. In this study, we focused on the effect of iron deficiency on the secreted cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, leukocyte inhibitory factor, TGF-β), chemokines (IL-8, FKN), and other regulatory proteins (bone morphogenic protein 2, activin, follistatin, PR, SOX-17, prostaglandin E2 receptor, TIMP2), and the modifying effect of FKN on the expression of these proteins, which may improve endometrium receptivity. Endometrial iron deficiency was mediated by desferrioxamine (DFO) treatment of HEC-1A cells. FKN was added to the cells 24 h and 48 h after DFO with or without serum for modelling the possible iron dependence of the alterations. Our findings support the hypothesis that FKN ameliorates the effects of anemia on the receptivity-related genes and proteins in HEC-1A cells by increasing the secretion of the receptivity-related cytokines via the fractalkine receptor (CX3CR1). FKN may contribute to cell proliferation and differentiation by regulating activin, follistatin, and BMP2 expressions, and to implantation by altering the protein levels of PR, SOX-17, PTGER2, and TIMP2. FKN mitigates the negative effect of iron deficiency on the receptivity-related genes and proteins of HEC-1A endometrium cells, suggesting its important role in the regulation of endometrium receptivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edina Pandur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ramóna Pap
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gergely Jánosa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Adrienn Horváth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Katalin Sipos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wu Y, Li M, Zhang J, Wang S. Unveiling uterine aging: Much more to learn. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 86:101879. [PMID: 36764360 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Uterine aging is an important factor that impacts fertility, reproductive health, and uterus-related diseases; however, it remains poorly explored. Functionally, these disturbances have been associated with an abnormal hormonal response in the endometrium and decreased endometrial receptivity. Based on emerging evidence, these alterations are mediated via the senescence of endometrial stem cells and impaired decidualization of endometrial stromal cells. Multiple molecular activities may participate in uterine aging, including oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, DNA damage response, and cellular senescence. Over the past decade, several protective strategies targeting these biological processes have afforded promising results, including stem cell therapy, anti-aging drugs, and herbal medicines. However, the currently available evidence is fragmented and scattered. Here, we summarize the most recent findings regarding uterine aging, including functional and structural alterations and potential cellular and molecular mechanisms, and discuss potential protective interventions against uterine aging. Thereby, we hope to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological processes and underlying mechanisms associated with uterine aging, as well as improve fecundity and reproductive outcomes in females of advanced reproductive age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaling Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Milu Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hu S, Sun Z, Li B, Zhao H, Wang Y, Yao G, Li X, Bian X, Li TC, Vankelecom H, Sun Y. iTRAQ-based Proteomic Analysis Unveils ACSL4 as a Novel Potential Regulator of Human Endometrial Receptivity. Endocrinology 2023; 164:6991315. [PMID: 36652382 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Competent endometrial receptivity is a prerequisite for successful embryo implantation. Identification of novel key molecules involved in endometrial receptivity is essential to better interpret human implantation and improve pregnancy rates in assisted reproduction treatment. Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based proteomics was performed to profile the proteomes of the prereceptive (luteinizing hormone [LH] + 2, n = 4) and receptive (LH + 7, n = 4) endometrial tissues. A total of 173 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between LH + 2 and LH + 7 endometrial samples were identified. Integrated analysis of the proteomic data and published transcriptomic data was performed to identify the concordant DEPs with differential expression at both the messenger RNA and protein levels. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was performed on concordant DEPs. We first identified 63 novel concordant DEPs and 5 hub proteins (ACSL4, ACSL5, COL1A1, PTGS1, and PLA2G4F) between LH + 2 and LH + 7 endometrial samples. ACSL4 was predominantly expressed in endometrial epithelial cells and its expression was significantly upregulated by progesterone in the LH + 7 endometrium and significantly downregulated in repeated implantation failure patients. Knockdown of ACSL4 in endometrial epithelial cells induced the downregulation of endometrial receptivity markers (HOXA10, COX2, and LIF) and the significant decrease of implantation rate during in vitro implantation analysis. This study provides the first gel-independent quantitative proteomes of the LH + 2 and LH + 7 human endometrium using iTRAQ technology. The identified concordant DEPs and hub proteins open a new avenue for future studies aimed at elucidating the underlying mechanisms governing endometrial receptivity. ACSL4 was identified as a novel regulatory molecule in the establishment of endometrial receptivity and might play important roles during implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuanggang Hu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Zhe Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Boyu Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Hanting Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Guangxin Yao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Xuejiao Bian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Hugo Vankelecom
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, Research Unit of Stem Cell Research, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yun Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
An In Vivo Screening Model for Investigation of Pathophysiology of Human Implantation Failure. Biomolecules 2022; 13:biom13010079. [PMID: 36671464 PMCID: PMC9856033 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
To improve current infertility treatments, it is important to understand the pathophysiology of implantation failure. However, many molecules are involved in the normal biological process of implantation and the roles of each molecule and the molecular mechanism are not fully understood. This review highlights the hemagglutinating virus of Japan (HVJ; Sendai virus) envelope (HVJ-E) vector, which uses inactivated viral particles as a local and transient gene transfer system to the murine uterus during the implantation period in order to investigate the molecular mechanism of implantation. In vivo screening in mice using the HVJ-E vector system suggests that signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (Stat-3) could be a diagnostic and therapeutic target for women with a history of implantation failure. The HVJ-E vector system hardly induces complete defects in genes; however, it not only suppresses but also transiently overexpresses some genes in the murine uterus. These features may be useful in investigating the pathophysiology of implantation failure in women.
Collapse
|
10
|
UPLC-MS/MS Analysis of Naturally Derived Apis mellifera Products and Their Promising Effects against Cadmium-Induced Adverse Effects in Female Rats. Nutrients 2022; 15:nu15010119. [PMID: 36615776 PMCID: PMC9823550 DOI: 10.3390/nu15010119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Honeybee products arouse interest in society due to their natural origin and range of important biological properties. Propolis (P) and royal jelly (RJ) attract scientists' attention because they exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-tumor, and immunomodulatory abilities. In this study, we tested whether P and RJ could mitigate the adverse effects of cadmium (Cd) exposure, with particular emphasis on the reproductive function in female rats. In this line, one week of pretreatment was established. Six experimental groups were created, including (i) the control group (without any supplementation), (ii) the Cd group (receiving CdCl2 in a dose of 4.5 mg/kg/day), (iii) the P group (50 mg of P/kg/day), (iv) RJ group (200 mg of RJ/kg/day), (v) P + Cd group (rats pretreated with P and then treated with P and Cd simultaneously), (vi) RJ + Cd group (animals pretreated with RJ before receiving CdCl2 simultaneously with RJ). Cd treatment of rats adversely affected a number of measured parameters, including body weight, ovarian structure and ultrastructure, oxidative stress parameters, increased ovarian Cd content and prolonged the estrous cycle. Pretreatment and then cotreatment with P or RJ and Cd alleviated the adverse effects of Cd, transferring the clusters in the PCA analysis chart toward the control group. However, clusters for cotreated groups were still distinctly separated from the control and P, or RJ alone treated groups. Most likely, investigated honeybee products can alter Cd absorption in the gut and/or increase its excretion through the kidneys and/or mitigate oxidative stress by various components. Undoubtedly, pretreatment with P or RJ can effectively prepare the organism to overcome harmful insults. Although the chemical composition of RJ and P is relatively well known, focusing on proportion, duration, and scheme of treatment, as well as the effects of particular components, may provide interesting data in the future. In the era of returning to natural products, both P and RJ seem valuable materials for further consideration as anti-infertility agents.
Collapse
|