miR-16 inhibits the proliferation and angiogenesis-regulating potential of mesenchymal stem cells in severe pre-eclampsia

Reaction Mechanism of Rapid CO Electroreduction to Propylene and Cyclopropane (C3+) over Triple Atom Catalysts

The carbon monoxide reduction reaction (CORR) toward C2+ and C3+ products such as propylene and cyclopropane can not only reduce anthropogenic emissions of CO and CO2 but also produce value-added organic chemicals for polymer and pharmaceutical industries. Here, we introduce the concept of triple atom catalysts (TACs) that have three intrinsically strained and active metal centers for reducing CO to C3+ products. We applied grand canonical potential kinetics (GCP-K) to screen 12 transition metals (M) supported by nitrogen-doped graphene denoted as M3N7, where M stands for Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Ir, Pt, and Au. We sought catalysts with favorable CO binding, hydrogen binding, and C-C dimerization energetics, identifying Fe3N7 and Ir3N7 as the best candidates. We then studied the entire reaction mechanism from CO to C3H6 and C2H4 as a function of applied potential via, respectively, 12-electron and 8-electron transfer pathways on Fe3N7 and Ir3N7. Density functional theory (DFT) predicts an overpotential of 0.17 VRHE for Fe3N7 toward propylene and an overpotential of 0.42 VRHE toward cyclopropane at 298.15 K and pH = 7. Also, DFT predicts an overpotential of 0.15 VRHE for Ir3N7 toward ethylene. This work provides fundamental insights into the design of advanced catalysts for C2+ and C3+ synthesis at room temperature.

Exploring the role of exosomal MicroRNAs as potential biomarkers in preeclampsia

The complex pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE), a significant contributor to maternal and neonatal mortality globally, is poorly understood despite substantial research. This review explores the involvement of exosomal microRNAs (exomiRs) in PE, focusing on their impact on the protein kinase B (AKT)/hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF1α)/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway as well as endothelial cell proliferation and migration. Specifically, this article amalgamates existing evidence to reveal the pivotal role of exomiRs in regulating mesenchymal stem cell and trophoblast function, placental angiogenesis, the renin-angiotensin system, and nitric oxide production, which may contribute to PE etiology. This review emphasizes the limited knowledge regarding the role of exomiRs in PE while underscoring the potential of exomiRs as non-invasive biomarkers for PE diagnosis, prediction, and treatment. Further, it provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of PE, highlighting exomiRs as key players with clinical implications, warranting further exploration to enhance the current understanding and the development of novel therapeutic interventions.

Dual scaffold delivery of miR-210 mimic and miR-16 inhibitor enhances angiogenesis and osteogenesis to accelerate bone healing

Angiogenesis is critical for successful bone repair, and interestingly, miR-210 and miR-16 possess counter-active targets involved in both angiogenesis and osteogenesis: miR-210 acts as an activator by silencing EFNA3 & AcvR1b, while miR-16 inhibits both pathways by silencing VEGF & Smad5. It was thus hypothesized that dual delivery of both a miR-210 mimic and a miR-16 inhibitor from a collagen-nanohydroxyapatite scaffold system may hold significant potential for bone repair. Therefore, this systems potential to rapidly accelerate bone repair by directing enhanced angiogenic-osteogenic coupling in host cells in a rat calvarial defect model at a very early 4 week timepoint was assessed. In vitro, the treatment significantly enhanced angiogenic-osteogenic coupling of human mesenchymal stem cells, with enhanced calcium deposition after just 10 days in 2D and 14 days on scaffolds. In vivo, these dual-miRNA loaded scaffolds showed more than double bone volume and vessel recruitment increased 2.3 fold over the miRNA-free scaffolds. Overall, this study demonstrates the successful development of a dual-miRNA mimic/inhibitor scaffold for enhanced in vivo bone repair for the first time, and the possibility of extending this 'off-the-shelf' platform system to applications beyond bone offers immense potential to impact a myriad of other tissue engineering areas. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: miRNAs have potential as a new class of bone healing therapeutics as they can enhance the regenerative capacity of bone-forming cells. However, angiogenic-osteogenic coupling is critical for successful bone repair. Therefore, this study harnesses the delivery of miR-210, known to be an activator of both angiogenesis and osteogenesis, and miR-16 inhibitor, as miR-16 is known to inhibit both pathways, from a collagen-nanohydroxyapatite scaffold system to rapidly enhance osteogenesis in vitro and bone repair in vivo in a rat calvarial defect model. Overall, it describes the successful development of the first dual-miRNA mimic/inhibitor scaffold for enhanced in vivo bone repair. This 'off-the-shelf' platform system offers immense potential to extend beyond bone applications and impact a myriad of other tissue engineering areas.

MicroRNAs as the critical regulators of tumor angiogenesis in liver cancer

Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies in human digestive system. Despite the recent therapeutic methods, there is a high rate of mortality among liver cancer patients. Late diagnosis in the advanced tumor stages can be one of the main reasons for the poor prognosis in these patients. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms of liver cancer can be helpful for the early stage tumor detection and treatment. Vascular expansion in liver tumors can be one of the important reasons for poor prognosis and aggressiveness. Therefore, anti-angiogenic drugs are widely used in liver cancer patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have key roles in the regulation of angiogenesis in liver tumors. Due to the high stability of miRNAs in body fluids, these factors are widely used as the non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic markers in cancer patients. Regarding, the importance of angiogenesis during liver tumor growth and invasion, in the present review, we discussed the role of miRNAs in regulation of angiogenesis in these tumors. It has been reported that miRNAs mainly exert an anti-angiogenic function by regulation of tumor microenvironment, transcription factors, and signaling pathways in liver tumors. This review can be an effective step to suggest the miRNAs for the non-invasive early detection of malignant and invasive liver tumors.

Microbial necromass under global change and implications for soil organic matter

Microbial necromass is an important source and component of soil organic matter (SOM), especially within the most stable pools. Global change factors such as anthropogenic nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) inputs, climate warming, elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide (eCO₂ ), and periodic precipitation reduction (drought) strongly affect soil microorganisms and consequently, influence microbial necromass formation. The impacts of these global change factors on microbial necromass are poorly understood despite their critical role in the cycling and sequestration of soil carbon (C) and nutrients. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis to reveal general patterns of the effects of nutrient addition, warming, eCO₂ , and drought on amino sugars (biomarkers of microbial necromass) in soils under croplands, forests, and grasslands. Nitrogen addition combined with P and K increased the content of fungal (+21%), bacterial (+22%), and total amino sugars (+9%), consequently leading to increased SOM formation. Nitrogen addition alone increased solely bacterial necromass (+10%) because the decrease of N limitation stimulated bacterial more than fungal growth. Warming increased bacterial necromass, because bacteria have competitive advantages at high temperatures compared to fungi. Other global change factors (P and NP addition, eCO₂ , and drought) had minor effects on microbial necromass because of: (i) compensation of the impacts by opposite processes, and (ii) the short duration of experiments compared to the slow microbial necromass turnover. Future studies should focus on: (i) the stronger response of bacterial necromass to N addition and warming compared to that of fungi, and (ii) the increased microbial necromass contribution to SOM accumulation and stability under NPK fertilization, and thereby for negative feedback to climate warming.

Longitudinal Behavior of Left-Ventricular Strain in Fetal Growth Restriction

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes resulting from adaptive cardiovascular changes in conditions of placental insufficiency, leading to cardiac deformation and dysfunction, which can be evaluated with 2D speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether reduced fetal growth is associated with cardiac left-ventricle (LV) dysfunction, using 2D-STE software widely used in postnatal echocardiography. A prospective longitudinal cohort study was performed, and global (GLO) and segmental LV longitudinal strain was measured offline and compared between FGR and appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) fetuses throughout gestation. All cases of FGR fetuses were paired 1:2 to AGA fetuses, and linear mixed model analysis was performed to compare behavior differences between groups throughout pregnancy. Our study shows LV fetal longitudinal strain in FGR and AGA fetuses differed upon diagnosis and behaved differently throughout gestation. FGR fetuses had lower LV strain values, both global and segmental, in comparison to AGA, suggesting subclinical cardiac dysfunction. Our study provides more data regarding fetal cardiac function in cases of placental dysfunction, as well as highlights the potential use of 2D-STE in the follow-up of cardiac function in these fetuses.

Associations of maternal and placental extracellular vesicle miRNA with preeclampsia

Introduction: Gestational vascular complications (GVCs), including gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, are leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Elevated levels of extracellular vesicles (EVs), in GVC have been linked to vascular injury. This study aims to characterize placental and circulating EV miRNA in GVCs, and explores the involvement of EV-miRNA in GVC, and whether they may be used to distinguish between placental and maternal pathologies. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from 15 non-pregnant (NP), 18 healthy-pregnant (HP), and 23 women with GVC during the third trimester. Placental sections were obtained after caesarian section. Platelet-poor-plasma (PPP) and EV pellets were characterized: EV size/concentration, protein content and miRNA expression were measured by nanoparticle tracking analysis, western blot, nano-string technology and RT-PCR. The effects of EVs on trophoblasts and EC miRNA expression were evaluated. Results: Higher EVs concentrations were observed in HP-PPP and GVC-PPP (p < 0.0001) compared to the NP-PPP. The concentration of large EVs (>100 nm) was higher in PPP and EV pellets of HP and GVC compared to the NP group. EV pellets of pregnant women demonstrated lower expression of exosomal markers CD63/CD81 compared to NP-EVs. GVC-EVs expressed more human placental lactogen (hPL) hormone than HP-EVs, reflecting their placental origin. Screening of miRNAs in EV pellets and in PPP identified certain miRNAs that were highly expressed only in EVs pellets of the HP (13%) and GVC groups (15%), but not in the NP group. Differences were detected in the expression of hsa-miR-16-5p, hsa-miR-210, and hsa-miR-29b-3p. The expression of hsa-miR-16-5p and hsa-miR-210 was low in EV pellets obtained from NP, higher in HP-EVs, and significantly lower in GVC-EVs. Except for hsa-miR-29b-3p, which was upregulated in GVC, no significant differences were found in the levels of other miRNAs in placental sections. Exposure to GVC-EVs resulted in higher expression of hsa-miR-29b-3p compared to cells exposed to HP-EVs in villous trophoblasts, but not in EC. Conclusion: Expression of hsa-miR-16-5p and hsa-miR-210 reflects maternal pathophysiological status, while hsa-miR-29b-3p reflects placental status. These findings suggest that EV-miRNA are involved in GVC, and that they may be used to distinguish between pathologies of placental and maternal origins in preeclampsia.

Tumor necrosis factor-α-primed mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes promote M2 macrophage polarization via Galectin-1 and modify intrauterine adhesion on a novel murine model

Background

Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a condition caused due to damage or infection of the endometrium. It is characterized by continuous inflammation and following fibrosis and dysfunction. However, the current animal IUA models have several disadvantages, including complex operation, high mortality, and many extra distractions owing to opening of the abdominal cavity to expose the uterus. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which have been used in treatment of IUA, are heterogeneous and immunosuppressive. However, their therapeutic effect is not as good as expected.

Methods

Here, we successfully built a new murine IUA model, called electric tool-scratching IUA model, and applied it in our experiments to investigate the efficacy of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) primed MSCs (T-MSCs). In the new model, we used a self-made electric tool that can cause mechanical damage to the endometrium without opening the abdominal cavity. ELISA and histological staining analysis were performed to evaluate pathological features of IUA. qRT-PCR, flow cytometry and immunofluoresence staining were performed to detect the phenotypes of macrophages. TMT proteomics quantification and western blotting assay were performed to analyze the differentially expressed proteins of MSC exosomes.

Results

Based on the new IUA model, we found TNF-α pretreatment could enhance the ability of MSCs to relieve inflammation and reduce endometrium fibrosis. Mechanistically, T-MSC promoted macrophage polarization to M2 phenotype through exosomes. Subsequently, we found the expression of Galectin-1 was increased in T-MSC exosomes. Finally, we analyzed the gene expression pattern of Galectin-1 treated macrophages and found Galectin-1 promoted macrophage polarization to M2 phenotype mainly through the Jak-STAT signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Our studies proposed an innovative mouse model and a better MSC treatment strategy for IUA.

Inhibition of the AT1R agonistic autoantibody in a rat model of preeclampsia improves fetal growth in late gestation

Placenta ischemia, the initiating event in preeclampsia (PE), is associated with fetal growth restriction. Inhibition of the agonistic autoantibody against the angiotensin type 1 receptor AT1-AA, using an epitope-binding inhibitory peptide ('n7AAc') attenuates increased blood pressure at gestational day (G)19 in the clinically relevant reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) model of PE. Thus we tested the hypothesis that maternal administration of 'n7AAc' does not transfer to the fetus, improves uterine blood flow and fetal growth, and attenuates elevated placental expression of miRNAs implicated in PE and FGR. Sham or RUPP surgery was performed at G14 with vehicle or 'n7AAc' (144 µg/day) administered via an osmotic pump from G14 to G20. Maternal plasma levels of the peptide on G20 were 16.28 ± 4.4 nM, and fetal plasma levels were significantly lower at 1.15 ± 1.7 nM (P = 0.0007). The uterine artery resistance index was significantly elevated in RUPP (P < 0.0001) but was not increased in 'n7AAc'-RUPP or 'n7AAc'-Sham versus Sham. A significant reduction in fetal weight at G20 in RUPP (P = 0.003) was not observed in 'n7AAc'-RUPP. Yet, percent survival was reduced in RUPP (P = 0.0007) and 'n7AAc'-RUPP (P < 0.0002). Correlation analysis indicated the reduction in percent survival during gestation was specific to the RUPP (r = 0.5342, P = 0.043) and independent of 'n7AAc'. Placental miR-155 (P = 0.0091) and miR-181a (P = 0.0384) expression was upregulated in RUPP at G20 but was not elevated in 'n7AAc'-RUPP. Collectively, our results suggest that maternal administration of 'n7AAc' does not alter fetal growth in the RUPP implicating its potential as a therapeutic for the treatment of PE.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The seven amino acid inhibitory peptide to the AT1-AA ('n7AAc') has limited transfer to the fetus at gestational day 20, improves uterine blood flow and fetal growth in the reduced uterine perfusion pressure model of preeclampsia (PE), and does not impair fetal survival during gestation in sham-operated or placental ischemic rats. Collectively, these findings suggest that maternal administration of 'n7AAc' as an effective strategy for the treatment of PE is associated with improved outcomes in the fetus.

Placental Therapeutic Targets and Nanodelivery Systems

Pregnancy complications affect millions of women each year. Some of these diseases have high morbidity and mortality such as preeclampsia. At present, there is no safe and effective treatment for pregnancy complications, so it is still a difficult clinical problem. As many pregnancy complications are closely related to placental dysplasia, placenta-specific therapy, as an important method, is expected to be a safe, effective, and specific therapeutic strategy. This review explains in detail the placenta physiological structure, characteristics, and action mechanism of some biomolecules and signaling pathways that play roles in normal development and disorders of the development of the placenta, and how to use these biomolecules as therapeutic targets when the placenta disorder causes disease, combining the latest progress in the field of nanodelivery systems, so as to lay a foundation for the development of placenta-specific therapy of pregnancy complications.

microRNA signatures associated with fetal growth restriction: a systematic review

Placental-origin microRNA (miRNA) profiles can be useful toward early diagnosis and management of fetal growth restriction (FGR) and associated complications. We conducted a systematic review to identify case-control studies that have examined miRNA signatures associated with human FGR. We systematically searched PubMed and ScienceDirect databases for relevant articles and manually searched reference lists of the relevant articles till May 18th, 2021. Of the 2133 studies identified, 21 were included. FGR-associated upregulation of miR-210 and miR-424 and downregulation of a placenta-specific miRNA cluster miRNA located on C19MC (miR-518b, miR-519d) and miR-221-3p was reported by >1 included studies. Analysis of the target genes of these miRNA as well as pathway analysis pointed to the involvement of angiogenesis and growth signaling pathways, such as the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase- protein kinase B (PI3K-Akt) pathway. Only 3 out of the 21 included studies reported FGR-associated miRNAs in matched placental and maternal blood samples. We conclude that FGR-associated placental miRNAs could be utilized to inform clinical practice towards early diagnosis of FGR, provided enough evidence from studies on matched placental and maternal blood samples become available.Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) registration number: CRD42019136762.

The pathological and therapeutic roles of mesenchymal stem cells in preeclampsia

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have made progress in the treatment of ischemic and inflammatory diseases. Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by placenta ischemic and inflammatory injury. Our paper summarized the new role of MSCs in PE pathology and its potency in PE therapy and analyzed its current limitations. Intravenously administered MSCs dominantly distributed in perinatal tissues. There may be additional advantages to using MSCs-based therapies for reproductive disorders. It will provide new ideas for future research in this field.

Decidual mesenchymal stem/stromal cells from preeclamptic patients secrete endoglin, which at high levels inhibits endothelial cell attachment invitro

INTRODUCTION

In preeclampsia (PE), inadequate remodelling of spiral arterioles in the decidua basalis causes oxidative stress and subsequent increased release of antiangiogenic soluble endoglin (sENG) into the maternal circulation. Decidual mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (DMSCs) reside adjacent to endothelial cells in this vascular niche. Surprisingly, DMSCs express membrane-bound ENG (CD105). PE-affected DMSCs (PE-DMSCs) are abnormal and due to reduced extravillous invasion, more of them are present, but the significance of this is not known.

METHODS

DMSCs were isolated and characterised from normotensive control and severe-PE placentae. Extracellular vesicle (EV) types, shed microvesicles (sMV) and exosomes, were isolated from DMSC conditioned media (DMSC_CM), respectively. Secretion of ENG by DMSCs was assessed by ELISA of DMSC_CM, with and without EV depletion. The effects of reducing ENG concentration, by blocking antibody, on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) attachment were assessed by xCELLigence real-time functional assays.

RESULTS

ENG was detected in DMSC_CM and these levels significantly decreased when depleted of exosomes and sMV. There was no significant difference in the amount of ENG secreted by control DMSCs and PE-DMSCs. Blocking ENG in concentrated DMSC_CM, used to treat HUVECs, improved endothelial cell attachment.

DISCUSSION

In normotensive pregnancies, DMSC secretion of ENG likely has a beneficial effect on endothelial cells. However, in PE pregnancies, shallow invasion of the spiral arterioles exposes more PE-DMSC derived sources of ENG (soluble and EV). The presence of these PE-DMSCs in the vascular niche contributes to endothelial cell dysfunction.

TLR4 Modulates Senescence and Paracrine Action in Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cells via Inhibiting Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a heterogeneous disease closely associated with the accelerated senescence of the placentas. Placental mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) modulate placental development, which is abnormally senescent in PE together with abnormal paracrine. Both pivotal in the placenta development, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and Hedgehog (HH) pathway are also tightly involved in regulating cellular senescence. This study was aimed at demonstrating that TLR4/HH pathway modulated senescence of placentas and PMSCs in vitro and in vivo. Preeclamptic and normal PMSCs were isolated. Smoothed agonist (SAG) and cyclopamine were used to activate and inhibit HH pathway, respectively. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to activate TLR4 in vitro and establish the classic PE-like rat model. qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of TLR4 and HH components (SHH, SMO, and Gli1). Cellular biological function such as proliferation, apoptosis, and migration was compared. Cell cycle analysis, β-galactosidase staining, and the protein expressions of p16 and p53 were detected to analyze the cellular senescence. The secretion levels of human matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) were measured in the conditioned medium. Cell migration, invasion, and tube formation were analyzed in HTR8/SVneo cells or human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Our study demonstrated that activation of TLR4 accelerated senescence of PMSCs via suppressing HH pathway both in vitro and in vivo, accompanied by the detrimental paracrine to impair the uterine spiral artery remodeling and placental angiogenesis. Meanwhile, induction of HH pathway could alleviate PE-like manifestations, improve pregnancy outcomes, and ameliorate multiorgan injuries, suggesting that strengthening the HH pathway may serve as a potential therapy in PE.

Significance of Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cell in Placenta Development and Implications for Preeclampsia

The well-developed placentation is fundamental for the reproductive pregnancy while the defective placental development is the pathogenetic basis of preeclampsia (PE), a dangerous complication of pregnancy comprising the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) are a group of multipotent stem cells that own a potent capacity of differentiating into constitutive cells of vessel walls. Additionally, with the paracrine secretion of various factors, PMSCs inextricably link and interact with other component cells in the placenta, collectively improving the placental vasculature, uterine spiral artery remolding, and uteroplacental interface immunoregulation. Recent studies have further indicated that preeclamptic PMSCs, closely implicated in the abnormal crosstalk between other ambient cells, disturb the homeostasis and development in the placenta. Nevertheless, PMSCs transplantation or PMSCs exosome therapies tend to improve the placental vascular network and trophoblastic functions in the PE model, suggesting PMSCs may be a novel and putative therapeutic strategy for PE. Herein, we provide an overview of the multifaceted contributions of PMSCs in early placental development. Thereinto, the intensive interactions between PMSCs and other component cells in the placenta were particularly highlighted and further extended to the implications in the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of PE.

microRNA-140-5p from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells-released exosomes suppresses preeclampsia development

This work unraveled the action of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells-released exosomes (huc-MSCs-EXO) transfer of miR-140-5p in preeclampsia (PE). miR-140-5p and follistatin-like 3 (FSTL3) expression in placental tissues of PE patients was tested. EXO were isolated from huc-MSCs. Hypoxic trophoblast cells were co-cultured with huc-MSCs-EXO. Cell biological functions, angiogenesis, and inflammation were evaluated. Suppressed miR-140-5p and induced FSTL3 levels were measured in PE. Huc-MSCs-EXO drove biological functions and angiogenesis while hindering inflammation in hypoxic trophoblast cells. Increasing miR-140-5p further improved the positive role of huc-MSCs-EXO for hypoxic trophoblast cells, but the miR-140-5p-mediated effect in hypoxic trophoblast cells was abrogated by overexpressing FSTL3. miR-140-5p from huc-MSCs-EXO suppresses PE through repressing FSTL3.

Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Their Role in Oxidative Stress Associated with Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious medically important disorder of human pregnancy, which features de novo pregnancy-induced hypertension and proteinuria. The severe form of PE can progress to eclampsia, a convulsive, life-threatening condition. When placental growth and perfusion are abnormal, the placenta experiences oxidative stress and subsequently secretes abnormal amounts of certain pro-angiogenic factors (eg, PlGF) as well as anti-angiogenic factors (eg, sFlt-1) that enter the maternal circulation. The net effect is damage to the maternal vascular endothelium, which subsequently manifests as the clinical features of PE. Other than delivery of the fetus and placenta, curative treatments for PE have not yet been forthcoming, which reflects the complexity of the clinical syndrome. A major source of reactive oxygen species that contributes to the widespread maternal vascular endothelium damage is the PE-affected decidua. The role of decidua-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) in normotensive and pathological placenta development is poorly understood. The ability to respond to an environment of oxidative damage is a "universal property" of MSC but the biological mechanisms that MSC employ in response to oxidative stress are compromised in PE. In this review, we discuss how MSC respond to oxidative stress in normotensive and pathological conditions. We also consider the possibility of manipulating the oxidative stress response of abnormal MSC as a therapeutic strategy to treat preeclampsia.

MicroRNA-30a contributes to pre-eclampsia through regulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis modulation potential of mesenchymal stem cells by targeting AVEN

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-associated disease related to an unprecedented hypertension attack. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a crucial role in PE pathology. . Our research was designed to illustrate the functions of microRNA-30a (miR-30a) in proliferation, apoptosis, and the potential of regulating angiogenesis in MSCs, and to analyze its potential molecular mechanisms. TargetScan software and the luciferase reporter assay were used to forecast and verify the relationship between miR-30a and AVEN. MiR-30a and AVEN expression in the decidual tissue and decidua (d)MSCs of healthy pregnant women and PE patients were assessed using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2 H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, and transwell assays were used to evaluate cell proliferation, growth, the cell cycle, apoptosis, and migration. Furthermore, the tube formation ability was evaluated using the human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) tube formation assay. AVEN is the target gene of miR-30a. MiR-30a was upregulated in decidual tissues and dMSCs of PE patients. However, AVEN was weakly expressed, and AVEN expression was negatively related to miR-30a levels in decidual tissues and dMSCs of PE patients. Compared to the mimic control group, upregulation of miR-30a inhibited dMSC proliferation and cell growth, promoted G0/G1 phase arrest, and induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the miR-30a mimic transfected dMSC culture supernatant suppressed HTR-8/SVneo cell migration ability and HUVEC tube formation ability. However, AVEN reversed these changes. In conclusion, miR-30a/AVEN may serve as a new axis for PE treatment.

Characteristics and regulation of mesenchymal stem cell plasticity by the microenvironment — specific factors involved in the regulation of MSC plasticity

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), multipotent stromal cells, have attracted extensive attention in the field of regenerative medicine and cell therapy due to the capacity of self-renewal, multilineage differentiation, and immune regulation. MSCs have different cellular effects in different diseases, and even have markedly different curative effects with different tissue sources, indicating the plasticity of MSCs. The phenotypes, secreted factors, and proliferative, migratory, differentiating, and immunomodulatory effects of MSCs depend on certain mediators present in their microenvironment. Understanding microenvironmental factors and their internal mechanisms in MSC responses may help in subsequent prediction and improvement of clinical benefits. This review highlighted the recent advances in MSC plasticity in the physiological and pathological microenvironment and multiple microenvironmental factors regulating MSC plasticity. It also highlighted some progress in the underlying molecular mechanisms of MSC remodeling in the microenvironment. It might provide references for the improvement in vitro culture of MSCs, clinical application, and in vivo induction.

Human Decidual Mesenchymal Stem Cells Obtained From Early Pregnancy Improve Cardiac Revascularization Postinfarction by Activating Ornithine Metabolism

Background

Compared with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), decidual mesenchymal stem cells (DMSCs) are easy to obtain and exhibit excellent angiogenic effects, but their role in cell transplantation after myocardial infarction (MI) remains unclear.

Methods

BMSCs and DMSCs were harvested from healthy donors. The effects of both cell types on angiogenesis were observed in vitro. Metabonomics analysis was performed to compare different metabolites and screen critical metabolic pathways. A murine model of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was established, which was randomized into five groups (control, BMSC, DMSC, DMSC + ODCshRNA and BMSC + ODC consisting of 50 animals, equally divided into each group). The therapeutic effect of DMSCs on MI in rats was assessed based on neovascularization and cardiac remodeling.

Results

DMSCs exhibited a better angiogenic effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) than BMSCs in vitro. In addition, ornithine metabolism, which is associated with vascularization, was significantly increased in DMSCs. The transplantation of DMSCs in the rat MI model significantly enhanced angiogenesis of the infarct border area and improved cardiac remodeling and dysfunction postinfarction compared with BMSCs. Furthermore, inhibition of ornithine metabolism by silencing ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) in DMSCs partly abolished the benefits of DMSC transplantation.

Conclusion

Compared with BMSCs, DMSCs exhibited better efficacy in improving revascularization and heart remodeling post-MI via the activation of ODC-associated ornithine metabolism.

Preeclamptic Women Have Disrupted Placental microRNA Expression at the Time of Preeclampsia Diagnosis: Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-associated, multi-organ, life-threatening disease that appears after the 20th week of gestation. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether women with PE have disrupted miRNA expression compared to women who do not have PE. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that reported miRNAs expression levels in placenta or peripheral blood of pregnant women with vs. without PE. Studies published before October 29, 2021 were identified through PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. Two reviewers used predefined forms and protocols to evaluate independently the eligibility of studies based on titles and abstracts and to perform full-text screening, data abstraction and quality assessment. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was used as a measure of effect size. Results: 229 publications were included in the systematic review and 53 in the meta-analysis. The expression levels in placenta were significantly higher in women with PE compared to women without PE for miRNA-16 (SMD = 1.51,95%CI = 0.55-2.46), miRNA-20b (SMD = 0.89, 95%CI = 0.33-1.45), miRNA-23a (SMD = 2.02, 95%CI = 1.25-2.78), miRNA-29b (SMD = 1.37, 95%CI = 0.36-2.37), miRNA-155 (SMD = 2.99, 95%CI = 0.83-5.14) and miRNA-210 (SMD = 1.63, 95%CI = 0.69-2.58), and significantly lower for miRNA-376c (SMD = -4.86, 95%CI = -9.51 to -0.20). An increased level of miRNK-155 expression was found in peripheral blood of women with PE (SMD = 2.06, 95%CI = 0.35-3.76), while the expression level of miRNA-16 was significantly lower in peripheral blood of PE women (SMD = -0.47, 95%CI = -0.91 to -0.03). The functional roles of the presented miRNAs include control of trophoblast proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, differentiation, cellular metabolism and angiogenesis. Conclusion: miRNAs play an important role in the pathophysiology of PE. The identification of differentially expressed miRNAs in maternal blood creates an opportunity to define an easily accessible biomarker of PE.

Epigenetic processes during preeclampsia and effects on fetal development and chronic health

Preeclampsia (PE), the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, is associated with poor fetal growth, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and low birth weight (LBW). Offspring of women who had PE are at increased risk for cardiovascular (CV) disease later in life. However, the exact etiology of PE is unknown. Moreover, there are no effective interventions to treat PE or alleviate IUGR and the developmental origins of chronic disease in the offspring. The placenta is critical to fetal growth and development. Epigenetic regulatory processes such as histone modifications, microRNAs and DNA methylation play an important role in placental development including contributions to the regulation of trophoblast invasion and remodeling of the spiral arteries. Epigenetic processes that lead to changes in placental gene expression in PE mediate downstream effects that contribute to the development of placenta dysfunction, a critical mediator in the onset of PE, impaired fetal growth and IUGR. Therefore, this review will focus on epigenetic processes that contribute to the pathogenesis of PE and IUGR. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms that contribute to normal placental development and the initiating events in PE may lead to novel therapeutic targets in PE that improve fetal growth and mitigate increased CV risk in the offspring.

Microrna analysis of human decidua mesenchymal stromal cells from preeclampsia patients

INTRODUCTION

In preeclampsia (PE), human decidua mesenchymal stromal cells (hDMSCs) are exposed to abnormally high levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory factors circulating in the maternal blood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to have a significant impact on the differentiation, maturation and function of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Our aim in the present study is firstly to investigate differentially expressed miRNA levels to be used as a biomarker in the early detection of PE and secondly to investigate whether those differentially expressed miRNAs in hDMSCs have an effect on the pathogenesis of PE.

METHODS

This study covers miRNA expression analysis of hDMSCs from 7 PE patient and 7 healthy pregnant women and is a preliminary study to investigate putative biomarkers. After cell culture and cell sorting, total RNA including miRNAs were isolated from hDMSCs. Let-7b-3p, let-7f-1-3p, miR-191-3p, miR-550a-5p, miR-33b-3p and miR-425-3p were used for miRNA analysis and U6 snRNA was used for normalization of the samples. MiRNA analysis was performed by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) method and obtained results were evaluated statistically.

RESULTS

As a result of the analysis, it was observed that the levels of hsa-miR-33b-3p significantly (AUC: 0.93, p = 0.04, fold change: 4.5) increased in hDMSC of PE patients compared to healthy controls. However, let-7b-3p, let-7f-1-3p, miR-191-3p, miR-550a-5p, and miR-425-3p were not considered as significant because they did not meet the p < 0,05 requirement.

DISCUSSION

Within the scope of the study, it is predicted that miR-33b-3p (p = 0.004, AUC = 0.93) can be used as a biomarker in detecting PE.

MicroRNAs targeting VEGF are related to vascular dysfunction in preeclampsia

In preeclampsia (PE), pre-existent maternal endothelial dysfunction leads to impaired placentation and vascular maladaptation. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway is essential in the placentation process and VEGF expression is regulated through post-transcriptional modification by microRNAs (miRNAs). We investigated the expression of VEGF-related circulating miR-16, miR-29b, miR-126, miR-155 and miR-200c in PE vs healthy pregnancies (HPs), and their relation with vascular function, oxidative stress (OS) and systemic inflammation. In this case-control study, 24 women with early PE (<34 weeks) were compared with 30 women with HP. Circulating microRNA levels (RT-qPCR), OS and systemic inflammation were assessed in plasma samples (PE 29.5 vs HP 25.8 weeks) and related to extensive in vivo vascular function (flow-mediated dilatation (FMD), modified FMD (mFMD), carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (CF-PWV), heart rate corrected augmentation index (AIx75) and reactive hyperemia index (RHI)). FMD, CF-PWV, AIx75 and RHI were all significantly impaired in PE (P<0.05). PE patients had reduced levels of miR-16 (5.53 ± 0.36 vs 5.84 ± 0.61) and increased levels of miR-200c (1.34 ± 0.57 vs 0.97 ± 0.68) (P<0.05). Independent of age and parity, miR-16 was related to impaired FMD (β 2.771, 95% C.I.: 0.023-5.519, P=0.048) and mFMD (β 3.401, 95% C.I.: 0.201-6.602, P=0.038). Likewise, miR-200c was independently associated with CF-PWV (β 0.513, 95% C.I.: 0.034-0.992, P=0.036). In conclusion, circulating levels of miR-16 were lower in PE, which correlated with impaired endothelial function. Circulating miR-200c was increased in PE and correlated with higher arterial stiffness. These findings suggest a post-transcriptional dysregulation of the VEGF pathway in PE and identify miR-16 and miR-200c as possible diagnostic biomarkers for PE.

Functional changes in decidual mesenchymal stem/stromal cells are associated with spontaneous onset of labour

Ageing and parturition share common pathways, but their relationship remains poorly understood. Decidual cells undergo ageing as parturition approaches term, and these age-related changes may trigger labour. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are the predominant stem cell type in the decidua. Stem cell exhaustion is a hallmark of ageing, and thus ageing of decidual MSCs (DMSCs) may contribute to the functional changes in decidual tissue required for term spontaneous labour. Here, we determine whether DMSCs from patients undergoing spontaneous onset of labour (SOL-DMSCs) show evidence of ageing-related functional changes compared with those from patients not in labour (NIL-DMSCs), undergoing Caesarean section. Placentae were collected from term (37-40 weeks of gestation), SOL (n = 18) and NIL (n = 17) healthy patients. DMSCs were isolated from the decidua basalis that remained attached to the placenta after delivery. DMSCs displayed stem cell-like properties and were of maternal origin. Important cell properties and lipid profiles were assessed and compared between SOL- and NIL-DMSCs. SOL-DMSCs showed reduced proliferation and increased lipid peroxidation, migration, necrosis, mitochondrial apoptosis, IL-6 production and p38 MAPK levels compared with NIL-DMSCs (P < 0.05). SOL- and NIL-DMSCs also showed significant differences in lipid profiles in various phospholipids (phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine), sphingolipids (ceramide, sphingomyelin), triglycerides and acyl carnitine (P < 0.05). Overall, SOL-DMSCs had altered lipid profiles compared with NIL-DMSCs. In conclusion, SOL-DMSCs showed evidence of ageing-related reduced functionality, accumulation of cellular damage and changes in lipid profiles compared with NIL-DMSCs. These changes may be associated with term spontaneous labour.

MicroRNA-16-5p Aggravates Myocardial Infarction Injury by Targeting the Expression of Insulin Receptor Substrates 1 and Mediating Myocardial Apoptosis and Angiogenesis

PURPOSE

Myocardial infarction is a common cardiovascular disease. MicroRNA-16-5p (miR-16-5p) was upregulated in heart and kidney hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury. However, the role of miR-16-5p in myocardial infarction injury is still unclear.

METHODS

Human adult ventricular cardiomyocytes (AC16) were treated with ischemia/reperfusion (H/R). The miR-16-5p level was evaluated through real-time PCR. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) was detected via LDH and CK-MB monitoring kits. Cell viability was examined with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5diphenyltetra-zolium bromide (MTT) assay. Western blotting was used to analyze the protein levels. The luci-ferase report assay confirmed the relative luciferase activity.

RESULTS

miR-16-5p was elevated in H/R-treated AC16 cells. miR-16-5p overexpression and knockdown were carried out. miR-16-5p knockdown repressed cell apoptosis, attenuated LDH and CK-MB activities, and enhanced cell viability in H/R-treated AC16 cells. Moreover, miR-16-5p knockdown promoted angiogenesis in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC), causing elevation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin receptor substrates 1 (IRS1), minichromosome maintenance complex component 2 (MCM2) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein levels. Moreover, miR-16-5p was testified to target IRS1. IRS1 silencing alleviated miR-16-5p knockdown-mediated inhibition of apoptosis in AC16 cells.

CONCLUSION

miR-16-5p knockdown increased cell viability and angiogenesis, as well as inhibited cell apoptosis by increasing IRS1. These findings indicated that miR-16-5p knockdown may be a new therapeutic target for myocardial infarction.

Roles of noncoding RNAs in preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is an idiopathic disease that occurs during pregnancy. It comprises multiple organ and system damage, and can seriously threaten the safety of the mother and infant throughout the perinatal period. As the pathogenesis of PE is unclear, there are few specific remedies. Currently, the only way to eliminate the clinical symptoms is to terminate the pregnancy. Although noncoding RNA (ncRNA) was once thought to be the "junk" of gene transcription, it is now known to be widely involved in pathological and physiological processes, including pregnancy-related disorders. Moreover, there is growing evidence that the unbalanced expression of specific ncRNA is involved in the pathogenesis of PE. In the present review, we summarize the expression patterns of ncRNAs, i.e., microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), and the functional mechanisms by which they affect the development of PE, and examine the clinical significance of ncRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis of PE. We also discuss the contributions made by genetic polymorphisms and epigenetic ncRNA regulation to PE. In the present review, we wish to explore and reinforce the clinical value of ncRNAs as noninvasive biomarkers of PE.

LINC01128 - miR-16 interaction regulates the migration and invasion of human chorionic trophoblast cells

Objective: Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a major complication of pregnancy, but its pathogenesis is unclear. This study explored the role of LINC01128 in the progression of PE, and its interaction with miR-16 on the behaviors of trophoblasts.Methods: The mRNA levels of LINC01128 and miR-16 in placental tissues and HTR-8/SVneo cells were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8, wound healing assay and transwell assay were used to detect proliferation, migration and invasion. E-Cadherin, Vimentin, Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 protein expressions were detected by Western blot. The correlation between LINC01128 and miR-16 was determined and verified by starBase and dual-luciferase assay.Results: The expression of LINC01128 was downregulated in PE. Overexpression of LINC01128 promoted LINC01128 expression, cell proliferation, migration, invasion and the expressions of Vimentin, MMP2 and MMP9, but inhibited the expression of E-Cadherin. SiLINC01128 showed opposite effects. MiR-16 interacted with LINC01128, and miR-16 was high-expressed in PE placentae. MiR-16 inhibitor promoted cell proliferation, migration, invasion and related protein expressions, but inhibited the expression of E-Cadherin. However, siLINC01128 inhibited the regulatory effect of miR-16 inhibitor on HTR-8/Svneo cells.Conclusion: LINC01128/miR-16 is involved in HTR-8/SVneo cells by regulating the migration and invasion of human chorionic trophoblast cells.

The Involvement of MicroRNAs in SARS-CoV-2 Infection Comorbid with HIV-Associated Preeclampsia

Purpose of Review

This review investigated the potential role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the synergy of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, preeclampsia (PE), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Maternal health is a great concern when treating pregnant women fighting this triad of diseases, which is highly prevalent in South Africa. MicroRNAs are involved in fine-tuning of physiological processes. Disruptions to the balance of this minute protein can lead to various physiological changes that are sometimes pathological.

Recent Findings

MicroRNAs have recently been implicated in PE and have been linked to the anti-angiogenic imbalance evident in PE. Recent in silico studies have identified potential host miRNAs with anti-viral properties against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Studies have demonstrated dysregulated expression of several miRNAs in HIV-1 infection along with the ability of HIV-1 to downregulate anti-viral host microRNAs.

Summary

This review has highlighted the significant gap in literature on the potential of miRNAs in women with HIV-associated PE in synergy with the novel SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition, this review has provided evidence of the critical role that the epigenetic regulatory mechanism of miRNA plays in viral infections and PE, thereby providing a foundation for further research investigating the potential of therapeutic miRNA development with fewer side-effects for pregnant women.

Serum from patients with hypertension promotes endothelial dysfunction to induce trophoblast invasion through the miR‑27b‑3p/ATPase plasma membrane Ca2+ transporting 1 axis

Pregnancy‑induced hypertension is often accompanied by preeclampsia. The present study investigated whether microRNA (miR)‑27b‑3p affected the occurrence of preeclampsia by regulating the function of endothelial cells. Expressions levels of miR‑27b‑3p and ATPase plasma membrane Ca²⁺ transporting 1 (ATP2B1) were determined using reverse‑transcription quantitative PCR. miR‑27b‑3p targeting ATP2B1 was predicted using bioinformatics and further confirmed by dual‑luciferase reporter assays. Cell Counting Kit‑8, Transwell and Matrigel tube formation assays were performed to detect the effects of miR‑27b‑3p on proliferation, migration and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), respectively. Moreover, HTR8/SVneos cells were co‑cultured with HUVECs to detect the invasion of trophoblast cells, and the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‑2 and MMP‑9 of HUVECs and HTR8/SVneos were detected by western blotting. Expression levels of miR‑27b‑3p were upregulated in the serum of patients with hypertension and preeclampsia, which could target and regulate the expression of ATP2B1. The expression levels of miR‑27b‑3p were increased and those of ATP2B1 were reduced in HUVECs from hypertensive serums. Moreover, miR‑27b‑3p mimics reduced the expression level of ATP2B1, and miR‑27b‑3p inhibitor reversed the effect of hypertensive serum on ATP2B1 expression. Furthermore, patients with hypertension showed increased endothelial dysfunction, reduced trophoblastic invasion and the expressions of VEGF, MMP‑2 and MMP‑9, and miR‑27b‑3p mimics and silencing of ATP2B1 produced similar results to HUVECs. The miR‑27b‑3p inhibitor reversed the effect of hypertensive serum, and silencing of ATP2B1 inhibited the improvement of miR‑27b‑3p inhibitor to HUVECs and HTR‑8/SVneo cells in proliferation, migration and tube formation. The current findings suggested that miR‑27b‑3p promoted proliferation, migration and tube formation of HUVECs and enhanced invasion of trophoblast cells, via regulation of ATP2B1. Thus, miR‑27b‑3p could be considered as a molecular risk factor in the pathogenesis and development of preeclampsia.

Distinct uterine artery gene expression profiles during early gestation in the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat

During pregnancy, the uterine spiral arteries undergo major vascular remodeling to ensure sufficient uteroplacental perfusion to support the fetus. In pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorders, this remodeling is deficient leading to impaired uteroplacental blood flow and poor maternal and fetal outcomes. The underlying genetic mechanisms for failed vascular remodeling are not fully understood. This study aimed to examine the early-pregnancy-associated gene changes in the uterine arteries of spontaneously hypertensive stroke-prone rats (SHRSP) compared with their normotensive counterparts, Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Uterine arteries from gestational day 6.5 WKY and SHRSP were processed for RNA-sequencing, along with virgin, age-matched controls for each strain. Gene expression changes were identified and biological pathways were implicated and interpretated using ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA). This study found that WKY uterine arteries from early pregnancy exhibit a gene expression pattern that is suggestive of a pregnancy-dependent reduction in Ca²⁺ handling and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) components and an increase in ATP production. In contrast, the expression pattern of pregnant SHRSP uterine arteries was dominated by an elevated immune response and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and downstream effectors of the RAAS. These results suggest that in a rat model, hypertension during pregnancy impacts uterine artery gene expression patterns as early as the first week of pregnancy. The pathway changes involved may underlie or contribute to the adverse vascular remodeling and resultant placental ischemia and systemic vascular dysfunction observed in SHRSP in late gestation.

Association of Circulating miRNA Expression with Preeclampsia, Its Onset, and Severity

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are one of the important regulators of cellular functions fundamental for healthy pregnancy processes, including angiogenesis and differentiation of trophoblast cells, and their deregulation could be implicated in the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE). The aim of this study was to assess the association of miRNA expression in plasma samples with PE, its onset, and severity. Our study enrolled 59 pregnant women, 27 in the preeclamptic study group and 32 in the control group with physiological pregnancy. Preeclamptic pregnancies were divided into subgroups based on the severity and onset of disease. Relative expression of miR-21-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-210-5p, miR-16-5p, and miR-650 isolated from plasma samples was analysed by quantitative real-time PCR and normalised to experimentally established reference genes. Our results revealed upregulation of miR-21-5p (1.16-fold change, p = 0.0015), miR-155-5p (1.62-fold change, p = 0.0005) in preeclamptic pregnancies, compared to controls. Overexpression of these two miRNAs was observed, especially in subgroups of severe and late-onset PE compared to healthy pregnancies. Although we hypothesised that the expression level of studied miRNAs could vary between PE subtypes (mild vs. severe, early onset vs. late-onset), no obvious differences were detected. In conclusion, our study could contribute to the large-scale studies for the identification of non-invasive biomarkers for PE detection to improve outcomes for women and their new-borns.

MiR-30a-5p inhibits proliferation and metastasis of hydatidiform mole by regulating B3GNT5 through ERK/AKT pathways

Hydatidiform moles are gestational trophoblastic disease. They are abnormal proliferations of trophoblast cells that have the potential to become cancerous. miR-miR30a-5p is a tumour suppressor that participates in the development of numerous diseases. However, the role of miR-30a in hydatidiform moles and the mechanisms underlying its effects are presently unclear. This study explored the levels of miR-30a and B3GNT5 expression in human hydatidiform mole tissue. The results showed that miR-30a and B3GNT5 were differentially expressed in normal placenta and hydatidiform mole, and miR-30a decreased cell proliferation, invasion and migration in trophoblast cell lines. Upon further examination, it was confirmed that miR-30a directly targeted the 3'untranslated region of B3GNT5 using a dual-luciferase assay. The results of the present study also revealed that miR-30a reduced the proliferation, invasion and migration ability in JAR and BeWo cells by regulating B3GNT5, which may inactivate the ERK and AKT signalling pathways. This study demonstrated that miR-30a was a novel target B3GNT5 that serves an important role in the development of hydatidiform moles, suggesting that miR-30a may serve as a novel potential biomarker or useful diagnostic and therapeutic tool for hydatidiform moles in clinical settings.

Exosomal encapsulation of miR-125a-5p inhibited trophoblast cell migration and proliferation by regulating the expression of VEGFA in preeclampsia

This study is aimed to examine the association between umbilical cord blood (UCB) derived exosomal microRNA (miRNA) with preeclampsia (PE) and to further explore the mechanism of a key differential gene (hsa-miR-125a-5p) in preeclampsia. Umbilical cord blood exosomal miRNA(exo-miRNA) from normal pregnant women and pregnant women with preeclampsia was processed via miRNA sequencing. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) was performed to assess the expression of miR-125a-5p in normal and PE placental tissues and peripheral blood derived exosomes in the third trimester. Human trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo was assigned as the negative control and miR-125a-5p mimics. QRT-PCR and Western blot were performed to identify the expressions of miR-125a-5p and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). CCK8, flow cytometry, wound-healing and Transwell assays were used to analyze the effect of miR-125a-5p on HTR8/SVneo cell migration, proliferation, and cycle distribution. Tube formation was performed to estimate the angiogenesis ability of miR-125a-5p on HUVECs. In conclusion, miR-125a-5p expression in PE placental tissues was higher than in normal subjects, while the expression of VEGFA was lower in PE placental tissues. We then compared the miR-125a-5p mimics group with the negative control group and found that in the mimics group, the cell migration, proliferation and angiogenesis abilities were decreased, and more cells were arrested in the S stage. Our study systematically profiled the UCB exo-miRNA in normal and PE pregnant women and demonstrated that dysregulation of miR-125a-5p might affect HTR8/SVneo cell proliferation and migration and inhibit angiogenesis by regulating VEGFA, indicating that miR-125a-5p is involved in the progression of PE.

The regulatory network of lncRNA DLX6-AS1/miR-149-5p/ERP44 is possibly related to the progression of preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNA DLX6 antisense RNA 1 (DLX6-AS1) has been reported to be involved in various human diseases, however, its potential role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE) has not been fully explored.

METHODS

The levels of DLX6-AS1, microRNA-149-5p (miR-149-5p) and endoplasmic reticulum protein 44 (ERP44) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Some clinicopathological parameters of PE were statistically analyzed. The cell proliferation, invasion and angiogenesis were assessed by methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), transwell and tube formation assays, respectively. Levels of all protein were detected by western blot. The target relationship was predicted by StarBase v2.0 and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

Higher levels of DLX6-AS1 and ERP44, lower level of miR-149-5p were observed in PE placenta tissues. Compared with PE group with low DLX6-AS1 expression, the systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and proteinuria levels in the group with high DLX6-AS1 expression were higher, and the infant body weight level was lower. The role of miR-149-5p on these clinicopathological parameters of PE patients was opposite to that of DLX6-AS1, while ERP44 had the same effect as DLX6-AS1. Besides, DLX6-AS1 directly targeted miR-149-5p and miR-149-5p targeted ERP44. The inhibitory impact of DLX6-AS1 overexpression or ERP44 overexpression on proliferation and invasion of trophoblast cells as well as angiogenesis of HUVEC cells was reversed by up-regulating miR-149-5p. We also found that DLX6-AS1 could enhance ERP44 expression by sponging miR-149-5p.

CONCLUSION

DLX6-AS1 inhibited proliferation and invasion of trophoblast cells, and suppressed angiogenesis of HUVEC cells by miR-149-5p/ERP44 pathway.

MicroRNA-16 is involved in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia via regulation of Notch2

In recent years, the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in pre-eclampsia (PE) has been demonstrated, while the relevant mechanisms of miR-16 in PE await to be unearthed. Thus, the aim of this study is to explore whether miR-16 exerts its function in PE, and we assumed that miR-16 may be implicated in the occurrence of PE by adjusting the biological functions of trophoblast cells via modulating Notch2. Placental tissues of pregnant women with normal pregnancy and PE were collected to detect the expression of miR-16, Notch2, and Notch3. The effects of miR-16 and Notch2 on the biological functions of BeWo and JEG-3 cells were further determined. Expression of miR-16 and Notch2 in trophoblast cells was detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot assay. Downregulated Notch2 and upregulated miR-16 and Notch3 were found in placental tissues of PE. There was a negative correlation between Notch2 and miR-16 expression (r = -0.769), and a positive correlation between Notch3 and miR-16 expression (r = 0.676; p < .05). Overexpression of miR-16 inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion, and facilitated the apoptosis of BeWo and JEG-3 cells, but overexpression of Notch2 reversed this trend. Overexpression of miR-16 inhibited Notch2 expression in BeWo and JEG-3 cells, and Notch2 was the target gene of miR-16. Our study highlights that overexpression of miR-16 is involved in PE by regulating the biological functions of trophoblast cells via inhibition of Notch2. This paper provides a new idea for further study of the pathogenesis of PE.

Dysregulated MicroRNA Fingerprints and Methylation Patterns in Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Cancer Stem Cells, and Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the top causes of cancer mortality worldwide. Although HCC has been researched extensively, there is still a need for novel and effective therapeutic interventions. There is substantial evidence that initiation of carcinogenesis in liver cirrhosis, a leading cause of HCC, is mediated by cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs were also shown to be responsible for relapse and chemoresistance in several cancers, including HCC. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute important epigenetic markers that regulate carcinogenesis by acting post-transcriptionally on mRNAs, contributing to the progression of HCC. We have previously shown that co-culture of cancer cells with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could induce the reprogramming of MSCs into CSC-like cells. In this review, we evaluate the available data concerning the epigenetic regulation of miRNAs through methylation and the possible role of this regulation in stem cell and somatic reprogramming in HCC.

Role of Circular RNAs in Preeclampsia

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are noncoding RNAs characterized by circular covalently closed structures, which are generated by back-splicing. circRNA is more stable and conserved than linear RNA and exists in various organisms. Preeclampsia (PE), a common hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, has a profound impact on maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. Recent studies demonstrated that circRNAs were differentially expressed in PE maternal-fetal interface compared with those in the control and might mediate pathological processes in pregnancy complications. However, the mechanisms of action of circRNAs in PE are still unclear. Here, we provide a comprehensive review on the current state of knowledge on circRNAs associated with PE. We summarize the known expression profiles of circRNAs and discuss their potential application as biomarkers of PE. The possible mechanisms underlying circRNA dysregulation in the etiology of PE are also explored.

MicroRNAs in Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) continues to represent a worldwide problem and challenge for both clinicians and laboratory-based doctors. Despite many efforts, the knowledge acquired regarding its pathogenesis and pathophysiology does not allow us to treat it efficiently. It is not possible to arrest its progressive nature, and the available therapies are limited to symptomatic treatment. Furthermore, both the diagnosis and prognosis are frequently uncertain, whilst the ability to predict its occurrence is very limited. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs discovered two decades ago, and present great interest given their ability to regulate almost every aspect of the cell function. A lot of evidence regarding the role of miRNAs in pre-eclampsia has been accumulated in the last 10 years. Differentially expressed miRNAs are characteristic of both mild and severe PE. In many cases they target signaling pathway-related genes that result in altered processes which are directly involved in PE. Immune system, angiogenesis and trophoblast proliferation and invasion, all fundamental aspects of placentation, are controlled in various degrees by miRNAs which are up- or downregulated. Finally, miRNAs represent a potential therapeutic target and a diagnostic tool.

Roles of miR-210 in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to explore the bio-function of miR-210 in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia and provide new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A JAR cell line cultured in standard or hypoxic conditions was used in this study. Expression levels of miR-210 and PTPN2 were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Protein and phosphorylation levels were assessed using western blotting. Proliferation of JAR cells was evaluated using MTT assay. Migration and invasion were measured using transwell assay.

RESULTS

Expression of miR-210 increased significantly in a time-dependent manner after hypoxia treatment within 36 h (p < 0.05). miR-210 inhibitor significantly decreased the cell proliferation, migration, and invasion (p < 0.05), while miR-210 mimic reversed these findings (p < 0.05). Hypoxia significantly suppressed the expression of PTPN2; however, this elevation was abolished by miR-210 inhibitor (p < 0.05). Inhibition of PTPN2 or hypoxia significantly increased the proliferation, migration, and invasion of JAR cells, while miR-210 inhibitor significantly reversed these changes (p < 0.05). The phosphorylation levels of PDGFR, Akt, and Erk were markedly upregulated by hypoxia or si-PTPN2, but this effect was abolished by miR-210 inhibitor (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

miR-210 can promote proliferation, migration, and invasion via downregulating PTPN2 in the PDGFR-Akt pathway.

Cell Cycle Regulation of Stem Cells by MicroRNAs

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNA molecules involved in the regulation of gene expression. They are involved in the fine-tuning of fundamental biological processes such as proliferation, differentiation, survival and apoptosis in many cell types. Emerging evidence suggests that miRNAs regulate critical pathways involved in stem cell function. Several miRNAs have been suggested to target transcripts that directly or indirectly coordinate the cell cycle progression of stem cells. Moreover, previous studies have shown that altered expression levels of miRNAs can contribute to pathological conditions, such as cancer, due to the loss of cell cycle regulation. However, the precise mechanism underlying miRNA-mediated regulation of cell cycle in stem cells is still incompletely understood. In this review, we discuss current knowledge of miRNAs regulatory role in cell cycle progression of stem cells. We describe how specific miRNAs may control cell cycle associated molecules and checkpoints in embryonic, somatic and cancer stem cells. We further outline how these miRNAs could be regulated to influence cell cycle progression in stem cells as a potential clinical application.

Hypertensive complications of pregnancy: A clinical overview

Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy are a worldwide health problem for women and their infants complicating up to 10% of pregnancies and associated with increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. In Europe, 2.3-3% of pregnancies are complicated by preeclampsia. Gestational diabetes, obesity, no previous or multiple births, maternal age less than 20 or greater than 35years old and thrombophilia can be some of the possible factors related to increased risk for hypertension in pregnancy. Complications of hypertension during pregnancy affect both mothers and their infants. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring helps to distinguish true hypertension from the white coat as pregnant women with office abnormal values may have normal out of office blood pressure. Imbalance between proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors in placenta may lead to endothelial dysfunction, vasoconstriction, activation of the coagulation system, and hemolysis. Carotid intima-media thickness, pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, and arterial wall tension were found to be significantly increased in women with preeclampsia compared to normotensive pregnant women. Uterine artery Doppler and serum biomarkers can be used to evaluate the probability of hypertension and complications during pregnancy, but further research in the field is needed. Lately, micro ribonucleic acids have also been the focus of research as potential biomarkers.

Roles of microRNAs in mammalian reproduction: from the commitment of germ cells to peri-implantation embryos

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are active regulators of numerous biological and physiological processes including most of the events of mammalian reproduction. Understanding the biological functions of miRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow a better and comparative understanding of fertility and sterility in male and female mammals. Herein, we summarize recent progress in miRNA‐mediated regulation of mammalian reproduction and highlight the significance of miRNAs in different aspects of mammalian reproduction including the biogenesis of germ cells, the functionality of reproductive organs, and the development of early embryos. Furthermore, we focus on the gene expression regulatory feedback loops involving hormones and miRNA expression to increase our understanding of germ cell commitment and the functioning of reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss the influence of miRNAs on male and female reproductive failure, and provide perspectives for future studies on this topic.

Harnessing an Inhibitory Role of miR-16 in Osteogenesis by Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Advanced Scaffold-Based Bone Tissue Engineering

MicroRNA (miRNA) therapeutics is increasingly being developed to either target bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis or as the basis for novel bone tissue engineering strategies. A number of miRNAs have been reported as potential osteo-therapeutics but no consensus has yet been established on the optimal target. miR-16 has been studied extensively in nonosteogenic functions and used as functionality reporter target in the development of nonviral miRNA delivery platforms. This study hypothesized that miR-16 may also play an inhibitory role in osteogenesis due to its ability to directly target Smad5 and AcvR2a. This study thus aimed to assess the potential of miR-16 inhibition to increase osteogenesis in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) using a previously established miRNA delivery platform composed of nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) particles as nonviral vectors in combination with collagen-nHA scaffolds designed specifically for bone repair. Initial results showed that antagomiR-16 delivery efficiently increased the relative levels of both putative targets and Runx2, the key transcription factor for osteogenesis, while also increasing osteocalcin levels. Furthermore, significant increases in mineral calcium deposition by hMSCs were found in both monolayer and most importantly in scaffold-based osteodifferentiation studies, ultimately demonstrating that miR-16 inhibition further enhances the therapeutic potential of a scaffold with known potential for bone repair applications and thus holds significant therapeutic potential as a novel bone tissue engineering strategy. Furthermore, we suggest that harnessing the additional functions known to miR-16 by incorporating either its enhancers or inhibitors to tissue-specific tailored scaffolds provides exciting opportunities for a diverse range of therapeutic indications.

TLR9 (Toll-Like Receptor 9) Agonist Suppresses Angiogenesis by Differentially Regulating VEGFA (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A) and sFLT1 (Soluble Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1) in Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a common pregnancy-specific disorder characterized by elevated blood pressure and proteinuria. Activation of the maternal immune system and impaired placental angiogenesis are thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. TLR9 (Toll-like receptor 9) plays a role in innate immunity, defending the organism against infection. The purpose of this study was to determine whether TLR9 inhibits angiogenesis at the fetomaternal interface under conditions of preeclampsia. We confirmed the downregulation of VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A) and upregulation of TLR9 and sFLT1 (soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1) in placentas from preeclamptic women. Then, we established a mouse model with preeclampsia-like symptoms using the synthetic TLR9 agonist CpG (cytidine-phosphate-guanosine)-ODN (oligodeoxynucleotide; ODN1826). We observed the downregulation of VEGFA and the upregulation of sFLT1 in placentas from the preeclampsia-like animal model and in trophoblasts treated with CpG-ODN (ODN2006). In addition, silencing TLR9 promoted the migration and invasion of HTR8/SVneo cells. In conclusion, TLR9 is capable of robustly suppressing angiogenesis by differentially regulating the expression of VEGFA and sFLT1 at the fetomaternal interface, potentially contributing to the development of preeclampsia.

MiRNA-320a inhibits trophoblast cell invasion by targeting estrogen-related receptor-gamma

AIM

MicroRNAs (miRs) play an essential role in the modulation of trophoblast function. We explored miR-320a expression in the human placenta. In addition, we report the promising effect and target functional loop of miR-320a in trophoblasts.

METHODS

MiR-320a expression was investigated in both pre-eclamptic and healthy placenta tissues by quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction to determine how miR-320a affected invasion, proliferation and migration in trophoblasts. A lipopolysaccharide (LPS) model was established in trophoblasts to reveal how LPS supplementation stimulated miR-320a expression. Western blot was applied to measure protein expression, which was involved in pathways modulated by miR-320a in pre-eclamptic placentas.

RESULTS

MiR-320a expression was enhanced in the placental specimens of pre-eclamptic patients. Excessive miR-320a expression remarkably suppressed trophoblast invasion but did not affect migration or proliferation. However, transfection with miR-320a inhibitor reinforced trophoblast invasion in vitro. Luciferase assays verified that estrogen-related receptor-gamma (ERRγ) served as a direct target of miR-320a. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot demonstrated that excessive miR-320a expression downregulated ERRγ transcription and translation. Additionally, LPS supplementation showed excessive miR-320a expression and ERRγ downregulation. Impaired ERRγ and enhanced miR-320a expression occurred in PE placentas compared to controls. Pearson correlation and linear regression analysis revealed that miR-320a expression was negatively related to ERRγ expression in normal and pre-eclamptic placentas.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that miR-320a overexpression causes anomalous placentation by targeting ERRγ. Our research reveals the promising effect of miR-320a and the ERRγ functional loop on placentation.

Isolation and Characterization of Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells Derived from Human Third Trimester Placental Chorionic Villi and Decidua Basalis

The decidua basalis and placental chorionic villi are critical components of maternal-fetal interface, which plays a critical role in normal placental development. Failure to form a proper maternal-fetal interface is associated with clinically important placental pathologies including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Placental trophoblast cells are well known for their critical roles in establishing the maternal-fetal interface; however accumulating evidence also implicates mesenchymal stem/stromal cells that envelop the maternal and fetal blood vessels as playing an important role in the formation and efficient functioning of the interface. Moreover, recent studies associate abnormal mesenchymal stem/stromal cell function in the development of preeclampsia. Further research is needed to fully understand the role that these cells play in this clinically important placental pathology.The intimate relationship between maternal and fetal tissues at the interface poses significant problems in the enrichment of decidua basalis and chorionic villous mesenchymal stem/stromal cells without significant cross-contamination. The protocols described below for the enrichment and characterization of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells from the maternal-fetal interface produce highly enriched cells that conform to international standards and show minimal cross-contamination.