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Qiao Y, Kolibaba H, Mori Y, Liu T, Chen H, Guo J, Xu D, Zhang Y. Infection of Placental Extravillous Cytotrophoblasts with Human Cytomegalovirus Causes a Treg/Th17 Imbalance at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Cell Transplant 2021; 29:963689720925055. [PMID: 32693638 PMCID: PMC7586263 DOI: 10.1177/0963689720925055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper aimed to evaluate whether human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection in extravillous cytotrophoblasts (EVT) could shift the balance between regulatory T (Treg) and T-helper type 17 (Th17) cells in vitro. In this study, primary EVT isolated from first trimester placental tissues were infected with HCMV, and conditional media were harvested after cultivation for 72 h. T lymphocytes were cultured in the presence or absence of HCMV-infected conditional media. The frequencies of Th17 or Treg cells from HCMV group were significantly lower or higher than those from the control group, with the expression of corresponding key cytokines at both messenger ribonucleic acid and secretion levels, respectively. The ratio of Treg to Th17 cells was significantly lower in HCMV group than that in control group (P < 0.01). In conclusion, tiled Th17/Treg balance at maternal–fetal interface exists after HCMV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | | | - Yukiko Mori
- Department of Biological Sciences, Osaka University, Japan
| | - Tao Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tai'an Central Hospital, China
| | - Huijun Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | - Juanjuan Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | - Dan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, China
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, China
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Merech F, Hauk V, Paparini D, Fernandez L, Naguila Z, Ramhorst R, Waschek J, Pérez Leirós C, Vota D. Growth impairment, increased placental glucose uptake and altered transplacental transport in VIP deficient pregnancies: Maternal vs. placental contributions. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166207. [PMID: 34186168 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Glucose uptake by the placenta and its transfer to the fetus is a finely regulated process required for placental and fetal development. Deficient placentation is associated with pregnancy complications such as fetal growth restriction (FGR). The vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has embryotrophic effects in mice and regulates human cytotrophoblast metabolism and function. Here we compared glucose uptake and transplacental transport in vivo by VIP-deficient placentas from normal or VIP-deficient maternal background. The role of endogenous VIP in placental glucose and amino acid uptake was also investigated. Wild type C57BL/6 (WT) or VIP+/- (VIP HT) females were mated with WT, VIP knock-out (VIP KO) or VIP HT males. Glucose uptake and transplacental transport were evaluated by the injection of the fluorescent d-glucose analogue 2-NBDG in pregnant mice at gestational day (gd) 17.5. Glucose and amino acid uptake in vitro by placental explants were measured with 2-NBDG or 14C-MeAIB respectively. In normal VIP maternal background, fetal weight was reduced in association with placental VIP deficiency, whereas placental weight was unaltered. Paradoxically, VIP+/- placentas presented higher glucose uptake and higher gene expression of GLUT1 and mTOR than VIP+/+ placentas. However, in a maternal VIP-deficient environment placental uptake and transplacental transport of glucose increased while fetal weights were unaffected, regardless of feto-placental genotype. Results point to VIP-deficient pregnancy in a normal background as a suitable FGR model with increased placental glucose uptake and transplacental transport. The apparently compensatory actions are unable to sustain normal fetal growth and could result in complications later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fátima Merech
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Hauk
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Paparini
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Fernandez
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Zaira Naguila
- Bioterio Central, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - James Waschek
- The David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Daiana Vota
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEN-UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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3
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Harris LK. VIP: The big shot peptide in pregnancy and beyond? Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 232:e13636. [PMID: 33630381 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lynda K. Harris
- Division of Pharmacy & Optometry School of Health Sciences The University of Manchester Manchester UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre School of Medical Sciences The University of ManchesterSt Mary's Hospital Manchester UK
- St Mary’s HospitalManchester Foundation TrustManchester Academic Health Science Centre Manchester UK
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Neuregulin 1 (NRG-1) as a Neuronal Active Substance in the Porcine Intrahepatic Nerve Fibers in Physiological Conditions and Under the Influence of Bisphenol a (BPA ). ANNALS OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.2478/aoas-2020-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA ) is a substance commonly used in the production of plastics. Previous studies have described that it shows multidirectional harmful effects on the living organism. It is known that BPA causes liver damage, but knowledge about the roles of intrahepatic nerves in these mechanisms is extremely scanty. On the other hand, the exact roles of some neuronal substances in the nervous structures located in the liver still remain unknown. One of such substance, which is allocated a role in the stimulation of cell survival is neuregulin 1 (NRG-1). The aim of the present study was to investigate the distribution of NRG-1-like immunoreactive (NRG-1-LI) nerves in the liver in physiological conditions and under the influence of various doses of BPA using routine double immunofluorescence staining. The results (for the first time) show the presence of NRG-1 in the intrahepatic nerves, and co-localization of NGR-1 with neuronal isoform of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). Moreover, it has been observed that high doses of BPA increase the density of NRG-1-LI intrahepatic nerves and the degree of co-localization of NRG-1 with VIP. These observations suggest that NRG-1 located in intrahepatic nerves may play functions in processes connected with liver damage and/or regeneration under the impact of BPA.
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Merech F, Soczewski E, Hauk V, Paparini D, Ramhorst R, Vota D, Pérez Leirós C. Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide induces glucose and neutral amino acid uptake through mTOR signalling in human cytotrophoblast cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17152. [PMID: 31748639 PMCID: PMC6868285 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53676-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The transport of nutrients across the placenta involves trophoblast cell specific transporters modulated through the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). The vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has embryotrophic effects in mice and regulates human cytotrophoblast cell migration and invasion. Here we explored the effect of VIP on glucose and System A amino acid uptake by human trophoblast-derived cells (Swan 71 and BeWo cell lines). VIP activated D-glucose specific uptake in single cytotrophoblast cells in a concentration-dependent manner through PKA, MAPK, PI3K and mTOR signalling pathways. Glucose uptake was reduced in VIP-knocked down cytotrophoblast cells. Also, VIP stimulated System A amino acid uptake and the expression of GLUT1 glucose transporter and SNAT1 neutral amino acid transporter. VIP increased mTOR expression and mTOR/S6 phosphorylation whereas VIP silencing reduced mTOR mRNA and protein expression. Inhibition of mTOR signalling with rapamycin reduced the expression of endogenous VIP and of VIP-induced S6 phosphorylation. Our findings support a role of VIP in the transport of glucose and neutral amino acids in cytotrophoblast cells through mTOR-regulated pathways and they are instrumental for understanding the physiological regulation of nutrient sensing by endogenous VIP at the maternal-foetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Merech
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires. Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Elizabeth Soczewski
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires. Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Hauk
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires. Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Paparini
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires. Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires. Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daiana Vota
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires. Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires. Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Paparini DE, Choudhury RH, Vota DM, Karolczak-Bayatti M, Finn-Sell S, Grasso EN, Hauk VC, Ramhorst R, Pérez Leirós C, Aplin JD. Vasoactive intestinal peptide shapes first-trimester placenta trophoblast, vascular, and immune cell cooperation. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:964-980. [PMID: 30726565 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells are responsible for decidual stromal invasion, vascular transformation, and the recruitment and functional modulation of maternal leukocytes in the first-trimester pregnant uterus. An early disruption of EVT function leads to placental insufficiency underlying pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a vasodilating and immune modulatory factor synthesized by trophoblast cells. However, its role in first-trimester placenta has not been explored. Here, we tested the hypothesis that VIP is involved in first-trimester EVT outgrowth, spiral artery remodelling, balancing angiogenesis, and maintenance of immune homeostasis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH First-trimester placental tissue (five to nine weeks of gestation) was collected, and was used for EVT outgrowth experiments, immunofluorescence, isolation of decidual natural killer (dNK) cells and decidual macrophages (dMA), and functional assays. Peripheral blood monocytes were differentiated with GM-CSF and used for angiogenesis assays. KEY RESULTS In decidua basalis, VIP+ EVT were observed sprouting from cell columns and lining spiral arterioles. EVT migrating from placental explants were also VIP+. VIP increased EVT outgrowth and IL-10 release, whereas it decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine production in EVT, dNK cells, and dMA. VIP disrupted endothelial cell networks, both directly and indirectly via an effect on macrophages. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The results suggest that VIP assists the progress of EVT invasion and vessel remodelling in first-trimester placental bed in an immunologically "silent" milieu. The effects of VIP in the present ex vivo human placental model endorse its potential as a therapeutic candidate for deep placentation disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E Paparini
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Ruhul H Choudhury
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Daiana M Vota
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Magdalena Karolczak-Bayatti
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Sarah Finn-Sell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Esteban N Grasso
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa C Hauk
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
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Hauk V, Vota D, Gallino L, Calo G, Paparini D, Merech F, Ochoa F, Zotta E, Ramhorst R, Waschek J, Leirós CP. Trophoblast VIP deficiency entails immune homeostasis loss and adverse pregnancy outcome in mice. FASEB J 2018; 33:1801-1810. [PMID: 30204500 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201800592rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Immune homeostasis maintenance throughout pregnancy is critical for normal fetal development. Trophoblast cells differentiate into an invasive phenotype and contribute to the transformation of maternal arteries and the functional shaping of decidual leukocyte populations. Insufficient trophoblast invasion, inadequate vascular remodeling, and a loss of immunologic homeostasis are associated with pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a pleiotropic neuropeptide synthetized in trophoblasts at the maternal-placental interface. It regulates the function of trophoblast cells and their interaction with decidual leukocytes. By means of a murine model of pregnancy in normal maternal background with VIP-deficient trophoblast cells, here we demonstrate that trophoblast VIP is critical for trophoblast function: VIP gene haploinsufficiency results in lower matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression, and reduced migration and invasion capacities. A reduced number of regulatory T cells at the implantation sites along with a lower expression of proangiogenic and antiinflammatory markers were also observed. Findings detected in the implantation sites at early stages were followed by an abnormal placental structure and lower fetal weight. This effect was overcome by VIP treatment of the early pregnant mice. Our results support the relevance of trophoblast-synthesized VIP as a critical factor in vivo for trophoblast-cell function and immune homeostasis maintenance in mouse pregnancy.-Hauk, V., Vota, D., Gallino, L., Calo, G., Paparini, D., Merech, F., Ochoa, F., Zotta, E., Ramhorst, R., Waschek, J., Leirós, C. P. Trophoblast VIP deficiency entails immune homeostasis loss and adverse pregnancy outcome in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Hauk
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
| | - Daiana Vota
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
| | - Lucila Gallino
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
| | - Guillermina Calo
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
| | - Daniel Paparini
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
| | - Fátima Merech
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
| | - Federico Ochoa
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO-Houssay), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Elsa Zotta
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO-Houssay), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Catedra de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
| | - James Waschek
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, The David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)
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8
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Ramhorst R, Calo G, Paparini D, Vota D, Hauk V, Gallino L, Merech F, Grasso E, Leirós CP. Control of the inflammatory response during pregnancy: potential role of VIP as a regulatory peptide. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1437:15-21. [PMID: 29740848 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A network of cell-cell communications through contact and soluble factors supports the maternal-placental interaction and provides a suitable environment for fetal growth. Trophoblast cells take center stage at these loops: they interact with maternal leukocytes to sustain the varying demands of gestation, and they synthesize hormones, cytokines among other factors that contribute to the maintenance of immune homeostasis. Here, we discuss vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and its potential as a regulatory neuropeptide in pregnancy. VIP is synthesized by trophoblast cells; it regulates trophoblast cell function and interaction with the major immune cell populations present in the pregnant uterus. VIP activity produces an anti-inflammatory microenvironment by modulating the functional profile of monocytes, macrophages, and regulatory T cells. Trophoblast VIP inhibits neutrophil extracellular trap formation and accelerates neutrophil apoptosis, enabling their silent clearance by phagocytic cells. The effects of VIP on the trophoblast-immune interaction are consistent with its regulatory role throughout pregnancy for immune homeostasis maintenance. These observations may provide new clues for pharmacological targeting of pregnancy complications associated with exacerbated inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Ramhorst
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermina Calo
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Paparini
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daiana Vota
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Hauk
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lucila Gallino
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fatima Merech
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Esteban Grasso
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Impaired Gal-9 Dysregulates the PBMC-Induced Th1/Th2 Imbalance in Abortion-Prone Matings. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:9517842. [PMID: 29651447 PMCID: PMC5831994 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9517842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent miscarriage is defined as the loss of 3 or more consecutive pregnancies; however, the underlying immunologic mechanisms that trigger pregnancy loss remain largely unelucidated. Galectin-9 (Gal-9) may modulate a variety of biologic functions and play an important role in Th1/Th2 immune deviation. To analyze the mechanism of Gal-9 in abortion, we used the classical abortion-prone mouse model (DBA/2-mated CBA/J mice) to detect the expression of Gal-9 at the maternal-fetal interface. We also mimicked the immune environment of pregnancy by culturing trophoblast cells with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to explore how Gal-9 might be involved in the pathogenesis of abortion. We found that the expression levels of Gal-9 in abortion-prone matings were lower than that for controls. Using a coculture system, we detected a Th1 preponderance in the coculture from abortion-prone matings. Furthermore, Gal-9 blockade augmented the imbalance of Th1/Th2 immunity in abortion-prone matings by promoting the secretion of Th1-derived cytokines in coculture, while there was a Th2 preponderance when we administered recombinant Gal-9. In conclusion, our results suggest that the Gal-9 signal is important for the regulation of PBMC function toward a Th2 bias at the maternal-fetal interface, which is beneficial for the maintenance of a normal pregnancy.
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Grasso E, Gori S, Paparini D, Soczewski E, Fernández L, Gallino L, Salamone G, Martinez G, Irigoyen M, Ruhlmann C, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. VIP induces the decidualization program and conditions the immunoregulation of the implantation process. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 460:63-72. [PMID: 28689770 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The decidualization process involves phenotype and functional changes on endometrial cells and the modulation of mediators with immunoregulatory properties as the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). We investigate VIP contribution to the decidualization program and to immunoregulation throughout the human embryo implantation process. The decidualization of Human endometrial stromal cell line (HESC) with Medroxyprogesterone-dibutyryl-cAMP increased VIP/VPAC-receptors system. In fact, VIP could induce decidualization increasing differentiation markers (IGFBP1, PRL, KLF13/KLF9 ratio, CXCL12, CXCL8 and CCL2) and allowing Blastocyst-like spheroids (BLS) invasion in an in vitro model of embryo implantation. Focus on the tolerogenic effects, decidualized cells induced a semi-mature profile on maternal dendritic cells; restrained CD4+ cells recruitment while increased regulatory T-cells recruitment. Interestingly, the human blastocyst conditioned media from developmentally impaired embryos diminished the invasion and T-regulatory cells recruitment in these settings. These evidences suggest that VIP contributes to the implantation process inducing decidualization, allowing BLS invasion and favoring a tolerogenic micro-environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Grasso
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Soledad Gori
- Institute of Experimental Medicine IMEX-CONICET, National Academy of Sciences, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Paparini
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Elizabeth Soczewski
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Laura Fernández
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Lucila Gallino
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Salamone
- Institute of Experimental Medicine IMEX-CONICET, National Academy of Sciences, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina.
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Forghani P, Petersen CT, Waller EK. Activation of VIP signaling enhances immunosuppressive effect of MDSCs on CMV-induced adaptive immunity. Oncotarget 2017; 8:81873-81879. [PMID: 29137229 PMCID: PMC5669855 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is recognized as a potent anti-inflammatory factor which affects both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. These effects include, but are not limited to, inhibition of T cell proliferation and disruption of immune homeostasis. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are an immune regulatory cell type that has been described in settings of cancer and infectious disease._Here we demonstrate a reduced circulating monocytic MDSCs in the VIP -/-vs. wild type MCMV. VIP-/- MDSCs secretes less NO upon stimulation with LPS and interferon that relatively lose the ability to suppress T cells activation in vitro compared to wild type MDSCs._Considering the importance of VIP in immunomodulation, the possible effect of VIP in the suppressive function of MDSC populations following CMV infection remains unknown. We describe the possible role of VIP in the regulation of anti-CMV activity of T cells through the activation of MDSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Forghani
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Christopher T Petersen
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Edmund K Waller
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Vota D, Aguero M, Grasso E, Hauk V, Gallino L, Soczewski E, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. Progesterone and VIP cross-talk enhances phagocytosis and anti-inflammatory profile in trophoblast-derived cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 443:146-154. [PMID: 28104390 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Trophoblast cells produce several inmmuneregulators like the Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) and P4 targeting multiple circuits, and also display an intese phagocytic ability allowing embryo implantation in a tolerogenic context. Here, we explored whether P4 and VIP- crosstalk modulates trophoblast cell function, focus on the phagocytic ability and the immune homeostasis maintenance. P4 enhanced the phagocytosis in trophoblast-derived cells quantified by the engulfment of latex-beads or eryptotic erythrocytes. P4 and VIP modulated the balance of anti/pro-inflammatory mediators, increasing TGF-β expression, with no changes in IL-1, IL-6, or nitrites production. This modulation was accompained by transcription factor expression changes that could turn on tolerogenic programs represented by increased PPAR-γ and decreased IRF-5 expression. Finally, P4 stimulated VPAC2 expression in trophoblast cells and VPAC2 over-expression enhanced phagocytosis mimicking P4-effect. Therefore, P4 and VIP network enhances the phagocytic ability of trophoblast-derived cells, through a mechanism involving VPAC2 accompained with an anti-inflammatory context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana Vota
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Mariana Aguero
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Esteban Grasso
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Hauk
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Lucila Gallino
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Elizabeth Soczewski
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Argentina.
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Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide modulates trophoblast-derived cell line function and interaction with phagocytic cells through autocrine pathways. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26364. [PMID: 27212399 PMCID: PMC4876379 DOI: 10.1038/srep26364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Trophoblast cells migrate and invade the decidual stroma in a tightly regulated process to maintain immune homeostasis at the maternal-placental interface during the first weeks of pregnancy. Locally synthesized factors modulate trophoblast cell function and their interaction with maternal leukocytes to promote the silent clearance of apoptotic cells. The vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a pleiotropic polypeptide with trophic and anti-inflammatory effects in murine pregnancy models. We explored the effect of VIP on two human first trimester trophoblast cell lines, particularly on their migration, invasiveness and interaction with phagocytic cells, and the signalling and regulatory pathways involved. We found that VIP enhanced trophoblast cell migration and invasion through the activation of high affinity VPAC receptors and PKA-CRE signalling pathways. VIP knocked-down trophoblast cells showed reduced migration in basal and leukemic inhibitor factor (LIF)-elicited conditions. In parallel, VIP-silenced trophoblast cells failed to induce the phagocytosis of apoptotic bodies and the expression of immunosuppressant markers by human monocytes. Our results suggest that VIP-mediated autocrine pathways regulate trophoblast cell function and contribute to immune homeostasis maintenance at placentation and may provide new clues for therapeutic intervention in pregnancies complicated by defective deep placentation.
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Paparini D, Grasso E, Calo G, Vota D, Hauk V, Ramhorst R, Leirós CP. Trophoblast cells primed with vasoactive intestinal peptide enhance monocyte migration and apoptotic cell clearance through αvβ3 integrin portal formation in a model of maternal-placental interaction. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:930-41. [PMID: 26502804 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS Is apoptotic cell phagocytosis by monocytes modulated by pathways elicited by vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) action on trophoblast? STUDY FINDING Targeting trophoblast cells with VIP induces monocyte migration, polarization to anti-inflammatory phenotypes and apoptotic trophoblast cell clearance which involves increased αvβ3 integrin expression on phagocytic cells and binding to thrombospondin 1. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Monocytes recruited to the maternal-placental interface interact with trophoblast cells and differentiate to alternatively activated macrophages involved in the silent clearance of apoptotic cells. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an immunomodulatory polypeptide synthesized at the human placenta that can target both trophoblast cells and monocytes/macrophages. Integrin αvβ3 and thrombospondin 1 are involved in the formation of a phagocytic portal for the immunosuppressant clearance of apoptotic cells. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS This is a laboratory-based study studying monocytes isolated from peripheral blood of healthy women (n = 33) and their interaction in vitro with first trimester trophoblast cell lines. Peripheral blood monocytes were isolated from healthy volunteers by Percoll gradient and tested in co-culture settings with first trimester trophoblast cell lines (Swan 71 and HTR8) or with trophoblast cell conditioned media obtained in the presence or absence of 10 or 100 nM VIP. The effect of VIP-conditioned media on monocyte migration was assessed through transwell systems and monocyte/macrophage phenotype was determined by flow cytometry. Phagocytosis of apoptotic cells and the mechanisms involved in phagocytic portal formation were assessed by flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, immunological blockade and RT-PCR. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Exposing cells to 100 nM VIP increased the migration of monocytes toward trophoblast cell conditioned media (VIP conditioned medium) (P < 0.05 versus conditioned media from cells not exposed to VIP) and contributed to the monocytes acquiring an anti-inflammatory profile with increased CD39 and IL-10 expression (P < 0.05). Phagocytosis of apoptotic trophoblast cells by monocytes and monocyte-differentiated macrophages was increased by VIP conditioned medium (P < 0.05 versus media conditioned in the absence of VIP or direct addition of 100 nM VIP). The boosting effect of VIP conditioned medium on phagocytosis involved increased expression and re-localization of αvβ3 integrin on phagocytic cells along with enhanced expression of thrombospondin 1 on trophoblast cells. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The conclusions are based on in vitro experiments with monocytes drawn from peripheral blood of healthy individuals and trophoblast cell lines and we were unable to ascertain that these mechanisms operate similarly in vivo. We cannot rule out a differential behavior of either trophoblast cells targeted in vivo with VIP, or primary cultures of first trimester trophoblast cells assayed in vitro. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The results presented provide new clues for immune and trophoblast cell pharmacological targeting in pregnancy complications of immunopathologic nature. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was funded by the National Agency of Sciences and Technology ANPCyT (PICT 2011-0144), National Research Council CONICET (PIP 602/2012) and University of Buenos Aires (UBACyT 20020130100040BA) to C.P.L. The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Paparini
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pab. 2, (1428) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Esteban Grasso
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pab. 2, (1428) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermina Calo
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pab. 2, (1428) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daiana Vota
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pab. 2, (1428) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Hauk
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pab. 2, (1428) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pab. 2, (1428) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pab. 2, (1428) Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Fraccaroli L, Grasso E, Hauk V, Paparini D, Soczewski E, Mor G, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. VIP boosts regulatory T cell induction by trophoblast cells in an in vitro model of trophoblast-maternal leukocyte interaction. J Leukoc Biol 2015; 98:49-58. [PMID: 25877932 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.1a1014-492rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inducible regulatory T cells (Tregs) exert a timely and efficient immunosuppressive action at the critical peri-implantation stage essential for maternal tolerance to the conceptus. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) promotes anti-inflammatory and tolerogenic profiles through binding to VIP receptors on immune cells. We evaluated whether VIP produced by trophoblast cells induces Tregs during the early interaction of maternal leukocytes with trophoblast cells, thus contributing to maternal tolerance. We used an in vitro model of maternal leukocyte-trophoblast cell interaction represented by cocultures of fertile women's PBMCs with a human trophoblast cell line (Swan-71) and evaluated the effect of VIP added exogenously and of the endogenous polypeptide. VIP increased the frequency of CD4(+)CD25(+)FoxP3(+) cells after coculture, and these cells were able to suppress the maternal alloresponse. VIP also increased the frequency of CD4(+)IL10(+) and CD4(+)TGFβ(+) cells, but it did not modulate IFN-γ or IL-17 production. Swan-71 secreted VIP, and their coculture with maternal PBMCs significantly increased the frequency of Tregs. This effect was even more pronounced if the trophoblast cells had been pretreated with VIP. In both situations, the VIP antagonist prevented the increase in the frequency of CD4(+)Foxp3(+) cells, reflecting a specific effect of the polypeptide after the interaction with Swan-71 cells. Finally, the increase in CD4(+)CD25(+)FoxP3(+) frequency was prevented by an anti-TGF-β Ab and a VIP antagonist. These results suggest that VIP could have an active role in the immunoregulatory processes operating in the maternal-placental interface by contributing to the induction of Tregs through a mechanism involving TGF-β1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fraccaroli
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Esteban Grasso
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Hauk
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Paparini
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Elizabeth Soczewski
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gil Mor
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- *Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, University of Buenos Aires School of Sciences, IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; and University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Szema AM, Hamidi SA. Gene Deletion of VIP Leads to Increased Mortality Associated with Progressive Right Ventricular Hypertrophy. JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE 2014; 2:131-136. [PMID: 24860842 PMCID: PMC4031245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) knockout mice exhibit asthma, pulmonary hypertension, and left ventricular wall thinning. Humans with these disorders have premature death. We show here that VIP KO mice have reduced survival (100% mortality at 20 months), vs. 100% survival among WT C57BL/6 mice. Moreover, the ratios of weights of right ventricle divided by left ventricle plus septum were progressively increased in VIP KO mice with age. Core temperatures were lower in VIP KO mice when compared to WT littermates, with an associated pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu. Overall, our results indicate that VIP is important for survival in mice. Its absence leads to increased mortality, with progressive right ventricular hypertrophy as a surrogate of pulmonary hypertension, lower body weight, hypothermia, and pro-inflammatory milieu. These studies support VIP as a novel therapeutic agent in pulmonary hypertension.
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17
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Grasso E, Paparini D, Agüero M, Mor G, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. VIP contribution to the decidualization program: regulatory T cell recruitment. J Endocrinol 2014; 221:121-31. [PMID: 24492467 DOI: 10.1530/joe-13-0565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
During early pregnancy, the human uterus undergoes profound tissue remodeling characterized by leukocyte invasion and production of proinflammatory cytokines, followed by tissue repair and tolerance maintenance induction. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is produced by trophoblast cells and modulates the maternal immune response toward a tolerogenic profile. Here, we evaluated the contribution of the VIP/VPAC to endometrial renewal, inducing decidualization and the recruitment of induced regulatory T cells (iTregs) that accompany the implantation period. For that purpose, we used an in vitro model of decidualization with a human endometrial stromal cell line (HESC) stimulated with progesterone (P4) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) simulating the inflammatory response during implantation and human iTregs (CD4(+)CD25(+)FOXP3(+)) differentiated from naïve T cells obtained from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of fertile women. We observed that VIP and its receptor VPAC1 are constitutively expressed in HESCs and that P4 increased VIP expression. Moreover, in HESC VIP induced expression of RANTES (CCL5), one of the main chemokines involved in T cell recruitment, and this effect is enhanced by the presence of P4 and LPS. Finally, assays of the migration of iTregs toward conditioned media from HESCs revealed that endogenous VIP production induced by P4 and LPS and RANTES production were involved, as anti-RANTES neutralizing Ab or VIP antagonist prevented their migration. We conclude that VIP may have an active role in the decidualization process, thus contributing to recruitment of iTregs toward endometrial stromal cells by increasing RANTES expression in a P4-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Grasso
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires and IQUIBICEN- CONICET (National Research Council of Science and Technology), Int. Guiraldes 2160, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 2 Piso 4, Buenos Aires C1428EHA, Argentina School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Fraccaroli L, Grasso E, Hauk V, Cortelezzi M, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. Contribution of vasoactive intestinal peptide to immune homeostasis in trophoblast-maternal leukocyte interaction under LPS stimulation. Neuroimmunomodulation 2014; 21:21-30. [PMID: 24135863 DOI: 10.1159/000355039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The maternal-fetal interface is a unique immunological site that generates an adequate microenvironment during pregnancy, recognizing and eliminating infections and tolerating the trophoblast/placenta unit. For that purpose, trophoblast cells display several tolerogenic mechanisms to allow fetal survival, such as production of the neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Here we investigated the contribution of VIP to maintain homeostasis at the maternal-placental interface under lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. METHODS We performed cocultures between trophoblast cells (Swan-71 cell line) and maternal leukocytes obtained from fertile women as an in vitro model of maternal-placental interaction, and we focused on the effects of LPS on the modulation of VIP and their receptors (VPAC1 and VPAC2). RESULTS VIP could prevent the upregulation of IL-6, MCP-1, and nitrite production and maintain the production of IL-10 and TGF-β under LPS (10 µg/ml) stimulation after 48 h of coculture. To gain deeper insight into the mechanisms of how VIP could contribute to a tolerogenic microenvironment even in the presence of LPS, we investigated VIP production by maternal leukocytes and observed a significant increase in the frequency of CD4+VIP+ cells after interaction with Swan-71 cells in the presence of LPS. LPS increased VIP and inducible receptor VPAC2 expression directly on trophoblast cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS The present results suggest that VIP might act as an additional homeostatic mechanism during early stages at the maternal-placental interface to control exacerbated inflammatory responses such as the ones observed in intrauterine infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fraccaroli
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires and IQUIBICEN-CONICET (National Research Council of Science and Technology, CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Hauk V, Azzam S, Calo G, Gallino L, Paparini D, Franchi A, Ramhorst R, Leirós CP. Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Induces an Immunosuppressant Microenvironment in the Maternal-Fetal Interface ofNon-Obese DiabeticMice and Improves Early Pregnancy Outcome. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 71:120-30. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Hauk
- Departamento de Química Biológica; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Universidad de Buenos Aires; IQUIBICEN-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Sofía Azzam
- Departamento de Química Biológica; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Universidad de Buenos Aires; IQUIBICEN-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Guillermina Calo
- Departamento de Química Biológica; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Universidad de Buenos Aires; IQUIBICEN-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Lucila Gallino
- Departamento de Química Biológica; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Universidad de Buenos Aires; IQUIBICEN-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Daniel Paparini
- Departamento de Química Biológica; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Universidad de Buenos Aires; IQUIBICEN-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Ana Franchi
- Facultad de Medicina; Universidad de Buenos Aires; CEFYBO-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- Departamento de Química Biológica; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Universidad de Buenos Aires; IQUIBICEN-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Departamento de Química Biológica; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Universidad de Buenos Aires; IQUIBICEN-CONICET; Buenos Aires Argentina
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Qiao Y, Fang JG, Xiao J, Liu T, Liu J, Zhang YL, Chen SH. Effect of baicalein on the expression of VIP in extravillous cytotrophoblasts infected with human cytomegalovirus in vitro. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 33:406-411. [PMID: 23771668 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-013-1132-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This paper aimed to study the ability of baicalein to block human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection in extravillous cytotrophoblasts (EVT) and its effect on the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) expression in HCMV-infected EVT in vitro. A human trophoblast cell line (HPT-8) was chosen in this study. HCMV with 100 TCID50 was added into culture medium to infect HPT-8 cells, and then HCMV pp65 antigen was assayed by immunofluorescence staining. The infection status was determined by virus titration. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect virus DNA load in the infected cells. The expression of VIP mRNA and protein in the infected cells was measured by qRT-PCR, immunocytochemistry and Western blotting. Concentration of VIP secreted in supernatants was determined by ELISA. Red-stained HCMV pp65 antigens were found in infected HPT-8 cells 48 h after infection. HCMV replicated in large quantity in infected HPT-8 cells 4 days after infection, reaching a peak at day 6 post-infection. After treatment with baicalein, virus DNA load in infected HPT-8 cells was decreased (P<0.05), and the levels of VIP mRNA and protein, and the concentration were raised to the normal (P>0.05). Our study suggested that baicalein exerts a positive effect on the VIP expression in HCMV-infected EVT at maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jian-Guo Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Juan Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tai'an City Central Hospital, Tai'an, 271000, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yan-Li Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Su-Hua Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Blidner AG, Rabinovich GA. ‘Sweetening’ Pregnancy: Galectins at the Fetomaternal Interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:369-82. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ada G. Blidner
- Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires; Argentina
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Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. Tolerance induction at the early maternal-placental interface through selective cell recruitment and targeting by immune polypeptides. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:359-68. [PMID: 23405982 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy challenges immune cells and immunomodulatory circuits of the mother and the developing fetus to dynamically adapt to each other in an homeostatic and tolerant environment for fetal growth. This entails the coordination of multiple cellular processes all devoted to accommodate and nourish the fetus while protecting the mother from endogenous and exogenous threatens. From the earliest stages of pregnancy, several strategies to efficiently communicate immune and trophoblast cells within the interface or at a distance were identified and chemokines might act at on different targets through direct or indirect mechanisms. Here, we briefly review some mechanisms of T regulatory cell recruitment to the early maternal-placental interfaces to accomplish immunotolerance and homeostatic control and we discuss evidence on two locally released polypeptides, RANTES (regulated on activation, normal, T-cell expressed, and secreted) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), as novel contributors to the multiplicity of immune tolerant responses and uterine quiescence requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Fraccaroli L, Grasso E, Hauk V, Cortelezzi M, Calo G, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. Defects in the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)/VPAC system during early stages of the placental-maternal leucocyte interaction impair the maternal tolerogenic response. Clin Exp Immunol 2012; 170:310-20. [PMID: 23121672 PMCID: PMC3518891 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2012.04668.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful embryo implantation occurs followed by a local inflammatory/T helper type 1 (Th1) response, subsequently redirected towards a tolerogenic predominant profile. The lack of control of this initial local inflammatory response may be an underlying cause of early pregnancy complications as recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA). Considering that vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) mediates anti-inflammatory and tolerogenic effects in several conditions we hypothesized that VIP might contribute to tolerance towards trophoblast antigens during the early interaction of maternal leucocytes and trophoblast cells. In this study we investigated VIP/VPAC system activity and expression on maternal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) after interaction with immortalized trophoblast cells (Swan-71 cell line) as an in-vitro model of feto-maternal interaction, and we analysed whether it modulates maternal regulatory T cell (T(reg))/Th1 responses. We also investigated the contribution of the endogenous VIP/VPAC system to RSA pathogenesis. VIP decreased T-bet expression significantly, reduced monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and nitrite production in co-cultures of PBMCs from fertile women with trophoblast cells; while it increased the frequency of CD4(+) CD25(+) forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3)(+) cells, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β expression and interleukin (IL)-10 secretion. These effects were prevented by VIP-specific antagonist. Interestingly, PBMCs from RSA patients displayed significantly higher T-bet expression, lower T(reg) frequency and lower frequency of VIP-producer CD4 lymphocytes after the interaction with trophoblast cells. Moreover, the patients displayed a significantly lower frequency of endometrial CD4(+) VIP(+) cells in comparison with fertile women. VIP showed a Th1-limiting and T(reg) -promoting response in vitro that would favour early pregnancy outcome. Because RSA patients displayed defects in the VIP/VPAC system, this neuropeptide could be a promising candidate for diagnostic biomarker or surrogate biomarker for recurrent spontaneous abortions.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Fraccaroli
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires and National Research Council (IQUIBICEN-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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24
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Salamone G, Fraccaroli L, Gori S, Grasso E, Paparini D, Geffner J, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. Trophoblast cells induce a tolerogenic profile in dendritic cells. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2598-606. [PMID: 22718280 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dendritic cells (DCs), which are biased toward a tolerogenic profile, play a pivotal role in tissue-remodeling processes and angiogenesis at the maternal-fetal interface. Here, we analyzed the effect of trophoblast cells on the functional profile of DCs to gain insight on the tolerogenic mechanisms underlying the human placental-maternal dialog at early stages of gestation. METHODS DCs were differentiated from peripheral blood monocytes obtained from fertile women (n = 21), in the presence of interleukin (IL)-4 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor during 5 days in culture. Then, DCs were cultured with trophoblast cells (Swan-71 cell line obtained from normal cytotrophoblast, at 7 weeks) for 24 h and for an additional 24 h in the absence or presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Escherichia coli. DCs were recovered and used for flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, RT-PCR and suppression and migration assays. RESULTS Trophoblast cells significantly prevented the increase in CD83 expression induced by LPS without affecting the expression of CD86, CD40 and human leukocyte antigen-DR (P < 0.05). Trophoblast cells significantly decreased the production of IL-12p70 and tumor necrosis factor-α, while it increased the production of IL-10 (P < 0.05). No changes were observed in the production of IL-6 and monocyte chemotactic protein-1. The culture of DCs with trophoblast cells, also suppressed the stimulation of the allogeneic response triggered by LPS (P < 0.05). Conditioned DCs were able to increase the frequency of CD4 + CD25 + Foxp3 cells and this effect was accompanied by an increase in indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase expression in DCs (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The interaction of DCs with trophoblast cells promotes the differentiation of DCs into cells with a predominantly tolerogenic profile that could contribute to a tolerogenic microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Salamone
- Immunology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Hematológicas and Instituto de Estudios Oncológicos Fundación Maissa, Academia Nacional de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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25
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Ramhorst RE, Giribaldi L, Fraccaroli L, Toscano MA, Stupirski JC, Romero MD, Durand ES, Rubinstein N, Blaschitz A, Sedlmayr P, Genti-Raimondi S, Fainboim L, Rabinovich GA. Galectin-1 confers immune privilege to human trophoblast: implications in recurrent fetal loss. Glycobiology 2012; 22:1374-86. [PMID: 22752006 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cws104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms accounting for the protection of the fetal semi-allograft from maternal immune cells remain incompletely understood. In previous studies, we showed that galectin-1 (Gal1), an immunoregulatory glycan-binding protein, hierarchically triggers a cascade of tolerogenic events at the mouse fetomaternal interface. Here, we show that Gal1 confers immune privilege to human trophoblast cells through the modulation of a number of regulatory mechanisms. Gal1 was mainly expressed in invasive extravillous trophoblast cells of human first trimester and term placenta in direct contact with maternal tissue. Expression of Gal1 by the human trophoblast cell line JEG-3 was primarily controlled by progesterone and pro-inflammatory cytokines and impaired T-cell responses by limiting T cell viability, suppressing the secretion of Th1-type cytokines and favoring the expansion of CD4(+)CD25(+)FoxP3(+) regulatory T (T(reg)) cells. Targeted inhibition of Gal1 expression through antibody (Ab)-mediated blockade, addition of the specific disaccharide lactose or retroviral-mediated siRNA strategies prevented these immunoregulatory effects. Consistent with a homeostatic role of endogenous Gal1, patients with recurrent pregnancy loss showed considerably lower levels of circulating Gal1 and had higher frequency of anti-Gal1 auto-Abs in their sera compared with fertile women. Thus, endogenous Gal1 confers immune privilege to human trophoblast cells by triggering a broad tolerogenic program with potential implications in threatened pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna E Ramhorst
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
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26
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Delgado M, Ganea D. Vasoactive intestinal peptide: a neuropeptide with pleiotropic immune functions. Amino Acids 2011; 45:25-39. [PMID: 22139413 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-011-1184-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), a 28-amino acid neuropeptide/neurotransmitter, is widely distributed in both the central and peripheral nervous system. VIP is released by both neurons and immune cells. Various cell types, including immune cells, express VIP receptors. VIP has pleiotropic effects as a neurotransmitter, immune regulator, vasodilator and secretagogue. This review is focused on VIP production and effects on immune cells, VIP receptor signaling as related to immune functions, and the involvement of VIP in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. The review addresses present clinical use of VIP and future therapeutic directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Delgado
- Instituto de Parasitologia y Biomedicina, IPBLN-CSIC, Granada, Spain
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27
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Warning JC, McCracken SA, Morris JM. A balancing act: mechanisms by which the fetus avoids rejection by the maternal immune system. Reproduction 2011; 141:715-24. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy requires strict temporal regulation of maternal immune function to accommodate the growing fetus. Early implantation is facilitated by inflammatory processes that ensure adequate vascular remodeling and placental invasion. To prevent rejection of the fetus, this inflammation must be curtailed; reproductive immunologists are discovering that this process is orchestrated by the fetal unit and, in particular, the extravillous trophoblast. Soluble and particulate factors produced by the trophoblast regulate maternal immune cells within the decidua, as well as in the periphery. The aim of this review is to discuss the action of recently discovered immunomodulatory factors and mechanisms, and the potential effects of dysregulation of such mechanisms on the maternal immune response that may result in pregnancy loss or preeclampsia.
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Fraccaroli L, Grasso E, Zeitler E, Lombardi E, Gogorza S, Etchepareborda JJ, Nagle C, Cortelezzi M, Pérez Leirós C, Ramhorst R. Modulation of maternal LIF producers T cells by trophoblast and paternal antigens. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65:133-45. [PMID: 20618183 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2010.00890.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Fetal implantation enhances the production of essential growth factors such as LIF (leukaemia inhibitory factor), hence we investigated the contribution of maternal CD4 cells, activated by paternal or trophoblast antigens and its modulation by VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide) and progesterone. METHOD OF STUDY We performed co cultures of trophoblast cells (Swan-71 cell line) or paternal antigens and PBMCs from patients with recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA) and fertile women. RESULT Fertile-CD4(+) LIF(+) cells were increased by VIP and progesterone in response to paternal and trophoblast antigens. Also MMP-9 activity was decreased and pSTAT3/STAT3 ratio was increased. RSA patients have decreased levels of LIF expression which could not be modulated by VIP and progesterone and displayed a reduced number of endometrial infiltrated CD4(+) LIF(+) cells compared with fertile women. CONCLUSION The decrease of CD4(+) LIF(+) cells in RSA patients could be related with the exacerbated inflammatory response observed in the maternal-fetal dialogue model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fraccaroli
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences FCEyN, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Larocca L, Hauk V, Calafat M, Roca V, Fraccaroli L, Franchi A, Ramhorst R, Leirós CP. Modulation of macrophage inflammatory profile in pregnant nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 333:112-8. [PMID: 21145370 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2010] [Revised: 11/09/2010] [Accepted: 11/30/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
During normal early pregnancy circulating monocytes are recruited to the maternal-placental interface where they differentiate to macrophages expressing different functional phenotypes for the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Pregnancy in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse model presents some pathological features in the pre-diabetic stage. The aim of this work was to analyze the functional profile of peritoneal macrophages faced with inflammatory and phagocytic stimuli in early pregnant pre-diabetic NOD mice and their modulation by vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Pregnant NOD mouse macrophages showed no basal NFκB activation, lower IL-12 and nitrites production compared with the macrophages from non-pregnant NOD mice. Their pro-inflammatory aberrant response to LPS and apoptotic cell challenge was reduced and VIP inhibited macrophage residual deleterious responses to apoptotic cells. A functional phenotype switch in macrophages during pregnancy in NOD mice and a promoting effect of VIP towards this regulatory phenotype would be in line with the central role of macrophages in the maternal-placental dialogue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Larocca
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Dendritic cells transduced with lentiviral vectors expressing VIP differentiate into VIP-secreting tolerogenic-like DCs. Mol Ther 2010; 18:1035-45. [PMID: 20068554 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2009.293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) initiate immune responses as well as tolerance. We showed previously that the neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) suppresses innate immune responses, modulates adaptive responses by generating regulatory T cells (Treg) through the induction of tolerogenic DCs (tDCs), and has therapeutic effects in models of autoimmune/inflammatory disorders. Systemic VIP administration is limited by its short biological half-life and by its pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, we used lentiviral vectors to genetically engineer VIP-expressing bone marrow-derived DC (BMDC) and characterized the transduced LentiVIP-DC in terms of phenotype and therapeutic effects in models of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) sepsis. LentiVIP-DCs secrete VIP, and resemble tDCs through lack of co-stimulatory molecule upregulation, lack of proinflammatory cytokine secretion, increased interleukin (IL)-10 production, and poor stimulation of allogeneic T cells. A single inoculation of LentiVIP-DC in EAE or CLP mice had therapeutic effects, which correlated with reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokines and increased IL-10 production in spinal cord and peritoneal fluid, respectively. In contrast to systemic VIP administration that requires repeated, high-dose inoculations, local delivery of VIP by LentiVIP-DC may represent a promising therapeutic tool for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders.
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Roca V, Calafat M, Larocca L, Ramhorst R, Farina M, Franchi AM, Pérez Leirós C. Potential immunomodulatory role of VIP in the implantation sites of prediabetic nonobese diabetic mice. Reproduction 2009; 138:733-42. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Among several factors known to modulate embryo implantation and survival, uterine quiescence and neovascularization, maternal immunotolerance through the Th1/Th2 cytokine balance towards a Th2 profile, local regulatory T-cell (Treg) activation, and high levels of progesterone were assigned a prominent role. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a neuroimmunopeptide that has anti-inflammatory effects, promotes Th2 cytokines and CD4+CD25+FOXP3+Treg activation, and stimulates exocrine secretion, smooth muscle relaxation, and vasodilatation favoring uterus quiescence. The goal of the present work was to explore the participation of VIP in the implantation sites of normal and pregnant prediabetic nonobese diabetic (NOD) females, a mouse strain that spontaneously develops an autoimmune exocrinopathy similar to Sjögren's syndrome. Our results indicate a reduction in litter size from the third parturition onwards in the NOD female lifespan with increased resorption rates. Progesterone systemic levels were significantly decreased in pregnant NOD mice compared with BALB/c mice, although the allogeneic response to progesterone by spleen cells was not impaired. VIP receptors,Vipr1andVipr2(Vpac1andVpac2), were expressed at the implantation sites and VIP induced leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and Treg marker expression in both strains; however, a reducedVipexpression was found in NOD implantation sites. We conclude that the reduced birth rate at 16-week-old NOD mice with a Th1 systemic cytokine profile involves resorption processes with a lower expression of VIP at the sites of implantation, which acts as a local inducer of pro-implantatory LIF and Treg activation.
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Straszewski-Chavez SL, Abrahams VM, Alvero AB, Aldo PB, Ma Y, Guller S, Romero R, Mor G. The isolation and characterization of a novel telomerase immortalized first trimester trophoblast cell line, Swan 71. Placenta 2009; 30:939-48. [PMID: 19766308 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2009] [Revised: 08/20/2009] [Accepted: 08/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Studies using first trimester trophoblast cells may be limited by the inability to obtain patient samples and/or adequate cell numbers. First trimester trophoblast cell lines have been generated by SV40 transformation or similar methods, however, this approach is known to induce phenotypic and karyotypic abnormalities. The introduction of telomerase has been proposed to be a viable alternative for the immortalization of primary human cells. To investigate whether telomerase-induced immortalization might be a more feasible approach for the generation of first trimester trophoblast cell lines, we isolated primary trophoblast cells from a 7-week normal placenta and infected the cells with human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), the catalytic subunit of telomerase. Although this hTERT-infected first trimester trophoblast cell line, which we have named Swan 71, has been propagated for more than 100 passages, it still has attributes that are characteristic of primary first trimester trophoblast cells. The Swan 71 cells are positive for the expression of cytokeratin 7, vimentin and HLA-G, but do not express CD45, CD68 or the Fibroblast Specific Antigen (FSA), CD90/Thy-1. In addition, we also demonstrated that the Swan 71 cells secrete fetal fibronectin (FFN) as well as low levels of human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG). Moreover, the Swan 71 cells exhibit a cytokine and growth factor profile that is similar to primary trophoblast cells and are resistant to Fas, but not TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis. This suggests that the Swan 71 cells may represent a valuable model for future in vitro trophoblast studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Straszewski-Chavez
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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