Suppression by human placental protein 14 of natural killer cell activity

Clock Proteins Have the Potential to Improve Term Delivery Date Prediction: A Proof-of-Concept Study

Our ability to accurately predict the delivery date of term pregnancies is limited by shortcomings of modern-day clinical tools and due date estimation methods. The pregnancy clock is a series of coordinated and harmonized signals between mother, fetus, and placenta that regulate the length of gestation. Clock proteins are thought to be important mediators of these signals, yet few studies have investigated their potential utility as predictors of term delivery date. In this study, we performed a cross-sectional proteome analysis of 2648 serum samples collected between 18 and 28 weeks of gestation from mothers who delivered at term. The cohort included pregnancies both with and without complications. A total of 15 proteins of diverse functionalities were shown to have a direct association with time to birth (TTB), 11 of which have not been previously linked to gestational age. The protein A Distintegrin and Metalloproteinase 12 (ADA12) was one of the 15 proteins shown to have an association with TTB. Mothers who expressed the highest levels of ADA12 in the cohort (90th percentile) gave birth earlier than mothers who expressed the lowest levels of ADA12 (10th percentile) at a statistically significant rate (median gestational age at birth 390/7 weeks vs. 393/7 weeks, p < 0.001). Altogether, these findings suggest that ADA12, as well as potentially other clock proteins, have the potential to serve as clinical predictors of term delivery date in uncomplicated pregnancies and represent an important step towards characterizing the role(s) of clock proteins in mediating pregnancy length.

Pretreatment with long-acting gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists improved pregnancy outcomes after hysteroscopic multiple polypectomies: A retrospective study of 660 frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles

OBJECTIVE

To compare the reproductive pregnancy outcomes of pretreatment with long-acting gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) plus hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with HRT-only cycles, and investigate differences between single polypectomy and multiple polypectomies, and between one or two doses of GnRH-a.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study on patients undergoing polypectomy who underwent frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) from March 2018 to May 2019. They were divided into GnRH-a pretreatment and HRT-only groups. Each group was divided into single polypectomy or multiple polypectomies (in a single hysteroscopic session) subgroups. Clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate (LBR) were the main outcomes. The effect of GnRH-a dosage was further analysed.

RESULTS

There were 212 GnRH-a pretreatment cases (45 single and 167 multiple polyps) and 448 HRT-only cases (228 single and 220 multiple polyps). The LBR of the GnRH-a pretreatment group (53.3%) was significantly higher than the HRT group (43.3%; P = 0.016). Logistic regression analysis showed that GnRH-a pretreatment significantly affected the LBR (odds ratio, OR 1.470, 95% confidence interval, Cl 1.046-2.065; P = 0.026). In the multiple polypectomy subgroup, the LBR with GnRH-a pretreatment was higher than with HRT-only (54.5% vs 43.6%; P = 0.034). However, the LBR was not different between the respective single polypectomy subgroups (48.9% vs 43.0%; P = 0.466). For patients with multiple polyps, two GnRH-a pretreatments produced a higher LBR than a single GnRH-a pretreatment (62.7% vs 47.8%), but without significant difference (P = 0.055).

CONCLUSION

GnRH-a pretreatment improved the LBR for FET cycles after hysteroscopic multiple polypectomies, independent of dose.

Is neonatal uterine bleeding responsible for early-onset endometriosis?

BACKGROUND

It has been hypothesized that the origin of early-onset endometriosis could be from endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) in neonatal uterine blood (NUB). There is no information on the possible mechanistic basis linking an association between NUB/neonatal endometrium and development of early-onset endometriosis. In this study we performed a series of experiments to clarify the mechanistic link between NUB and/or neonatal endometrium and development of early-onset endometriosis.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected postmortem neonatal endometria (n = 15) and prospectively collected NUB (n = 18) of female babies for the analysis of different biological markers including eMSCs. Immunohistochemical analysis of neonatal endometria was performed to examine the expression patterns of ovarian steroid receptors (ER/PGR), decidualization (prolactin, IGFBP1), pre-decidualization (Glycodelin A, α-SMA), proliferation (Ki-67 index), vascularity (CD31 + cells), immunocompetent CD68+, CD45+, CD56 + cells and some putative markers of eMSCs. Cell transfer method and immunocytochemistry were used to investigate the eMSCs and/or endometrial cells in NUB.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemical analysis of postmortem neonatal endometria revealed variable staining response to ER/PGR, decidual markers, and substantial proliferative and angiogenic activity. A moderate to strong immunoexpression of Glycodelin-A was found in both neonatal and adult endometria. The tissue infiltration of CD56+, CD45 + and CD68 + immunocompetent cells was significantly low in neonatal endometria than that in adult endometria (p = 0.0003, p < 0.0001, p = 0.034, respectively). No eMSCs or even endometrial cells were detected in NUB. However, a variable expression of some phenotypes of eMSCs (CD90/CD105) was found in neonatal endometria.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our serial experiments we did not find any supporting evidence for the role of NUB in early-onset endometriosis. Neonatal endometria showed variable expression of ovarian steroid receptors, decidualization, and a substantial amount of proliferative and angiogenic activity. As an alternative mechanism, a significantly less tissue accumulation of immunocompetent cells in neonatal endometria may explain the survival of ER + and PGR + cells should they make entry into the pelvis and consequent development of early endometriosis with the onset of ovarian function. Future study with large sample size and application of modified technological tools is warranted to test the NUB hypothesis and to clarify their biological or clinical significance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

not applicable.

Uterine Transcriptome: Understanding Physiology and Disease Processes

In recent years, transcriptomics has enabled us to gain a deeper understanding of fundamental reproductive physiology, including the menstrual cycle, through a more precise molecular analysis. The endometrial mRNA transcript levels fluctuate during the normal menstrual cycle, indicating changes in the relative recruitment and abundance of inflammatory cells, as well as changes in the receptivity and remodeling of the endometrium. In addition to providing a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular underpinnings of pathological gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, leiomyomas, and adenomyosis through RNA sequencing, this has allowed researchers to create transcriptome profiles during both normal menstrual cycles and pathological gynecological conditions. Such insights could potentially lead to more targeted and personalized therapies for benign gynecological conditions. Here, we provide an overview of recent advances in transcriptome analysis of normal and pathological endometrium.

The Function of NK Cells in Tumor Metastasis and NK Cell-Based Immunotherapy

Metastatic tumors cause the most deaths in cancer patients. Treating metastasis remains the primary goal of current cancer research. Although the immune system prevents and kills the tumor cells, the function of the immune system in metastatic cancer has been unappreciated for decades because tumors are able to develop complex signaling pathways to suppress immune responses, leading them to escape detection and elimination. Studies showed NK cell-based therapies have many advantages and promise for fighting metastatic cancers. We here review the function of the immune system in tumor progression, specifically focusing on the ability of NK cells in antimetastasis, how metastatic tumors escape the NK cell attack, as well as the recent development of effective antimetastatic immunotherapies.

Serum and cervico-vaginal glycodelin concentrations as predictors of successful implantation after embryo transfer

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of glycodelin (Gd) concentrations in serum and cervico-vaginal secretions as a predictor for implantation after ICSI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospective study on 50 women undergoing ICSI where long protocol ovarian stimulation was used. Serum and cervico-vaginal lavage Gd concentrations were measured then rates of biochemical and clinical pregnancy were detected and predictive value was evaluated using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Using cut-off values of 2.2 ng/ml and 1.9 ng/ml for serum and cervico-vaginal Gd concentrations respectively for biochemical pregnancy and values of 2.7 ng/ml and 1.3 ng/ml respectively for clinical pregnancy, there was no significant difference regarding sensitivity (72% & 56%, and 72% & 89%, respectively and respectively). Specificity was statistically similar for biochemical pregnancy (72% and 89%, respectively) while specificity was significantly higher for clinical pregnancy using cervico-vaginal Gd concentration of 1.3 ng/ml (88%) compared to serum Gd concentration of 1.9 ng/ml (53%).

CONCLUSION

Glycodelin appears to be a promising marker for implantation after IVF/ICSI.

The Potential Relationship Between Different Human Female Reproductive Disorders and Sperm Quality in Female Genital Tract

Spermatozoa should travel throughout the female reproductive tract to reach its ultimate goal, fertilization of the oocyte. At the ejaculation moment, millions of sperm within a few milliliters of the ejaculate are deposited at the cranial segment of vagina and make their journey to the fertilization site. This is done by means of various factors, such as sperm motility, the uterine and fallopian tubes contractility, and the ciliary movement of the lining cells. During this migration, spermatozoa interact with the female microenvironment both physically and molecularly. In this regard, the quality of the environmental conditions may affect this interaction. Therefore, some alterations in women's genital tract microenvironment, such as conditions that occur in female reproductive disorders, may have detrimental effects on sperm reproductive function. In this review, human sperm migration through the female tract is described, and the potential effects of different reproductive disorders at reproductive organs, such as vagina, uterine cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovary on sperm survival and quality, are also argued. The understanding of those conditions that may impair sperm fertility in the female genital tract can provide a more accurate diagnosis of the causes of infertility in couples. This can ultimately lead to the discovery of effective treatment approaches.

Glycodelin is internalized by peripheral monocytes

Glycodelin is produced by the endometrial cells during the luteal phase and first trimester of pregnancy and plays a role in the regulation of the endometrial immunology. However, the molecular connection between glycodelin and the maternal immune system is not clear. To better understand the possible physiological interaction between the endometrium and the maternal immune system, we investigated (1) whether glycodelin binds to mainly peripheral monocytes, and in case (2) whether the binding to the membrane only depends on the protein backbone or a carbohydrate structure is needed, and in case (3) whether glycodelin is internalized after binding to the membrane. We demonstrated that glycodelin - with or without the carbohydrate structure - was preferentially bound and internalized to peripheral monocytes. Surprisingly, we found signals in the nucleus of the monocytes indicating a potential regulating effect of glycodelin may be exerted through the nucleus. However, further studies should be performed to confirm this finding.

Glycodelin regulates the numbers and function of peripheral natural killer cells

Natural killer (NK) cells comprise of ∼70% of the immune cell population in the maternal decidua and ∼15% of the mononuclear cells in the peripheral blood. The decidual NK cells capable of producing high levels of cytokines are functionally distinct from the peripheral NK cells that exhibit high cytotoxicity. The numbers of peripheral NK cells and their cytotoxicity potential have been correlated with pregnancy outcome. In the same context, glycodelin, an immunomodulatory protein, has been recognized to be essential for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, and its' reduced levels are associated with recurrent spontaneous abortions. We investigated the effect of glycodelin on the peripheral NK cells. Our results reveal that glycodelin suppresses the cytotoxicity of peripheral NK cells via downregulating perforin, granzyme B and IFNγ. Glycodelin also induces caspase-dependent death in only activated peripheral NK cells, the effect suggested to be mediated by glycodelin upon engaging with the CD7 cell surface receptor. Thus, during pregnancy, glycodelin modulates the function and the number of cytotoxic NK cells that pose a deleterious effect on the fetus, a semi-allograft. This study provides insights into the mechanism of the regulatory effect of glycodelin on NK cells and could possibly be exploited for the management of miscarriages.

Progesterone-Related Immune Modulation of Pregnancy and Labor

Pregnancy involves a complex interplay between maternal neuroendocrine and immunological systems in order to establish and sustain a growing fetus. It is thought that the uterus at pregnancy transitions from quiescent to laboring state in response to interactions between maternal and fetal systems at least partly via altered neuroendocrine signaling. Progesterone (P4) is a vital hormone in maternal reproductive tissues and immune cells during pregnancy. As such, P4 is widely used in clinical interventions to improve the chance of embryo implantation, as well as reduce the risk of miscarriage and premature labor. Here we review research to date that focus on the pathways through which P4 mediates its actions on both the maternal reproductive and immune system. We will dissect the role of P4 as a modulator of inflammation, both systemic and intrinsic to the uterus, during human pregnancy and labor.

Organically vs conventionally-grown dark and white chia seeds (

The effects of organic and conventional crop systems on chemical composition, antioxidant activity and functional properties were evaluated in white and dark chia (Salvia hispanica L.) seeds. The organic system reduced the total protein content, and increased the total carbohydrates but did not change polyunsaturated fatty acids, total phenolic or flavonoids. Organic white chia seeds showed the best techno-functional properties. The antioxidant capacity of chia extracts varied in relation to the chemical complexity and differential rate kinetics of different assays. Extractable total phenolic acids and antioxidant capacity were better in organic white chia seeds. In this first approach, we have demonstrated that the organic white chia seed has a better total antioxidant capacity measured by direct quencher approaches than its conventionally-grown counterpart. To summarize, we conclude that the organic white chia seed could be a dietary source of antioxidants with a potential to promote health benefits in systemic functions and/or microbiota and the use of its techno-functional properties for the food industry.

Pathways regulating the expression of the immunomodulatory protein glycodelin in non‑small cell lung cancer

Glycodelin [gene name, progesterone associated endometrial protein (PAEP)] was initially described as an immune system modulator in reproduction. Today, it is also known to be expressed in several types of cancer, including non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this cancer type, the feasibility of its usage as a follow‑up biomarker and its potential role as an immune system modulator were described. It is assumed that NSCLC tumours secrete glycodelin to overcome immune surveillance. Therefore, targeting glycodelin might be a future approach with which to weaken the immune system defence of NSCLC tumours. In this context, it is important to understand the regulatory pathways of PAEP/glycodelin expression, as these are mostly unknown so far. In this study, we analysed the influence of several inducers and of their downstream pathways on PAEP/glycodelin expression in a human lung adenocarcinoma carcinoma (ADC; H1975) and a human lung squamous cell carcinoma (SQCC) cell line (2106T). PAEP/glycodelin expression was notably stimulated by the canonical transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β pathway in SQCC cells and the PKC signalling cascade in both cell lines. The PI3K/AKT pathway inhibited PAEP/glycodelin expression in the ADC cells and an antagonizing role towards the other investigated signalling cascades is suggested herein. Furthermore, the mitogen‑activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular‑signal regulated kinases (ERK) pathway was, to a lesser extent, found to be associated with increased PAEP/glycodelin amounts. The phosphoinositide 3‑kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), MEK/ERK pathway and TGF‑β are targets of NSCLC drugs that are already approved or are currently under investigation. On the whole, the findings of this study provide evidence that inhibiting these targets affects the expression of glycodelin and its immunosuppressive effect in NSCLC tumours. Moreover, understanding the regulation of glycodelin expression may lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches with which to weaken the immune system defence of NSCLC tumours in the future.

Pathogenesis of endometriosis: the genetic/epigenetic theory

OBJECTIVE

To study the pathophysiology of endometriosis.

DESIGN

Overview of observations on endometriosis.

SETTING

Not applicable.

PATIENT(S)

None.

INTERVENTIONS(S)

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The hypothesis is compatible with all observations.

RESULT(S)

Endometriosis, endometrium-like tissue outside the uterus, has a variable macroscopic appearance and a poorly understood natural history. It is a hereditary and heterogeneous disease with many biochemical changes in the lesions, which are clonal in origin. It is associated with pain, infertility, adenomyosis, and changes in the junctional zone, placentation, immunology, plasma, peritoneal fluid, and chronic inflammation of the peritoneal cavity. The Sampson hypothesis of implanted endometrial cells following retrograde menstruation, angiogenic spread, lymphogenic spread, or the metaplasia theory cannot explain all observations if metaplasia is defined as cells with reversible changes and an abnormal behavior/morphology due to the abnormal environment. We propose a polygenetic/polyepigenetic mechanism. The set of genetic and epigenetic incidents transmitted at birth could explain the hereditary aspects, the predisposition, and the endometriosis-associated changes in the endometrium, immunology, and placentation. To develop typical, cystic ovarian or deep endometriosis lesions, a variable series of additional transmissible genetic and epigenetic incidents are required to occur in a cell which may vary from endometrial to stem cells. Subtle lesions are viewed as endometrium in a different environment until additional incidents occur. Typical cystic ovarian or deep endometriosis lesions are heterogeneous and represent three different diseases.

CONCLUSION(S)

The genetic epigenetic theory is compatible with all observations on endometriosis. Implications for treatment and prevention are discussed.

The Roles of Glycodelin in Cancer Development and Progression

Glycodelin is a kind of glycoprotein expressed in secretory endometrium, pregnancy deciduas, and amniotic fluid originally, which is vital for the maintenance of normal human reproductive activities. Recent researches have reported that glycodelin is specifically expressed in various malignancies, including female-specific cancers such as endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer and breast cancer, and non-gender specific cancers including lung cancer, and colon cancer, and glycodelin expression correlates with the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients. This review focuses on the expression of glycodelin in different cancers and its role in cancer development and progression. Glycodelin possesses the abilities to regulate cancer cell proliferation, differentiation, and invasion, promote cancer angiogenesis, and modulate the differentiation and function of immune cells including T cells, dendritic cells, monocyte-macrophages, natural killer cells and B cells participating in cancer development. The expression of glycodelin can be regulated by stromal cells, lysophosphatidic acid, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and relaxin. In summary, glycodelin is a promising biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients, and depending on its distinct immunoregulatory effects, glycodelin can be a prospective target for cancer immunotherapy.

Investigation on the ability of first trimester glycodelin and angiopoietin-2 to predict small-for-gestational age pregnancies at delivery

BACKGROUND

The aim was to investigate whether first trimester glycodelin and angiopoietin-2 can predict small-for-gestational age (SGA) at delivery, individually or in combination.

METHODS

In this case-control study we measured glycodelin and angiopoietin-2 on serum from 170 singleton pregnant women delivering SGA neonates and 985 singleton pregnant women delivering normal-weighted neonates. All values were converted to multiples of the medians (MoM).

RESULTS

Pregnant women delivering SGA neonates had lower first trimester glycodelin and angiopoietin-2 MoM values [median (interquartile range)] compared with pregnant women delivering normal-weighted neonates for glycodelin: 0.86 (0.58-1.24) vs. 1.03 (0.74-1.45), p<0.001, and for angiopoietin-2: 0.89 (0.69-1.19) vs. 1.01 (0.78-1.31), p<0.001. The prediction performances of the biomarkers showed that the areas under the curve (AUC) were 0.59 (glycodelin), 0.58 (angiopoietin-2), and 0.60 (glycodelin and angiopoietin-2).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that first trimester glycodelin and angiopoietin-2 were associated with SGA, but they were, individually and in combination, poor predictors of SGA at delivery. The AUCs were low which indicate low detection rates and high false positive rates.

Endometrial Stromal Decidualization Responds Reversibly to Hormone Stimulation and Withdrawal

Human endometrial stromal decidualization is required for embryo receptivity, angiogenesis, and placentation. Previous studies from our laboratories established that connexin (Cx)-43 critically regulates endometrial stromal cell (ESC) differentiation, whereas gap junction blockade prevents it. The current study evaluated the plasticity of ESC morphology and Cx43 expression, as well as other biochemical markers of cell differentiation, in response to decidualizing hormones. Primary human ESC cultures were exposed to 10 nM estradiol, 100 nM progesterone, and 0.5 mM cAMP for up to 14 days, followed by hormone withdrawal for 14 days, mimicking a biphasic ovulatory cycle. Reversible differentiation was documented by characteristic changes in cell shape. Cx43 was reversibly up- and down-regulated after the estradiol, progesterone, and cAMP treatment and withdrawal, respectively, paralleled by fluctuations in prolactin, vascular endothelial growth factor, IL-11, and glycodelin secretion. Markers of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), and its counterpart epithelial-mesenchymal transition, followed reciprocal patterns corresponding to the morphological changes. Incubation in the presence of 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid, an inhibitor of gap junctions, partially reversed the expression of decidualization and MET markers. In the absence of hormones, Cx43 overexpression promoted increases in vascular endothelial growth factor and IL-11 secretion, up-regulated MET markers, and reduced N-cadherin, an epithelial-mesenchymal transition marker. The combined results support the hypothesis that Cx43-containing gap junctions and endocrine factors cooperate to regulate selected biomarkers of stromal decidualization and MET and suggest roles for both phenomena in endometrial preparation for embryonic receptivity.

Characterization of tumor infiltrating natural killer cell subset

The presence of tumor-infiltrating Natural Killer (NK) within a tumor bed may be indicative of an ongoing immune response toward the tumor. However, many studies have shown that an intense NK infiltration, is associated with advanced disease and may even facilitate cancer development. The exact role of the tumor infiltrating NK cells and the correlation between their presence and poor prognosis remains unclear. Interestingly, during pregnancy high numbers of a specific NK subset, CD56^brightCD16^dim, are accumulated within first trimester deciduas. These decidual NK (dNK) cells are unique in their gene expression pattern secret angiogenic factors that induce vascular growth. In the present study we demonstrate a significant enrichment of a CD56^brighCD16^dim NK cells within tumors. These NK cells express several dNK markers including VEGF. Hence, this study adds new insights into the identity of tumor residual NK cells, which has clear implications for the treatment of human cancer.

Evidence for Differential Glycosylation of Trophoblast Cell Types

Human placental villi are surfaced by the syncytiotrophoblast (STB), with a layer of cytotrophoblasts (CTB) positioned just beneath the STB. STB in normal term pregnancies is exposed to maternal immune cells in the placental intervillous space. Extravillous cytotrophoblasts (EVT) invade the decidua and spiral arteries, where they act in conjunction with natural killer (NK) cells to convert the spiral arteries into flaccid conduits for maternal blood that support a 3-4 fold increase in the rate of maternal blood flow into the placental intervillous space. The functional roles of these distinct trophoblast subtypes during pregnancy suggested that they could be differentially glycosylated. Glycomic analysis of these trophoblasts has revealed the expression of elevated levels of biantennary N-glycans in STB and CTB, with the majority of them bearing a bisecting GlcNAc. N-glycans terminated with polylactosamine extensions were also detected at low levels. A subset of the N-glycans linked to these trophoblasts were sialylated, primarily with terminal NeuAcα2-3Gal sequences. EVT were decorated with the same N-glycans as STB and CTB, except in different proportions. The level of bisecting type N-glycans was reduced, but the level of N-glycans decorated with polylactosamine sequences were substantially elevated compared with the other types of trophoblasts. The level of triantennary and tetraantennary N-glycans was also elevated in EVT. The sialylated N-glycans derived from EVT were completely susceptible to an α2-3 specific neuraminidase (sialidase S). The possibility exists that the N-glycans associated with these different trophoblast subpopulations could act as functional groups. These potential relationships will be considered.

Human malignant melanoma-derived progestagen-associated endometrial protein immunosuppresses T lymphocytes in vitro

Progestagen-associated endometrial protein (PAEP) is a glycoprotein of the lipocalin family that acts as a negative regulator of T cell receptor-mediated activation. However, the function of tumor-derived PAEP on the human immune system in the tumor microenvironment is unknown. PAEP is highly expressed in intermediate and thick primary melanomas (Breslow’s 2.5mm or greater) and metastatic melanomas, correlating with its expression in daughter cell lines established in vitro. The current study investigates the role of melanoma cell-secreted PAEP protein in regulating T cell function. Upon the enrichment of CD3⁺, CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, each subset was then mixed with either melanoma-derived PAEP protein or PAEP-poor supernatant of gene-silenced tumor cells. IL-2 and IFN-γ secretion of CD4⁺ T cells significantly decreased with the addition of PAEP-rich supernatant. And the addition of PAEP-positive cell supernatant to activated lymphocytes significantly inhibited lymphocyte proliferation and cytotoxic T cell activity, while increasing lymphocyte apoptosis. Our result suggests that melanoma cell-secreted PAEP protein immunosuppresses the activation, proliferation and cytotoxicity of T lymphocytes, which might partially explain the mechanism of immune tolerance induced by melanoma cells within the tumor microenvironment.

Diagnostic potential of peritoneal fluid biomarkers of endometriosis

Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus, in different parts of the peritoneal cavity. It affects up to 10% of reproductive-age women and up to 50% of women with infertility. Surgical diagnosis of endometriosis is still the gold standard, with no diagnostic biomarkers available. Medical therapies target the symptoms and not the disease itself, and surgical treatment cannot prevent recurrence. As peritoneal fluid reflects the altered peritoneal microenvironment of endometriosis patients, it can provide a wealth of information on pathophysiological processes and potential biomarkers. This report reviews the molecular biomarkers identified in peritoneal fluid over the last 5 years and discusses their potential applications for diagnosis, prognosis and drug therapy.

The role of placental protein 14 in the pathogenesis of endometriosis

Placental protein 14 (PP-14) is the principal secretory phase product of endometrium and has been shown to inhibit cell immune function. But its role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis is controversy. The objective of this study is to determine the concentrations of PP-14 in peritoneal fluid (PF) and serum and PP-14 protein expression in endometriotic lesions in women with ovarian endometriosis (n = 75) when compared to women without endometriosis (n = 49) between day 7 and day 20 of their menstrual cycle. Concentrations of PP-14 in PF and serum as well as PP-14 protein expression in endometriotic lesions in women with and without endometriosis were evaluated by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemical staining, respectively. Serum PP-14 concentrations were significantly increased in women with endometriosis (7.5 ± 1.4 ng/mL) compared to those in women without endometriosis (5.8 ± 0.9 ng/mL; P < .05) and statistically decreased after surgery and further reduced by using gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist therapy (P < .05). However, the concentrations of PP-14 in PF did not reach a significant difference between women with and without endometriosis (P > .05). In women with endometriosis, scores of PP-14 protein expression in the lesions (n = 50, 2.2 [0~5.8]) were significantly correlated with serum PP-14 concentrations (n = 50, 7.6 ± 1.3 ng/mL; P < .01). Our results suggest that PP-14 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

Elevated glycodelin-A concentrations in serum and peritoneal fluid of women with ovarian endometriosis

The aim of this study was to evaluate serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) glycodelin-A concentrations in women with ovarian endometriosis. Ninety-nine matched pairs of serum and PF samples were included in our study. The case group comprised 57 women with ovarian endometriosis and the control group 42 healthy women undergoing sterilization or patients with benign ovarian cysts. Glycodelin-A concentrations were measured using ELISA. Endometriosis patients had significantly higher serum and PF glycodelin-A concentrations compared to controls, and this increase was observed in both proliferative and secretory cycle phases. Glycodelin-A concentrations were more than 10-fold higher in PF than in serum and correlated with each other. Intensity and frequency of menstrual pain positively correlated with glycodelin-A concentrations. Sensitivity and specificity of glycodelin-A as a biomarker for ovarian endometriosis were 82.1% and 78.4% in serum, and 79.7% and 77.5% in PF, respectively. These results indicate that Glycodelin-A has a potential role as a biomarker to be used in combination with other, independent marker molecules.

Glycodelin in reproduction

To achieve a successful pregnancy in humans, sperm is required for capacitation, followed by binding to and entry into an oocyte. Maternal endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) prepare the appropriate implantation environment through regulation of immune cells and endometrial cells. After acquiring endometrial receptivity, a successful pregnancy consists of complex and finely regulated steps involving apposition, adhesion, invasion, and penetration. Glycodelin is a secretory glycoprotein that affects cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, and motility. Glycodelin has four glycoforms (glycodelin-A, -S, -F. and -C); differences in glycosylation affect each characteristic function. Glycodelin has a unique temporospatial pattern of expression, primarily in the reproductive tract where glycodelin is mid-secretory phase-dominant. Recent studies have demonstrated that glycodelin protein has the potential to regulate various processes, including immunosuppression, fertilization, and implantation. This review details the orchestrated regulation of successful pregnancy by glycodelin as well as a discussion of the basic characteristics of glycodelin.

Manifestations of immune tolerance in the human female reproductive tract

Like other mucosal surfaces (e.g., the gastrointestinal tract, the respiratory tract), the human female reproductive tract acts as an initial barrier to foreign antigens. In this role, the epithelial surface and subepithelial immune cells must balance protection against pathogenic insults against harmful inflammatory reactions and acceptance of particular foreign antigens. Two common examples of these acceptable foreign antigens are the fetal allograft and human semen/sperm. Both are purposely deposited into the female genital tract and appropriate immunologic response to these non-self antigens is essential to the survival of the species. In light of the weight of this task, it is not surprising that multiple, redundant and overlapping mechanisms are involved. For instance, cells at the immunologic interface between self (female reproductive tract epithelium) and non-self (placental trophoblast cells or human sperm) express glycosylation patterns that mimic those on many metastatic cancer cells and successful pathogens. The cytokine/chemokine milieu at this interface is altered through endocrine and immunologic mechanisms to favor tolerance of non-self. The “foreign” cells themselves also play an integral role in their own immunologic acceptance, since sperm and placental trophoblast cells are unusual and unique in their antigen presenting molecule expression patterns. Here, we will discuss these and other mechanisms that allow the human female reproductive tract to perform this delicate and indispensible balancing act.

Mapping the apoptosis inducing domain of an immunomodulatory protein: glycodelin A

Glycodelin A (GdA) is a dimeric glycoprotein synthesized by the human endometrium under progesterone regulation. Based on the high sequence similarity with β-lactoglobulin, it is placed under the lipocalin superfamily. The protein is one of the local immunomodulators present at the feto-maternal interface which affects both the innate as well as the acquired arms of the immune system, thereby bringing about successful establishment and progression of pregnancy. Our previous studies revealed that the domain responsible for the immunosuppressive activity of glycodelin lies on its protein backbone and the glycans modulate the same. This study attempts to further delineate the apoptosis inducing region of GdA. Our results demonstrate that the stretch of amino acid sequence between Met24 to Leu105 is necessary and sufficient to inhibit proliferation of T cells and induce apoptosis in them. Further, within this region the key residues involved in harboring the activity were shown to be present between Asp52 and Ser65.

High throughput, cell type-specific analysis of key proteins in human endometrial biopsies of women from fertile and infertile couples

BACKGROUND

Although histological dating of endometrial biopsies provides little help for prediction or diagnosis of infertility, analysis of individual endometrial proteins, proteomic profiling and transcriptome analysis have suggested several biomarkers with altered expression arising from intrinsic abnormalities, inadequate stimulation by or in response to gonadal steroids or altered function due to systemic disorders. The objective of this study was to delineate the developmental dynamics of potentially important proteins in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, utilizing a collection of endometrial biopsies from women of fertile (n = 89) and infertile (n = 89) couples.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Progesterone receptor-B (PGR-B), leukemia inhibitory factor, glycodelin/progestagen-associated endometrial protein (PAEP), homeobox A10, heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor, calcitonin and chemokine ligand 14 (CXCL14) were measured using a high-throughput, quantitative immunohistochemical method. Significant cyclic and tissue-specific regulation was documented for each protein, as well as their dysregulation in women of infertile couples. Infertile patients demonstrated a delay early in the secretory phase in the decline of PGR-B (P < 0.05) and premature mid-secretory increases in PAEP (P < 0.05) and CXCL14 (P < 0.05), suggesting that the implantation interval could be closing early. Correlation analysis identified potential interactions among certain proteins that were disrupted by infertility.

CONCLUSIONS

This approach overcomes the limitations of a small sample number. Protein expression and localization provided important insights into the potential roles of these proteins in normal and pathological development of the endometrium that is not attainable from transcriptome analysis, establishing a basis for biomarker, diagnostic and targeted drug development for women with infertility.

The immunomodulating roles of glycoproteins in epithelial ovarian cancer

The complexity of the immune system demands an intricate defense mechanism by tumors. Ovarian and other tumors employ specific glycoproteins and the associated glycan sequences to modulate immune responses. Glycoproteins enable tumor cells that express or secrete these molecules to evade immune cell attack and induce the immune system to promote tumor growth. This review focuses first on the immune environment in ovarian cancer, and the mechanisms of activation and inhibition that immune cells undergo in order to either attack or ignore a target cell. Next we illustrate the immunomodulatory roles of ovarian cancer-associated glycans and glycoproteins in 1. preventing immune synapse formation, 2. serving as ligands of immune cell receptors, 3. scavenging cytokines and chemokines, and 4. participating in the formation of autoantibodies against the tumor. The importance of these immunomodulating strategies from the view points of understanding the tumor immunology of ovarian tumors, potential origin of such mechanisms, and specific strategies to circumvent the glycoconjugate-mediated suppression of immune responses is discussed in this review.

Endometrial secretions: creating a stimulatory microenvironment within the human early placenta and implications for the aetiopathogenesis of preeclampsia

Endometrial glands represent an important source of nutrients for the conceptus during the first trimester. Their secretions are enriched with carbohydrates, and glycogen accumulates within the syncytiotrophoblast of the placenta. It has been assumed that fetal and placental metabolism follow adult pathways, although it is now appreciated that early development occurs in a low-oxygen environment. In past decades, a novel family of putative insulin mediators, inositol phosphoglycans (IPGs), was discovered. These molecules act as allosteric activators and/or inhibitors of enzymes and transduction proteins involved in the control of cell signalling and metabolic pathways, and determine the specificity of responses after activation of the insulin receptor. One member, IPG P-type, activates pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase (PDH-Pase), glycogen synthase phosphatase, and glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase. Activation of key phosphatases play a major role in the regulation of glucose disposal by oxidative metabolism via PDH, and the non-oxidative storage by glycogen synthesis, both pathways classically known to be regulated by insulin. High concentrations of IPG P-type in amniotic fluid suggest a role in the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism in the fetal-placental unit. Glycogen accumulation in the syncytiotrophoblast also occurs in preeclamptic pregnancies, and is consistently associated with higher placental levels of IPG P-type. Here, we explore the relationship between nutrients provided by the endometrial glands during early pregnancy, IPG P-type and fetal metabolic requirements. We also discuss whether a disconnect between the placental/fetal metabolic state and oxygen tension could lead to a preeclamptic-type syndrome via leakage of Warburg/IPG mediators into the maternal circulation.

Chronic chorioamnionitis displays distinct alterations of the amniotic fluid proteome

Acute chorioamnionitis of infectious origin and chronic chorioamnionitis of immunological origin are two major placental lesions of spontaneous preterm birth with elevated amniotic fluid interleukin-6 and CXCL10 concentrations, respectively. The changes in the amniotic fluid proteome associated with intra-amniotic infection and acute chorioamnionitis are well defined, yet alterations unique to chronic chorioamnionitis remain to be elucidated. This study was conducted to determine those amniotic fluid proteins changing specifically in the presence of chronic chorioamnionitis. Amniotic fluid obtained from acute chorioamnionitis, chronic chorioamnionitis and gestational age-matched controls were analysed by two-dimensional (2D) difference in gel electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF analyses. The type of histological inflammation was used to define each condition in preterm labour cases (n = 125) and term not in labour cases (n = 22), and the amniotic fluid concentrations of interleukin-6, CXCL8, CXCL10 and prostaglandin F(2α) were also measured by specific immunoassays. Among preterm labour cases, 31 differentially expressed proteins were identified in chronic chorioamnionitis cases as compared to both acute chorioamnionitis and control cases. Importantly, glycodelin-A, which maintains maternal tolerance against an allogeneic fetus, was decreased in chronic chorioamnionitis, while haptoglobin was increased. We report the amniotic fluid proteome of chronic chorioamnionitis for the first time, and the findings herein strongly suggest that there is a pathophysiological association between the changes of immunomodulatory proteins in the amniotic fluid and chronic chorioamnionitis, a histological manifestation of maternal anti-fetal allograft rejection.

Endometrial implantation factors in women with submucous uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign tumours, which are associated with subfertility and early pregnancy loss. This study was carried out to examine the effect of submucous fibroids on concentrations of glycodelin, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) and osteopontin in uterine flushings. Premenopausal women with a certain diagnosis of submucous fibroid confirmed on three-dimensional saline infusion sonohysterography were recruited into the study. The control group included women without ultrasonic evidence of any uterine or endometrial pathology. All women had uterine flushings performed 7days post LH surge. Enzyme linked immunoassays were performed to analyse glycodelin, IL-6, IL-10, TNFα and osteopontin, whilst immunoradiometric assay was used to analyse IGFBP-1. In 23 women with submucous fibroids, the concentrations of glycodelin and IL-10 in uterine flushings were significantly lower compared with 17 women in the control group (P=0.002; P=0.007, respectively). There were no significant differences between the two groups in concentrations of IGFBP-1, IL-6, TNFα and osteopontin. Women with submucous fibroids had significantly lower concentrations of glycodelin and IL-10 in mid-luteal phase uterine flushings. This finding may explain the association with submucous fibroids and adverse reproductive outcomes. Uterine fibroids are small growths from the muscle of the uterus (womb). Submucous fibroids protrude into the cavity of the womb. We do not know what causes fibroids to form and grow. In most women, fibroids cause no symptoms and they are sometimes detected on routine gynaecological examination. In some women, however, fibroids can cause heavier and longer menstrual periods. Another problem associated with fibroids is bleeding between periods. The effect of fibroids on fertility is not clear, but some doctors believe that they may also cause infertility and early miscarriage. This study tried to see whether presence of submucous fibroids has any effect on various substances produced by the lining of the womb to facilitate development of early pregnancy. Women with a confirmed diagnosis of submucous fibroids were asked to attend the clinic and have the uterine cavity flushed with a special solution 7days after ovulation. The fluid, which was taken back from the womb, was then analysed to measure the amounts of substances that favour pregnancy development. Women with a normal uterine cavity were also asked to have the uterine cavity flushed to act as a comparison. The study showed that the uterine cavities of women with submucous fibroids were producing decreasing amount of substances favourable to early pregnancy development. We speculate that this may explain why some women with submucous fibroids have difficulties falling pregnant. Our findings should be helpful to doctors advising women with submucous fibroids who wish to start a family.

Insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia and reproductive disorders in infertile women

Obesity, which disturbs lipid and glucose metabolism, is a recent medical concern. It threatens human health and also has adverse effects on reproductive functions by causing insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia, especially in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). For PCOS patients to prevent these adverse effects, it is important to take into account improving their lifestyles by exercise and proper diets. The relationship between insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia and reproductive disorders should be understood as fully as possible in order to provide effective treatment. It is well known that insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia can be triggered by obesity with visceral fat accumulation. Hyperinsulinemia affects granulosa cells in small follicles and theca cells. This condition induces early response to luteinizing hormones on granulosa cells of small follicles and causes premature differentiation of these cells, which eventually results in anovulation. For improvement of anovulation because of hyperinsulinemia, insulin-sensitizing agents (biguanide and thiazolidinedione derivatives) are useful. Hyperinsulinemia may adversely affect the endometrial functions and environment, and evoke implantation disturbance. Treatment with an insulin-sensitizing agent (metformin) improves the levels of glycodelin, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1, and blood flow in spiral arteries during the peri-implantation period. It supports endometrial function, improves the endometrial environment, and facilitates embryo implantation. The rate of early pregnancy loss during the first trimester is 30-50% in women with PCOS, which is threefold higher than for normal women. Metformin treatment improves the levels of insulin, the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance, and plasminogen activator inhibitor activity, and decreases early pregnancy loss. It goes without saying that lifestyle change is fundamental for improving reproductive performance in addition to treatment with insulin-sensitizing agents.

Functional characterization of the progestagen-associated endometrial protein gene in human melanoma

Utilizing gene microarray profiling of melanoma samples, we have recently identified a novel gene overexpressed in both thick primary and metastatic melanomas. This gene, progestagen-associated endometrial protein (PAEP), has never before been implicated in the oncogenic processes of melanoma, with its true function in oncogenesis and tumour progression relatively unknown. Overexpression of the PAEP gene in freshly procured thick primary and metastatic melanoma samples (58%) and daughter cell lines (77%) is confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and mass spectrometric analysis. We suggest that PAEP gene overexpression is involved with melanoma tumour progression as well as an aggressive phenotype. Transfection of melanoma cells with PAEP small interfering RNA (siRNA) reveals a significant decrease in soft agar colony formation and a marked inhibition of both cell migration and cell invasion. Furthermore, we establish stable melanoma transfectants via PAEP lentiviral small hairpin RNA (shRNA), examine their growth characteristics in a murine xenograft model and reveal that tumour growth is significantly inhibited in two separate melanoma cell lines. Our data strongly implicate the PAEP gene as a tumour growth promoter with oncogenic properties and a potential therapeutic target for patients with advanced melanoma.

Management of endometrial polyps in subfertile women: a systematic review

The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the evidence for the impact of polypectomy on fecundity, implantation and live birth rates in women who are trying to conceive spontaneously or by assisted conception. A literature search was performed to identify all controlled studies that compared the effects of polypectomy or conservative management of the polyp on pregnancy outcome. Among the three studies that met the inclusion criteria, only one was a randomized controlled trial, which reported a significantly higher pregnancy rates after polypectomy in women undergoing intrauterine insemination. The other two studies were retrospective and suggested no beneficial effects of polypectomy on women undergoing assisted conception. Meta-analytic pool was not feasible as the studies varied in their design and the characteristics. While there is some evidence from basic science studies to suggest a detrimental effect of polyps on fertility, the evidence from clinical studies is scarce and conflicting. Polyps diagnosed prior to commencement of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) for in vitro fertilization (IVF) should therefore be removed. The management of polyps seen during the course of COH for IVF should be individualized given the number of embryos created, the previous reproductive history of the patient and the individual clinics' success rates for their frozen embryo programme.

Glycoprotein and carbohydrate binding protein expression in the placenta in early pregnancy loss

Glycoproteins expressed at the fetal-maternal interface have been shown to exert immunomodulating effects. Glycodelin, hCG and transferrin have been used in in vitro experiments as ligands to block E-selectin-mediated cell adhesion. We found that glycodelin is a strong inhibitor of the E-selectin-mediated cell adhesion with a 10(3)-fold increase in potency compared to the monovalent tetrasaccharide sialyl Lewis X. HCG with distinct carbohydrate expression is also an effective selectin antagonist, whereas the potency of transferrin is low. This could indicate a possible role of glycodelin, hCG and transferrin in preventing leukocyte adhesion to the fetal trophoblast. In decidual tissue of abortion patients, glycodelin expression was significantly reduced compared to normal gestation. These results were confirmed by in situ hybridization. Moreover, glycodelin expression in endometrial cells in vitro could be stimulated by addition of hCG. Because hCG is down-regulated in women with abortion, we speculate that hCG could be one of the factors regulating glycodelin expression. Galectins are structurally related proteins with the ability to bind beta-galactosides through a conserved carbohydrate recognition domain. Galectin-1 (gal-1) expression in the syncytiotrophoblast is down-regulated in early pregnancy loss. Gal-1 recognizes the Thomsen-Friedenreich disaccharide (Galbeta1-3GalNAc-) on the syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast. Gal-1 also inhibited trophoblast cell proliferation but did not induce apoptosis in BeWo cells. Ligation of Gal-1 on trophoblast cells may have regulatory effects on trophoblast cell differentiation. Decreased expression of Gal-1 may partly explain disturbed trophoblast differentiation during early placentation leading to early pregnancy loss.

Glycodelin A induces a tolerogenic phenotype in monocyte-derived dendritic cells in vitro

PROBLEM

Successful mammalian pregnancy requires a delicate immunological balance at the feto-maternal interface that allows the semi-allogeneic fetus to grow, while protecting mother and child from environmental pathogens. As in other mucosal tissues, antigen-recognition and -handling by professional antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells (DC) determine the course of the subsequent immune response. DC at the feto-maternal interface help shape this immunological equilibrium. Endometrial tissue secretes high quantities of glycodelin A (GdA) during the so-called fertile window (i.e. the time of implantation of the blastocyst).

METHOD OF STUDY

We investigated the effect of GdA on monocyte-derived DC (moDC) regarding surface marker expression, endopinocytotic activity, cytokine profile as well as lymphoproliferative activity.

RESULTS

Upon pretreatment with GdA and subsequent maturation with tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin (IL)-1beta, moDC displayed a reduced expression of costimulatory molecules, an unchanged major histocompatibility complex-II expression and persistence of DC-SIGN positive cells. GdA-pretreated moDC had a higher endopinocytotic activity, an increased IL-10 production and a dose-dependent reduction in lymphoproliferative activity. GdA incubation alone did not alter the immature phenotype.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest a model in which the human endometrium secretes high quantities of GdA during implantation and thereby helps to shape the unique immunological interaction between mother and fetus via decidual DC.

The role of glycodelin as an immune-modulating agent at the feto-maternal interface

Glycodelin A is a progesterone-induced endometrial glycoprotein which has been amply documented to play a role in down-modulation of the maternal immune response to fetal allo-antigens and to be indispensable for the maintenance and progression of pregnancy. Earlier studies from our laboratory have focused on the effect of glycodelin on T cells, key regulators of both the antibody and cell-mediated arms of the acquired immune system. Glycodelin-induced apoptosis in activated T cells occurs through a caspase-dependent intrinsic mitochondrial pathway. Interestingly, glycodelin inhibited the proliferation of B cells but did not induce apoptosis. More recently, we have studied the effect of glycodelin on the cells of the innate immune system, namely monocytes and NK cells. We have found that glycodelin induced apoptosis in monocytic cells before their differentiation to macrophages, via the mitochondrial pathway, but did not affect their phagocytic capacity after differentiation. Glycodelin induced apoptosis in NK cells but this activity was independent of caspases. In conclusion, glycodelin is observed to affect many cells of the immune system, although the nature of the effect and signaling mechanisms involved in each cell type may be distinct.

Ovarian cancer-derived glycodelin impairs in vitro dendritic cell maturation

Local immunosuppressive mechanisms shape the tumor microenvironment and contribute to carcinogenesis. In ovarian cancer such mechanisms have been shown to influence survival. Dendritic cells (DCs) are central immunity regulators and induce potent cytotoxic T-cell responses as well as peripheral tolerance depending on modulatory stimuli. Here, we show that ovarian cancer-derived glycodelin (Gd), a glycoprotein that physiologically modulates local immunity in early pregnancy, induces a tolerogenic DC phenotype. Gd was isolated with high performance liquid chromatography from the malignant ascites of ovarian cancer patients. DCs were generated from monocytes of healthy donors and exposed to Gd with or without an inflammatory stimulus (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin 1-beta). We investigated the effect of Gd on DC surface marker expression, endopinocytotic activity, cytokine profile, and lymphoproliferative activity. DCs that were exposed to Gd altered their phenotype as seen by a differential expression of costimulatory molecules, whereas expression of DC-specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3-grabbing nonintegrin, a marker of an immature phenotype, was increased. Functional data provided further evidence for the immature/tolerogenic properties of Gd-pretreated DCs. Antigen uptake was retained, production of interleukin-10 was increased, and lymphoproliferative activity was reduced. This effect was reversible by adding Gd-blocking antibodies. Gd, which is found in the malignant ascites of ovarian cancer patients, induces a tolerogenic phenotype in DC, thereby shaping an immunodeficient tumor micromilieu.

Glycodelin A triggers T cell apoptosis through a novel calcium-independent galactose-binding lectin activity

Glycodelin A (GdA) is one of the progesterone inducible endometrial factors that protect the fetal semi-allograft from maternal immune rejection. The immunoregulatory effects of GdA are varied, with diverse effects on the fate and function of most immune cell types. Its effects on T cells are particularly relevant as it is capable of regulating T cell activation, differentiation, as well as apoptosis. We have previously reported that GdA triggers mitochondrial stress and apoptosis in activated T cells by a mechanism that is distinct and independent of its effects on T cell activation. In this study we describe the characterization of a cell surface receptor for GdA on T cells. Our results reveal a novel calcium-independent galactose-binding lectin activity of GdA, which is responsible for its apoptogenic function. This discovery adds GdA to a select group of soluble immunoregulatory lectins that operate within the feto-placental compartment, the only other members being the galectin family proteins. We also report for the first time that both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell subsets are equally susceptible to inhibition with GdA, mediated by its novel lectin activity. We demonstrate that GdA selectively recognizes complex-type N-linked glycans on T cell surface glycoproteins, and propose that the galectin-1 glycoprotein receptor CD7 maybe a novel target for GdA on T cells. This study, for the first time, links the lectin activity of GdA to its biological function.

Endometrial protein PP14: a new test of endometrial function?

The human endometrium produces a number of proteins which are at least partly specific to that tissue. Two of these proteins have been the subject of much recent work. They were originally called ‘placental protein 12’ and ‘placental protein 14’ (PP12 and PP14) because they were isolated by Hans Bohn from extracts of whole placentae. However, it is now clear that they arise from the maternal endometrium (decidua) rather than the fetal trophoblast. Placental protein 12 has been shown to be identical to the insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1). It is produced in many normal tissues and its measurement probably does not provide a specific index of endometrial function. By contrast, PP14 is detectable only in ‘reproductive’ tissues and, in theory, might be an excellent clinical test of endometrial function.