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Raja Xavier JP, Okumura T, Apweiler M, Chacko NA, Singh Y, Brucker SY, Takeda S, Lang F, Salker MS. Placental growth factor mediates pathological uterine angiogenesis by activating the NFAT5-SGK1 signaling axis in the endometrium: implications for preeclampsia development. Biol Res 2024; 57:55. [PMID: 39152497 PMCID: PMC11330076 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-024-00526-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
After menstruation the uterine spiral arteries are repaired through angiogenesis. This process is tightly regulated by the paracrine communication between endometrial stromal cells (EnSCs) and endothelial cells. Any molecular aberration in these processes can lead to complications in pregnancy including miscarriage or preeclampsia (PE). Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a known contributing factor for pathological angiogenesis but the mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated whether PlGF contributes to pathological uterine angiogenesis by disrupting EnSCs and endothelial paracrine communication. We observed that PlGF mediates a tonicity-independent activation of nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 (NFAT5) in EnSCs. NFAT5 activated downstream targets including SGK1, HIF-1α and VEGF-A. In depth characterization of PlGF - conditioned medium (CM) from EnSCs using mass spectrometry and ELISA methods revealed low VEGF-A and an abundance of extracellular matrix organization associated proteins. Secreted factors in PlGF-CM impeded normal angiogenic cues in endothelial cells (HUVECs) by downregulating Notch-VEGF signaling. Interestingly, PlGF-CM failed to support human placental (BeWo) cell invasion through HUVEC monolayer. Inhibition of SGK1 in EnSCs improved angiogenic effects in HUVECs and promoted BeWo invasion, revealing SGK1 as a key intermediate player modulating PlGF mediated anti-angiogenic signaling. Taken together, perturbed PlGF-NFAT5-SGK1 signaling in the endometrium can contribute to pathological uterine angiogenesis by negatively regulating EnSCs-endothelial crosstalk resulting in poor quality vessels in the uterine microenvironment. Taken together the signaling may impact on normal trophoblast invasion and thus placentation and, may be associated with an increased risk of complications such as PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet P Raja Xavier
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, 72076, Calwerstraße 7/6, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Toshiyuki Okumura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Melina Apweiler
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, 72076, Calwerstraße 7/6, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nirzari A Chacko
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, 72076, Calwerstraße 7/6, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yogesh Singh
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, 72076, Calwerstraße 7/6, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sara Y Brucker
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, 72076, Calwerstraße 7/6, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Satoru Takeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Florian Lang
- Department of Physiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Madhuri S Salker
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, 72076, Calwerstraße 7/6, Tübingen, Germany.
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Vidal MS, Radnaa E, Vora N, Khanipov K, Antich C, Ferrer M, Urrabaz-Garza R, Jacob JE, Menon R. Establishment and comparison of human term placenta-derived trophoblast cells†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:950-970. [PMID: 38330185 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Research on the biology of fetal-maternal barriers has been limited by access to physiologically relevant cells, including trophoblast cells. In this study, we describe the development of a human term placenta-derived cytotrophoblast immortalized cell line (hPTCCTB) derived from the basal plate. Human-term placenta-derived cytotrophoblast immortalized cell line cells are comparable to their primary cells of origin in terms of morphology, marker expression, and functional responses. We demonstrate that these can transform into syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblasts. We also compared the hPTCCTB cells to immortalized chorionic trophoblasts (hFM-CTC), trophoblasts of the chorionic plate, and BeWo cells, choriocarcinoma cell lines of conventional use. Human-term placenta-derived cytotrophoblast immortalized cell line and hFM-CTCs displayed more similarity to each other than to BeWos, but these differ in syncytialization ability. Overall, this study (1) demonstrates that the immortalized hPTCCTB generated are cells of higher physiological relevance and (2) provides a look into the distinction between the spatially distinct placental and fetal barrier trophoblasts cells, hPTCCTB and hFM-CTC, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel S Vidal
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Natasha Vora
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Kamil Khanipov
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Cristina Antich
- 3D Tissue Bioprinting Laboratory, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institute of Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marc Ferrer
- 3D Tissue Bioprinting Laboratory, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institute of Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rheanna Urrabaz-Garza
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jeena E Jacob
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
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Zhang X, Sun L. Inhibiting HNF4A suppresses inflammation whilst promoting trophoblast invasion and migration: A promising target for the treatment of preeclampsia. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 386:110752. [PMID: 37806381 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex disease of pregnancy, and an important cause of this disease is insufficient trophoblast invasion and migration. However, the underlying mechanism of PE remains largely unknown. Here, transcriptome sequencing analysis found the high expression of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4A) in PE placentas. Meanwhile, we found that HNF4A expression was up-regulated in the placentas of PE patients. Thus, we assumed that HNF4A might be involved in PE progression. To validate our hypothesis, l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated rats were used to mimic the pathological status of PE in vivo. Consistently, HTR8/SVneo cells were treated with hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) or LPS to simulate PE progression in vitro. The results observed an increase in elevated urine protein levels, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP), which indicated that the PE-like rat model was successfully established. Meanwhile, the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β was increased in PE placentas. HTR8/SVneo cells were used to further explore the underlying mechanism of PE in vitro. H/R conditions up-regulated the acetylation level of HNF4A. Further analysis showed that HNF4A overexpression inhibited trophoblast invasion and migration, while HNF4A knockdown promoted the progression. Additionally, inhibiting HNF4A was found to reduce the levels of IL-6 and IL-1β secretion in HTR8/SVneo cells following H/R or LPS exposure. Conclusively, these findings suggest that inhibiting HNF4A suppresses inflammation whilst promoting trophoblast invasion and migration in PE, providing a promising target for the treatment of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China.
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Hunter R, Baird B, Garcia M, Begay J, Goitom S, Lucas S, Herbert G, Scieszka D, Padilla J, Brayer K, Ottens AK, Suter MA, Barrozo ER, Hines C, Bleske B, Campen MJ. Gestational ozone inhalation elicits maternal cardiac dysfunction and transcriptional changes to placental pericytes and endothelial cells. Toxicol Sci 2023; 196:238-249. [PMID: 37695302 PMCID: PMC10682975 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Ozone (O3) is a criteria air pollutant with the most frequent incidence of exceeding air quality standards. Inhalation of O3 is known to cause lung inflammation and consequent systemic health effects, including endothelial dysfunction. Epidemiologic data have shown that gestational exposure to air pollutants correlates with complications of pregnancy, including low birth weight, intrauterine growth deficiency, preeclampsia, and premature birth. Mechanisms underlying how air pollution may facilitate or exacerbate gestational complications remain poorly defined. The current study sought to uncover how gestational O3 exposure impacted maternal cardiovascular function, as well as the development of the placenta. Pregnant mice were exposed to 1PPM O3 or a sham filtered air (FA) exposure for 4 h on gestational day (GD) 10.5, and evaluated for cardiac function via echocardiography on GD18.5. Echocardiography revealed a significant reduction in maternal stroke volume and ejection fraction in maternally exposed dams. To examine the impact of maternal O3 exposure on the maternal-fetal interface, placentae were analyzed by single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. Mid-gestational O3 exposure led to significant differential expression of 4021 transcripts compared with controls, and pericytes displayed the greatest transcriptional modulation. Pathway analysis identified extracellular matrix organization to be significantly altered after the exposure, with the greatest modifications in trophoblasts, pericytes, and endothelial cells. This study provides insights into potential molecular processes during pregnancy that may be altered due to the inhalation of environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Hunter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Brenna Baird
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Marcus Garcia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Jessica Begay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Siem Goitom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Selita Lucas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Guy Herbert
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - David Scieszka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Jamie Padilla
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Kathryn Brayer
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Andrew K Ottens
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Melissa A Suter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Enrico R Barrozo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Curt Hines
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Barry Bleske
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Matthew J Campen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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Angom RS, Wang Y, Wang E, Dutta S, Mukhopadhyay D. Conditional, Tissue-Specific CRISPR/Cas9 Vector System in Zebrafish Reveals the Role of Nrp1b in Heart Regeneration. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:1921-1934. [PMID: 37650323 PMCID: PMC10771629 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-associated 9) technology-mediated genome editing has significantly improved the targeted inactivation of genes in vitro and in vivo in many organisms. Neuropilins play crucial roles in zebrafish heart regeneration, heart failure in mice, and electrical remodeling after myocardial infarction in rats. But the cell-specific functions of nrp1 have not been described before. In this study, we have investigated the role of nrp1 isoforms, including nrp1a and nrp1b, in cardiomyocytes during cardiac injury and regeneration in adult zebrafish hearts. METHODS In this study, we have reported a novel CRISPR-based vector system for conditional tissue-specific gene ablation in zebrafish. Specifically, the cardiac-specific cmlc2 promoter drives Cas9 expression to silence the nrp1 gene in cardiomyocytes in a heat-shock inducible manner. This vector system establishes a unique tool to regulate the gene knockout in both the developmental and adult stages and hence widens the possibility of loss-of-function studies in zebrafish at different stages of development and adulthood. Using this approach, we investigated the role of neuropilin isoforms nrp1a and nrp1b in response to cardiac injury and regeneration in adult zebrafish hearts. RESULTS We observed that both the isoforms (nrp1a and nrp1b) are upregulated after the cryoinjury. Interestingly, the nrp1b knockout significantly delayed heart regeneration and impaired cardiac function in the adult zebrafish after cryoinjury, demonstrated by reduced heart rate, ejection fractions, and fractional shortening. In addition, we show that the knockdown of nrp1b but not nrp1a induces activation of the cardiac remodeling genes in response to cryoinjury. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this study is novel where we have reported a heat-shock-mediated conditional knockdown of nrp1a and nrp1b isoforms using CRISPR/Cas9 technology in the cardiomyocyte in zebrafish and furthermore have identified a crucial role for the nrp1b isoform in zebrafish cardiac remodeling and eventually heart function in response to injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramcharan Singh Angom
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Enfeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224
| | - Shamit Dutta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224
| | - Debabrata Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224
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Naidoo N, Abel T, Moodley J, Naicker T. Immunoexpression of neuropilin-1 in the chorionic villi of HIV-infected preeclamptic South African women of African ancestry. Histochem Cell Biol 2023; 160:307-319. [PMID: 37302087 PMCID: PMC10257896 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-023-02213-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is an essential regulator of maternal immune tolerance, placentation, and angiogenesis. Its dysregulation in preeclampsia (PE) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection implicates NRP-1 in disease susceptibility and progression. Therefore, this study investigates placental NRP-1 immunoexpression in HIV-complicated preeclamptic pregnancies in South African women of African ancestry receiving antiretroviral therapy. Immunohistochemistry of recombinant anti-neuropilin-1 antibody was performed on placental tissue from 30 normotensive and 60 early onset (EOPE) and late-onset (LOPE) preeclamptic women stratified by HIV status. Qualitative analysis of NRP-1 immunostaining within the chorionic villi revealed a predominant localization in trophoblasts and syncytial knots as well as endothelial, fibroblast-like, and Hofbauer cells. Following morphometric evaluation, we report that PE and HIV infection and/or antiretroviral usage independently downregulate placental NRP-1 immunoexpression; however, as a comorbidity, this decline is further augmented within the conducting and exchange villi. Furthermore, reduced immunoexpression of NRP-1 in EOPE compared with LOPE villi may be due to maternal-fetal maladaptation. It is plausible that the decreased NRP-1 immunoexpression in PE placentae facilitates syncytiotrophoblast apoptosis and subsequent deportation of NRP-1 into the maternal circulation, contributing to the anti-angiogenic milieu of PE. We hypothesize that the intense NRP-1 immunoreactivity observed in Hofbauer cells at the maternal-fetal interface may contribute to the natural prevention mechanism of HIV vertical transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitalia Naidoo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Women's Health and HIV Research Group, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4041, South Africa.
| | - Tashlen Abel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Women's Health and HIV Research Group, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4041, South Africa
| | - Jagidesa Moodley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Women's Health and HIV Research Group, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4041, South Africa
| | - Thajasvarie Naicker
- Optics & Imaging Centre, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Gu X, Sun X, Yu Y, Li L. MiR-218-5p promotes trophoblast infiltration and inhibits endoplasmic reticulum/oxidative stress by reducing UBE3A-mediated degradation of SATB1. J Cell Commun Signal 2023; 17:993-1008. [PMID: 37191839 PMCID: PMC10409978 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00751-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This research evaluated the effects of miR-218-5p on trophoblast infiltration and endoplasmic reticulum/oxidative stress during preeclampsia (PE). The expression of miR-218-5p and special AT-rich sequence binding protein 1 (SATB1) in placental tissues from 25 patients with PE and 25 normal pregnant subjects was determined using qRT-PCR and western blotting. Cell invasion and cell migration were detected by performing Transwell assays and scratch assays, respectively. MMP-2/9, TIMP1/2, HIF-1α, p-eIF2α, and ATF4 expression in cells was assessed through western blotting. Intracellular reactive oxygen species were detected using 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate, and intracellular malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase activities were determined with kits. Dual-luciferase and RNA pull-down assays were performed to verify the interaction between miR-218-5p and UBE3A. Co-immunoprecipitation and western blotting were used to detect the ubiquitination levels of SATB1. A rat model of PE was established, and an miR-218-5p agomir was injected into rat placental tissues. The pathological characteristics of placental tissues were detected via HE staining, and MMP-2/9, TIMP1/2, p-eIF2α, and ATF4 expression in rat placental tissues was determined through western blotting. MiR-218-5p and SATB1 were expressed at low levels, while UBE3A was highly expressed in the placental tissues of patients with PE. The transfection of an miR-218-5p mimic, UBE3A shRNA, or an SATB1 overexpression vector into HTR-8/SVneo cells promoted trophoblast infiltration and inhibited endoplasmic reticulum/oxidative stress. It was determined that UBE3A is a target of miR-218-5p; UBE3A induces ubiquitin-mediated degradation of SATB1. In PE model rats, miR-218-5p alleviated pathological features, promoted trophoblast infiltration, and inhibited endoplasmic reticulum/oxidative stress. MiR-218-5p targeted and negatively regulated UBE3A expression to inhibit ubiquitin-mediated SATB1 degradation, promote trophoblast infiltration, and inhibit endoplasmic reticulum/oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, No. 324, Jingwuwei Seven Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- The Laboratory of Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center (Institute of Translational Medicine), Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences) of China, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomei Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, No. 324, Jingwuwei Seven Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanling Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital of Xiajin County, Dezhou, 253299, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, No. 324, Jingwuwei Seven Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- The Laboratory of Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center (Institute of Translational Medicine), Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences) of China, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- The Laboratory of Placenta-Related Diseases, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Jinan, 250025, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Chen J, Li Y, Xu L, Sang Y, Li D, Du M. Paradoxical expression of NRP1 in decidual stromal and immune cells reveals a novel inflammation balancing mechanism during early pregnancy. Inflamm Res 2023:10.1007/s00011-023-01734-y. [PMID: 37328599 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-023-01734-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN To investigate the balancing mechanisms between decidualization-associated inflammation and pregnancy-related immunotolerance. MATERIAL OR SUBJECTS Decidual samples from women with normal pregnancy (n = 58) or unexplained spontaneous miscarriage (n = 13), peripheral blood from normal pregnancy and endometria from non-pregnancy (n = 10) were collected. Primary endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), decidual stromal cells (DSCs), decidual immune cells (DICs) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated. TREATMENT The plasmid carrying neuropilin-1 (NRP1) gene was transfected into ESC for overexpression. To induce decidualization in vitro, ESCs were treated with a combination of 10 nM estradiol, 100 nM progesterone and 0.5 mM cAMP. Anti-Sema3a and anti-NRP1 neutralizing antibodies were applied to block the ligand-receptor interactions. METHODS RNA-seq analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed genes in DSCs and DICs, and NRP1 expression was verified by Western blotting and flow cytometry. The secretion of inflammatory mediators was measured using a multifactor cytometric bead array. The effects of Sema3a-NRP1 pathway on DICs were determined by flow cytometry. Statistical differences between groups were compared using the T test and one way or two-way ANOVA. RESULTS Combined with five RNA-seq datasets, NRP1 was the only immune checkpoint changing oppositely between DSCs and DICs. The decreased expression of NRP1 in DSCs allowed intrinsic inflammatory responses required for decidualization, while its increased expression in DICs enhanced tolerant phenotypes beneficial to pregnancy maintenance. DSC-secreted Sema3a promoted immunosuppression in DICs via NRP1 binding. In women with miscarriage, NRP1 was abnormally elevated in DSCs but diminished in decidual macrophages and NK cells. CONCLUSION NRP1 is a multifunctional controller that balances the inflammatory states of DSCs and DICs in gravid uterus. Abnormal expression of NRP1 is implicated in miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Chen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Zhao Zhou Road 413, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yanhong Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Zhao Zhou Road 413, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ling Xu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Zhao Zhou Road 413, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yifei Sang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Zhao Zhou Road 413, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Dajin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Zhao Zhou Road 413, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Meirong Du
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Zhao Zhou Road 413, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200434, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, 519020, China.
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Slade LJ, Mistry HD, Bone JN, Wilson M, Blackman M, Syeda N, von Dadelszen P, Magee LA. American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association blood pressure categories-a systematic review of the relationship with adverse pregnancy outcomes in the first half of pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 228:418-429.e34. [PMID: 36241079 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A relationship between the 2017 American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association blood pressure thresholds and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been reported, but few studies have explored the diagnostic test properties of these cutoffs. DATA SOURCES We systematically searched electronic databases (from 2017 to 2021) for reports of blood pressure measurements in pregnancy, classified according to 2017 American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association criteria, and their relationship with pregnancy outcomes. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies recording blood pressure at <20 weeks gestation were included. METHODS Meta-analyses were used to investigate the strength of the association between blood pressure cutoffs and adverse outcomes, and the diagnostic test properties were calculated. RESULTS Of 23 studies included, there was a stepwise relationship between the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association blood pressure category (when compared with normal blood pressure of <120/80 mmHg) and the strength of the association with preeclampsia. The category of elevated blood pressure had a risk ratio of 2.0 (95% prediction interval, 0.8-4.8), the stage 1 hypertension category had a risk ratio of 3.0 (95% prediction interval, 1.1-8.5), and the stage 2 hypertension category had a risk ratio of 7.9 (95% prediction interval, 1.8-35.1). Between-study variability was related to the magnitude of the association with stronger relationships in larger studies at low risk of bias and with unselected populations with multiple routine blood pressure measurements. None of the systolic blood pressure measurements of <120 mmHg, <130/80 mmHg, or <140/90 mmHg were useful to rule out the development of preeclampsia (all negative likelihood ratios >0.2). Only a blood pressure measurement of ≥140/90 mmHg was a good predictor for the development of preeclampsia (positive likelihood ratio, 5.95). The findings were similar for other outcomes. CONCLUSION Although a blood pressure of 120 to 140 over 80 to 90 mmHg at <20 weeks gestation is associated with a heightened risk for preeclampsia and adverse pregnancy outcomes and may assist in risk prediction in multivariable modelling, lowering the diagnostic threshold for chronic hypertension would not assist clinicians in identifying women at heightened risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Slade
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Hiten D Mistry
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jeffrey N Bone
- British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Milly Wilson
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maya Blackman
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nuhaat Syeda
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter von Dadelszen
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura A Magee
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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10
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Naidoo N, Moodley J, Khaliq OP, Naicker T. Neuropilin-1 in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, HIV-1, and SARS-CoV-2 infection: A review. Virus Res 2022; 319:198880. [PMID: 35905790 PMCID: PMC9316720 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2022.198880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
This review explores the role of transmembrane neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) in pregnancy, preeclampsia (PE), human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections. Since these conditions are assessed independently, this review attempts to predict their comorbid clinical manifestations. Dysregulation of NRP-1 contributes to the pathogenesis of PE by (a) impairing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling for adequate spiral artery remodeling and placentation, (b) inducing syncytiotrophoblast (ST) cell apoptosis and increasing ST-derived microparticle circulation and (c) by decreasing regulatory T cell activity predisposing maternal immune intolerance. Although NRP-1 is upregulated in SARS-CoV-2 placentae, its exploitation for SARS-CoV-2 internalization and increased infectivity may alter angiogenesis through the competitive inhibition of VEGF. The anti-inflammatory nature of NRP-1 may aid its upregulation in HIV-1 infection; however, the HIV-accessory protein, tat, reduces NRP-1 expression. Upregulated NRP-1 in macrophages and dendritic cells also demonstrated HIV-1 resistance/reduced infectivity. Notably, HIV-1-infected pregnant women receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) to prevent vertical transmission may experience immune reconstitution, impaired decidualization, and elevated markers of endothelial injury. Since endothelial dysfunction and altered immune responses are central to PE, HIV-1 infection, ART usage and SARS-CoV-2 infection, it is plausible that an exacerbation of both features may prevail in the synergy of these events. Additionally, this review identifies microRNAs (miRNAs) mediating NRP-1 expression. MiR-320 and miR-141 are overexpressed in PE, while miR-206 and miR-124-3p showed increased expression in PE and HIV-1 infection. Additionally, miR-214 is overexpressed in PE, HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 infection, implicating treatment strategies to reduce these miRNAs to upregulate and normalize NRP-1 expression. However, inconsistencies in the data of the role and regulation of miRNAs in PE, HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 infections require clarification. This review provides a platform for early diagnosis and potential therapeutic intervention of PE, HIV-1, and SARS-CoV-2 infections independently and as comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitalia Naidoo
- Women's Health and HIV Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa.
| | - Jagidesa Moodley
- Women's Health and HIV Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Olive Pearl Khaliq
- Women's Health and HIV Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Thajasvarie Naicker
- Optics and Imaging Centre, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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11
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Ramesova A, Vesela B, Svandova E, Lesot H, Matalova E. Caspase-9 inhibition decreases expression of Mmp9 during chondrogenesis. Histochem Cell Biol 2022; 157:403-413. [PMID: 34999953 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-021-02067-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Besides cell death, caspase-9 participates in non-apoptotic events, including cell differentiation. To evaluate a possible impact on the expression of chondrogenic/osteogenic factors, a caspase-9 inhibitor was tested in vitro. For this purpose, mouse forelimb-derived micromass cultures, the most common chondrogenic in vitro model, were used. The following analyses were performed based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) arrays and real-time PCR. The expression of several chondrogenesis-related genes was shown to be altered, some of which may impact chondrogenic differentiation (Bmp4, Bmp7, Sp7, Gli1), mineral deposition (Alp, Itgam) or the remodelling of the extracellular matrix (Col1a2, Mmp9) related to endochondral ossification. From the cluster of genes with altered expression, Mmp9 showed the most significant decrease in expression, of more than 50-fold. Additionally, we determined the possible impact of caspase-9 downregulation on the expression of other Mmp genes. A mild increase in Mmp14 was observed, but there was no change in the expression of other studied Mmp genes (-2, -3, -8, -10, -12, -13). Interestingly, inhibition of Mmp9 in micromasses led to decreased expression of some chondrogenic markers related to caspase-9. These samples also showed a decreased expression of caspase-9 itself, suggesting a bidirectional regulation of these two enzymes. These results indicate a specific impact of caspase-9 inhibition on the expression of Mmp9. The localisation of these two enzymes overlaps in resting, proliferative and pre-hypertrophic chondrocytes during in vivo development, which supports their multiple functions, either apoptotic or non-apoptotic. Notably, a coincidental expression pattern was identified in Pik3cg, a possible candidate for Mmp9 regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ramesova
- Laboratory of Odontogenesis and Osteogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - B Vesela
- Laboratory of Odontogenesis and Osteogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - E Svandova
- Laboratory of Odontogenesis and Osteogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary University, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - H Lesot
- Laboratory of Odontogenesis and Osteogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - E Matalova
- Laboratory of Odontogenesis and Osteogenesis, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary University, Brno, Czech Republic
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12
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Cheng JC, Fang L, Li Y, Thakur A, Hoodless PA, Guo Y, Wang Z, Wu Z, Yan Y, Jia Q, Gao Y, Han X, Yu Y, Sun YP. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor stimulates human trophoblast cell invasion via YAP-mediated ANGPTL4 expression. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1285. [PMID: 34773076 PMCID: PMC8589964 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02816-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Insufficient invasion of trophoblast cells into the uterine decidua is associated with preeclampsia (PE). G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a membrane estrogen receptor involved in non-genomic estrogen signaling. GPER is expressed in human trophoblast cells and downregulated GPER levels are noted in PE. However, to date, the role of GPER in trophoblast cells remains largely unknown. Here, we applied RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to HTR-8/SVneo human trophoblast cells in response to G1, an agonist of GPER, and identified angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) as a target gene of GPER. Treatment of trophoblast cells with G1 or 17β-estradiol (E2) activated Yes-associated protein (YAP), the major downstream effector of the Hippo pathway, via GPER but in a mammalian STE20-like protein kinase 1 (MST1)-independent manner. Using pharmacological inhibitors as well as loss- and gain-of-function approaches, our results revealed that YAP activation was required for GPER-stimulated ANGPTL4 expression. Transwell invasion assays demonstrated that activation of GPER-induced ANGPTL4 promoted cell invasion. In addition, the expression levels of GPER, YAP, and ANGPTL4 were downregulated in the placenta of patients with PE. Our findings reveal a mechanism by which GPER exerts its stimulatory effect on human trophoblast cell invasion by upregulating YAP-mediated ANGPTL4 expression. Cheng, Fan, Li et al. identified ANGPTL4 as a G1-induced target gene of GPER/YAP in HRT8 cells using RNA-seq and highlighted its importance in regulating trophoblast cell invasion. The authors also reported GPER downregulation in the placenta and lower estradiol levels in patients who developed preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuxi Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Avinash Thakur
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5Z 1L3.,Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - Pamela A Hoodless
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5Z 1L3.,Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4.,School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - Yanjie Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ze Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yang Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qiongqiong Jia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yibo Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Han
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiping Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China.
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13
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Yang X, Chen D, He B, Cheng W. NRP1 and MMP9 are dual targets of RNA-binding protein QKI5 to alter VEGF-R/ NRP1 signalling in trophoblasts in preeclampsia. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:5655-5670. [PMID: 33942999 PMCID: PMC8184681 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by placental ischemia and hypoxia, resulting in abnormal casting of the uterine spiral artery, which is mainly caused by insufficient trophoblastic cell infiltration. A reduction in levels of growth factor-based signalling via Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) has been shown to contribute to dysfunctional trophoblast development. In this study, we showed that the RNA-binding protein, QKI5, regulated NRP1 expression and significantly improved trophoblast proliferation in vitro and in vivo. QKI5 and NRP1 expressions were significantly reduced in human PE placentas and in trophoblasts during hypoxia. Overexpression of these factors significantly improved cell proliferation and migration in vitro, in contrast to a decrease upon siRNA knockdown of QKI5 and NRP1 in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Using RIP and RNA pull-down assays, we further showed that QKI5 directly interacted with the 3'-UTR region of NRP1, to mediate cell proliferation and migration via matrix metalloprotease-9. Further, similar to NRP1, QKI5 also targets matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) involved in secretion of growth factors and its effects can be counteracted by NRP1 overexpression. In vivo studies using a PE mouse model revealed that QKI5 overexpression alleviated PE-related symptoms such as elevated blood pressure and proteinuria. Taken together, we found that QKI5 was a novel regulator, of VEGF-R/NRP1 signalling pathway functioning in trophoblast proliferation and migration, resulting in major contributors to the pathogenesis of PE. While careful evaluation of the broad implications of QKI5 expression is still necessary, this study identified QKI5 as a promising target for treatment strategies in acute PE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Yang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Dan Chen
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical SpecialtyShanghaiChina
| | - Biwei He
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Weiwei Cheng
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
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