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Uehre GM, Tchaikovski S, Ignatov A, Zenclussen AC, Busse M. B Cells Induce Early-Onset Maternal Inflammation to Protect against LPS-Induced Fetal Rejection. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16091. [PMID: 38003279 PMCID: PMC10671511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216091] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The maternal balance between B regulatory (Breg) cells and inflammatory B cells is of central importance for protection against preterm birth (PTB). However, the impact of B cell signaling in early maternal and fetal immune responses on inflammatory insults remains underinvestigated. To understand which role B cells and B-cell-specific signaling play in the pathogenesis of PTB, the later was induced by an injection of LPS in B cell-sufficient WT mice, CD19-/-, BMyD88-/- and µMT murine dams at gestational day 16 (gd 16). WT dams developed a strong inflammatory response in their peritoneal cavity (PC), with an increased infiltration of granulocytes and enhanced IL-6, TNF-α, IL-17 and MCP-1 levels. However, they demonstrated a reduced NOS2 expression of PC macrophages 4 h after the LPS injection. Simultaneously, LPS-challenged WT dams upregulated pregnancy-protective factors like IL-10 and TARC. The concentrations of inflammatory mediators in the placental supernatants, amniotic fluids, fetal serums and gestational tissues were lower in LPS-challenged WT dams compared to CD19-/-, BMyD88-/- and µMT dams, thereby protecting WT fetuses from being born preterm. B cell deficiency, or the loss of B-cell-specific CD19 or MyD88 expression, resulted in an early shift from immune regulation towards inflammation at the fetomaternal interface and fetuses, resulting in PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Marie Uehre
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany;
- University Hospital for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.T.); (A.I.)
| | - Svetlana Tchaikovski
- University Hospital for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.T.); (A.I.)
| | - Atanas Ignatov
- University Hospital for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.T.); (A.I.)
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Environmental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany;
- Saxonian Incubator for Translation Research, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Mandy Busse
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany;
- University Hospital for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.T.); (A.I.)
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2
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Theofanopoulou C. A journey from speech to dance through the field of oxytocin. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2023; 16:100193. [PMID: 38108035 PMCID: PMC10724736 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2023.100193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In this article, I am going through my scientific and personal journey using my work on oxytocin as a compass. I recount how my scientific questions were shaped over the years, and how I studied them through the lens of different fields ranging from linguistics and neuroscience to comparative and population genomics in a wide range of vertebrate species. I explain how my evolutionary findings and proposal for a universal gene nomenclature in the oxytocin-vasotocin ligand and receptor families have impacted relevant fields, and how my studies in the oxytocin and vasotocin system in songbirds, humans and non-human primates have led me to now be testing intranasal oxytocin as a candidate treatment for speech deficits. I also discuss my projects on the neurobiology of dance and where oxytocin fits in the picture of studying speech and dance in parallel. Lastly, I briefly communicate the challenges I have been facing as a woman and an international scholar in science and academia, and my personal ways to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantina Theofanopoulou
- The Rockefeller University, New York, USA
- Center for the Ballet and the Arts, New York University, New York, USA
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3
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Biochemical and molecular-physiological aspects of the nitric oxide action in the utera. UKRAINIAN BIOCHEMICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.15407/ubj93.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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4
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Devost D, Zingg HH, Hébert TE. The MAP kinase ERK5/MAPK7 is a downstream effector of oxytocin signaling in myometrial cells. Cell Signal 2021; 90:110211. [PMID: 34902542 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The hormone oxytocin (OT) has pleiotropic activities both in the central nervous system as well as in peripheral tissues, including uterotonic effects on the myometrium during parturition. OT effects are mediated by a single transmembrane receptor, belonging to the GPCR (G protein-coupled receptor) superfamily and coupled primarily to Gq- and Gi-containing heterotrimeric G proteins. Upon receptor stimulation, one well-studied downstream effect is activation of the ERK1/2 MAP (mitogen-activated protein) kinase, and studies have shown that induction of COX-2 by OT in the myometrium required ERK1/2 activity. Many studies investigating the role of ERK1/2 in myometrial tissue were based on the use of chemical inhibitors that, to varying degrees, also inhibited ERK5/MAPK7. Here we report that OT activates ERK5 in a human myometrial cell line in a dose- and time-dependent manner through the activation of Gi/o heterotrimers. Using complementary approaches, we demonstrate that OT-induced COX-2 induction and the concomitant release of PGF2α into the media are primarily ERK5-dependent and to a much lesser extent ERK1/2-dependent. Moreover, in contrast to ERK1/2 activation, ERK5 activation is downstream of Gi/o activation. Here, we also found that ERK5 impacted both basal and to a lesser extent, OT-mediated myometrial cell contraction in vitro. Finally, tracking both ERK1/2 and ERK5 activity during different stages of gestation in rat myometrium, we showed that they followed distinct patterns starting at the onset of labor corresponding to the highest COX-2 expression levels. Overall, our results reveal an important, hitherto unrecognized role for ERK5 in myometrial cell contraction involving induction of COX-2. This novel pathway is likely to play an important role in supporting uterine contractions during parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Devost
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3G 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Hans H Zingg
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Terence E Hébert
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3G 1Y6, Canada.
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5
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Leimert KB, Xu W, Princ MM, Chemtob S, Olson DM. Inflammatory Amplification: A Central Tenet of Uterine Transition for Labor. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:660983. [PMID: 34490133 PMCID: PMC8417473 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.660983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In preparation for delivery, the uterus transitions from actively maintaining quiescence during pregnancy to an active parturient state. This transition occurs as a result of the accumulation of pro-inflammatory signals which are amplified by positive feedback interactions involving paracrine and autocrine signaling at the level of each intrauterine cell and tissue. The amplification events occur in parallel until they reach a certain threshold, ‘tipping the scale’ and contributing to processes of uterine activation and functional progesterone withdrawal. The described signaling interactions all occur upstream from the presentation of clinical labor symptoms. In this review, we will: 1) describe the different physiological processes involved in uterine transition for each intrauterine tissue; 2) compare and contrast the current models of labor initiation; 3) introduce innovative models for measuring paracrine inflammatory interactions; and 4) discuss the therapeutic value in identifying and targeting key players in this crucial event for preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelycia B Leimert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Wendy Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Magdalena M Princ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Department of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David M Olson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Schaffer A, Hajagos-Tóth J, Ducza E, Bódi N, Bagyánszki M, Szalai Z, Gáspár R. The ontogeny of kisspeptin receptor in the uterine contractions in rats: Its possible role in the quiescence of non-pregnant and pregnant uteri. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 896:173924. [PMID: 33548216 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of KISS1 94-121 fragment on the contractility of non-pregnant and pregnant rat uteri, and to determine the uterine and myometrial expressions of Kiss1r. Uterine muscle strips were obtained from non-pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats in oestrous phase and from pregnant rats on gestational days 5, 15, 18, 20 or 22. The in vitro contractility measurements were carried out in an isolated organ bath in the presence of KISS1 94-121. Experiments with 5-day pregnant tissues were also performed in the presence of kisspeptin-234 trifluoroacetate. The mRNA and protein expressions of Kiss1r were measured by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis, while localizations of receptors were defined by fluorescent immunohistochemistry. KISS1 94-121 induced a dose-dependent relaxation both in non-pregnant and pregnant intact and endometrium-denuded uteri. A gradual decrease was found in the uterine expressions of Kiss1r mRNA and protein towards the end of the gestational period, and it was further confirmed by the immunohistochemical results. The significant majority of Kiss1r is found in the myometrium, however the few endometrial Kiss1r also influences the uterine contractions. The relaxing effect of kisspeptin is continuously reduced towards the end of gestational period in parallel with the reduction of Kiss1r expression. Our results suggest a putative role of kisspeptin in the maintenance of uterine quiescence that may have significance in miscarriage or preterm contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamária Schaffer
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Judit Hajagos-Tóth
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Eszter Ducza
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Nikolett Bódi
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Mária Bagyánszki
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zita Szalai
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Róbert Gáspár
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Hungary.
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Coats LE, Bakrania BA, Bamrick-Fernandez DR, Ariatti AM, Rawls AZ, Ojeda NB, Alexander BT. Soluble guanylate cyclase stimulation in late gestation does not mitigate asymmetric intrauterine growth restriction or cardiovascular risk induced by placental ischemia in the rat. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2021; 320:H1923-H1934. [PMID: 33739156 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00033.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) improves fetal growth at gestational day 20 in the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of placental ischemia suggesting a role for sGC in the etiology of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This study tested the hypothesis that stimulation of sGC until birth attenuates asymmetric IUGR mitigating increased cardiovascular risk in offspring. Sham or RUPP surgery was performed at gestational day 14 (G14); vehicle or the sGC stimulator Riociguat (10 mg/kg/day sc) was administered G14 until birth. Birth weight was reduced in offspring from RUPP [intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR)], sGC RUPP (sGC IUGR), and sGC Sham (sGC Control) compared with Sham (Control). Crown circumference was maintained, but abdominal circumference was reduced in IUGR and sGC IUGR compared with Control indicative of asymmetrical growth. Gestational length was prolonged in sGC RUPP, and survival at birth was reduced in sGC IUGR. Probability of survival to postnatal day 2 was also significantly reduced in IUGR and sGC IUGR versus Control and in sGC IUGR versus IUGR. At 4 mo of age, blood pressure was increased in male IUGR and sGC IUGR but not male sGC Control born with symmetrical IUGR. Global longitudinal strain was increased and stroke volume was decreased in male IUGR and sGC IUGR compared with Control. Thus late gestational stimulation of sGC does not mitigate asymmetric IUGR or increased cardiovascular risk in male sGC IUGR. Furthermore, late gestational stimulation of sGC is associated with symmetrical growth restriction in sGC Control implicating contraindications in normal pregnancy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The importance of the soluble guanylate cyclase-cGMP pathway in a rat model of placental ischemia differs during critical windows of development, implicating other factors may be critical mediators of impaired fetal growth in the final stages of gestation. Moreover, increased blood pressure at 4 mo of age in male intrauterine growth restriction offspring is associated with impaired cardiac function including an increase in global longitudinal strain in conjunction with a decrease in stroke volume, ejection fraction, and cardiac output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Coats
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Bhavisha A Bakrania
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi.,The University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research and Perinatal Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Allison M Ariatti
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Adam Z Rawls
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Norma B Ojeda
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Barbara T Alexander
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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8
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The promiscuity of the oxytocin-vasopressin systems and their involvement in autism spectrum disorder. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 182:121-140. [PMID: 34266588 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819973-2.00009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin and vasopressin systems have been studied separately in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here, we provide evidence from an evolutionary and neuroscience perspective about the shared mechanisms and the common roles in regulating social behaviors. We first discuss findings on the evolutionary history of oxytocin and vasopressin ligands and receptors that highlight their common origin and clarify the evolutionary background of the crosstalk between them. Second, we conducted a comprehensive review of the increasing evidence for the role of both neuropeptides in regulating social behaviors. Third, we reviewed the growing evidence on the associations between the oxytocin/vasopressin systems and ASD, which includes oxytocin and vasopressin dysfunction in animal models of autism and in human patients, and the impact of treatments targeting the oxytocin or the vasopressin systems in children and in adults. Here, we highlight the potential of targeting the oxytocin/vasopressin systems to improve social deficits observed in ASD and the need for further investigations on how to transfer these research innovations into clinical applications.
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9
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Dos Santos VMB, Pinto PHN, Balaro MFA, Santos JDR, Taira AR, do Espirito Santo CG, Gonçalves FM, da Fonseca JF, Brandão FZ. Use of oxytocin to attain cervical dilation for transcervical embryo transfer in sheep. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1446-1454. [PMID: 32757343 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to determine whether a cervical dilation protocol (CDP) composed of only oxytocin can be used to perform transcervical (non-surgical) embryo transfer in sheep (NSET) without affecting the viability of the corpus luteum (CL). Likewise, we evaluated whether a cervical transposing test with a Hegar dilator (CT Hegar test), performed at oestrous time, could be used to screen ewes for NSET (greater or lower chances to transpose the cervix). For that, oestrous and ovulation synchronization was performed in 25 Santa Inês ewes to induce the dioestrous condition. Animals went through the following CDP in a crossover design: E + OX, oestradiol benzoate (100 µg intravenously [IV]) and oxytocin (100 IU IV); OX, oxytocin (100 IU IV); and SAL, saline solution (IV). Using a Hegar dilator, cervical transposing attempts were performed at oestrous (D0) and dioestrous time (D8). The viability of the CL (morphology, luteal blood flow and progesterone values) was evaluated by ultrasonography (colour Doppler and B-mode) and by serum progesterone measurement from D7 to D13. The cervical transposing rate was lower for the SAL group (64%; 16/25; p < .05) and did not differ between the E + OX (88%; 22/25, p > .05) and OX (84%; 21/25, p > .05) groups. No treatment affected the CL viability. The CT Hegar test showed a high sensitivity (85.7%-93.3%), satisfactory accuracy (72%-84%), low false-negative rate (6.7%-14.6%), but high false-positive rate (46%-66.7%). In conclusion, a CDP protocol composed exclusively of oxytocin can lead to good cervical transposing rates and does not affect the viability of the CL. In addition, a screening test (CT Hegar) performed at oestrus can identify ewes for which cervical transposing will likely not occur at NSET.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Juliana D R Santos
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Augusto R Taira
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Felipe Z Brandão
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
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10
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Leimert KB, Verstraeten BSE, Messer A, Nemati R, Blackadar K, Fang X, Robertson SA, Chemtob S, Olson DM. Cooperative effects of sequential PGF2α and IL-1β on IL-6 and COX-2 expression in human myometrial cells†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1370-1385. [PMID: 30794283 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The change from the state of pregnancy to the state of parturition, which we call uterine transitioning, requires the actions of inflammatory mediators and results in an activated uterus capable of performing the physiology of labor. Interleukin (IL)-1β and prostaglandin (PG)F2α are two key mediators implicated in preparing the uterus for labor by regulating the expression of uterine activation proteins (UAPs) and proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. To investigate this process, primary human myometrial smooth muscle cells (HMSMC) isolated from the lower segment of women undergoing elective cesarean sections at term (not in labor) were used to test the inflammatory cytokine and UAP outputs induced by PGF2α and IL-1β alone or in sequential combinations. PGF2α and IL-1β regulate mRNA abundance of the PGF2α receptor FP, the IL-1 receptor system, interleukin 6, and other UAPs (OXTR, COX2), driving positive feedback interactions to further amplify their own proinflammatory effects. Sequential stimulation of HMSMC by PGF2α and IL-1β in either order results in amplified upregulation of IL-6 and COX-2 mRNA and protein, compared to their effects individually. These profound increases were unique to myometrium and not observed with stimulation of human fetal membrane explants. These results suggest that PGF2α and IL-1β act cooperatively upstream in the birth cascade to maximize amplification of IL-6 and COX-2, to build inflammatory load and thereby promote uterine transition. Targeting PGF2α or IL-1β, their actions, or intermediates (e.g. IL-6) would be an effective therapeutic intervention for preterm birth prevention or delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelycia B Leimert
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Angela Messer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rojin Nemati
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kayla Blackadar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Department of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - David M Olson
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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11
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Leimert KB, Messer A, Gray T, Fang X, Chemtob S, Olson DM. Maternal and fetal intrauterine tissue crosstalk promotes proinflammatory amplification and uterine transition†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:783-797. [PMID: 30379983 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Birth is a complex biological event requiring genetic, cellular, and physiological changes to the uterus, resulting in a uterus activated for completing the physiological processes of labor. We define the change from the state of pregnancy to the state of parturition as uterine transitioning, which requires the actions of inflammatory mediators and localized paracrine interactions between intrauterine tissues. Few studies have examined the in vitro interactions between fetal and maternal gestational tissues within this proinflammatory environment. Thus, we designed a co-culture model to address this gap, incorporating primary term human myometrium smooth muscle cells (HMSMCs) with human fetal membrane (hFM) explants to study interactions between the tissues. We hypothesized that crosstalk between tissues at term promotes proinflammatory expression and uterine transitioning for parturition. Outputs of 40 cytokines and chemokines encompassing a variety of proinflammatory roles were measured; all but one increased significantly with co-culture. Eighteen of the 39 cytokines increased to a higher abundance than the sum of the effect of each tissue cultured separately. In addition, COX2 and IL6 but not FP and OXTR mRNA abundance significantly increased in both HMSMCs and hFM in response to co-culture. These data suggest that synergistic proinflammatory upregulation within intrauterine tissues is involved with uterine transitioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelycia B Leimert
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Angela Messer
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Theora Gray
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Xin Fang
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Department of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - David M Olson
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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12
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The effect of morbid obesity or advanced maternal age on oxytocin-induced myometrial contractions: an in vitro study. Can J Anaesth 2020; 67:836-846. [PMID: 32189217 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-020-01615-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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13
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14
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Mihanfar A, Sadigh AR, Fattahi A, Latifi Z, Hasanzadeh-Moghadam M, Samadi M, Farzadi L, Hamdi K, Ghasemzadeh A, Nejabati HR, Nouri M. Endothelins and their receptors in embryo implantation. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:14274-14284. [PMID: 31106465 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
As a critical stage of pregnancy, the implantation of blastocysts into the endometrium is a progressive, excessively regulated local tissue remodeling step involving a complex sequence of genetic and cellular interplay executed within an optimal time frame. For better understanding the causes of infertility and, more importantly, for developing powerful strategies for successful implantations and combating infertility, an increasing number of recent studies have been focused on the identification and study of newly described substances in the reproductive tree. The endothelins (ET), a 21-aminoacidic family of genes, have been reported to be responsible for the contraction of vascular and nonvascular smooth muscles, including the smooth muscles of the uterus. Therefore, this review aims to comprehensively discuss the physiological role of endothelins and signaling through their receptors, as well as their probable involvement in the implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aynaz Mihanfar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Aydin Raei Sadigh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mahrokh Samadi
- Nephrology and Kidney Transplant Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aliyeh Ghasemzadeh
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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15
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Siricilla S, Knapp KM, Rogers JH, Berger C, Shelton EL, Mi D, Vinson P, Condon J, Paria BC, Reese J, Sheng Q, Herington JL. Comparative analysis of myometrial and vascular smooth muscle cells to determine optimal cells for use in drug discovery. Pharmacol Res 2019; 146:104268. [PMID: 31078743 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Novel therapeutic regulators of uterine contractility are needed to manage preterm labor, induce labor and control postpartum hemorrhage. Therefore, we previously developed a high-throughput assay for large-scale screening of small molecular compounds to regulate calcium-mobilization in primary mouse uterine myometrial cells. The goal of this study was to select the optimal myometrial cells for our high-throughput drug discovery assay, as well as determine the similarity or differences of myometrial cells to vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs)-the most common off-target of current myometrial therapeutics. Molecular and pharmacological assays were used to compare myometrial cells from four sources: primary cells isolated from term pregnant human and murine myometrium, immortalized pregnant human myometrial (PHM-1) cells and immortalized non-pregnant human myometrial (hTERT-HM) cells. In addition, myometrial cells were compared to vascular SMCs. We found that the transcriptome profiles of hTERT-HM and PHM1 cells were most similar (r = 0.93 and 0.90, respectively) to human primary myometrial cells. Comparative transcriptome profiling of primary human myometrial transcriptome and VSMCs revealed 498 upregulated (p ≤ 0.01, log2FC≥1) genes, of which 142 can serve as uterine-selective druggable targets. In the high-throughput Ca2+-assay, PHM1 cells had the most similar response to primary human myometrial cells in OT-induced Ca2+-release (Emax = 195% and 143%, EC50 = 30 nM and 120 nM, respectively), while all sources of myometrial cells showed excellent and similar robustness and reproducibility (Z' = 0.52 to 0.77). After testing a panel of 61 compounds, we found that the stimulatory and inhibitory responses of hTERT-HM cells were highly-correlated (r = 0.94 and 0.95, respectively) to human primary cells. Moreover, ten compounds were identified that displayed uterine-selectivity (≥5-fold Emax or EC50 compared to VSMCs). Collectively, this study found that hTERT-HM cells exhibited the most similarity to primary human myometrial cells and, therefore, is an optimal substitute for large-scale screening to identify novel therapeutic regulators of myometrial contractility. Moreover, VSMCs can serve as an important counter-screening tool to assess uterine-selectivity of targets and drugs given the similarity observed in the transcriptome and response to compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shajila Siricilla
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kelsi M Knapp
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jackson H Rogers
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Courtney Berger
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Elaine L Shelton
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Dehui Mi
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Paige Vinson
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer Condon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Bibhash C Paria
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeff Reese
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Quanhu Sheng
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer L Herington
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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16
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Mitchell BF, Chi M, Surgent E, Sorochan BM, Tracey CN, Aguilar HN, Mongin M, Zielnik B. Differential Regulation of Myosin Regulatory Light Chain Phosphorylation by Protein Kinase C Isozymes in Human Uterine Myocytes. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:988-996. [PMID: 30428777 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118802062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth is the most common cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality and a common precedent to lifelong disability. Current treatment has minimal efficacy. OBJECTIVE We assessed the role of isozymes of the protein kinase C (PKC) family in regulating the phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chains (RLCs), which regulate uterine contractility. We also explored the mechanisms through which these isozymes function. STUDY DESIGN We used a previously characterized and validated quantitative in-cell Western (ICW) assay to measure site-specific phosphorylations on myosin RLC and CPI-17. Cultures of human uterine myocytes (hUM) were treated with the potent contractile stimulant oxytocin to induce uterine contractility or a pharmacological mimic of diacyl-glycerol to stimulate the conventional and novel isozymes of the PKC family. Combinations of isozyme-selective inhibitors were used to determine the effects of the conventional and novel classes of isozymes. RESULTS Stimulation of PKC using phospho-dibutyrate caused immediate, concentration-dependent inhibition of uterine activity ex vivo. Using the ICW assay with hUM, the oxytocin-stimulated increase in the pro-contractile phosphorylations of myosin RLCs at serine19 and threonine18 was completely inhibited by prior treatment with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate, which stimulates both convention and novel classes of isozymes. Our results suggest that the conventional class of isozymes cause a reduction in phosphorylations at serine19 and threonine18 by reducing activity of myosin light chain kinase. The novel class of isozymes has 2 mechanisms of action: the first is activation of CPI-17 through phosphorylation at threonine38, which results in reduced activity of myosin light chain phosphatase and increased levels of activated myosin RLC; the second is increased phosphorylation of the N-terminal region of myosin RLC. CONCLUSIONS Specific agonists for the conventional isozymes or inhibitors of the novel isozymes of the PKC family could be useful pharmacological agents for regulation of uterine activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan F Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. .,Department of Physiology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Albert, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Mei Chi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Elle Surgent
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Bailey M Sorochan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Curtis N Tracey
- Department of Physiology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Albert, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Hector N Aguilar
- Department of Physiology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Albert, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Maily Mongin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Barbara Zielnik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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17
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Yin Z, He W, Li Y, Li D, Li H, Yang Y, Wei Z, Shen B, Wang X, Cao Y, Khalil RA. Adaptive reduction of human myometrium contractile activity in response to prolonged uterine stretch during term and twin pregnancy. Role of TREK-1 channel. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 152:252-263. [PMID: 29577872 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Quiescence of myometrium contractile activity allows uterine expansion to accommodate the growing fetus and prevents preterm labor particularly during excessive uterine stretch in multiple pregnancy. However, the mechanisms regulating uterine response to stretch are unclear. We tested the hypothesis that prolonged uterine stretch is associated with decreased myometrium contractile activity via activation of TWIK-related K+ channel (TREK-1). Pregnant women at different gestational age (preterm and term) and uterine stretch (singleton and twin pregnancy) were studied, and uterine strips were isolated for measurement of contractile activity and TREK-1 channel expression/activity. Both oxytocin- and KCl-induced contraction were reduced in term vs preterm pregnancy and in twin vs singleton pregnancy. Oxytocin contraction was reduced in uterine segments exposed to 8 g stretch compared to control tissues under 2 g basal tension. TREK-1 mRNA expression and protein levels were augmented in Singleton-Term vs Singleton-Preterm, and in uterine strips exposed to 8 g stretch. The TREK-1 activator arachidonic acid reduced oxytocin contraction in preterm and term, singleton and twin pregnant uterus. The TREK-1 blocker l-methionine enhanced oxytocin contraction in Singleton-Term and twin pregnant uterus, and reversed the decreases in contraction in uterine strips exposed to prolonged stretch. Carboprost-induced uterine contraction was also reduced by arachidonic acid and enhanced by l-methionine. Thus, myometrium contraction decreases with gestational age and uterine expansion in twin pregnancy. The results suggest that prolonged stretch enhances the expression/activity of TREK-1 channel, leading to decreased myometrium contractile activity and maintained healthy term pregnancy particularly in multiple pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongzhi Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenzhu He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bing Shen
- Department of Physiology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Raouf A Khalil
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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18
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Herington JL, O’Brien C, Robuck MF, Lei W, Brown N, Slaughter JC, Paria BC, Mahadevan-Jansen A, Reese J. Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 1 Mediates the Timing of Parturition in Mice Despite Unhindered Uterine Contractility. Endocrinology 2018; 159:490-505. [PMID: 29029054 PMCID: PMC5761592 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase (COX)-derived prostaglandins stimulate uterine contractions and prepare the cervix for parturition. Prior reports suggest Cox-1 knockout (KO) mice exhibit delayed parturition due to impaired luteolysis, yet the mechanism for late-onset delivery remains unclear. Here, we examined key factors for normal onset of parturition to determine whether any could account for the delayed parturition phenotype. Pregnant Cox-1KO mice did not display altered timing of embryo implantation or postimplantation growth. Although messenger RNAs of contraction-associated proteins (CAPs) were differentially expressed between Cox-1KO and wild-type (WT) myometrium, there were no differences in CAP agonist-induced intracellular calcium release, spontaneous or oxytocin (OT)-induced ex vivo uterine contractility, or in vivo uterine contractile pressure. Delayed parturition in Cox-1KO mice persisted despite exogenous OT treatment. Progesterone (P4) withdrawal, by ovariectomy or administration of the P4-antagonist RU486, diminished the delayed parturition phenotype of Cox-1KO mice. Because antepartum P4 levels do not decline in Cox-1KO females, P4-treated WT mice were examined for the effect of this hormone on in vivo uterine contractility and ex vivo cervical dilation. P4-treated WT mice had delayed parturition but normal uterine contractility. Cervical distensibility was decreased in Cox-1KO mice on the day of expected delivery and reduced in WT mice with long-term P4 treatment. Collectively, these findings show that delayed parturition in Cox-1KO mice is the result of impaired luteolysis and cervical dilation, despite the presence of strong uterine contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Herington
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Christine O’Brien
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Michael F. Robuck
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Wei Lei
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, China
| | - Naoko Brown
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - James C. Slaughter
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232
| | - Bibhash C. Paria
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | | | - Jeff Reese
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
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19
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Edey LF, Georgiou H, O’Dea KP, Mesiano S, Herbert BR, Lei K, Hua R, Markovic D, Waddington SN, MacIntyre D, Bennett P, Takata M, Johnson MR. Progesterone, the maternal immune system and the onset of parturition in the mouse†. Biol Reprod 2017; 98:376-395. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia F Edey
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Hector Georgiou
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kieran P O’Dea
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine, and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sam Mesiano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Bronwen R Herbert
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kaiyu Lei
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Renyi Hua
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Danijela Markovic
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Simon N Waddington
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital of China Welfare Institute (IPMCH), Shanghai, China
| | - David MacIntyre
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Philip Bennett
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Masao Takata
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine, and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Mark R Johnson
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
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20
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Chen J, Khalil RA. Matrix Metalloproteinases in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2017; 148:87-165. [PMID: 28662830 PMCID: PMC5548443 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Normal pregnancy is associated with marked hemodynamic and uterine changes that allow adequate uteroplacental blood flow and uterine expansion for the growing fetus. These pregnancy-associated changes involve significant uteroplacental and vascular remodeling. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are important regulators of vascular and uterine remodeling. Increases in MMP-2 and MMP-9 have been implicated in vasodilation, placentation, and uterine expansion during normal pregnancy. The increases in MMPs could be induced by the increased production of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy. MMP expression/activity may be altered during complications of pregnancy. Decreased vascular MMP-2 and MMP-9 may lead to decreased vasodilation, increased vasoconstriction, hypertensive pregnancy, and preeclampsia. Abnormal expression of uteroplacental integrins, cytokines, and MMPs may lead to decreased maternal tolerance, apoptosis of invasive trophoblast cells, inadequate remodeling of spiral arteries, and reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP). RUPP may cause imbalance between the antiangiogenic factors soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and soluble endoglin and the proangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor, or stimulate the release of inflammatory cytokines, hypoxia-inducible factor, reactive oxygen species, and angiotensin AT1 receptor agonistic autoantibodies. These circulating factors could target MMPs in the extracellular matrix as well as endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells, causing generalized vascular dysfunction, increased vasoconstriction and hypertension in pregnancy. MMP activity can also be altered by endogenous tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) and changes in the MMP/TIMP ratio. In addition to their vascular effects, decreases in expression/activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the uterus could impede uterine growth and expansion and lead to premature labor. Understanding the role of MMPs in uteroplacental and vascular remodeling and function could help design new approaches for prediction and management of preeclampsia and premature labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Chen
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Raouf A Khalil
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.
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21
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Padol AR, Sukumaran SV, Sadam A, Kesavan M, Arunvikram K, Verma AD, Srivastava V, Panigrahi M, Singh TU, Telang AG, Mishra SK, Parida S. Hypercholesterolemia impairs oxytocin-induced uterine contractility in late pregnant mouse. Reproduction 2017; 153:565-576. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
High cholesterol is known to negatively affect uterine contractility inex vivoconditions. The aim of the present study was to reveal the effect ofin vivohypercholesterolemia on spontaneous and oxytocin-induced uterine contractility in late pregnant mouse uterus. Female Swiss albino mice were fed with high cholesterol (HC) diet (0.5% sodium cholate, 1.25% cholesterol and 15% fat) for 6 weeks and then throughout the gestation period after mating. On day 19 of gestation, serum cholesterol level was increased more than 3-fold while triglycerides level was reduced in HC diet-fed animals as compared to control animals fed with a standard diet. In tension experiments, neither the mean integral tension of spontaneous contractility nor the response to CaCl2in high K+-depolarized tissues was altered, but the oxytocin-induced concentration-dependent contractile response in uterine strips was attenuated in hypercholesterolemic mice as compared to control. Similarly, hypercholesterolemia dampened concentration-dependent uterine contractions elicited by a GNAQ protein activator,Pasteurella multocidatoxin. However, it had no effect on endogenous oxytocin level either in plasma or in uterine tissue. It also did not affect the prostaglandin release in oxytocin-stimulated tissues. Western blot data showed a significant increase in caveolin-1 and GRK6 proteins but decline in oxytocin receptor, GNAQ and RHOA protein expressions in hypercholesterolemic mouse uterus. The results of the present study suggest that hypercholesterolemia may attenuate the uterotonic action of oxytocin in late pregnancy by causing downregulation of oxytocin receptors and suppressing the signaling efficacy through GNAQ and RHOA proteins.
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22
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Li Y, Li H, Xie N, Chen R, Lee AR, Slater D, Lye S, Dong X. HoxA10 and HoxA11 Regulate the Expression of Contraction-Associated Proteins and Contribute to Regionalized Myometrium Phenotypes in Women. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:44-50. [PMID: 28372536 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117699706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
A relaxed fundus (FUN) and a contracted lower uterine segment (LUS) of human myometrium are required for maintaining pregnancy. How this regional myometrium function is regulated remains unclear. We have previously reported that the homeobox protein A13 (HoxA13) is highly expressed in the LUS and can enhance the expression of contraction-associated proteins (CAPs). Here, we show that in contrast to HoxA13, HoxA10 and HoxA11 genes are expressed at significantly higher levels in myometrium tissues and primary myocytes from the FUN. When introduced exogenously into a human myometrial cell line, HoxA10 and HoxA11 suppress the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of several CAP genes including interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, connexin 43 (Cx43), and cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox2). Consistently, enhanced HoxA10 and HoxA11 expressions strongly inhibited IL-1β and Cx43 protein levels. We further confirmed that higher expression of HoxA10 and HoxA11 genes in primary myocytes from the FUN compared to that from the LUS was associated with lower expression of IL-1β, IL-6, Cox2, and Cx43 genes. We conclude that the expression patterns of HoxA10, HoxA11, and HoxA13 and their actions in regulating CAP genes in FUN and LUS create regionalized myometrium phenotypes in women that may be important to control regionalized myometrium contractility for maintaining pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Li
- 1 Department of Urologic Sciences, The Vancouver prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Haolong Li
- 1 Department of Urologic Sciences, The Vancouver prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ning Xie
- 1 Department of Urologic Sciences, The Vancouver prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ruiqi Chen
- 1 Department of Urologic Sciences, The Vancouver prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ahn Rhi Lee
- 1 Department of Urologic Sciences, The Vancouver prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Donna Slater
- 2 Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Stephen Lye
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xuesen Dong
- 1 Department of Urologic Sciences, The Vancouver prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Functional involvement of protein kinase C, Rho-kinase and TRPC3 decreases while PLC increases with advancement of pregnancy in mediating oxytocin-induced myometrial contractions in water buffaloes ( Bubalus bubalis ). Theriogenology 2017; 92:176-189. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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24
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Ganer Herman H, Kerner R, Gluck O, Feit H, Keidar R, Bar J, Sagiv R. Different routes of misoprostol for cervical priming in first trimester surgical abortions: a randomized blind trial. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 295:943-950. [PMID: 28255768 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4329-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare effectiveness and patient satisfaction of different routes of misoprostol for short-term (same day) cervical priming in first trimester surgical abortions. METHODS In a blind randomized trial, patients undergoing surgical abortion at a gestational age of 6 + 0-14 + 6 were administered oral, vaginal, or sub-lingual 400 mcg misoprostol, 1.5 to 4 h prior to procedure. Surgeons blinded to patient allocation evaluated cervical priming. The primary outcome was initial cervical dilatation. Secondary outcomes were cervical consistency, ease of dilation, patient discomfort, and side effects. RESULTS From July 2015 through May 2016, 120 patients were randomized as follows: 40 to oral, 40 to vaginal, and 40 to sublingual misoprostol administration. No differences were noted in patient age, gestational age, curettage indication (termination/delayed miscarriage), past vaginal delivery, and administration to procedure interval. Initial cervical dilatation was similar between the groups, as were cervical consistency and ease of dilation. Patients noted the greatest discomfort and side effects with sublingual administration. The followings were found to be independently associated with cervical dilatation in a linear regression analysis: sublingual administration, gestational age, missed abortion, and previous vaginal delivery. Side effects and administration to procedure interval were found non-significant. CONCLUSION The same day cervical priming for first trimester surgical abortion is similarly achieved with all routes of misoprostol administration. In cases of termination of pregnancy with no prior vaginal delivery, sublingual administration may be considered, but entails a higher rate of side effects and patient discomfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadas Ganer Herman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, P.O.B 5, 58100, Holon, Israel.
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O.B 39040, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Ram Kerner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, P.O.B 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O.B 39040, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ohad Gluck
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, P.O.B 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O.B 39040, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Hagit Feit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, P.O.B 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O.B 39040, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ran Keidar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, P.O.B 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O.B 39040, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jacob Bar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, P.O.B 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O.B 39040, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ron Sagiv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, P.O.B 5, 58100, Holon, Israel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O.B 39040, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Stilley JAW, Guan R, Santillan DA, Mitchell BF, Lamping KG, Segaloff DL. Differential Regulation of Human and Mouse Myometrial Contractile Activity by FSH as a Function of FSH Receptor Density. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:36. [PMID: 27335068 PMCID: PMC5029472 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.141648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies from our laboratory revealed that the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) is expressed at low levels in nonpregnant human myometrium and that it is up-regulated in pregnant term nonlaboring myometrium; however, the physiological relevance of these findings was unknown. Herein, we examined signaling pathways stimulated by FSH in immortalized uterine myocytes expressing recombinant FSHR at different densities and showed that cAMP accumulation is stimulated in all cases but that inositol phosphate accumulation is stimulated only at high FSHR densities. Because an increase in cAMP quiets myometrial contractile activity but an increase in 1,4,5-triphosphoinositol stimulates contractile activity, we hypothesized that FSHR density dictates whether FSH quiets or stimulates myometrial contractility. Indeed, in human and mouse nonpregnant myometrium, which express low levels of FSHR, application of FSH resulted in a quieting of contractile activity. In contrast, in pregnant term nonlaboring myometrium, which expresses higher levels of FSHR, application of FSH resulted in increased contractile activity. Examination of pregnant mouse myometrium from different stages of gestation revealed that FSHR levels remained low throughout most of pregnancy. Accordingly, through mid-gestation, the application of FSH resulted in a quieting of contractile activity. At Pregnancy Day (PD) 16.5, FSHR was up-regulated, although not yet sufficiently to mediate stimulation of contractility in response to FSH. This outcome was not observed until PD 19.5, when FSHR was further up-regulated. Our studies describe a novel FSHR signaling pathway that regulates myometrial contractility, and suggest that myometrial FSHR levels dictate the quieting vs. stimulation of uterine contractility in response to FSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A W Stilley
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Rongbin Guan
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Donna A Santillan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Bryan F Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kathryn G Lamping
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Deborah L Segaloff
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
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Li H, Yu Y, Shi Y, Fazli L, Slater D, Lye S, Dong X. HoxA13 Stimulates Myometrial Cells to Secrete IL-1β and Enhance the Expression of Contraction-Associated Proteins. Endocrinology 2016; 157:2129-39. [PMID: 26982635 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Bipedalism in humans requires regionalization of myometrial function with a contracted lower uterine segment and a relaxed fundus during pregnancy to prevent fetal pressure on the cervix and reversal of this phenotype during labor. The HoxA13 gene is highly expressed in the lower uterine segment before term labor and regulates the regionalization of myometrium contractility. However, how HoxA13 regulates signal pathways to exert its functions remains unclear. Using a gene microarray technique, we profiled HoxA13 transcriptome in myometrial cells containing immune response genes (eg, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) and contraction-associated proteins (CAPs) such as cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) and connexin-43. IL-1β is responsible for mediating HoxA13 actions in up-regulating IL-6, IL-8, Cox-2, and connexin-43 expression. Blocking IL-1β with its inhibitor abolishes these HoxA13 actions. HoxA13-induced IL-1β stimulates the recruitment of activated THP-1 monocytes to myometrial cells, which in turn amplify the secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 through a mutual feed-forward loop between these cell types. As a result, Cox-2 expression is dramatically enhanced. These findings lead us to conclude that HoxA13 increases myometrial cell contractility by enhancing the secretion of IL-1β, resulting in an up-regulation of CAP and other proinflammatory cytokine expression. HoxA13-induced IL-1β in myometrial cells also prompts leukocyte recruitment and further amplifies CAP expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolong Li
- Vancouver Prostate Centre (H.L., Y.Y., Y.S., L.F., X.D.), Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6H 3Z6; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (D.S.), University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 4N1; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (S.L., X.D.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada M5G 1E2
| | - Yue Yu
- Vancouver Prostate Centre (H.L., Y.Y., Y.S., L.F., X.D.), Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6H 3Z6; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (D.S.), University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 4N1; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (S.L., X.D.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada M5G 1E2
| | - Yao Shi
- Vancouver Prostate Centre (H.L., Y.Y., Y.S., L.F., X.D.), Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6H 3Z6; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (D.S.), University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 4N1; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (S.L., X.D.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada M5G 1E2
| | - Ladan Fazli
- Vancouver Prostate Centre (H.L., Y.Y., Y.S., L.F., X.D.), Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6H 3Z6; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (D.S.), University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 4N1; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (S.L., X.D.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada M5G 1E2
| | - Donna Slater
- Vancouver Prostate Centre (H.L., Y.Y., Y.S., L.F., X.D.), Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6H 3Z6; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (D.S.), University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 4N1; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (S.L., X.D.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada M5G 1E2
| | - Stephen Lye
- Vancouver Prostate Centre (H.L., Y.Y., Y.S., L.F., X.D.), Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6H 3Z6; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (D.S.), University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 4N1; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (S.L., X.D.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada M5G 1E2
| | - Xuesen Dong
- Vancouver Prostate Centre (H.L., Y.Y., Y.S., L.F., X.D.), Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6H 3Z6; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (D.S.), University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 4N1; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (S.L., X.D.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada M5G 1E2
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Muir R, Ballan J, Clifford B, McMullen S, Khan R, Shmygol A, Quenby S, Elmes M. Modelling maternal obesity: the effects of a chronic high-fat, high-cholesterol diet on uterine expression of contractile-associated proteins and ex vivo contractile activity during labour in the rat. Clin Sci (Lond) 2016; 130:183-92. [PMID: 26543049 PMCID: PMC4682211 DOI: 10.1042/cs20150539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Maternal obesity is associated with prolonged and dysfunctional labour and emergency caesarean section, but the mechanisms are unknown. The present study investigated the effects of an adiposity-inducing high-fat, high-cholesterol (HFHC) diet on uterine contractile-associated protein (CAP) expression and ex vivo uterine contractility in term non-labouring (TNL) and term labouring (TL) rats. Female rats were fed either control chow (CON n=20) or HFHC (n=20) diet 6 weeks before conception and during pregnancy. On gestational day 21 (TNL) or day 22 (TL) CON and HFHC (n=10) rats were killed to determine plasma cholesterol, triacylglycerol and progesterone concentrations and collection of myometrium for contractility studies and expression of CAPs caveolin-1 (Cav-1), connexin-43 (CX-43) and it's phosphorylated form (pCX-43), oxytocin receptor (OXTR) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). HFHC feeding increased visceral fat (P≤0.001), plasma cholesterol (P≤0.001) and triacylglycerol (P=0.039) concentrations. Stage of labour effected uterine expression of CAV-1 (P<0.02), pCX43 and COX-2 (both P<0.03). CAV-1 and pCX43 decreased but COX-2 increased with parturition. Significant diet- and labour-stage interactions were evident for CX-43 and pCX43 (P<0.03 and P<0.004 respectively). CX-43 decreased with TL in HFHC animals but was unaltered in CON. pCX-43 fell with labour in CON but remained high in HFHC. OXTR expression was significantly higher in HFHC compared with CON animals (P<0.03). Progesterone was higher in HFHC rats at term (P<0.014) but fell significantly with labour to similar concentrations as CON. Contractility studies identified synchronous contractions of stable amplitude in lean animals, but unstable asynchronous contractions with obesity. Uterine dose response to oxytocin was blunted during labour in HFHC rats with a log EC50 of -8.84 compared with -10.25 M in CON for integral activity (P<0.05). In conclusion, our adiposity model exhibits adverse effects on contractile activity during labour that can be investigated further to unravel the mechanisms causing uterine dystocia in obese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronan Muir
- Division of Nutritional Science, School of Bioscience, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, England, U.K
| | - Jean Ballan
- Division of Nutritional Science, School of Bioscience, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, England, U.K
| | - Bethan Clifford
- Division of Nutritional Science, School of Bioscience, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, England, U.K
| | - Sarah McMullen
- Division of Nutritional Science, School of Bioscience, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, England, U.K
| | - Raheela Khan
- Graduate School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital, Uttoxeter Road, Derby DE22 3DT, England, U.K
| | - Anatoly Shmygol
- Reproductive Health, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire CV2 2DX, England, U.K
| | - Siobhan Quenby
- Reproductive Health, University of Warwick, Coventry, Warwickshire CV2 2DX, England, U.K. Biomedical Research Unit in Reproductive Health, University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, Coventry, Warwickshire CV2 2DX, U.K
| | - Matthew Elmes
- Division of Nutritional Science, School of Bioscience, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, England, U.K.
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Nadeau-Vallée M, Obari D, Quiniou C, Lubell WD, Olson DM, Girard S, Chemtob S. A critical role of interleukin-1 in preterm labor. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2015; 28:37-51. [PMID: 26684042 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2015.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 10/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity worldwide, and represents a heavy economic and social burden. Despite its broad etiology, PTB has been firmly linked to inflammatory processes. Pro-inflammatory cytokines are produced in gestational tissues in response to stressors and can prematurely induce uterine activation, which precedes the onset of preterm labor. Of all cytokines implicated, interleukin (IL)-1 has been largely studied, revealing a central role in preterm labor. However, currently approved IL-1-targeting therapies have failed to show expected efficacy in pre-clinical studies of preterm labor. Herein, we (a) summarize animal and human studies in which IL-1 or IL-1-targeting therapeutics are implicated with preterm labor, (b) focus on novel IL-1-targeting therapies and diagnostic tests, and (c) develop the case for commercialization and translation means to hasten their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Nadeau-Vallée
- Departments of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal H3T 1C5, Canada; Department of Pharmacology, Université de Montréal, Montréal H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Dima Obari
- Department of Pharmacology, Université de Montréal, Montréal H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Christiane Quiniou
- Departments of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - William D Lubell
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - David M Olson
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics and Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton AB TG6 2S2, Canada
| | - Sylvie Girard
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Centre, Montréal H3T 1C5, Canada.
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Departments of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology and Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal H3T 1C5, Canada.
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Rapacz-Leonard A, Raś A, Całka J, Janowski TE. Expression of oxytocin receptors is greatly reduced in the placenta of heavy mares with retained fetal membranes due to secondary uterine atony. Equine Vet J 2015; 47:623-6. [PMID: 25640716 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Fetal membrane retention can be a life-threatening condition and its incidence exceeds 50% in heavy draught mares. Although fetal membrane retention is commonly treated with repeated injections of oxytocin, based on the suggestion that it is caused mainly by secondary atony of the uterus, this treatment sometimes fails. This led us to ask if expression of oxytocin receptors differs in mares that retain fetal membranes due to secondary uterine atony. OBJECTIVES To determine whether expression of oxytocin receptors in equine placental tissues differs when heavy draught mares expel fetal membranes or retain them because of secondary uterine atony. STUDY DESIGN Controlled study using archived tissues. METHODS Placental biopsies (containing the endometrium and allantochorion) were taken from 8 heavy draught mares during parturition. Four mares expelled fetal membranes shortly after foaling (control mares) and 4 mares retained them (expulsion time was >3 h from delivery). The 4 mares that retained fetal membranes had secondary atony of the uterus. The amount of oxytocin receptors was estimated by measuring the intensity of western blot bands. The presence and location of oxytocin receptors were determined by immunocytochemistry. RESULTS Oxytocin receptor expression was nearly 50 times less intense in mares with placenta retention due to secondary atony of the uterus and immunocytochemical staining was barely visible. In the control mares, oxytocin receptors were found in both epithelial and endothelial cells of the placenta and staining was most intense where the endometrium contacts the allantochorion. CONCLUSIONS Inadequate expression of oxytocin receptors may be a cause of uterine atony leading to fetal membrane retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rapacz-Leonard
- Department of Animal Reproduction with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - A Raś
- Department of Animal Reproduction with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - J Całka
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - T E Janowski
- Department of Animal Reproduction with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
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Arrowsmith S, Wray S. Oxytocin: its mechanism of action and receptor signalling in the myometrium. J Neuroendocrinol 2014; 26:356-69. [PMID: 24888645 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a nonapeptide hormone that has a central role in the regulation of parturition and lactation. In this review, we address oxytocin receptor (OTR) signalling and its role in the myometrium during pregnancy and in labour. The OTR belongs to the rhodopsin-type (Class 1) of the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily and is regulated by changes in receptor expression, receptor desensitisation and local changes in oxytocin concentration. Receptor activation triggers a number of signalling events to stimulate contraction, primarily by elevating intracellular calcium (Ca(2+) ). This includes inositol-tris-phosphate-mediated store calcium release, store-operated Ca(2+) entry and voltage-operated Ca(2+) entry. We discuss each mechanism in turn and also discuss Ca(2+) -independent mechanisms such as Ca(2+) sensitisation. Because oxytocin induces contraction in the myometrium, both the activation and the inhibition of its receptor have long been targets in the management of dysfunctional and preterm labours, respectively. We discuss current and novel OTR agonists and antagonists and their use and potential benefit in obstetric practice. In this regard, we highlight three clinical scenarios: dysfunctional labour, postpartum haemorrhage and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Arrowsmith
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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31
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A number of tocolytics have been advocated for the treatment of threatened preterm labour in order to delay birth. The rationale is that a delay in birth may be associated with improved neonatal morbidity or mortality. Nitric oxide donors, such as nitroglycerin, have been used to relax the uterus. This review addresses their efficacy, adverse effects and influence on neonatal outcome. OBJECTIVES To determine whether nitric oxide donors administered in threatened preterm labour are associated with a delay in birth, adverse effects or improved neonatal outcome. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (1 December 2013). SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials of nitric oxide donors administered for tocolysis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS Twelve trials, including a total of 1227 women at risk of preterm labour, contributed data to this updated review. The methodological quality of trials was mixed; trials comparing nitric oxide donors with other types of tocolytics were not blinded and this may have had an impact on findings.Three studies compared nitric oxide donors (glyceryl trinitrate (GTN)) with placebo. There was no significant evidence that nitric oxide donors prolonged pregnancy beyond 48 hours (average risk ratio (RR) 1.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74 to 1.90, two studies, 186 women), and although for most adverse effects there was no significant difference between groups, women in the active treatment group in one study were at higher risk of experiencing a headache. For infant outcomes there was no significant evidence that nitric oxide donors reduced the risk of neonatal death or serious morbidity (stillbirth RR 0.36, 95% CI 0.01 to 8.59, one study, 153 infants; neonatal death RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.06 to 2.89, two studies, 186 infants). One study, using a composite outcome, reported a reduced risk of serious adverse outcomes for infants in the GTN group which approached statistical significance (RR 0.29, 95% CI 0.08 to 1.00, 153 infants). Overall, these studies were underpowered to identify differences between groups for most outcomes.When nitric oxide donors were compared with other tocolytic drugs there was no significant evidence that nitric oxide donors performed better than other tocolytics (betamimetics, magnesium sulphate, a calcium channel blocker or a combination of tocolytics) in terms of pregnancy prolongation, although nitric oxide donors appeared to be associated with a reduction in most adverse effects, apart from headache. There was no significant difference between groups for infant morbidity or mortality outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is currently insufficient evidence to support the routine administration of nitric oxide donors in the treatment of threatened preterm labour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Duckitt
- Campbell River and District General Hospital375 ‐ 2nd AvenueCampbell RiverBritish ColumbiaCanadaV9W 3V1
| | - Steve Thornton
- University of Exeter Medical School and Peninsula College of Medicine and DentistryBarrack RoadExeterUKEX2 5DW
| | - Oliver P O'Donovan
- South Devon Healthcare TrustDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMaternity Unit, Torbay HospitalTorquayDevonUKTQ2 7AA
| | - Therese Dowswell
- The University of LiverpoolCochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group, Department of Women's and Children's HealthFirst Floor, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation TrustCrown StreetLiverpoolUKL8 7SS
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Aguilar HN, Tracey CN, Zielnik B, Mitchell BF. Rho-kinase mediates diphosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain in cultured uterine, but not vascular smooth muscle cells. J Cell Mol Med 2014; 16:2978-89. [PMID: 22947248 PMCID: PMC4393726 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2012.01625.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain (RLC) triggers contraction in smooth muscle myocytes. Dephosphorylation of phosphorylated RLC (pRLC) is mediated by myosin RLC phosphatase (MLCP), which is negatively regulated by rho-associated kinase (ROK). We have compared basal and stimulated concentrations of pRLC in myocytes from human coronary artery (hVM), which has a tonic contractile pattern to myocytes from human uterus (hUM), which has a phasic contractile pattern. Our studies reveal fundamental differences between hVM and hUM regarding the mechanisms regulating phosphorylation RLC. Whereas hVM responded to stimulation by phosphorylation of RLC at S19, hUM responded by forming diphosphorylated RLC (at T18 and S19; ppRLC), which, compared to pRLC, causes two to threefold greater activation of myosin ATPase that provides energy to power the contraction. Importantly, the conversion of pRLC to ppRLC is mediated by ROK. In hUM, MLCP has high activity for ppRLC and this is inhibited by ROK through phosphorylation of the substrate targeting subunit (MYPT1) at T853. Inhibitors of ROK significantly reduce contractility in both hVM and hUM. We demonstrated that inhibition of ppRLC in phasic myocytes (hUM) is 100-fold more sensitive to ROK inhibitors than is pRLC in tonic myocytes (hVM). We speculate that these differences in phosphorylation of RLC might reflect evolution of different contractile patterns to perform distinct physiological functions. Furthermore, our data suggest that low concentrations of ROK inhibitors might inhibit uterine contractions with minimal effects on vascular tone, thus posing a novel strategy for prevention or treatment of conditions such as preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector N Aguilar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Anadol E, Kanca H, Yar AS, Helvacioğlu F, Menevşe S, Calgüner E, Erdoğan D. Prostaglandin F receptor expression in intrauterine tissues of pregnant rats. J Vet Sci 2013; 15:125-31. [PMID: 24136214 PMCID: PMC3973755 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2014.15.1.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2013] [Accepted: 10/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In this investigation, we studied the expression and localization of rat prostaglandin F (FP) receptor in uterine tissues of rats on gestational Days 10, 15, 18, 20, 21, 21.5 and postpartal Days 1 and 3 using Western blotting analysis, real-time PCR, and immunohistochemistry. A high level of immunoreactivity was observed on gestational Days 20, 21, and 21.5 with the most significant signals found on Day 20. FP receptor protein was expressed starting on gestational Day 15, and a fluctuating unsteady increase was observed until delivery. Uterine FP receptor mRNA levels were low between Days 10 and 18 of gestation (p < 0.05). The transcript level increased significantly on Day 20 and peaked on Day 21.5 just before labor (p < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between FP receptor mRNA expression and serum estradiol levels (rs = 0.78; p < 0.01) along with serum estradiol/progesterone ratios (rs = 0.79; p < 0.01). In summary, we observed an increase FP receptor expression in rat uterus with advancing gestation, a marked elevation of expression at term, and a concominant decrease during the postpartum period. These findings indicate a role for uterine FP receptors in the mediation of uterine contractility at term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvan Anadol
- Laboratory Animals Breeding and Experimental Research Center, Gazi University, Ankara 06510 ,
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Satoh H, Watanabe K, Kawaminami M, Kurusu S. A comprehensive immunohistochemistry of prostaglandins F2α and E2 synthetic enzymes in rat ovary and uterus around parturition. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2013; 106:23-8. [PMID: 23928061 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2013.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A comprehensive immunohistochemistry with the isoform-distinguishable antibodies against prostaglandin (PG) F2α and PGE2 biosynthetic enzymes was undertaken to identify the cellular types and enzyme isoforms in rat ovary and uterus around parturition. In general ovarian and uterine cells showed positive immunoreactions for phospholipase A2 groups 4A and 6A, but not group 2A, and cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 rather than COX-2. Their immunoreactions for PGF2α synthase and PGE2 synthase were cell type-dependently variable. The putative PGF2α and PGE2 producing cell types included, as expected, ovarian luteal cells, uterine endometrial epithelium and myometrium, and cervical connective tissue and, unexpectedly, ovarian stromal cells and basal lamina of cervical endometrium. Obtained data indicate the generation of PGF2α and PGE2 by multiple sites, which are entirely the same as established sites of actions, in parturition processes and tissue-dependent differential usage of PG biosynthetic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Satoh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Kitasato University School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Aomori 034-8628, Japan
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35
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Dang Y, Li W, Tran V, Khalil RA. EMMPRIN-mediated induction of uterine and vascular matrix metalloproteinases during pregnancy and in response to estrogen and progesterone. Biochem Pharmacol 2013; 86:734-47. [PMID: 23856290 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2013] [Revised: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy is associated with uteroplacental and vascular remodeling in order to adapt for the growing fetus and the hemodynamic changes in the maternal circulation. We have previously shown upregulation of uterine matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) during pregnancy. Whether pregnancy-associated changes in MMPs are localized to the uterus or are generalized in feto-placental and maternal circulation is unclear. Also, the mechanisms causing the changes in uteroplacental and vascular MMPs during pregnancy are unclear. MMPs expression, activity and tissue distribution were measured in uterus, placenta and aorta of virgin, mid-pregnant (mid-Preg) and late pregnant (late-Preg) rats. Western blots and gelatin zymography revealed increases in MMP-2 and -9 in uterus and aorta of late-Preg compared with virgin and mid-Preg rats. In contrast, MMP-2 and -9 were decreased in placenta of late-Preg versus mid-Preg rats. Extracellular MMP inducer (EMMPRIN) was increased in uterus and aorta of pregnant rats, but was less in placenta of late-Preg than mid-Preg rats. Prolonged treatment of uterus or aorta of virgin rats with 17β-estradiol and progesterone increased the amount of EMMPRIN, MMP-2 and -9, and the sex hormone-induced increases in MMPs were prevented by EMMPRIN neutralizing antibody. Immunohistochemistry revealed that MMP-2 and -9 and EMMPRIN increased in uterus and aorta of pregnant rats, but decreased in placenta of late-Preg versus mid-Preg rats. Thus pregnancy-associated upregulation of uterine MMPs is paralleled by increased vascular MMPs, and both are mediated by EMMPRIN and induced by estrogen and progesterone, suggesting similar role of MMPs in uterine and vascular tissue remodeling and function during pregnancy. The decreased MMPs and EMMPRIN in placenta of late-Preg rats suggests reduced role of MMPs in feto-placental circulation during late pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Dang
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratory, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Xu C, Long A, Fang X, Wood SL, Slater DM, Ni X, Olson DM. Effects of PGF2α on the expression of uterine activation proteins in pregnant human myometrial cells from upper and lower segment. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:2975-83. [PMID: 23678036 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-2829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The lower and upper segments of the uterus may play different roles in the process of parturition. The switch from pregnancy to delivery involves changes in expression of uterine activation proteins (UAPs). Prostaglandin (PG) F2α has multiple and complex roles in the birth process in addition to its vital contractile role. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate whether PGF2α regulates the expression of UAPs in human myometrium and to compare PGF2α actions in lower and upper segments. DESIGN Cultured human myometrial cells from upper and lower segments were treated with PGF2α. Western blotting was used to determine the levels of connexin 43 (CX-43), prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2 (PTGS-2; cyclooxygenase-2), oxytocin receptor (OTR), and PGF2α receptor (PTGFR) in the cells. The small interfering RNA approach was used to knock down PTGFR. RESULTS PGF2α dose dependently increased CX-43 and PTGS-2 while decreasing PTGFR in upper and lower segments. PGF2α increased OTR in the lower segment while decreasing it in the upper segment. PGF2α lost its effects on PTGS-2 and OTR in PTGFR knockdown cells, but its effect on CX-43 remained. AL8810, a specific antagonist of PTGFR, reversed the actions of PGF2α on UAPs except for CX-43 in the lower segment. Indomethacin reversed the PGF2α-induced effects on CX-43 and PTGS-2, but it did not alter PGF2α-induced PTGFR and OTR expression. The stimulatory effects of PGF2α were enhanced in the presence of IL-1β, which reversed the inhibitory effect of PGF2α on PTGFR. CONCLUSION PGF2α regulates UAPs in both upper and lower segment cells through either direct or indirect pathways, indicating that PGF2α uniquely participates in uterine preparation for the onset of labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xu
- Department of Physiology and The Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of the Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China 200433, USA
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Grotegut CA, Gunatilake RP, Feng L, Heine RP, Murtha AP. The influence of maternal body mass index on myometrial oxytocin receptor expression in pregnancy. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:1471-7. [PMID: 23653389 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113488446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Obese pregnant women have higher rates of dysfunctional labor patterns, need for oxytocin augmentation, labor induction, postdates pregnancy, and cesarean delivery compared to normal weight pregnant women. We tested the hypothesis that myometrial oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene and protein expression are affected by obesity in pregnancy. Myometrial samples were obtained at the time of cesarean delivery from the upper aspect of the uterine hysterotomy incision and processed for real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. There were 63 myometrial samples available for analysis. The median body mass index (BMI) at delivery was 31.0 kg/m(2) (interquartile range, 26.0, 40.0 kg/m(2)), and the median gestational age at delivery was 38.0 weeks (interquartile range, 33.0, 39.1 weeks). The OXTR gene expression did not correlate with maternal BMI at delivery by linear regression, and the median OXTR gene expression did not differ between women with a BMI ≤ 30 kg/m(2) and those with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m(2). The OXTR protein expression was also not affected by maternal BMI. Myometrial OXTR gene expression appears to be independent of BMI at the time of delivery. Dysfunctional labor patterns and increased oxytocin utilization seen in obese women may not be due to differences in OXTR expression, though functional studies are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad A Grotegut
- 1Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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Gomez-Lopez N, Tanaka S, Zaeem Z, Metz GA, Olson DM. Maternal circulating leukocytes display early chemotactic responsiveness during late gestation. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2013; 13 Suppl 1:S8. [PMID: 23445935 PMCID: PMC3561147 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2393-13-s1-s8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parturition has been widely described as an immunological response; however, it is unknown how this is triggered. We hypothesized that an early event in parturition is an increased responsiveness of peripheral leukocytes to chemotactic stimuli expressed by reproductive tissues, and this precedes expression of tissue chemotactic activity, uterine activation and the systemic progesterone/estradiol shift. METHODS Tissues and blood were collected from pregnant Long-Evans rats on gestational days (GD) 17, 20 and 22 (term gestation). We employed a validated Boyden chamber assay, flow cytometry, quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. RESULTS We found that GD20 maternal peripheral leukocytes migrated more than those from GD17 when these were tested with GD22 uterus and cervix extracts. Leukocytes on GD20 also displayed a significant increase in chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (Ccl2) gene expression and this correlated with an increase in peripheral granulocyte proportions and a decrease in B cell and monocyte proportions. Tissue chemotactic activity and specific chemokines (CCL2, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1/CXCL1, and CXCL10) were mostly unchanged from GD17 to GD20 and increased only on GD22. CXCL10 peaked on GD20 in cervical tissues. As expected, prostaglandin F2α receptor and oxytocin receptor gene expression increased dramatically between GD20 and 22. Progesterone concentrations fell and estradiol-17β concentrations increased in peripheral serum, cervical and uterine tissue extracts between GD20 and 22. CONCLUSION Maternal circulating leukocytes display early chemotactic responsiveness, which leads to their infiltration into the uterus where they may participate in the process of parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics and Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2S2, Canada
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Mitchell B, Aguilar H, Mosher A, Wood S, Slater D. The uterine myocyte as a target for prevention of preterm birth. Facts Views Vis Obgyn 2013; 5:72-81. [PMID: 24753931 PMCID: PMC3987349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) remains the most common cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality as well as long-term disability. Current strategies to prevent or arrest spontaneous preterm labor (SPTL) have limited success. For almost three decades, there have been no novel pharmacological agents used clinically to address this important obstetrical complication. In this review, we focus on the uterine myocyte as a target for prevention of spontaneous PTB. After presenting an overview of intracellular signaling pathways that are important in regulation of smooth muscle contractility, we discuss previous and current pharmacological approaches to manage SPTL. We also present recent evidence from our own laboratories suggesting a potentially novel and uterine-specific approach to maintain or impose uterine relaxation. Finally, we briefly discuss extrinsic systems that might affect uterine activity and reinforce the concept that SPTL represents a syndrome that is the end result of a variety of pathophysiologic etiologies leading to PTB. We conclude by emphasizing the need for much more research to provide sufficient understanding of the mechanisms of SPTL and to make inroads towards reducing the incidence and adverse consequences of this common and serious syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- B.F. Mitchell
- University of Alberta, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edmonton AB, Canada
,University of Alberta Department of Physiology, Edmonton AB, Canada
| | - H.N. Aguilar
- University of Alberta Department of Physiology, Edmonton AB, Canada
| | - A. Mosher
- University of Calgary, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary AB Canada
| | - S. Wood
- University of Calgary, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Calgary AB Canada
| | - D.M. Slater
- University of Calgary, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary AB Canada
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Norman JE, Yuan M, Anderson L, Howie F, Harold G, Young A, Jordan F, McInnes I, Harnett MM. Effect of prolonged in vivo administration of progesterone in pregnancy on myometrial gene expression, peripheral blood leukocyte activation, and circulating steroid hormone levels. Reprod Sci 2012; 18:435-46. [PMID: 21558462 DOI: 10.1177/1933719110395404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the effects of progesterone on gene expression and function of both myometrium and circulating leukocytes. METHODS We recruited women participating in a randomized clinical trial of progesterone to prevent preterm delivery. These participants had a twin pregnancy and were managed in 1 of 2 tertiary referral centers. Participants were treated with progesterone (90 mg vaginally) or placebo from 24 to 34 weeks of pregnancy. The outcome measures were myometrial and leukocyte gene expression and expression of cell surface markers in circulating leukocytes, all quantified ex vivo. RESULTS Prolonged in vivo administration of progesterone inhibited myometrial expression of connexins 26 and 43, endothelial nitric acid synthase (eNOS), and the prostaglandin receptor EP2 ex vivo. Administration of progesterone also increased numbers of circulating neutrophils while decreasing lymphocyte proportions and decreasing neutrophil CD11b expression. CONCLUSION The observed effects of prolonged in vivo administration of progesterone will minimize the ability of the uterus to contract as a synctium and the ability of peripheral blood leukocytes to migrate into the myometrium during parturition. We suggest that these are putative mechanisms by which progesterone might prevent preterm birth in women at high risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Norman
- Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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Tanfin Z, Breuiller-Fouché M. The endothelin axis in uterine leiomyomas: new insights. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:5, 1-10. [PMID: 22553222 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.097725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The endothelin axis, comprising endothelin-1 (ET-1) and its receptors (ETA and ETB), is involved in the pathophysiology of different human tumors. Here we review conventional approaches and gene expression profiling indicating the association of ET-1 and its cognate receptors with human and rat leiomyomas, the most common benign tumors of myometrium. Specifically, ET-1/ETA interactions affect human and rat leiomyoma cell proliferation through protein kinase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase-dependent signaling pathways. Recent experiments demonstrate that the ET-1 axis exerts a potent antiapoptotic effect involving sphingolipid metabolism and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2/prostaglandin system in the rat Eker leiomyoma tumor-derived ELT3 cell line. Evidence supports that steroid hormones, growth factors, and extracellular matrix are key regulators of the leiomyoma growth. Interestingly, the ET-1 axis is under steroid hormones and can cooperate with these growth factors. Therefore, ET-1 alone or in association with these factors could contribute to the complex regulation of uterine tumor growth, such as proliferation, survival, and extracellular matrix production. This review summarizes current knowledge and emerging data on ET-1 in uterine leiomyoma pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Tanfin
- Université Paris-Sud-11, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut de Biochimie et Biophysique Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Equipe Signalisation Moléculaire et Cellulaire utérine, Orsay, France
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Molecular pathways regulating contractility in rat uterus through late gestation and parturition. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2012; 207:76.e15-24. [PMID: 22727353 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2012.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 04/18/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endogenous uterine agonists can activate numerous signaling pathways to effect increased force. Our objective was to assess expression of key constituents of these pathways, in alliance with contractile function, through late gestation and during term and preterm labor. STUDY DESIGN Using myography, we measured the response to 3 agonists compared with depolarization alone (K(+), 124 mEq/L) and calculated agonist/depolarization ratio. We measured gene expression using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Contractile responsiveness to depolarization alone, oxytocin, or endothelin-1 increased during pregnancy compared with nonpregnant animals. The agonist/depolarization ratio did not change during uterine activation or parturition. Inhibition of rhoA-associated kinase decreased responses to oxytocin in all tissues, but significantly more during uterine activation. Expression of rhoA and rhoA-associated kinase was increased significantly in active labor at term or preterm. CONCLUSION The rhoA/rhoA-associated kinase pathway is a key regulator of uterine activation during labor and may be a useful target for the prevention of spontaneous preterm birth.
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Yin Z, Sada AA, Reslan OM, Narula N, Khalil RA. Increased MMPs expression and decreased contraction in the rat myometrium during pregnancy and in response to prolonged stretch and sex hormones. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2012; 303:E55-70. [PMID: 22496348 PMCID: PMC3404560 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00553.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Normal pregnancy is associated with uterine relaxation to accommodate the stretch imposed by the growing fetus; however, the mechanisms underlying the relationship between pregnancy-associated uterine stretch and uterine relaxation are unclear. We hypothesized that increased uterine stretch during pregnancy is associated with upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which in turn cause inhibition of myometrium contraction and promote uterine relaxation. Uteri from virgin, midpregnant (day 12), and late-pregnant rats (day 19) were isolated, and myometrium strips were prepared for measurement of isometric contraction and MMP expression and activity using RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and gelatin zymography. Oxytocin caused concentration-dependent contraction of myometrium strips that was reduced in mid- and late-pregnant rats compared with virgin rats. Pretreatment with the MMP inhibitors SB-3CT (MMP-2/MMP-9 Inhibitor IV), BB-94 (batimastat), or Ro-28-2653 (cipemastat) enhanced contraction in myometrium of pregnant rats. RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and gelatin zymography demonstrated increased mRNA expression, protein amount, and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in myometrium of late-pregnant>midpregnant>virgin rats. Prolonged stretch of myometrium strips of virgin rats under 8 g basal tension for 18 h was associated with reduced contraction and enhanced expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, which were reversed by MMP inhibitors. Concomitant treatment of stretched myometrium of virgin rats with 17β-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), or E2+P4 was associated with further reduction in contraction and increased MMP expression and activity. MMP-2 and MMP-9 caused significant reduction of oxytocin-induced contraction of myometrium of virgin rat. Thus, normal pregnancy is associated with reduced myometrium contraction and increased MMPs expression and activity. The results are consistent with the possibility that myometrium stretch and concomitant increase in sex hormones during pregnancy are associated with increased expression/activity of specific MMPs, which in turn inhibit uterine contraction and promote uterine relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongzhi Yin
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratory, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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A role of stretch-activated potassium currents in the regulation of uterine smooth muscle contraction. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2011; 32:758-64. [PMID: 21642947 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2011.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rates of premature birth are alarming and threaten societies and healthcare systems worldwide. Premature labor results in premature birth in over 50% of cases. Preterm birth accounts for three-quarters of infant morbidity and mortality. Children that survive birth before 34 weeks gestation often face life-long disability. Current treatments for preterm labor are wanting. No treatment has been found to be generally effective and none are systematically evaluated beyond 48 h. New approaches to the treatment of preterm labor are desperately needed. Recent studies from our laboratory suggest that the uterine muscle is a unique compartment with regulation of uterine relaxation unlike that of other smooth muscles. Here we discuss recent evidence that the mechanically activated 2-pore potassium channel, TREK-1, may contribute to contraction-relaxation signaling in uterine smooth muscle and that TREK-1 gene variants associated with human labor and preterm labor may lead to a better understanding of preterm labor and its possible prevention.
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Mittal P, Romero R, Tarca AL, Draghici S, Nhan-Chang CL, Chaiworapongsa T, Hotra J, Gomez R, Kusanovic JP, Lee DC, Kim CJ, Hassan SS. A molecular signature of an arrest of descent in human parturition. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2011; 204:177.e15-33. [PMID: 21284969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2010.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2010] [Revised: 08/18/2010] [Accepted: 09/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to identify the molecular basis of an arrest of descent. STUDY DESIGN Human myometrium was obtained from women in term labor (TL; n = 29) and arrest of descent (AODes; n = 21). Gene expression was characterized using Illumina HumanHT-12 microarrays. A moderated Student t test and false discovery rate adjustment were applied for analysis. Confirmatory quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunoblot were performed in an independent sample set. RESULTS Four hundred genes were differentially expressed between women with an AODes compared with those with TL. Gene Ontology analysis indicated enrichment of biological processes and molecular functions related to inflammation and muscle function. Impacted pathways included inflammation and the actin cytoskeleton. Overexpression of hypoxia inducible factor-1a, interleukin -6, and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 in AODes was confirmed. CONCLUSION We have identified a stereotypic pattern of gene expression in the myometrium of women with an arrest of descent. This represents the first study examining the molecular basis of an arrest of descent using a genome-wide approach.
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Mittal P, Romero R, Tarca AL, Gonzalez J, Draghici S, Xu Y, Dong Z, Nhan-Chang CL, Chaiworapongsa T, Lye S, Kusanovic JP, Lipovich L, Mazaki-Tovi S, Hassan SS, Mesiano S, Kim CJ. Characterization of the myometrial transcriptome and biological pathways of spontaneous human labor at term. J Perinat Med 2010; 38:617-43. [PMID: 20629487 PMCID: PMC3097097 DOI: 10.1515/jpm.2010.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS to characterize the transcriptome of human myometrium during spontaneous labor at term. METHODS myometrium was obtained from women with (n=19) and without labor (n=20). Illumina HumanHT-12 microarrays were utilized. Moderated t-tests and false discovery rate adjustment of P-values were applied. Real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed for a select set of differentially expressed genes in a separate set of samples. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot were utilized to confirm differential protein production in a third sample set. RESULTS 1) Four hundred and seventy-one genes were differentially expressed; 2) gene ontology analysis indicated enrichment of 103 biological processes and 18 molecular functions including: a) inflammatory response; b) cytokine activity; and c) chemokine activity; 3) systems biology pathway analysis using signaling pathway impact analysis indicated six significant pathways: a) cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction; b) Jak-STAT signaling; and c) complement and coagulation cascades; d) NOD-like receptor signaling pathway; e) systemic lupus erythematosus; and f) chemokine signaling pathway; 4) qRT-PCR confirmed over-expression of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase-2, heparin binding epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor, chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL2/MCP1), leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor, subfamily A member 5, interleukin (IL)-8, IL-6, chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 6 (CXCL6/GCP2), nuclear factor of kappa light chain gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor zeta, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) and decreased expression of FK506 binding-protein 5 and aldehyde dehydrogenase in labor; 5) IL-6, CXCL6, CCL2 and SOCS3 protein expression was significantly higher in the term labor group compared to the term not in labor group. CONCLUSIONS myometrium of women in spontaneous labor at term is characterized by a stereotypic gene expression pattern consistent with over-expression of the inflammatory response and leukocyte chemotaxis. Differential gene expression identified with microarray was confirmed with qRT-PCR using an independent set of samples. This study represents an unbiased description of the biological processes involved in spontaneous labor at term based on transcriptomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Mittal
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Juan Gonzalez
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sorin Draghici
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Zhong Dong
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Chia-Ling Nhan-Chang
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephen Lye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Juan Pedro Kusanovic
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Leonard Lipovich
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Shali Mazaki-Tovi
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sonia S. Hassan
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sam Mesiano
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Chong Jai Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Gogny A, Mallem Y, Destrumelle S, Thorin C, Desfontis JC, Gogny M, Fiéni F. In vitro comparison of myometrial contractility induced by aglepristone-oxytocin and aglepristone-PGF2alpha combinations at different stages of the estrus cycle in the bitch. Theriogenology 2010; 74:1531-8. [PMID: 20708231 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Revised: 06/04/2010] [Accepted: 06/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the uterokinetic activity of oxytocin and dinoprost, the natural PGF2α, with or without aglepristone, in canine myometrial fibers. Thirty-three bitches were allocated into one of four groups, depending on their estrous stage and whether or not they had received a treatment with aglepristone (metestrus aglepristone, n = 5; metestrus without treatment, n = 9; anestrus aglepristone, n = 9; anestrus without treatment, n = 10). After hysterectomy, longitudinal and circular uterine strips were mounted in organ baths. Oxytocin or PGF2α (10 nmol/l to 10 micromol/l) were applied non-cumulatively. A linear mixed effects models theory was used to compare the fiber effect, the aglepristone effect, and the treatment effect, from the area under the curves calculated from the contractile effect/concentration curves for each drug. Oxytocin and PGF2α induced concentration-dependent myometrial contractions in longitudinal (LF) and circular myometrial fibers (CF), indicating the presence of functional contractile oxytocin- and PGF2α-receptors in metestrus and anestrus. The contractile response to oxytocin was greater in LF than in CF in all of the groups; the response to PGF2α was greater in LF than in CF in non-treated bitches in anestrus and in treated bitches in metestrus. These results suggest that there is a difference in sensitivity or a heterogeneous distribution of oxytocin and PGF2α-receptors in the myometrial layers, which is independent of hormonal impregnation. The contractile response to oxytocin and PGF2α was significantly increased after aglepristone treatment in LF during metestrus, suggesting that the progesterone withdrawal induced by aglepristone has a role to play. The longitudinal myometrial layer also appeared to be the target for the two drugs at this stage. This study provides new information about canine uterine contractile activity, notably the differing behavior of myometrial CF and LF; in vivo studies are required to test the use of a combination of aglepristone and oxytocin in the treatment of canine pyometra.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gogny
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Pathology of Reproduction, Nantes-Atlantic National College of Veterinary Medicine, Food Science and Engineering-ONIRIS, F-44307 Nantes, France.
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Robertson SA, Christiaens I, Dorian CL, Zaragoza DB, Care AS, Banks AM, Olson DM. Interleukin-6 is an essential determinant of on-time parturition in the mouse. Endocrinology 2010; 151:3996-4006. [PMID: 20610570 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
IL-6 abundance in amniotic fluid and uterine tissues increases in late gestation or with infection-associated preterm labor. A role in regulation of labor onset is suggested by observations that IL-6 increases expression of genes controlling prostaglandin synthesis and signaling in isolated uterine cells, but whether IL-6 is essential for normal parturition is unknown. To evaluate the physiological role of IL-6 in parturition in mice, we investigated the effect of Il6 null mutation on the timing of parturition and expression of genes associated with uterine activation. Il6 null mutant mice delivered 24 h later than wild-type mice, although circulating progesterone fell similarly in both genotypes during the prepartal period. Il6 null mutant mice were also refractory to low doses of lipopolysaccharide sufficient to induce preterm delivery in wild-type mice. The characteristic late-gestation elevation in uterine expression of Oxtr mRNA encoding oxytocin receptor, and peripartal increases in Ptgfr and Ptgs2 mRNAs regulating prostaglandin synthesis and signaling were delayed by 24 h in Il6 null mutant mice. Conversely, Ptger4 mRNA encoding the prostaglandin E receptor-4 was abnormally elevated in late-gestation in Il6 null mutant mice. Administration of recombinant IL-6 from d 11.5 postcoitum until term restored the normal timing of delivery and normalized Ptger4 mRNA expression in late gestation. We conclude that IL-6 has a key role in controlling the progression of events culminating in parturition and that it acts downstream of luteolysis in the uterus to regulate genes involved in the prostaglandin-mediated uterine activation cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Institute, School of Pediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
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Ku CY, Murtazina DA, Kim YS, Garfield RE, Sanborn BM. Changes in rat myometrial plasma membrane protein kinase A are confined to parturition. Reprod Sci 2010; 17:696-704. [PMID: 20457802 DOI: 10.1177/1933719110368869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown that pregnant rat myometrial plasma membrane-associated cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) decreases prior to delivery, coincident with a decline in the inhibitory effect of cAMP on contractant-stimulated parameters. We now find that rat myometrial membrane-associated PKA concentrations in early to mid-pregnancy are equivalent to those in cycling rats. Following the decline associated with parturition, membrane PKA recovers within 1 to 2 days postpartum. Treatment with the antiprogestin onapristone caused a decrease in myometrial membrane PKA catalytic and regulatory subunits compared to untreated controls by 12 hours. This coincided temporally with recently reported increases in electrical and contractile activity. In unilaterally pregnant rats, the decline in plasma membrane PKA was observed in both nonpregnant and pregnant horns but was more rapid in the pregnant horns. These data indicate that the myometrial plasma membrane PKA pattern before and during most of pregnancy is not consistent with progesterone exerting a primary influence on PKA membrane localization. Rather, the fall in membrane PKA associated with parturition may contribute to or be influenced by the increased contractile and electrical activity of labor that is a consequence of the loss of progesterone influence and is not absolutely dependent on the presence of fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ying Ku
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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Mitchell BF, Taggart MJ. Are animal models relevant to key aspects of human parturition? Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2009; 297:R525-45. [PMID: 19515978 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00153.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth remains the most serious complication of pregnancy and is associated with increased rates of infant death or permanent neurodevelopmental disability. Our understanding of the regulation of parturition remains inadequate. The scientific literature, largely derived from rodent animal models, suggests two major mechanisms regulating the timing of parturition: the withdrawal of the steroid hormone progesterone and a proinflammatory response by the immune system. However, available evidence strongly suggests that parturition in the human has significantly different regulators and mediators from those in most of the animal models. Our objectives are to critically review the data and concepts that have arisen from use of animal models for parturition and to rationalize the use of a new model. Many animal models have contributed to advances in our understanding of the regulation of parturition. However, we suggest that those animals dependent on progesterone withdrawal to initiate parturition clearly have a limitation to their translation to the human. In such models, a linear sequence of events (e.g., luteolysis, progesterone withdrawal, uterine activation, parturition) gives rise to the concept of a "trigger" mechanism. Conversely, we propose that human parturition may arise from the concomitant maturation of several systems in parallel. We have termed this novel concept "modular accumulation of physiological systems" (MAPS). We also emphasize the urgency to determine the precise role of the immune system in the process of parturition in situations other than intrauterine infection. Finally, we accentuate the need to develop a nonprimate animal model whose physiology is more relevant to human parturition. We suggest that the guinea pig displays several key physiological characteristics of gestation that more closely resemble human pregnancy than do currently favored animal models. We conclude that the application of novel concepts and new models are required to advance translational research in parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan F Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Heritage Medical Research Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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