FOSL1 is integral to establishing the maternal-fetal interface

KLF14 inhibits tumor progression via FOSL1 in glioma

Background

Glioma, the most frequent central nervous system malignancy, is often promoted by the overexpression of Fos-like antigen 1 (FOSL1). However, the regulation of FOSL1 remains unexplored. The present study aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanism of FOSL1 to identify potential therapeutic targets for glioblastoma.

Methods

This study's initial investigation utilized dual-luciferase reporter gene assays and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays to establish that Kruppel-like factor 14 (KLF14) inhibits the transcription of FOSL1. Subsequent immunohistochemistry and western blotting (WB) assays on glioma tissues confirmed a negative association between FOSL1 and KLF14. This study generated KLF14 knockdown cells and double knockdown cells of KLF14 and FOSL1 and further assessed cell growth through various experimental methods. The impact of KLF14 on tumor cell migration via FOSL1 was determined using qPCR and WB assays. A xenograft tumor model was utilized to verify tumor growth suppression by KLF14.

Results

The present study demonstrated that KLF14 restrains FOSL1 transcription and is inversely correlated with FOSL1 in glioma tissues. KLF14 overexpression was found to counteract FOSL1's effect on cell migration and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in glioma cells, which coincided with decreased Snail2 and cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) expressions. Further, KLF14 overexpression was shown to hinder tumor progression in vivo.

Conclusion

This study highlights that FOSL1 is negatively regulated by KLF14 in glioblastoma and suggests that KLF14 overexpression can mitigate tumor growth by inhibiting FOSL1, thus identifying KLF14 as a novel molecular target for treating glioblastoma. Further research into the interplay and regulatory dynamics between KLF14 and FOSL1 under varying stress conditions can enhance the precision of glioblastoma treatment.

The transcription factor Fosl1 preserves Klotho expression and protects from acute kidney injury

Increased expression of AP-1 transcription factor components has been reported in acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the role of specific components, such as Fosl1, in tubular cells or AKI is unknown. Upstream regulator analysis of murine nephrotoxic AKI transcriptomics identified AP-1 as highly upregulated. Among AP-1 canonical components, Fosl1 was found to be upregulated in two transcriptomics datasets from nephrotoxic murine AKI induced by folic acid or cisplatin and from proximal tubular cells exposed to TWEAK, a cytokine mediator of AKI. Fosl1 was minimally expressed in the kidneys of control uninjured mice. Increased Fosl1 protein was localized to proximal tubular cell nuclei in AKI. In human AKI, FOSL1 was found present in proximal tubular cells in kidney sections and in urine along with increased urinary FOSL1 mRNA. Selective Fosl1 deficiency in proximal tubular cells (Fosl1Δtub) increased the severity of murine cisplatin- or folate-induced AKI as characterized by lower kidney function, more severe kidney inflammation and Klotho downregulation. Indeed, elevated AP-1 activity was observed after cisplatin-induced AKI in Fosl1Δtub mice compared to wild-type mice. More severe Klotho downregulation preceded more severe kidney dysfunction. The Klotho promoter was enriched in Fosl1 binding sites and Fosl1 bound to the Klotho promoter in cisplatin-AKI. In cultured proximal tubular cells, Fosl1 targeting increased the proinflammatory response and downregulated Klotho. In vivo, recombinant Klotho administration protected Fosl1Δtub mice from cisplatin-AKI. Thus, increased proximal tubular Fosl1 expression during AKI is an adaptive response, preserves Klotho, and limits the severity of tubular cell injury and AKI.

The AKT1-FOXO4 axis reciprocally regulates hemochorial placentation

Hemochorial placentation involves the differentiation of invasive trophoblast cells, specialized cells that possess the capacity to exit the placenta and invade into the uterus where they restructure the vasculature. Invasive trophoblast cells arise from a well-defined compartment within the placenta, referred to as the junctional zone in rat and the extravillous trophoblast cell column in human. In this study, we investigated roles for AKT1, a serine/threonine kinase, in placental development using a genome-edited/loss-of-function rat model. Disruption of AKT1 resulted in placental, fetal and postnatal growth restriction. Forkhead box O4 (Foxo4), which encodes a transcription factor and known AKT substrate, was abundantly expressed in the junctional zone and in invasive trophoblast cells of the rat placentation site. Foxo4 gene disruption using genome editing resulted in placentomegaly, including an enlarged junctional zone. AKT1 and FOXO4 regulate the expression of many of the same transcripts expressed by trophoblast cells, but in opposite directions. In summary, we have identified AKT1 and FOXO4 as part of a regulatory network that reciprocally controls critical indices of hemochorial placenta development.

MicroRNAs: key regulators of the trophoblast function in pregnancy disorders

The placenta is essential for a successful pregnancy and healthy intrauterine development in mammals. During human pregnancy, the growth and development of the placenta are inseparable from the rapid proliferation, invasion, and migration of trophoblast cells. Previous reports have shown that the occurrence of many pregnancy disorders may be closely related to the dysfunction of trophoblasts. However, the function regulation of human trophoblast cells in the placenta is poorly understood. Therefore, studying the factors that regulate the function of trophoblast cells is necessary. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding, single-stranded RNA molecules. Increasing evidence suggests that miRNAs play a crucial role in regulating trophoblast functions. This review outlines the role of miRNAs in regulating the function of trophoblast cells and several common signaling pathways related to miRNA regulation in pregnancy disorders.

2, 2', 4, 4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether induces placental toxicity via activation of p38 MAPK signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro

2, 2', 4, 4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) is one of the most important polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) congeners, and epidemiological studies have shown that it can cause adverse pregnancy outcomes. The aim of our study was to investigate the role of placental injury in BDE-47-induced adverse pregnancy outcomes through in vivo and in vitro models. From day 0.5 to day 16.5 of pregnancy of ICR mice, BDE-47 oral doses of 0, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day were administered. Immunohistochemical staining found that BDE-47 inhibited the expression of CD34 in mouse placenta, and ELISA results showed that BDE-47 reduced the levels of VEGF and PlGF in the serum of pregnant mice. Western blot assays found that the expression levels of VEGF-A and invasion-related factors were decreased in the placentas of BDE-47-treated group, which indicated that BDE-47 could impair placental angiogenesis. Furthermore, BDE-47 inhibited proliferation, increased apoptosis and autophagy, and activated p38 MAPK signaling pathway in mouse placental tissue. In vitro, HTR-8/SVneo cells were treated with 0, 5, 10, 20 μM BDE-47 for 24 h. Wound healing assays and Transwell assays showed that BDE-47 inhibited the migration and invasion ability of HTR-8/SVneo cells. We also found that BDE-47 inhibited the proliferation of HTR-8/SVneo cells and increased apoptosis and autophagy. BDE-47 activated p38 MAPK signaling pathway in HTR-8/SVneo cells, and inhibition of p38 MAPK signaling pathway in HTR-8/SVneo cells restored the effects caused by BDE-47. In conclusion, BDE-47 impairs placental angiogenesis by inhibiting cell migration and invasion, and induces placental toxicity by inhibiting proliferation, increasing apoptosis and autophagy. In vitro, activation of p38 MAPK signaling pathway is involved in the processes of placental injury by BDE-47.

Phylogenetic and Expression Analysis of Fos Transcription Factors in Zebrafish

Members of the FOS protein family regulate gene expression responses to a multitude of extracellular signals and are dysregulated in several pathological states. Whilst mouse genetic models have provided key insights into the tissue-specific functions of these proteins in vivo, little is known about their roles during early vertebrate embryonic development. This study examined the potential of using zebrafish as a model for such studies and, more broadly, for investigating the mechanisms regulating the functions of Fos proteins in vivo. Through phylogenetic and sequence analysis, we identified six zebrafish FOS orthologues, fosaa, fosab, fosb, fosl1a, fosl1b, and fosl2, which show high conservation in key regulatory domains and post-translational modification sites compared to their equivalent human proteins. During embryogenesis, zebrafish fos genes exhibit both overlapping and distinct spatiotemporal patterns of expression in specific cell types and tissues. Most fos genes are also expressed in a variety of adult zebrafish tissues. As in humans, we also found that expression of zebrafish FOS orthologs is induced by oncogenic BRAF-ERK signalling in zebrafish melanomas. These findings suggest that zebrafish represent an alternate model to mice for investigating the regulation and functions of Fos proteins in vertebrate embryonic and adult tissues, and cancer.

The Fra-1: Novel role in regulating extensive immune cell states and affecting inflammatory diseases

Fra-1(Fos-related antigen1), a member of transcription factor activator protein (AP-1), plays an important role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, inflammation, oncogenesis and tumor metastasis. Accumulating evidence suggest that the malignancy and invasive ability of tumors can be significantly changed by directly targeting Fra-1. Besides, the effects of Fra-1 are gradually revealed in immune and inflammatory settings, such as arthritis, pneumonia, psoriasis and cardiovascular disease. These regulatory mechanisms that orchestrate immune and non-immune cells underlie Fra-1 as a potential therapeutic target for a variety of human diseases. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge of Fra-1 in immune system, highlighting its unique importance in regulating tissue homeostasis. In addition, we also discuss the possible critical intervention strategy in diseases, which also outline future research and development avenues.

Modeling Trophoblast Cell-Guided Uterine Spiral Artery Transformation in the Rat

The rat possesses hemochorial placentation with deep intrauterine trophoblast cell invasion and trophoblast-guided uterine spiral artery remodeling, which resembles human placentation. Uterine spiral arteries are extensively remodeled to deliver sufficient supply of maternal blood and nutrients to the developing fetus. Inadequacies in these key processes negatively impact fetal growth and development. Recent innovations in genome editing combined with effective phenotyping strategies have provided new insights into placental development. Application of these research approaches has highlighted both conserved and species-specific features of hemochorial placentation. The review provides foundational information on rat hemochorial placental development and function during physiological and pathological states, especially as related to the invasive trophoblast cell-guided transformation of uterine spiral arteries. Our goal is to showcase the utility of the rat as a model for in vivo mechanistic investigations targeting regulatory events within the uterine-placental interface.

Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Regulates Trophoblast Syncytialization and Inflammatory Factor Expression

The serine protease inhibitor alpha1-antitrypsin (A1AT) may possess protective functions of impaired organs in a manner independent of its protease inhibitor activity. A1AT expression has been shown to fluctuate in patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension, which suggests that A1AT may play a role in the syncytialization of villous trophoblasts. A1AT expression was knocked down in primary trophoblasts. RNA was extracted from these cells and subjected to RNA-sequencing analysis to determine the levels of expression of markers of syncytialization and inflammation. In addition, A1AT protein was localized in trophoblastic cells in placental tissues. Knockdown of A1AT upregulated the expression of FOSL1 and markers of syncytialization, as well as cell fusion, whereas overexpression of A1AT had the opposite effects. FOSL1 overexpression stimulated syncytialization, similar to the effects of A1AT knock down. Inhibitors of p38MAPK and JNK reduce the expression of inflammatory factors, whereas a p38MAPK inhibitor suppressed FOSL1 expression. Collectively, these findings indicated A1AT may negatively regulate inflammatory responses by controlling the activation of p38MAPK and JNK, and that p38MAPK mediates trophoblast syncytialization by altering FOSL1 expression. Therefore, a dysfunction in A1AT could be responsible for abnormal placental formation and pregnancy-associated disorders.

The long noncoding RNA GAS5 potentiates neuronal injury in Parkinson's disease by binding to microRNA-150 to regulate Fosl1 expression

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) have been the focus of recent studies of neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the specific mechanism of action of growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) in PD has not yet been characterized. First, the GSE8030 and GSE16658 datasets were analyzed to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs), followed by the development of a PD mouse model. The effects of shRNA targeting fos-like antigen-1 (shFosl1) and microRNA (miR)-150 agomiR on PD mouse behavior and neuronal injury were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. After the determination of target lncRNAs using bioinformatics tools, cell models were developed in SH-SY5Y and N2a cells using MPP⁺ to verify the effects of GAS5, miR-150 and Fosl1 on cell viability. Knockdown of Fosl1 and GAS5 or overexpression of miR-150 alleviated neuronal injury in mice after MPTP treatment and significantly increased the activity of SH-SY5Y and N2a cells after MPP treatment. GAS5 bound to miR-150, while miR-150 targeted Fosl1. Fosl1 activated the PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway, thus promoting apoptosis and inhibiting neuronal activity in the PD model. Overall, our findings illuminated that GAS5 accelerated PD progression by targeting the miR-150/Fosl1 axis.

FosL1 Is a Novel Target of Levetiracetam for Suppressing the Microglial Inflammatory Reaction

We previously showed that the antiepileptic drug levetiracetam (LEV) inhibits microglial activation, but the mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to identify the target of LEV in microglial activity suppression. The mouse microglial BV-2 cell line, cultured in a ramified form, was pretreated with LEV and then treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A comprehensive analysis of LEV targets was performed by cap analysis gene expression sequencing using BV-2 cells, indicating the transcription factors BATF, Nrf-2, FosL1 (Fra1), MAFF, and Spic as candidates. LPS increased AP-1 and Spic transcriptional activity, and LEV only suppressed AP-1 activity. FosL1, MAFF, and Spic mRNA levels were increased by LPS, and LEV only attenuated FosL1 mRNA expression, suggesting FosL1 as an LEV target. FosL1 protein levels were increased by LPS treatment and decreased by LEV pretreatment, similar to FosL1 mRNA levels. The FosL1 siRNA clearly suppressed the expression of TNFα and IL-1β. Pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus increased hippocampus FosL1 expression, along with inflammation. LEV treatment significantly suppressed FosL1 expression. Together, LEV reduces FosL1 expression and AP-1 activity in activated microglia, thereby suppressing neuroinflammation. LEV might be a candidate for the treatment of several neurological diseases involving microglial activation.

Nobiletin-induced partial abrogation of deleterious effects of AKT inhibition on preimplantation bovine embryo development in vitro

During preimplantational embryo development, PI3K/AKT regulates cell proliferation and differentiation and nobiletin modulates this pathway to promote cell survival. Therefore, we aimed to establish whether, when the AKT cascade is inhibited using inhibitors III and IV, nobiletin supplementation to in vitro culture media during the minor (2 to 8-cell stage, MNEGA) or major (8 to 16-cell stage, MJEGA) phases of EGA is able to modulate the development and quality of bovine embryos. In vitro zygotes were cultured during MNEGA or MJEGA phase in SOF + 5% FCS or supplemented with: 15 μM AKT-InhIII; 10 μM AKT-InhIV; 10 μM nobiletin; nobiletin+AKT-InhIII; nobiletin+AKT-InhIV; 0.03% DMSO. Embryo development was lower in treatments with AKT inhibitors, while combination of nobiletin with AKT inhibitors was able to recover their adverse developmental effect and also increase blastocyst cell number. The mRNA abundance of GPX1, NFE2L2, and POU5F1 was partially increased in 8- and 16-cell embryos from nobiletin with AKT inhibitors. Besides, nobiletin increased the p-rpS6 level whether or not AKT inhibitors were present. In conclusion, nobiletin promotes bovine embryo development and quality and partially recovers the adverse developmental effect of AKT inhibitors which infers that nobiletin probably uses another signalling cascade that PI3K/AKT during early embryo development in bovine.

Saikosaponin-D Alleviates Renal Inflammation and Cell Apoptosis in a Mouse Model of Sepsis via TCF7/FOSL1/MMP9 Inhibition

Evidence exists reporting that Saikosaponin-d can prevent experimental sepsis, and this study aims to illustrate the molecular events underlying its renoprotective effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced renal inflammation simulating sepsis. Through network pharmacology analysis and bioinformatics analysis, we identified that saikosaponin-d may influence sepsis development by mediating TCF7. Dual luciferase reporter gene and ChIP assays were used to explore the interactions between TCF7, FOSL1 and MMP9. The experimental data suggested that Saikosaponin-d attenuated LPS-induced renal injury, as evidenced by reduced the production of proinflammatory cytokines as well as cell apoptosis in the renal tissues of LPS-induced mice. Mechanically, Saikosaponin-d inhibited FOSL1 by inhibiting TCF7, which reduced the expression of inflammatory factors in renal cells. TCF7 activated the FOSL1 expression and consequently promoted the expression of MMP9. Also, Saikosaponin-d reduced cell apoptosis and the expression of inflammatory factors by inhibiting the TCF7/FOSL1/MMP9 axis in vivo. In conclusion, Saikosaponin-d suppresses FOSL1 transcription by downregulating TCF7, thereby inhibiting MMP9 expression and ultimately reducing the renal inflammation and cell apoptosis induced by sepsis.

SUV39H2 controls trophoblast stem cell fate

BACKGROUND

The placenta is formed by the coordinated expansion and differentiation of trophoblast stem (TS) cells along a multi-lineage pathway. Dynamic regulation of histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methylation is pivotal to cell differentiation for many cell lineages, but little is known about its involvement in trophoblast cell development.

METHODS

Expression of H3K9 methyltransferases was surveyed in rat TS cells maintained in the stem state and following differentiation. The role of suppressor of variegation 3-9 homolog 2 (SUV39H2) in the regulation of trophoblast cell lineage development was investigated using a loss-of-function approach in rat TS cells and ex vivo cultured rat blastocysts.

RESULTS

Among the twelve-known H3K9 methyltransferases, only SUV39H2 exhibited robust differential expression in stem versus differentiated TS cells. SUV39H2 transcript and protein expression were high in the stem state and declined as TS cells differentiated. Disruption of SUV39H2 expression in TS cells led to an arrest in TS cell proliferation and activation of trophoblast cell differentiation. SUV39H2 regulated H3K9 methylation status at loci exhibiting differentiation-dependent gene expression. Analyses of SUV39H2 on ex vivo rat blastocyst development supported its role in regulating TS cell expansion and differentiation. We further identified SUV39H2 as a downstream target of caudal type homeobox 2, a master regulator of trophoblast lineage development.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that SUV39H2 contributes to the maintenance of TS cells and restrains trophoblast cell differentiation.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

SUV39H2 serves as a contributor to the epigenetic regulation of hemochorial placental development.

Paradigms for investigating invasive trophoblast cell development and contributions to uterine spiral artery remodeling

Uterine spiral arteries are extensively remodeled during placentation to ensure sufficient delivery of maternal blood to the developing fetus. Uterine spiral arterial remodeling is complex, as cells originating from both mother and developing conceptus interact at the maternal interface to regulate the extracellular matrix remodeling and vasculature restructuring necessary for successful placentation. Despite this complexity, one mechanism critical to spiral artery remodeling is trophoblast cell invasion into the maternal compartment. Invasive trophoblast cells include both interstitial and endovascular populations that exhibit spatiotemporal differences in uterine invasion, including proximity to uterine spiral arteries. Interstitial trophoblast cells invade the uterine parenchyma where they are interspersed among stromal cells. Endovascular trophoblast cells infiltrate uterine spiral arteries, replace endothelial cells, adopt a pseudo-endothelial cell phenotype, and engineer vessel remodeling. Impaired trophoblast cell invasion and, consequently, insufficient uterine spiral arterial remodeling can lead to the development of pregnancy disorders, such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and premature birth. This review provides insights into invasive trophoblast cells and their function during normal placentation as well as in settings of disease.

Genome-wide association study for age at puberty and resumption of cyclicity in a crossbred dairy cattle population

Fertility is of primary economic importance in dairy cattle and the most common reason for involuntary culling. However, standard fertility traits have very low heritability that renders genetic selection slow and difficult. In this study, we explored fertility from an endocrine standpoint. A total of 1,163 crossbred Holstein-Normande females in a 3-generation familial design were studied for progesterone level measured every 10 d to determine age at puberty (PUB) and commencement of postpartum luteal activity (CPLA). Genetic parameters were estimated using REML with WOMBAT software. The heritability estimates were 0.38 ± 0.10 and 0.16 ± 0.07 for PUB and CPLA, respectively. Moreover, the 2 traits were genetically correlated (0.45 ± 0.23), suggesting a partially common determinism. Because of the family structure, a linkage disequilibrium and linkage analysis approach was preferred over standard genome-wide association study to map genomic regions associated with these traits. Ten quantitative trait loci (QTL) were detected for PUB on chromosomes 1, 3, 11, 13, 14, 21, and 29, whereas 3 QTL were associated with CPLA on chromosomes 21 and 26. Only the QTL on chromosome 21 was common to both traits. Four functional candidate genes (NCOA2, GAS2, OVOL1, and FOSL1) were identified in the detected regions. These findings will contribute to a clearer understanding of fertility determinism and enhance the value of introducing endocrinological data in fertility studies.

SATB1 promotion of trophoblast stem cell renewal through regulation of threonine dehydrogenase

BACKGROUND

Trophoblast stem (TS) cell renewal and differentiation are essential processes in placentation. Special AT-rich binding protein 1 (SATB1) is a key regulator of the TS cell stem state. In this study, we identified SATB1 downstream targets and investigated their actions.

METHODS

RNA-sequencing analysis was performed in Rcho-1 TS cells expressing control or Satb1 short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) to identify candidate SATB1 targets. Differentially regulated transcripts were validated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The role of a target of SATB1, L-threonine 3-dehydrogenase (TDH), in the regulation of trophoblast cell development was investigated using a loss-of-function approach.

RESULTS

Among the differentially regulated transcripts in SATB1 knockdown TS cells, were downregulated transcripts known to affect the TS cell stem state and upregulated transcripts characteristic of trophoblast cell differentiation. Tdh expression was exquisitely responsive to SATB1 dysregulation. Tdh expression was high in the TS cell stem state and decreased as TS cells differentiated. Treatment of Rcho-1 TS cells with a TDH inhibitor or a TDH specific shRNA inhibited cell proliferation and attenuated the expression of TS cell stem state-associated transcripts and elevated the expression of trophoblast cell differentiation-associated transcripts. TDH disruption decreased TS cell colony size, Cdx2 expression, and blastocyst outgrowth.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that the actions of SATB1 on TS cell maintenance are mediated, at least in part, through the regulation and actions of TDH.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Regulatory pathways controlling TS cell dynamics dictate the functionality of the placenta, pregnancy outcomes, and postnatal health.

Accelerator or Brake: Immune Regulators in Malaria

Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease, affecting over 250 million individuals worldwide each year, eradicating malaria has been one of the greatest challenges to public health for a century. Growing resistance to anti-parasitic therapies and lack of effective vaccines are major contributing factors in controlling this disease. However, the incomplete understanding of parasite interactions with host anti-malaria immunity hinders vaccine development efforts to date. Recent studies have been unveiling the complexity of immune responses and regulators against Plasmodium infection. Here, we summarize our current understanding of host immune responses against Plasmodium-derived components infection and mainly focus on the various regulatory mechanisms mediated by recent identified immune regulators orchestrating anti-malaria immunity.

CXCR4 signaling at the fetal-maternal interface may drive inflammation and syncytia formation during ovine pregnancy†

Early pregnancy features complex signaling between fetal trophoblast cells and maternal endometrium directing major peri-implantation events including localized inflammation and remodeling to establish proper placental development. Proinflammatory mediators are important for conceptus attachment, but a more precise understanding of molecular pathways regulating this process is needed to understand how the endometrium becomes receptive to implantation. Both chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its receptor CXCR4 are expressed by fetal and maternal tissues. We identified this pair as a critical driver of placental angiogenesis, but their additional importance to inflammation and trophoblast cell survival, proliferation, and invasion imply a role in syncytia formation at the fetal-maternal microenvironment. We hypothesized that CXCL12 encourages both endometrial inflammation and conceptus attachment during implantation. We employed separate ovine studies to (1) characterize endometrial inflammation during early gestation in the ewe, and (2) establish functional implications of CXCL12 at the fetal-maternal interface through targeted intrauterine infusion of the CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100. Endometrial tissues were evaluated for inflammatory mediators, intracellular signaling events, endometrial modifications, and trophoblast syncytialization using western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Endometrial tissue from ewes receiving CXCR4 inhibitor demonstrated dysregulated inflammation and reduced AKT and NFKB, paired with elevated autophagic activity compared to control. Immunohistochemical observation revealed an impairment in endometrial surface remodeling and diminished trophoblast syncytialization following localized CXCR4 inhibition. These data suggest CXCL12-CXCR4 regulates endometrial inflammation and remodeling for embryonic implantation, and provide insight regarding mechanisms that, when dysregulated, lead to pregnancy pathologies such as intrauterine growth restriction and preeclampsia.

Molecular profiling demonstrates modulation of immune cell function and matrix remodeling during luteal rescue†

The corpus luteum (CL) is essential for maintenance of pregnancy in all mammals and luteal rescue, which occurs around day 16-19 in the cow, is necessary to maintain luteal progesterone production. Transcriptomic and proteomic profiling were performed to compare the day 17 bovine CL of the estrous cycle and pregnancy. Among mRNA and proteins measured, 140 differentially abundant mRNA and 24 differentially abundant proteins were identified. Pathway analysis was performed using four programs. Modulated pathways included T cell receptor signaling, vascular stability, cytokine signaling, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Two mRNA that were less in pregnancy were regulated by prostaglandin F2A in culture, while two mRNA that were greater in pregnancy were regulated by interferon tau. To identify mRNA that could be critical regulators of luteal fate, the mRNA that were differentially abundant during early pregnancy were compared to mRNA that were differentially abundant during luteal regression. Eight mRNA were common to both datasets, including mRNA related to regulation of steroidogenesis and gene transcription. A subset of differentially abundant mRNA and proteins, including those associated with extracellular matrix functions, were predicted targets of differentially abundant microRNA (miRNA). Integration of miRNA and protein data, using miRPath, revealed pathways such as extracellular matrix-receptor interactions, abundance of glutathione, and cellular metabolism and energy balance. Overall, this study has provided a comprehensive profile of molecular changes in the corpus luteum during maternal recognition of pregnancy and has indicated that some of these functions may be miRNA-regulated.

CXCL12 in normal and pathological pregnancies: A review

The survival of allogeneic fetuses during pregnancy is a rather paradoxical phenomenon with a complex mechanism. Chemokine ligand12 (CXCL12) and its receptors CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR)4 and 7 are extensively found in placenta tissues and cells, including trophoblast cells, vascular endothelial cells, and decidual stromal and decidual immune cells (eg, NK cells and regulatory T cells). Evidence has illustrated that the CXClL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis could enhance the cross talk at the maternal-fetal interface through multiple processes, such as invasion and placental angiogenesis, which appears to be critical signaling components in placentation and fetal outcome. In addition, an increasing number of studies have demonstrated that the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis also stands out for its pleiotropic roles in several pregnancy-associated diseases (eg, recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA), pre-eclampsia (PE), and preterm labor). In the present review, the different biological properties and signaling in physiological and pathological pregnancy conditions of CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis were discussed, with the aim of obtaining a further understanding of the regulatory mechanisms and highlighting their potential as a target for therapeutic approaches.

DNA methylation loci in placenta associated with birthweight and expression of genes relevant for early development and adult diseases

Background

Birthweight marks an important milestone of health across the lifespan, including cardiometabolic disease risk in later life. The placenta, a transient organ at the maternal-fetal interface, regulates fetal growth. Identifying genetic loci where DNA methylation in placenta is associated with birthweight can unravel genomic pathways that are dysregulated in aberrant fetal growth and cardiometabolic diseases in later life.

Results

We performed placental epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of birthweight in an ethnic diverse cohort of pregnant women (n = 301). Methylation at 15 cytosine-(phosphate)-guanine sites (CpGs) was associated with birthweight (false discovery rate (FDR) < 0.05). Methylation at four (26.7%) CpG sites was associated with placental transcript levels of 15 genes (FDR < 0.05), including genes known to be associated with adult lipid traits, inflammation and oxidative stress. Increased methylation at cg06155341 was associated with higher birthweight and lower FOSL1 expression, and lower FOSL1 expression was correlated with higher birthweight. Given the role of the FOSL1 transcription factor in regulating developmental processes at the maternal-fetal interface, epigenetic mechanisms at this locus may regulate fetal development. We demonstrated trans-tissue portability of methylation at four genes (MLLT1, PDE9A, ASAP2, and SLC20A2) implicated in birthweight by a previous study in cord blood. We also found that methylation changes known to be related to maternal underweight, preeclampsia and adult type 2 diabetes were associated with lower birthweight in placenta.

Conclusion

We identified novel placental DNA methylation changes associated with birthweight. Placental epigenetic mechanisms may underlie dysregulated fetal development and early origins of adult cardiometabolic diseases.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00912132

Low expression of FOSL1 is associated with favorable prognosis and sensitivity to radiation/pharmaceutical therapy in lower grade glioma

Objectives: FOSL1 is overexpressed in multiple cancers including malignant glioma and contributes to different cellular processes. However, little attention has been paid to the lower grade glioma (LGG).Methods: Cox coefficients were examined to compare FOSL1 expression among different tumors types using OncoLnc. The UCSC Xena browser was used to generate Kaplan-Meier survival curves and explore the association between FOSL1 expression and overall survival (OS) in TCGA-LGG and subgroups.Results: FOSL1 expression in LGG was ranked first among 21 different cancers. LGG with lower FOSL1 expression had longer OS (P < 0.001). The astrocytoma group had the highest FOSL1 expression and shortest OS, followed by oligoastrocytoma and oligodendroglioma (P < 0.05). The 1p19q co-deletion or IDH mutation subgroups had lower FOSL1 expression and longer OS (P < 0.001). Compared with the corresponding groups, LGG with lower FOSL1 expression had longer OS than the following groups: astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, with/without 1p19q co-deletion, with IDH mutation, with radiation, and with pharmaceutical therapy (P < 0.05).Discussion: FOSL1 is a prognostic marker in LGG and subgroups.

The expression and biological function of chemokine CXCL12 and receptor CXCR4/CXCR7 in placenta accreta spectrum disorders

Objectives

Investigation of mechanism related to excessive invasion of trophoblast cells in placenta accreta spectrum disorders (PAS) provides more strategies and ideas for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Materials and Methods

Blood and placental samples were collected from included patients. The distribution and expression of CXCL12, CXCR4 and CXCR7 proteins in the paraffin of placental tissue in the included cases were analysed, and we analyse the downstream pathways or key proteins involved in cell invasion.

Results

Firstly, our results determined that CXCL12 and CXCR4/CXCR7 were increased in extravillous trophoblastic cell (CXCL12: P < .001; CXCR4: P < .001; CXCR7: P < .001), and the expression levels were closely related to the invasion depth of trophoblastic cells. Secondly, CXCL12 has the potential to become a biochemical indicator of PAS since the high expression of placental trophoblast CXCL12 may be an important source of blood CXCL12. Using lentivirus‐mediated RNA interference and overexpression assay, it was found that both chemokine CXCL12 and receptor CXCR4/CXCR7 are associated with regulation of trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Further results proved that through the activating the phosphorylation and increasing the expression of MLC and AKT proteins in the Rho/rock, PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, CXCL12, CXCR4 and CXCR7 could up‐regulate the expression of RhoA, Rac1 and Cdc42 proteins to promote the migration and invasion of extravillous trophoblastic cell and ultimately formate the placenta accrete compare to the normal placenta.

Conclusions

Our research proved that trophoblasts may contribute to a PAS‐associated increase in CXCL12 levels in maternal blood. CXCL12 is not only associated with biological roles of PAS, but may also be potential for prediction of PAS.

Placenta-Specific Genes, Their Regulation During Villous Trophoblast Differentiation and Dysregulation in Preterm Preeclampsia

The human placenta maintains pregnancy and supports the developing fetus by providing nutrition, gas-waste exchange, hormonal regulation, and an immunological barrier from the maternal immune system. The villous syncytiotrophoblast carries most of these functions and provides the interface between the maternal and fetal circulatory systems. The syncytiotrophoblast is generated by the biochemical and morphological differentiation of underlying cytotrophoblast progenitor cells. The dysfunction of the villous trophoblast development is implicated in placenta-mediated pregnancy complications. Herein, we describe gene modules and clusters involved in the dynamic differentiation of villous cytotrophoblasts into the syncytiotrophoblast. During this process, the immune defense functions are first established, followed by structural and metabolic changes, and then by peptide hormone synthesis. We describe key transcription regulatory molecules that regulate gene modules involved in placental functions. Based on transcriptomic evidence, we infer how villous trophoblast differentiation and functions are dysregulated in preterm preeclampsia, a life-threatening placenta-mediated obstetrical syndrome for the mother and fetus. In the conclusion, we uncover the blueprint for villous trophoblast development and its impairment in preterm preeclampsia, which may aid in the future development of non-invasive biomarkers for placental functions and early identification of women at risk for preterm preeclampsia as well as other placenta-mediated pregnancy complications.

Estrogen-induced FOS-like 1 regulates matrix metalloproteinase expression and the motility of human endometrial and decidual stromal cells

The regulation mechanisms involved in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and the motility of human endometrial and decidual stromal cells (ESCs and DSCs, respectively) during decidualization remain unclear. DSCs show significant increased cell motility and expression of FOS-like 1 (FOSL1) and MMP1, MMP2, and MMP9 compared with ESCs, whereas lack of decidualization inducers leads to a rapid decrease in FOSL1 and MMP1 and MMP9 expression in DSCs in vitro Therefore, we hypothesized that a link exists between decidualization inducers and FOSL1 in up-regulation of motility during decidualization. Based on the response of ESCs/DSCs to different decidualization systems in vitro, we found that progesterone (P4) alone had no significant effect and that 17β-estradiol (E2) significantly increased cell motility and FOSL1 and MMP1 and MMP9 expression at the mRNA and protein levels, whereas 8-bromo-cAMP significantly decreased cell motility and FOSL1 and MMP9 expression in the presence of P4. In addition, we showed that E2 triggered phosphorylation of estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), which could directly bind to the promoter of FOSL1 in ESCs/DSCs. Additionally, we also revealed silencing of ESR1 expression by siRNA abrogated E2-induced FOSL1 expression at the transcript and protein levels. Moreover, silencing of FOSL1 expression by siRNA was able to block E2-induced MMP1 and MMP9 expression and cell motility in ESCs/DSCs. Taken together, our data suggest that, in addition to its enhancement of secretory function, the change in MMP expression and cell motility is another component of the decidualization of ESCs/DSCs, including estrogen-dependent MMP1 and MMP9 expression mediated by E2-ESR1-FOSL1 signaling.

MicroRNAs in Uteroplacental Vascular Dysfunction

Pregnancy complications of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are major causes of maternal and perinatal/neonatal morbidity and mortality. Although their etiologies remain elusive, it is generally accepted that they are secondary to placental insufficiency conferred by both failure in spiral artery remodeling and uteroplacental vascular malfunction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small no-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Increasing evidence suggests that miRNAs participate in virtually all biological processes and are involved in numerous human diseases. Differentially expressed miRNAs in the placenta are typical features of both preeclampsia and IUGR. Dysregulated miRNAs target genes of various signaling pathways in uteroplacental tissues, contributing to the development of both complications. In this review, we provide an overview of how aberrant miRNA expression in preeclampsia and IUGR impacts the expression of genes involved in trophoblast invasion and uteroplacental vascular adaptation.

Hemochorial placentation: development, function, and adaptations

Placentation is a reproductive adaptation that permits fetal growth and development within the protected confines of the female reproductive tract. Through this important role, the placenta also determines postnatal health and susceptibility to disease. The hemochorial placenta is a prominent feature in primate and rodent development. This manuscript provides an overview of the basics of hemochorial placental development and function, provides perspectives on major discoveries that have shaped placental research, and thoughts on strategies for future investigation.

[Expression of the Fra-1 gene in the peripheral blood of children with Wilms tumor]

OBJECTIVE

To study the expression of the Fra-1 gene in the peripheral blood of children with Wilms tumor and its clinical significance.

METHODS

Fifty children pathologically diagnosed with Wilms tumor between December 2012 and January 2018 were enrolled as the case group, and 40 healthy children for physical examination were selected as the control group. Among the 45 children with Wilms tumor who were followed up, the children with continuous remission were included in the ideal efficacy group (n=33), and those with recurrence, metastasis or death were included in the poor efficacy group (n=12). Peripheral blood samples were collected from all subjects. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure the mRNA expression of Fra-1.

RESULTS

The case group had significantly higher mRNA expression of Fra-1 in peripheral blood than the control group (P<0.05). In the case group, Fra-1 mRNA expression was significantly different between the individuals with and without distant metastasis and those with different TNM stages (P<0.05), but was not significantly different between the individuals with different sexes, ages, tumor diabetes, tumor locations and alpha-fetoprotein levels (P>0.05). The mRNA expression of Fra-1 was significantly lower in the ideal efficacy group than in the poor efficacy group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Fra-1 may be involved in the development of Wilms tumor and plays a certain role in its development, invasion and metastasis, but the mechanism remains to be further studied.

ESR2 regulates granulosa cell genes essential for follicle maturation and ovulation

Estrogen receptor 2 (ESR2) plays a critical role in folliculogenesis and ovulation. Disruption of ESR2-function in the rats results in female infertility due to failure of ovulation. Ovulation failure occurred in two distinct rat models, a null mutant and a DNA binding domain (DBD) mutant of ESR2, indicating that transcriptional regulation by ESR2 is indispensable for ovulation. To define the regulatory role of ESR2 in preovulatory follicular maturation and ovulation, we investigated ovarian responsiveness to exogenous gonadotropins in prepubertal females. Granulosa cells (GCs) play a vital role in follicle maturation and ovulation, and ESR2-dependent estrogen signaling is predominant in GCs, therefore, we examined the differential expression of gonadotropin-induced genes in GCs. Of 32,623 genes detected by RNA-sequencing, 1696 were differentially expressed in Esr2-mutant rats (789 downregulated, and 907 upregulated, absolute fold change 2, FDR p < 0.05). Molecular pathway analyses indicated that these differentially expressed genes are involved in steroidogenesis, follicle maturation, and ovulation. Many of these genes are known regulators of ovarian function and a subset were also disrupted in Esr2-mutant mice. Interestingly, Kiss1 was identified as one of the differentially expressed genes implicating a potential role within the follicle and its regulation by ESR2. Our findings indicate that ESR2 regulates key genes in GCs that are essential for follicle maturation and ovulation in the rat.

AP1 mediates uPA/uPAR induced FUT4 expression and trophoblast invasion

Trophoblast invasion is crucial for embryo implantation and successful pregnancy. Urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA)/urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) are expressed on trophoblasts and involved in trophoblast invasion. The transcription factor activator protein 1 (AP1) (c-Fos and cJun) and fucosyltransferase IV (FUT4) have been found to be involved in this process. However, the relationship of uPA/uPAR, AP1 and FUT4 is unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the role of AP1 in uPA/uPAR induced FUT4 expression and trophoblast invasion. We found that p-c-Fos and p-c-Jun were decreased in abortion patients compared to that in normal pregnant women. Employing human trophoblastic cells, we then demonstrated that uPA/uPAR induced the expression of p-c-Fos and p-c-Jun. Applying an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), we further proved that transcription factor AP1 bound to FUT4 promoter that could increase FUT4 transcriptional activity, further promoting trophoblast cell migration and invasion through JNK MAPK signaling pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that uPA/uPAR induces FUT4 expression, and trophoblast cell invasion mediated by AP1 transcription factor (c-Fos and c-Jun). Our findings provide novel insights into the relationship between AP1 and abortion.

H3K27 acetylation and gene expression analysis reveals differences in placental chromatin activity in fetal growth restriction

Background

Posttranslational modification of histone tails such as histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) is tightly coupled to epigenetic regulation of gene expression. To explore whether this is involved in placenta pathology, we probed genome-wide H3K27ac occupancy by chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) in healthy placentas and placentas from pathological pregnancies with fetal growth restriction (FGR). Furthermore, we related specific acetylation profiles of FGR placentas to gene expression changes.

Results

Analysis of H3K27ac occupancy in FGR compared to healthy placentas showed 970 differentially acetylated regions distributed throughout the genome. Principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering revealed complete segregation of the FGR and control group. Next, we identified 569 upregulated genes and 521 downregulated genes in FGR placentas by RNA sequencing. Differential gene transcription largely corresponded to expected direction based on H3K27ac status. Pathway analysis on upregulated transcripts originating from hyperacetylated sites revealed genes related to the HIF-1-alpha transcription factor network and several other genes with known involvement in placental pathology (LEP, FLT1, HK2, ENG, FOS). Downregulated transcripts in the vicinity of hypoacetylated sites were related to the immune system and growth hormone receptor signaling. Additionally, we found enrichment of 141 transcription factor binding motifs within differentially acetylated regions. Of the corresponding transcription factors, four were upregulated, SP1, ARNT2, HEY2, and VDR, and two downregulated, FOSL and NR4A1.

Conclusion

We demonstrate a key role for genome-wide alterations in H3K27ac in FGR placentas corresponding with changes in transcription profiles of regions relevant to placental function. Future studies on the role of H3K27ac in FGR and placental-fetal development may help to identify novel targets for therapy of this currently incurable disease.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13148-018-0508-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Baicalein Enhances Migration and Invasion of Extravillous Trophoblasts via Activation of the NF-κB Pathway

Background

Baicalein, one of the major flavonoids in the plant Scutellaria baicalensis, can regulate the invasive ability of cancer cells. The invasion of trophoblasts is similar to the invasion of tumor cells into host tissues. The appropriate invasion of trophoblast cells into the endometrium is an important factor for successful embryo implantation. In this research, we investigated the effect of baicalein on the invasion and migration of trophoblast cells and its possible molecular mechanism.

Material/Methods

We treated HTR-8/SVneo cells with different concentrations (0, 0.05, 0.1, and 0.5 μM) of baicalein. The invasion and migration abilities of HTR-8/SVneo cells were studied. Protein levels and gene expression related to invasion and migration were analyzed by Western blot analysis and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, respectively.

Results

Baicalein enhanced the migration and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells. In addition, gene expression and protein levels of MMP-9 in HTR-8/SVneo cells changed in the presence of baicalein. Moreover, the data show that baicalein activated the NF-κB pathway. Baicalein was also able to rescue effects of an NF-κB-specific inhibitor (JSH-23) on the migration and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our results indicate that baicalein enhances migration and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells, which is important for successful pregnancy.

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals developmental heterogeneity of blastomeres during major genome activation in bovine embryos

Embryonic development is initially controlled by maternal RNAs and proteins stored in the oocyte, until gene products gradually generated by the embryo itself take over. Major embryonic genome activation (EGA) in bovine embryos occurs at the eight- to 16-cell stage. Morphological observations, such as size of blastomeres and distribution of microvilli, suggested heterogeneity among individual cells already at this developmental stage. To address cell heterogeneity on the transcriptome level, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of 161 blastomeres from 14 in vitro produced bovine embryos at Day 2 (n = 6) and Day 3 (n = 8) post fertilization. Complementary DNA libraries were prepared using the Single-Cell RNA-Barcoding and Sequencing protocol and sequenced. Non-supervised clustering of single-cell transcriptome profiles identified six clusters with specific sets of genes. Most embryos were comprised of cells from at least two different clusters. Sorting cells according to their transcriptome profiles resulted in a non-branched pseudo-time line, arguing against major lineage inclination events at this developmental stage. In summary, our study revealed heterogeneity of transcriptome profiles among single cells in bovine Day 2 and Day 3 embryos, suggesting asynchronous blastomere development during the phase of major EGA.

FRA1 promotes squamous cell carcinoma growth and metastasis through distinct AKT and c-Jun dependent mechanisms

FRA1 (Fos-like antigen 1) is highly expressed in many epithelial cancers including squamous cell carcinoma of the skin (cSCC) and head and neck (HNSCC). However, the functional importance and the mechanisms mediating FRA1 function in these cancers are not fully understood. Here, we demonstrate that FRA1 gene silencing in HNSCC and cSCC cells resulted in two consequences – impaired cell proliferation and migration. FRA1 regulation of cell growth was distinct from that of c-Jun, a prominent Jun group AP-1 factor. While c-Jun was required for the expression of the G1/S phase cell cycle promoter CDK4, FRA1 was essential for AKT activation and AKT-dependent expression of CyclinB1, a molecule required for G2-M progression. Exogenous expression of a constitutively active form of AKT rescued cancer cell growth defect caused by FRA1-loss. Additionally, FRA1 knockdown markedly slowed cell adhesion and migration, and conversely expression of an active FRA1 mutant (FRA1DD) expedited these processes in a JNK/c-Jun-dependent manner. Through protein and ChIP-PCR analyses, we identified KIND1, a cytoskeletal regulator of the cell adhesion molecule β1-integrin, as a novel FRA1 transcriptional target. Restoring KIND1 expression rescued migratory defects induced by FRA1 loss. In agreement with these in vitro data, HNSCC cells with FRA1 loss displayed markedly reduced rates of subcutaneous tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis. Together, these results indicate that FRA1 promotes cancer growth through AKT, and enhances cancer cell migration through JNK/c-Jun, pinpointing FRA1 as a key integrator of JNK and AKT signaling pathways and a potential therapeutic target for cSCC and HNSCC.

Breaking down barriers: the evolution of cell invasion

Cell invasion is a specialized cell behavior that likely co-evolved with the emergence of basement membranes in metazoans as a mechanism to break down the barriers that separate tissues. A variety of conserved and lineage-specific biological processes that occur during development and homeostasis rely on cell invasive behavior. Recent innovations in genome editing and live-cell imaging have shed some light on the programs that mediate acquisition of an invasive phenotype; however, comparative approaches among species are necessary to understand how this cell behavior evolved. Here, we discuss the contexts of cell invasion, highlighting both established and emerging model systems, and underscore gaps in our understanding of the evolution of this key cellular behavior.

Placenta-specific gene manipulation using lentiviral vector and its application

The placenta is an essential organ for embryo development in the uterus of eutherian mammals. Large contributions in unveiling molecular mechanisms and physiological functions underlying placental formation were made by analyzing mutant and transgenic animals. However, it had been difficult to elucidate whether the placental defects observed in such animals originate from the placenta itself or from the fetus, as both placental and fetal genomes are modified. Therefore strategies to modify the placental genome without affecting the "fetal genome" had been needed. Through the ingenious use of lentiviral (LV) vectors, placenta-specific modification is now possible. Lentivirus is a genus of retroviruses that use reverse-transcriptase to convert its single-strand RNA genome to double-strand DNA and integrate into the host genome. Previous studies showed that when LV vectors were used to transduce embryos at the 2-cell stage, the viral genome is systemically introduced into host genome. Interestingly, by delaying the timing of transduction to the blastocyst stage, the transgene is expressed specifically in the placenta as a consequence of trophectoderm-specific viral transduction. This review summarizes the development of the LV vector-mediated placenta-specific gene manipulation technology and its application in placental research over the past decade. A perspective for future application of LV vectors to further placenta research, especially in combination with next generation genome editing technologies, is also presented.

The eutheria-specific miR-290 cluster modulates placental growth and maternal-fetal transport

The vertebrate-specific ESCC microRNA family arises from two genetic loci in mammals: miR-290/miR-371 and miR-302. The miR-302 locus is found broadly among vertebrates, whereas the miR-290/miR-371 locus is unique to eutheria, suggesting a role in placental development. Here, we evaluate that role. A knock-in reporter for the mouse miR-290 cluster is expressed throughout the embryo until gastrulation, when it becomes specifically expressed in extraembryonic tissues and the germline. In the placenta, expression is limited to the trophoblast lineage, where it remains highly expressed until birth. Deletion of the miR-290 cluster gene (Mirc5) results in reduced trophoblast progenitor cell proliferation and a reduced DNA content in endoreduplicating trophoblast giant cells. The resulting placenta is reduced in size. In addition, the vascular labyrinth is disorganized, with thickening of the maternal-fetal blood barrier and an associated reduction in diffusion. Multiple mRNA targets of the miR-290 cluster microRNAs are upregulated. These data uncover a crucial function for the miR-290 cluster in the regulation of a network of genes required for placental development, suggesting a central role for these microRNAs in the evolution of placental mammals.

Gene expression profiling of tumor-initiating stem cells from mouse Krebs-2 carcinoma using a novel marker of poorly differentiated cells

Using the ability of poorly differentiated cells to natively internalize fragments of extracellular double-stranded DNA as a marker, we isolated a tumorigenic subpopulation present in Krebs-2 ascites that demonstrated the features of tumor-inducing cancer stem cells. Having combined TAMRA-labeled DNA probe and the power of RNA-seq technology, we identified a set of 168 genes specifically expressed in TAMRA-positive cells (tumor-initiating stem cells), these genes remaining silent in TAMRA-negative cancer cells. TAMRA+ cells displayed gene expression signatures characteristic of both stem cells and cancer cells. The observed expression differences between TAMRA+ and TAMRA- cells were validated by Real Time PCR. The results obtained corroborated the biological data that TAMRA+ murine Krebs-2 tumor cells are tumor-initiating stem cells. The approach developed can be applied to profile any poorly differentiated cell types that are capable of immanent internalization of double-stranded DNA.

FOSL1 Inhibits Type I Interferon Responses to Malaria and Viral Infections by Blocking TBK1 and TRAF3/TRIF Interactions

Innate immune response plays a critical role in controlling invading pathogens, but such an immune response must be tightly regulated. Insufficient or overactivated immune responses may lead to harmful or even fatal consequences. To dissect the complex host-parasite interactions and the molecular mechanisms underlying innate immune responses to infections, here we investigate the role of FOS-like antigen 1 (FOSL1) in regulating the host type I interferon (IFN-I) response to malaria parasite and viral infections. FOSL1 is known as a component of a transcription factor but was recently implicated in regulating the IFN-I response to malaria parasite infection. Here we show that FOSL1 can act as a negative regulator of IFN-I signaling. Upon stimulation with poly(I:C), malaria parasite-infected red blood cells (iRBCs), or vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), FOSL1 "translocated" from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, where it inhibited the interactions between TNF receptor-associated factor 3 (TRAF3), TIR domain-containing adapter inducing IFN-β (TRIF), and Tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) via impairing K63-linked polyubiquitination of TRAF3 and TRIF. Importantly, FOSL1 knockout chimeric mice had lower levels of malaria parasitemia or VSV titers in peripheral blood and decreased mortality compared with wild-type (WT) mice. Thus, our findings have identified a new role for FOSL1 in negatively regulating the host IFN-I response to malaria and viral infections and have identified a potential drug target for controlling malaria and other diseases.

IMPORTANCE

Infections of pathogens can trigger vigorous host immune responses, including activation and production of type I interferon (IFN-I). In this study, we investigated the role of FOSL1, a molecule previously known as a transcription factor, in negatively regulating IFN-I responses to malaria and viral infections. We showed that FOSL1 was upregulated and translocated into the cytoplasm of cells after stimulation for IFN-I production. FOSL1 could affect TRAF3 and TRIF ubiquitination and consequently impaired the association of TRAF3, TRIF, and TBK1, leading to inhibition of IFN-I signaling. In vivo experiments with FOSL1 knockout chimeric mice further validated the negative role of FOSL1 in IFN-I production and antimicrobial responses. This report reveals a new functional role for FOSL1 in IFN-I signaling and dissects the mechanism by which FOSL1 regulates IFN-I responses to malaria and viral infections, which can be explored as a potential drug target for disease control and management.

Ex vivo Trophoblast-specific Genetic Manipulation Using Lentiviral Delivery

In this protocol report, we describe a lentiviral gene delivery technique for genetic modification of the rat trophoblast cell lineage. Lentiviral packaged gene constructs can be efficiently and specifically delivered to the trophoblast cell lineage of the blastocyst. The consequences of 'gain-of-function' and 'loss-of-function' blastocyst manipulations can be evaluated with in vitro outgrowth assays or following transfer to pseudopregnant rats.

Placental origins of adverse pregnancy outcomes: potential molecular targets: an Executive Workshop Summary of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Although much progress is being made in understanding the molecular pathways in the placenta that are involved in the pathophysiology of pregnancy-related disorders, a significant gap exists in the utilization of this information for the development of new drug therapies to improve pregnancy outcome. On March 5-6, 2015, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health sponsored a 2-day workshop titled Placental Origins of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: Potential Molecular Targets to begin to address this gap. Particular emphasis was given to the identification of important molecular pathways that could serve as drug targets and the advantages and disadvantages of targeting these particular pathways. This article is a summary of the proceedings of that workshop. A broad number of topics were covered that ranged from basic placental biology to clinical trials. This included research in the basic biology of placentation, such as trophoblast migration and spiral artery remodeling, and trophoblast sensing and response to infectious and noninfectious agents. Research findings in these areas will be critical for the formulation of the development of future treatments and the development of therapies for the prevention of a number of pregnancy disorders of placental origin that include preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and uterine inflammation. Research was also presented that summarized ongoing clinical efforts in the United States and in Europe that has tested novel interventions for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction, including agents such as oral arginine supplementation, sildenafil, pravastatin, gene therapy with virally delivered vascular endothelial growth factor, and oxygen supplementation therapy. Strategies were also proposed to improve fetal growth by the enhancement of nutrient transport to the fetus by modulation of their placental transporters and the targeting of placental mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress to improve placental health. The roles of microRNAs and placental-derived exosomes, as well as messenger RNAs, were also discussed in the context of their use for diagnostics and as drug targets. The workshop discussed the aspect of safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of potential existing and new therapeutics that will need to be determined, especially in the context of the unique pharmacokinetic properties of pregnancy and the hurdles and pitfalls of the translation of research findings into practice. The workshop also discussed novel methods of drug delivery and targeting during pregnancy with the use of macromolecular carriers, such as nanoparticles and biopolymers, to minimize placental drug transfer and hence fetal drug exposure. In closing, a major theme that developed from the workshop was that the scientific community must change their thinking of the pregnant woman and her fetus as a vulnerable patient population for which drug development should be avoided, but rather be thought of as a deprived population in need of more effective therapeutic interventions.

CITED2 modulation of trophoblast cell differentiation: insights from global transcriptome analysis

Trophoblast stem (TS) cells possess the capacity to differentiate along a multi-lineage pathway yielding several specialized cell types. The regulatory network controlling trophoblast cell differentiation is poorly understood. Cbp/p300-interacting transactivator with Glu/Asp-rich carboxy-terminal domain, 2 (CITED2) has been implicated in the regulation of placentation; however, we know little about how CITED2 acts to influence trophoblast cells. Rat Rcho-1 TS cells can be manipulated to proliferate or differentiate into specialized trophoblast lineages and are an excellent model for investigating trophoblast differentiation. CITED2 transcript and protein showed a robust induction during Rcho-1 TS cell differentiation. We used an shRNA knockdown approach to disrupt CITED2 expression in order to investigate its involvement in trophoblast cell differentiation. RNA-sequencing was used to examine the impact of CITED2 on trophoblast cell differentiation. CITED2 disruption affected the differentiating trophoblast cell transcriptome. CITED2 possessed a prominent role in the regulation of cell differentiation with links to several signal transduction pathways and to hypoxia-regulated and coagulation processes. In summary, our findings indicate that CITED2 contributes to the regulation of trophoblast cell differentiation.

Intrauterine trophoblast migration: A comparative view of humans and rodents

Trophoblast migration and invasion through the decidua and maternal uterine spiral arteries are crucial events in placentation. During this process, invasive trophoblast replace vascular endothelial cells as the uterine arteries are remodeled to form more permissive vessels that facilitate adequate blood flow to the growing fetus. Placentation failures resulting from either extensive or shallow trophoblastic invasion can cause pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, placenta creta, gestational trophoblastic disease and even maternal or fetal death. Consequently, the use of experimental animal models such as rats and mice has led to great progress in recent years with regards to the identification of mechanisms and factors that control trophoblast migration kinetics. This review aims to perform a comparative analysis of placentation and the mechanisms and factors that coordinate intrauterine trophoblast migration in humans, rats and mice under physiological and pathological conditions.

Changes in the enhancer landscape during early placental development uncover a trophoblast invasion gene-enhancer network

INTRODUCTION

Trophoblast invasion establishes adequate blood flow between mother and fetus in early placental development. However, little is known about the cis-regulatory mechanisms underlying this important process. We aimed to identify enhancer elements that are active during trophoblast invasion, and build a trophoblast invasion gene-enhancer network.

METHODS

We carried out ChIP-Seq for an enhancer-associated mark (H3k27Ac) at two time points during early placental development in mouse. One time point when invasion is at its peak (e7.5) and another time point shortly afterwards (e9.5). We use computational analysis to identify putative enhancers, as well as the transcription factor binding sites within them, that are specific to the time point of trophoblast invasion.

RESULTS

We compared read profiles at e7.5 and e9.5 to identify 1,977 e7.5-specific enhancers. Within a subset of e7.5-specific enhancers, we discovered a cell migration associated regulatory code, consisting of three transcription factor motifs: AP1, Ets, and Tcfap2. To validate differential expression of the transcription factors that bind these motifs, we performed RNA-Seq in the same context. Finally, we integrated these data with publicly available protein-protein interaction data and constructed a trophoblast invasion gene-enhancer network.

DISCUSSION

The data we generated and analysis we carried out improves our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of trophoblast invasion, by suggesting a transcriptional code exists in the enhancers of cell migration genes. Furthermore, the network we constructed highlights novel candidate genes that may be critical for trophoblast invasion.

Effect of vitrification using the Cryotop method on the gene expression profile of in vitro-produced bovine embryos

The present study analyzed the changes in gene expression induced by the Cryotop vitrification technique in bovine blastocyst-stage embryos, using Agilent EmbryoGENE microarray slides. Bovine in vitro-produced embryos were vitrified and compared with nonvitrified (control) embryos. After vitrification, embryos were warmed and cultured for an additional 4 hours. Survived embryos were used for microarray analysis and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) quantification. Survival rates were higher (P < 0.05) in the control embryos (100%) than in the vitrified embryos (87%). Global gene expression analysis revealed that only 43 out of 21,139 genes exhibited significantly altered expression in the vitrified embryos compared to the control embryos, with a very limited fold change (P < 0.05). A total of 10 genes were assessed by qPCR. Only the FOS-like antigen 1 (FOSL1) gene presented differential expression (P < 0.05) according to both the array and qPCR methods, and it was overexpressed in vitrified embryos. Although, the major consequence of vitrification seems to be the activation of the apoptosis pathway in some cells. Indeed, FOSL1 is part of the activating protein 1 transcription factor complex and is implicated in a variety of cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Therefore, our results suggest that a limited increase in the rate of apoptosis was the only detectable response of the embryos to vitrification stress.

Insights into the mechanism of CXCL12-mediated signaling in trophoblast functions and placental angiogenesis

The chemokine CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 are important signaling components required for human blastocyst implantation and the progression of pregnancy. Growing evidence indicates that the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis can regulate trophoblast function and uterine spiral artery remodeling, which plays a fundamental role in placentation and fetal outcome. The orphan receptor CXCR7 is also believed to partly regulate the function of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis. Additionally, the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis can enhance the cross-talk between trophoblasts and decidual cells such as uterine natural killer cells and decidual stromal cells which are involved in regulation of trophoblast differentiation and invasion and placental angiogenesis. In addition, recent studies proved that CXCL12 expression is elevated in the placenta and mid-trimester amniotic fluid of pregnant women with preeclampsia, implying that dysregulation of CXCL12 plays a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Further understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of CXCL12-mediated signaling in trophoblast functions and placental angiogenesis may help to design novel therapeutic approaches for pregnancy-associated diseases.