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Lestari B, Fukushima T, Utomo RY, Wahyuningsih MSH. Apoptotic and non-apoptotic roles of caspases in placenta physiology and pathology. Placenta 2024; 151:37-47. [PMID: 38703713 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Caspases, a family of cysteine proteases, are pivotal regulators of apoptosis, the tightly controlled cell death process crucial for eliminating excessive or unnecessary cells during development, including placental development. Collecting research has unveiled the multifaceted roles of caspases in the placenta, extending beyond apoptosis. Apart from their involvement in placental tissue remodeling via apoptosis, caspases actively participate in essential regulatory processes, such as trophoblast fusion and differentiation, significantly influencing placental growth and functionality. In addition, growing evidence indicates an elevation in caspase activity under pathological conditions like pre-eclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), leading to excessive cell death as well as inflammation. Drawing from advancements in caspase research and placental development under both normal and abnormal conditions, we examine the significance of caspases in both cell death (apoptosis) and non-cell death-related processes within the placenta. We also discuss potential therapeutics targeting caspase-related pathways for placenta disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beni Lestari
- Department Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Cancer Chemoprevention Research Center, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Toshiaki Fukushima
- Cell Biology Center, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Japan.
| | - Rohmad Yudi Utomo
- Cancer Chemoprevention Research Center, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Department Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Mae Sri Hartati Wahyuningsih
- Department Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
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Wang J, Zhu P, Li R, Ren J, Zhou H. Fundc1-dependent mitophagy is obligatory to ischemic preconditioning-conferred renoprotection in ischemic AKI via suppression of Drp1-mediated mitochondrial fission. Redox Biol 2019; 30:101415. [PMID: 31901590 PMCID: PMC6940662 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2019.101415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
FUN14 domain-containing protein 1 (Fundc1)-dependent mitophagy, mainly activated by ischemic/hypoxic preconditioning, benefits acute myocardial reperfusion injury and chronic metabolic syndrome via sustaining mitochondrial homeostasis. Mitochondrial fission plays a pathogenic role in ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI) through perturbation of mitochondrial quality and activation of mitochondrial apoptosis. The aim of our study was to explore the role of Fundc1 mitophagy in ischemia preconditioning (IPC)-mediated renoprotection. Proximal tubule-specific Fundc1 knockout (Fundc1PTKO) mice were subjected to ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) and IPC prior to assessment of renal function, mitophagy, mitochondrial quality control, and Drp1-related mitochondrial fission. Following exposure to IPC, Fundc1 mitophagy was activated through post-transcriptional phosphorylation at Ser17. Interestingly, IRI-mediated renal injury, inflammation, and tubule cell death were mitigated by IPC whereas proximal tubule-specific Fundc1 knockout (Fundc1PTKO) mice abolished IPC-offered renoprotection. Mechanistically, IRI-evoked mitochondrial damage was improved by IPC whereas Fundc1 deficiency provoked mitochondrial abnormality, manifested by impaired mitochondrial quality and hyperactivated Drp1-dependent mitochondrial fission. Interestingly, Fundc1 deficiency-associated mitochondrial dysfunction was reversed by pharmacological inhibition of mitochondrial fission. In vivo, Fundc1 deletion-caused renal injury, severe pro-inflammatory response, and tubule cell death could be nullified by way of knockout Drp1 on Fundc1PTKO background. Finally, we also revealed that IPC triggered Fundc1 mitophagy activation through UNC-51-like kinase 1 (Ulk1) and Ulk1 ablation interrupted IPC-mediated Fundc1 activation and thus attenuated IPC-induced renoprotection. Fundc1 mitophagy, primarily driven by IPC, confers resistance to AKI through reconciliation of mitochondrial fission, implicating the therapeutic potential of targeting mitochondrial homeostasis for AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Pingjun Zhu
- Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Ruibing Li
- Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Jun Ren
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY, 82071, USA.
| | - Hao Zhou
- Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China; Center for Cardiovascular Research and Alternative Medicine, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY, 82071, USA.
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McCarthy R, Martin-Fairey C, Sojka DK, Herzog ED, Jungheim ES, Stout MJ, Fay JC, Mahendroo M, Reese J, Herington JL, Plosa EJ, Shelton EL, England SK. Mouse models of preterm birth: suggested assessment and reporting guidelines. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:922-937. [PMID: 29733339 PMCID: PMC6297318 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth affects approximately 1 out of every 10 births in the United States, leading to high rates of mortality and long-term negative health consequences. To investigate the mechanisms leading to preterm birth so as to develop prevention strategies, researchers have developed numerous mouse models of preterm birth. However, the lack of standard definitions for preterm birth in mice limits our field's ability to compare models and make inferences about preterm birth in humans. In this review, we discuss numerous mouse preterm birth models, propose guidelines for experiments and reporting, and suggest markers that can be used to assess whether pups are premature or mature. We argue that adoption of these recommendations will enhance the utility of mice as models for preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald McCarthy
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Carmel Martin-Fairey
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Dorothy K Sojka
- Rheumatology Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Erik D Herzog
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Emily S Jungheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Molly J Stout
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Justin C Fay
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Mala Mahendroo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jeff Reese
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer L Herington
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Erin J Plosa
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Elaine L Shelton
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sarah K England
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Biomechanical and functional properties of trophoblast cells exposed to Group B Streptococcus in vitro and the beneficial effects of uvaol treatment. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2019; 1863:1417-1428. [PMID: 31254547 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2019.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group B streptococcus (GBS) is the main bacteria that infects pregnant women and can cause abortion and chorioamnionitis. The impact of GBS effects on human trophoblast cells remains largely elusive, and actions toward anti-inflammatory strategies in pregnancy are needed. A potent anti-inflammatory molecule, uvaol is a triterpene from olive oil and its functions in trophoblasts are unknown. We aimed to analyze biomechanical and functional effects of inactivated GBS in trophoblast cells, with the addition of uvaol to test potential benefits. METHODS HTR-8/SVneo cells were treated with uvaol and incubated with inactivated GBS. Cell viability and death were analyzed. Cellular elasticity and topography were accessed by atomic force microscopy. Nitrite production was evaluated by Griess reaction. Nuclear translocation of NFkB p65 was detected by immunofluorescence and Th1/Th2 cytokines by bead-based multiplex assay. RESULTS GBS at 108 CFU increased cell death, which was partially prevented by uvaol. Cell stiffness, cytoskeleton organization and morphology were changed by GBS, and uvaol partially restored these alterations. Nuclear translocation of NFkB p65 began 15 min after GBS incubation and uvaol inhibited this process. GBS decreased IL-4 secretion and increased IL-1β, IFN-γ and IL-2, whereas uvaol reverted this. CONCLUSIONS The increased inflammation and cell death caused by GBS correlated with biomechanical and cytoskeleton changes found in trophoblast cells, while uvaol was effective its protective role. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Uvaol is a natural anti-inflammatory product efficient against GBS-induced inflammation and it has potential to be acquired through diet in order to prevent GBS deleterious effects in pregnancy.
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Park HR, Harris SM, Boldenow E, McEachin RC, Sartor M, Chames M, Loch-Caruso R. Group B streptococcus activates transcriptomic pathways related to premature birth in human extraplacental membranes in vitro. Biol Reprod 2019; 98:396-407. [PMID: 29155939 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococcus [GBS]) infection in pregnant women is the leading cause of infectious neonatal morbidity and mortality in the United States. Although inflammation during infection has been associated with preterm birth, the contribution of GBS to preterm birth is less certain. Moreover, the early mechanisms by which GBS interacts with the gestational tissue to affect adverse pregnancy outcomes are poorly understood. We hypothesized that short-term GBS inoculation activates pathways related to inflammation and premature birth in human extraplacental membranes. We tested this hypothesis using GBS-inoculated human extraplacental membranes in vitro. In agreement with our hypothesis, a microarray-based transcriptomics analysis of gene expression changes in GBS-inoculated membranes revealed that GBS activated pathways related to inflammation and preterm birth with significant gene expression changes occurring as early as 4 h postinoculation. In addition, pathways related to DNA replication and repair were downregulated with GBS treatment. Conclusions based on our transcriptomics data were further supported by responses of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and matrix metalloproteinases 1 (MMP1) and 3 (MMP3), all of which are known to be involved in parturition and premature rupture of membranes. These results support our initial hypothesis and provide new information on molecular targets of GBS infection in human extraplacental membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Ryung Park
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sean M Harris
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Erica Boldenow
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Biology, Calvin College, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Richard C McEachin
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Maureen Sartor
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mark Chames
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rita Loch-Caruso
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Protective effect of Group B Streptococcus type-III polysaccharide conjugates against maternal colonization, ascending infection and neonatal transmission in rodent models. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2593. [PMID: 29416049 PMCID: PMC5803199 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20609-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a normal inhabitant of recto-vaginal mucosae in up to 30% of healthy women. Colonization is a major risk factor for perinatal infection which can lead to severe complications such as stillbirth and neonatal invasive disease. Intra-partum antibiotic prophylaxis in colonized women is a safe and cost-effective preventive measure against early-onset disease in the first days of life, but has no effect on late-onset manifestations or on early maternal infection. Maternal immunization with capsular polysaccharide-based vaccines shows promise for the prevention of both early-onset and late-onset neonatal infections, although ability to prevent maternal colonization and ascending infection has been less studied. Here we investigated the effect of a GBS glycoconjugate vaccine since the very early stage of maternal GBS acquisition to neonatal outcome by rodent models of vaginal colonization and ascending infection. Immunization of female mice and rats with a type III glycoconjugate reduced vaginal colonization, infection of chorioamniotic/ placental membranes and bacterial transmission to fetuses and pups. Type III specific antibodies were detected in the blood and vagina of vaccinated mothers and their offspring. The obtained data support a potential preventive effect of GBS glycoconjugate vaccines during the different stages of pregnancy.
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Shaalan A, Carpenter G, Proctor G. Caspases are key regulators of inflammatory and innate immune responses mediated by TLR3 in vivo. Mol Immunol 2018; 94:190-199. [PMID: 29331803 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2017.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the key regulators which impact the innate immune response during initial phases of tissue injury, can advance the use of therapeutic approaches which aim at attenuating inflammation and organ damage. Recognition of microbial components by TLRs, initiates the transcription of innate immune signal pathways, that induce the expression of key inflammatory mediators: cytokines, chemokines and adhesion molecules. Beside regulating apoptotic cell death, recent studies have revealed distinct roles for caspases in the optimal production of inflammatory cytokines and host defense against injurious infections. Whether caspases can play an immune regulatory role in vivo has not been sufficiently investigated. This study aims to explore whether the pan caspase inhibitor z-VAD-fmk can control inflammation and cytokine production subsequent to challenging the innate immunity of the exocrine secretory tissues in vivo. Submandibular glands (SMGs) of the C57BL/6 mice were challenged with the TLR3 stimulant: polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly (I:C)). Results obtained from the current study provide evidence that caspases can control immune responses downstream of TLR3 ligation. The present work proposes a novel mechanism that can prevent overactivation of the innate immunity, which typically leads to fatal immune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abeer Shaalan
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Floor 17, Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK.
| | - Guy Carpenter
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Floor 17, Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Gordon Proctor
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Floor 17, Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
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Kobayashi M, Vekemans J, Baker CJ, Ratner AJ, Le Doare K, Schrag SJ. Group B Streptococcus vaccine development: present status and future considerations, with emphasis on perspectives for low and middle income countries. F1000Res 2016; 5:2355. [PMID: 27803803 PMCID: PMC5070600 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.9363.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, group B Streptococcus (GBS) remains the leading cause of sepsis and meningitis in young infants, with its greatest burden in the first 90 days of life. Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) for women at risk of transmitting GBS to their newborns has been effective in reducing, but not eliminating, the young infant GBS disease burden in many high income countries. However, identification of women at risk and administration of IAP is very difficult in many low and middle income country (LMIC) settings, and is not possible for home deliveries. Immunization of pregnant women with a GBS vaccine represents an alternate pathway to protecting newborns from GBS disease, through the transplacental antibody transfer to the fetus in utero. This approach to prevent GBS disease in young infants is currently under development, and is approaching late stage clinical evaluation. This manuscript includes a review of the natural history of the disease, global disease burden estimates, diagnosis and existing control options in different settings, the biological rationale for a vaccine including previous supportive studies, analysis of current candidates in development, possible correlates of protection and current status of immunogenicity assays. Future potential vaccine development pathways to licensure and use in LMICs, trial design and implementation options are discussed, with the objective to provide a basis for reflection, rather than recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwako Kobayashi
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
| | - Johan Vekemans
- Initiative for Vaccine Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Carol J. Baker
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Center for Vaccine Awareness and Research, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, USA
| | - Adam J. Ratner
- Departments of Pediatrics and Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Kirsty Le Doare
- Centre for International Child Health, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Stephanie J. Schrag
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
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Vana PG, LaPorte HM, Kennedy RH, Gamelli RL, Majetschak M. Effects of a caspase and a calpain inhibitor on resting energy expenditures in normal and hypermetabolic rats: a pilot study. Physiol Res 2016; 65:537-41. [PMID: 27070748 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Several diseases induce hypermetabolism, which is characterized by increases in resting energy expenditures (REE) and whole body protein loss. Exaggerated protein degradation is thought to be the driving force underlying this response. The effects of caspase and calpain inhibitors on REE in physiological and hypermetabolic conditions, however, are unknown. Thus, we studied whether MDL28170 (calpain inhibitor) or z-VAD-fmk (caspase inhibitor) affect REE under physiological conditions and during hypermetabolism post-burn. Rats were treated five times weekly and observed for 6 weeks. Treatment was started 2 h (early) or 48 h (late) after burn. In normal rats, MDL28170 transiently increased REE to 130 % of normal during week 2-4. z-VAD-fmk reduced REE by 20-25 % throughout the observation period. Within 14 days after burns, REE increased to 130+/-5 %. Whereas MDL28170/early treatment did not affect REE, MDL28170/late transiently increased REE to 180+/-10 % of normal by week 4 post-burn. In contrast, with z-VAD-fmk/early REE remained between 90-110 % of normal post-burn. z-VAD-fmk/late did not affect burn-induced increases in REE. These data suggest that caspase cascades contribute to the development of hypermetabolism and that burn-induced hypermetabolism can be pharmacologically modulated. Our data point towards caspase cascades as possible therapeutic targets to attenuate hypermetabolism after burns, and possibly in other catabolic disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Vana
- Burn and Shock Trauma Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, USA.
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Whidbey C, Vornhagen J, Gendrin C, Boldenow E, Samson JM, Doering K, Ngo L, Ezekwe EAD, Gundlach JH, Elovitz MA, Liggitt D, Duncan JA, Adams Waldorf KM, Rajagopal L. A streptococcal lipid toxin induces membrane permeabilization and pyroptosis leading to fetal injury. EMBO Mol Med 2015; 7:488-505. [PMID: 25750210 PMCID: PMC4403049 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201404883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Group B streptococci (GBS) are Gram-positive bacteria that cause infections in utero and in newborns. We recently showed that the GBS pigment is hemolytic and increased pigment production promotes bacterial penetration of human placenta. However, mechanisms utilized by the hemolytic pigment to induce host cell lysis and the consequence on fetal injury are not known. Here, we show that the GBS pigment induces membrane permeability in artificial lipid bilayers and host cells. Membrane defects induced by the GBS pigment trigger K+ efflux leading to osmotic lysis of red blood cells or pyroptosis in human macrophages. Macrophages lacking the NLRP3 inflammasome recovered from pigment-induced cell damage. In a murine model of in utero infection, hyperpigmented GBS strains induced fetal injury in both an NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent and NLRP3 inflammasome-independent manner. These results demonstrate that the dual mechanism of action of the bacterial pigment/lipid toxin leading to hemolysis or pyroptosis exacerbates fetal injury and suggest that preventing both activities of the hemolytic lipid is likely critical to reduce GBS fetal injury and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Whidbey
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jay Vornhagen
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Claire Gendrin
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Erica Boldenow
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jenny Mae Samson
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kenji Doering
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lisa Ngo
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ejiofor A D Ezekwe
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jens H Gundlach
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michal A Elovitz
- Maternal and Child Health Research Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Denny Liggitt
- Department of Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joseph A Duncan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kristina M Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lakshmi Rajagopal
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Uterine endoplasmic reticulum stress-unfolded protein response regulation of gestational length is caspase-3 and -7-dependent. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:14090-5. [PMID: 26504199 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1518309112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously identified myometrial caspase-3 (CASP3) as a potential regulator of uterine quiescence. We also determined that during pregnancy, the functional activation of uterine CASP3 is likely governed by an integrated endoplasmic reticulum stress response (ERSR) and is consequently limited by an increased unfolded protein response (UPR). The present study examined the functional relevance of uterine UPR-ERSR in maintaining myometrial quiescence and regulating the timing of parturition. In vitro analysis of the human uterine myocyte hTERT-HM cell line revealed that tunicamycin (TM)-induced ERSR modified uterine myocyte contractile responsiveness. Accordingly, alteration of in vivo uterine UPR-ERSR using a pregnant mouse model significantly modified gestational length. We determined that "normal" gestational activation of the ERSR-induced CASP3 and caspase 7 (CASP7) maintains uterine quiescence through previously unidentified proteolytic targeting of the gap junction protein, alpha 1(GJA1); however, surprisingly, TM-induced uterine ERSR triggered an exaggerated UPR that eliminated uterine CASP3 and 7 tocolytic action precociously. These events allowed for a premature increase in myometrial GJA1 levels, elevated contractile responsiveness, and the onset of preterm labor. Importantly, a successful reversal of the magnified ERSR-induced preterm birth phenotype could be achieved by pretreatment with 4-phenylbutrate, a chaperone protein mimic.
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12
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Kim BJ, Hancock BM, Bermudez A, Del Cid N, Reyes E, van Sorge NM, Lauth X, Smurthwaite CA, Hilton BJ, Stotland A, Banerjee A, Buchanan J, Wolkowicz R, Traver D, Doran KS. Bacterial induction of Snail1 contributes to blood-brain barrier disruption. J Clin Invest 2015; 125:2473-83. [PMID: 25961453 DOI: 10.1172/jci74159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection of the CNS that results when blood-borne bacteria are able to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the leading cause of neonatal meningitis; however, the molecular mechanisms that regulate bacterial BBB disruption and penetration are not well understood. Here, we found that infection of human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMECs) with GBS and other meningeal pathogens results in the induction of host transcriptional repressor Snail1, which impedes expression of tight junction genes. Moreover, GBS infection also induced Snail1 expression in murine and zebrafish models. Tight junction components ZO-1, claudin 5, and occludin were decreased at both the transcript and protein levels in hBMECs following GBS infection, and this repression was dependent on Snail1 induction. Bacteria-independent Snail1 expression was sufficient to facilitate tight junction disruption, promoting BBB permeability to allow bacterial passage. GBS induction of Snail1 expression was dependent on the ERK1/2/MAPK signaling cascade and bacterial cell wall components. Finally, overexpression of a dominant-negative Snail1 homolog in zebrafish elevated transcription of tight junction protein-encoding genes and increased zebrafish survival in response to GBS challenge. Taken together, our data support a Snail1-dependent mechanism of BBB disruption and penetration by meningeal pathogens.
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13
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Mulla MJ, Myrtolli K, Tadesse S, Stanwood NL, Gariepy A, Guller S, Norwitz ER, Abrahams VM. Cutting-edge report: TLR10 plays a role in mediating bacterial peptidoglycan-induced trophoblast apoptosis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2012; 69:449-53. [PMID: 23279063 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM There is a strong correlation between intrauterine bacterial infection and preterm labor. While inflammation is a common mechanism, certain pathogens may trigger placental apoptosis. TLR2 activation by gram-positive bacterial peptidoglycan (PDG) induces first-trimester trophoblast apoptosis and decreased IL-6 secretion. This is dependent upon the presence of TLR1 and the absence of TLR6 and both TLR2 coreceptors. As TLR10 is also a TLR2 coreceptor, the objective of this study was to determine its expression and function in the trophoblast. METHOD OF STUDY First-and third-trimester human placental tissue and isolated trophoblast were evaluated for TLR10 expression. A first-trimester human trophoblast cell line stably transfected with a TLR10 dominant negative (TLR10-DN) or vector control was treated with or without PDG and analyzed for apoptosis and IL-6. RESULTS TLR10 was expressed by trophoblasts during the first and third trimesters of pregnancy. PDG-induced trophoblast caspase-3 activity was inhibited by the presence of the TLR10-DN. The presence of the TLR10-DN had no effect on PDG reduction in trophoblast IL-6 secretion. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that trophoblast TLR10 plays a role in promoting apoptosis triggered by gram-positive bacterial components and suggests that TLR10 may regulate the balance between trophoblast survival and cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Mulla
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Abstract
Preterm labor is defined as labor that begins before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. More than 12% of infants born in the USA are preterm. At least 40% of preterm births are associated with intrauterine infection. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are members of a family of cell-surface proteins responsible for recognition of a diverse spectrum of bacterial, viral and fungal pathogens. TLRs initiate the host innate (i.e. non-adaptive) immune response, inducing a proinflammatory cascade involving cytokines, chemokines, prostaglandins, and other effector molecules that result in the characteristic phenomena of labor, such as uterine contractions and rupture of fetal membranes. These cascades may also be activated by mechanisms that are not primarily infectious but are accompanied by inflammatory responses. Now that the molecular mechanisms linking infection and labor have been, to a large extent, elucidated, the challenge is to identify points of overlap with non-infectious causes of labor and to find intervention strategies that can minimize the negative impact of preterm delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varkha Agrawal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201, USA
| | - Emmet Hirsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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