1
|
Kicic-Starcevich E, Hancock DG, Iosifidis T, Agudelo-Romero P, Caparros-Martin JA, Karpievitch YV, Silva D, Turkovic L, Le Souef PN, Bosco A, Martino DJ, Kicic A, Prescott SL, Stick SM. Airway epithelium respiratory illnesses and allergy (AERIAL) birth cohort: study protocol. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2024; 5:1349741. [PMID: 38666051 PMCID: PMC11043573 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2024.1349741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recurrent wheezing disorders including asthma are complex and heterogeneous diseases that affect up to 30% of all children, contributing to a major burden on children, their families, and global healthcare systems. It is now recognized that a dysfunctional airway epithelium plays a central role in the pathogenesis of recurrent wheeze, although the underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood. This prospective birth cohort aims to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating the influence of intrinsic epithelial dysfunction on the risk for developing respiratory disorders and the modulation of this risk by maternal morbidities, in utero exposures, and respiratory exposures in the first year of life. Methods The Airway Epithelium Respiratory Illnesses and Allergy (AERIAL) study is nested within the ORIGINS Project and will monitor 400 infants from birth to 5 years. The primary outcome of the AERIAL study will be the identification of epithelial endotypes and exposure variables that influence the development of recurrent wheezing, asthma, and allergic sensitisation. Nasal respiratory epithelium at birth to 6 weeks, 1, 3, and 5 years will be analysed by bulk RNA-seq and DNA methylation sequencing. Maternal morbidities and in utero exposures will be identified on maternal history and their effects measured through transcriptomic and epigenetic analyses of the amnion and newborn epithelium. Exposures within the first year of life will be identified based on infant medical history as well as on background and symptomatic nasal sampling for viral PCR and microbiome analysis. Daily temperatures and symptoms recorded in a study-specific Smartphone App will be used to identify symptomatic respiratory illnesses. Discussion The AERIAL study will provide a comprehensive longitudinal assessment of factors influencing the association between epithelial dysfunction and respiratory morbidity in early life, and hopefully identify novel targets for diagnosis and early intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - David G. Hancock
- Wal-yan RespiratoryResearch Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Thomas Iosifidis
- Wal-yan RespiratoryResearch Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
- Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Patricia Agudelo-Romero
- Wal-yan RespiratoryResearch Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- European Virus Bioinformatics Centre, Jena, Germany
| | | | | | - Desiree Silva
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology, Joondalup Health Campus, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | | | - Peter N. Le Souef
- Wal-yan RespiratoryResearch Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Anthony Bosco
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
- Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Department of Immunobiology, The University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - David J. Martino
- Wal-yan RespiratoryResearch Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Anthony Kicic
- Wal-yan RespiratoryResearch Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
- Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Susan L. Prescott
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- European Virus Bioinformatics Centre, Jena, Germany
| | - Stephen M. Stick
- Wal-yan RespiratoryResearch Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Huang G, Yao D, Yan X, Zheng M, Yan P, Chen X, Wang D. Emerging role of toll-like receptors signaling and its regulators in preterm birth: a narrative review. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:319-339. [PMID: 35916961 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06701-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite intensive research, preterm birth (PTB) rates have not decreased significantly in recent years due to a lack of understanding of the underlying causes and insufficient treatment options for PTB. We are committed to finding promising biomarkers for the treatment of PTB. METHODS An extensive search of the literature was conducted with MEDLINE/PubMed, and in total, 151 studies were included and summarized in the present review. RESULTS Substantial evidence supports that the infection and/or inflammatory cascade associated with infection is an early event in PTB. Toll-like receptor (TLR) is a prominent pattern recognition receptor (PRR) found on both immune and non-immune cells, including fetal membrane cells. The activation of TLR downstream molecules, followed by TLR binding to its ligand, is critical for infection and inflammation, leading to the involvement of the TLR signaling pathway in PTB. TLR ligands are derived from microbial components and molecules released by damaged and dead cells. Particularly, TLR4 is an essential TLR because of its ability to recognize lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In this comprehensive overview, we discuss the role of TLR signaling in PTB, focus on numerous host-derived genetic and epigenetic regulators of the TLR signaling pathway, and cover ongoing research and prospective therapeutic options for treating PTB by inhibiting TLR signaling. CONCLUSION This is a critical topic because TLR-related molecules and mechanisms may enable obstetricians to better understand the physiological changes in PTB and develop new treatment and prevention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ge Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Yao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoli Yan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Mingyu Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Yan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoxia Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Belville C, Ponelle-Chachuat F, Rouzaire M, Gross C, Pereira B, Gallot D, Sapin V, Blanchon L. Physiological TLR4 regulation in human fetal membranes as an explicative mechanism of a pathological preterm case. eLife 2022; 11:71521. [PMID: 35119365 PMCID: PMC8816379 DOI: 10.7554/elife.71521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The integrity of human fetal membranes is crucial for harmonious fetal development throughout pregnancy. Their premature rupture is often the consequence of a physiological phenomenon that has been exacerbated. Beyond all the implied biological processes, inflammation is of primary importance and is qualified as ‘sterile’ at the end of pregnancy. In this study, complementary methylomic and transcriptomic strategies on amnion and choriodecidua explants obtained from the altered (cervix zone) and intact fetal membranes at term and before labour were used. By cross-analysing genome-wide studies strengthened by in vitro experiments, we deciphered how the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), an actor in pathological fetal membrane rupture, is controlled. Indeed, it is differentially regulated in the altered zone and between both layers by a dual mechanism: (1) the methylation of TLR4 and miRNA promoters and (2) targeting by miRNA (let-7a-2 and miR-125b-1) acting on the 3’-UTR of TLR4. Consequently, this study demonstrates that fine regulation of TLR4 is required for sterile inflammation establishment at the end of pregnancy and that it may be dysregulated in the pathological premature rupture of membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Belville
- Team 'Translational approach to epithelial injury and repair', iGReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-ferrand, France
| | - Flora Ponelle-Chachuat
- Team 'Translational approach to epithelial injury and repair', iGReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-ferrand, France
| | - Marion Rouzaire
- Team 'Translational approach to epithelial injury and repair', iGReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-ferrand, France
| | - Christelle Gross
- Team 'Translational approach to epithelial injury and repair', iGReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-ferrand, France
| | - Bruno Pereira
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Biostatistics unit (DRCI) Department, clermont-ferrand, France
| | - Denis Gallot
- Team 'Translational approach to epithelial injury and repair', iGReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-ferrand, France.,CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Clermont-ferrand, France
| | - Vincent Sapin
- Team 'Translational approach to epithelial injury and repair', iGReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-ferrand, France.,CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetic Department, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Loïc Blanchon
- Team 'Translational approach to epithelial injury and repair', iGReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-ferrand, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ferber SG, Als H, McAnulty G, Klinger G, Weller A. Multi-level hypothalamic neuromodulation of self-regulation and cognition in preterm infants: Towards a control systems model. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2022; 9:100109. [PMID: 35755927 PMCID: PMC9216652 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm infants, age-corrected for prematurity, score on average, 10 points lower on IQ tests than full-term infants tested at comparable ages. This review focuses on the potential contribution of the hypothalamus to cognitive neuro-regulatory development in preterm infants through its bidirectional neural connections with the prefrontal cortex and its neuroendocrine activity. It aims to clarify the central role of the hypothalamus in preterm high stress situations and in influencing cognitive development via its connectivity to the cerebral cortex. The review further evaluates epigenomic sensitivity to environmental inputs. Recent results suggest that an optimal range of DNA methylations (via a continuous process of decreasing levels of receptor methylations that are too high, and increasing levels that are too low) appears necessary in order to reach an adaptive level of receptor availability. Several studies have demonstrated amelioration of preterm infants' stress while in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICUs) and following discharge. The authors postulate that feedback mechanisms and correction signals are the basis for a hypothalamic homeostatic modulating function, a "hypothalamic resistance response", which may account for the stress reduction brought about by in- and post-NICU early interventions and their results of promoting self-regulation and cognition.
Collapse
Key Words
- Cognitive
- Controlled process variable, (CPV)
- Corticotropin-releasing hormone, (CRH)
- Epigenetics
- Hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis, (HPA axis)
- Hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis, (HPG axis)
- Hypothalamic pituitary thyroid axis, (HPT axis)
- Hypothalamus
- Lateral hypothalamus, (LH)
- Magnetic resonance imaging, (MRI)
- Neuro-regulatory development
- Newborn intensive care unit, (NICU)
- Oxytocin, (OT)
- Prefrontal cortex
- Prefrontal cortex, (PFC)
- Premature infants
- Set point, (SP)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sari Goldstein Ferber
- Department of Psychology and the Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Heidelise Als
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gloria McAnulty
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gil Klinger
- Department of Neonatology, Schneider Children's Medical Center, Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Petach Tikvah, Israel
| | - Aron Weller
- Department of Psychology and the Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li C, Cao M, Zhou X. Role of epigenetics in parturition and preterm birth. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 97:851-873. [PMID: 34939297 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth occurs worldwide and is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and economic cost. Although several risk factors associated with parturition and preterm birth have been identified, mechanisms underlying this syndrome remain unclear, thereby limiting the implementation of interventions for prevention and management. Known triggers of preterm birth include conditions related to inflammatory and immunological pathways, as well as genetics and maternal history. Importantly, epigenetics, which is the study of heritable phenotypic changes that occur without alterations in the DNA sequence, may play a role in linking social and environmental risk factors for preterm birth. Epigenetic approaches to the study of preterm birth, including analyses of the effects of microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, DNA methylation, and histone modification, have contributed to an improved understanding of the molecular bases of both term and preterm birth. Additionally, epigenetic modifications have been linked to factors already associated with preterm birth, including obesity and smoking. The prevention and management of preterm birth remains a challenge worldwide. Although epigenetic analysis provides valuable insights into the causes and risk factors associated with this syndrome, further studies are necessary to determine whether epigenetic approaches can be used routinely for the diagnosis, prevention, and management of preterm birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunjin Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Maosheng Cao
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Xu Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Danoff JS, Connelly JJ, Morris JP, Perkeybile AM. An epigenetic rheostat of experience: DNA methylation of OXTR as a mechanism of early life allostasis. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 8:100098. [PMID: 35757665 PMCID: PMC9216658 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
|
7
|
You YA, Kwon EJ, Hwang HS, Choi SJ, Choi SK, Kim YJ. Elevated methylation of the vault RNA2-1 promoter in maternal blood is associated with preterm birth. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:528. [PMID: 34246240 PMCID: PMC8272312 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07865-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preterm birth, defined as parturition before 37 completed weeks of gestation, is associated with an increased risk of neonatal complications and death, as well as poor health and disease later in life. Epigenetics could contribute to the mechanism underlying preterm birth. Results Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of whole blood cells from 10 women (5 term and 5 preterm deliveries) was performed using an Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChips array. We identified 1,581 differentially methylated CpG sites in promoter regions between term and preterm birth. Although the differences were not significant after correcting for multiple tests, seven CpGs on the genomically imprinted vault RNA2-1 (VTRNA2-1; also known as non-coding RNA, nc886 or miR-886) showed the largest differences (range: 26–39 %). Pyrosequencing verification was performed with blood samples from pregnant women recruited additionally (39 term and 43 preterm deliveries). In total, 28 (34.1 %) samples showed hypomethylation of the VTRNA2-1 promoter (< 13 % methylation), while 54 (65.9 %) samples showed elevated methylation levels between 30 and 60 %. Elevated methylation of VTRNA2-1 promoter was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth after adjusting for maternal age, season of delivery, parity and white blood cell count. The mRNA expression of VTRNA2-1 was 0.51-fold lower in women with preterm deliveries (n = 20) compared with women with term deliveries (n = 20). Conclusions VTRNA2-1 is a noncoding transcript to environmentally responsive epialleles. Our results suggest that elevated methylation of the VTRNA2-1 promoter may result in increased risk of PTB caused by the pro-inflammatory cytokines. Further studies are needed to confirm the association of VTRNA2-1 methylation with preterm birth in a large population, and to elucidate the underlying mechanism. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07865-y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young-Ah You
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University Medical School, 07985, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Jin Kwon
- Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, 03760, Seoul, Korea
| | - Han-Sung Hwang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, 143-729, Seoul, Korea
| | - Suk-Joo Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 135-710, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sae Kyung Choi
- College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 505 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, 137-040, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Ju Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University Medical School, 07985, Seoul, Korea. .,Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, 03760, Seoul, Korea. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Womans University Mok Dong Hospital, 158-051, Seoul, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang XM, Tian FY, Xie CB, Niu ZZ, Chen WQ. Abnormal placental DNA methylation variation in spontaneous preterm birth. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 35:4704-4712. [PMID: 33327822 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1863357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preterm birth (PTB) has become a major public health concern as the leading cause of neonatal death, but little is understood about its etiology. Children born preterm are also at increased risk of long-term consequences such as neurodevelopmental disorders, adulthood hypertension and diabetes. Recent studies have indicated that DNA methylation may be involved in the occurrence of PTB as well as related adverse outcomes. The latest Infinium EPIC BeadChip extends the coverage of the genome and provides a better tool to help investigate the involvement of DNA methylation in these conditions. METHODS We conducted this case-control study in three Women and Children's hospitals in South China, and enrolled 32 spontaneous preterm births and 16 term births. We assessed placental DNA methylation profiling of these participants with the Infinium EPIC BeadChip. We identified PTB and gestational age (GA)-associated CpG sites with limma regression model, and applied seqlm to identify PTB-associated regions. We performed gene ontology analysis to further interpret functional enrichment of the identified differentially methylated genes in PTB. RESULTS We identified a total of 8 differentially methylated positions (DMPs) that were significantly associated with PTB (FDR < 0.1) and a total of 15 DMPs that were associated with GA (FDR < 0.1). In the regional analysis, one differentially methylated region in the SLC23A1 gene overlapped with PTB-associated CpG site. The differentially methylated CpG sites in PTB were mapped to the genes involving in biological processes mainly regarding neurodevelopment, regulation of inflammation and metabolism. CONCLUSION Our findings suggested that preterm placenta have distinct DNA methylation alterations, and these alteration patterns established at birth provide insight into the long-term consequences of preterm birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Meng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Epidemiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fu-Ying Tian
- Department of Epidemiology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chuan-Bo Xie
- Department of Cancer Prevention Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong-Zheng Niu
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Wei-Qing Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Information Management, Xinhua College, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
The characteristics of fetal membrane cells and their phenotypic adaptations to support pregnancy or promote parturition are defined by global patterns of gene expression controlled by chromatin structure. Heritable epigenetic chromatin modifications that include DNA methylation and covalent histone modifications establish chromatin regions permissive or exclusive of regulatory interactions defining the cell-specific scope and potential of gene activity. Non-coding RNAs acting at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels complement the system by robustly stabilizing gene expression patterns and contributing to ordered phenotype transitions. Here we review currently available information about epigenetic gene regulation in the amnion and the chorion laeve. In addition, we provide an overview of epigenetic phenomena in the decidua, which is the maternal tissue fused to the chorion membrane forming the anatomical and functional unit called choriodecidua. The relationship of gene expression with DNA (CpG) methylation, histone acetylation and methylation, micro RNAs, long non-coding RNAs and chromatin accessibility is discussed in the context of normal pregnancy, parturition and pregnancy complications. Data generated using clinical samples and cell culture models strongly suggests that epigenetic events are associated with the phenotypic transitions of fetal membrane cells during the establishment, maintenance and termination of pregnancy potentially driving and consolidating the changes as pregnancy progresses. Disease conditions and environmental factors may produce epigenetic footprints that indicate exposures and mediate adverse pregnancy outcomes. Although knowledge is expanding rapidly, fetal membrane epigenetics is still in an early stage of development necessitating further research to realize its remarkable basic and translational potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamas Zakar
- Department of Maternity & Gynaecology, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jonathan W. Paul
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Collier ARY, Ledyard R, Montoya-Williams D, Qiu M, Dereix AE, Farrokhi MR, Hacker MR, Burris HH. Racial and ethnic representation in epigenomic studies of preterm birth: a systematic review. Epigenomics 2020; 13:1735-1746. [PMID: 33264049 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2020-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: We conducted a systematic review evaluating race/ethnicity representation in DNA methylomic studies of preterm birth. Data sources: PubMed, EMBASE, CINHAL, Scopus and relevant citations from 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2019. Study appraisal & synthesis methods: Two authors independently identified abstracts comparing DNA methylomic differences between term and preterm births that included race/ethnicity data. Results: 16 studies were included. Black and non-Hispanic Black deliveries were well represented (28%). However, large studies originating from more than 95% White populations were excluded due to unreported race/ethnicity data. Most studies were cross-sectional, allowing for reverse causation. Most studies were also racially/ethnically homogeneous, preventing direct comparison of DNA methylomic differences across race/ethnicities. Conclusion: In DNA methylomic studies, Black women and infants were well represented. However, the literature has limitations and precludes drawing definitive conclusions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ris Y Collier
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rachel Ledyard
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Diana Montoya-Williams
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Maylene Qiu
- Biomedical Library, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Alexandra E Dereix
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
| | - Minou Raschid Farrokhi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.,Colby College, Waterville, ME 04901, USA
| | - Michele R Hacker
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Heather H Burris
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cunningham SJ, Feng L, Allen TK, Reddy TE. Functional Genomics of Healthy and Pathological Fetal Membranes. Front Physiol 2020; 11:687. [PMID: 32655414 PMCID: PMC7325962 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature preterm rupture of membranes (PPROM), rupture of fetal membranes before 37 weeks of gestation, is the leading identifiable cause of spontaneous preterm births. Often there is no obvious cause that is identified in a patient who presents with PPROM. Identifying the upstream molecular events that lead to fetal membrane weakening presents potentially actionable mechanisms which could lead to the identification of at-risk patients and to the development of new therapeutic interventions. Functional genomic studies have transformed understanding of the role of gene regulation in diverse cells and tissues involved health and disease. Here, we review the results of those studies in the context of fetal membranes. We will highlight relevant results from major coordinated functional genomics efforts and from targeted studies focused on individual cell or tissue models. Studies comparing gene expression and DNA methylation between healthy and pathological fetal membranes have found differential regulation between labor and quiescent tissue as well as in preterm births, preeclampsia, and recurrent pregnancy loss. Whole genome and exome sequencing studies have identified common and rare fetal variants associated with preterm births. However, few fetal membrane tissue studies have modeled the response to stimuli relevant to pregnancy. Fetal membranes are readily adaptable to cell culture and relevant cellular phenotypes are readily observable. For these reasons, this is now an unrealized opportunity for genomic studies isolating the effect of cell signaling cascades and mapping the fetal membrane responses that lead to PPROM and other pregnancy complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Cunningham
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.,University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.,Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.,Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Liping Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Terrence K Allen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Timothy E Reddy
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.,University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.,Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.,Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
García-López G, Ávila-González D, García-Castro IL, Flores-Herrera H, Molina-Hernández A, Portillo W, Díaz-Martínez NE, Sanchez-Flores A, Verleyen J, Merchant-Larios H, Díaz NF. Pluripotency markers in tissue and cultivated cells in vitro of different regions of human amniotic epithelium. Exp Cell Res 2019; 375:31-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
13
|
Wang XM, Tian FY, Fan LJ, Xie CB, Niu ZZ, Chen WQ. Comparison of DNA methylation profiles associated with spontaneous preterm birth in placenta and cord blood. BMC Med Genomics 2019; 12:1. [PMID: 30606219 PMCID: PMC6318854 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-018-0466-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The etiology and mechanism of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) are still unclear. Accumulating evidence has documented that various environmental exposure scenarios may cause maternal and fetal epigenetic changes, which initiates the focus on whether epigenetics can contribute to the occurrence of sPTB. Therefore, we conducted the current study to examine and compare the DNA methylation changes associated with sPTB in placenta and cord blood. Methods This hospital-based case-control study was carried out at three Women and Children’s hospitals in South China, where 32 spontaneous preterm births and 16 term births were recruited. Genome-wide DNA methylation profiles of the placenta and cord blood from these subjects were measured using the Illumina HumanMethylation EPIC BeadChip, and sPTB-associated differential methylated CpG sites were identified using limma regression model, after controlling for major maternal and infant confounders. Further Gene Ontology analysis was performed with PANTHER in order to assess different functional enrichment of the sPTB-associated genes in placenta and cord blood. Results After controlling for potential confounding factors, one differentially methylated position (DMP) in placenta and 31 DMPs in cord blood were found significantly associated with sPTB (Bonferroni corrected p < 0.05). The sPTB-associated CpG sites in placenta were mapped to genes that showed higher enrichment on biological processes including biological regulation, multicellular organismal process, and especially response to stimulus, while those in cord blood were mapped to genes that had higher enrichment on biological processes concerning cellular process, localization, and particularly metabolic process. Conclusion Findings of this study indicated that DNA methylation alteration in both placenta and cord blood are associated with sPTB, yet the DNA methylation modification patterns may appear differently in placenta and cord blood. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12920-018-0466-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Meng Wang
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health. School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fu-Ying Tian
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health. School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Li-Jun Fan
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health. School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chuan-Bo Xie
- Department of Cancer Prevention Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, No 21 Qingcaigang, Jianshe Road 6, Guangzhou, 510600, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhong-Zheng Niu
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, State University of New York at Buffalo, 265 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - Wei-Qing Chen
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health. School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. .,Department of Information Management, Xinhua College, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Differential expression and methylation of integrin subunit alpha 11 and thrombospondin in the amnion of preterm birth. Obstet Gynecol Sci 2018; 61:565-574. [PMID: 30254992 PMCID: PMC6137008 DOI: 10.5468/ogs.2018.61.5.565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the association between preterm birth and epigenetic mechanisms in the amnion. Methods We examined the association between differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and differentially expressed genes (DEG) using a cytosine-phosphate-guanine methylation array and whole-transcriptome sequencing from the amnion (preterm birth, n=5; full term, n=5). We enrolled 35 participants for mRNA expression analysis and pyrosequencing: 16 full-term and 19 preterm subjects. We compared the association of integrin subunit alpha 11 (ITGA11) and thrombospondin 2 (THBS2) gene methylation status with mRNA expression in the amnion. Results In the preterm birth group, methylation of ITGA11 and THBS2 genes was significantly lower (ITGA11 gene: 60.30% vs. 73.16%, P<0.05; THBS2 gene: 64.59% vs. 73.16%, P<0.05), and the expression of the genes was significantly higher than that in the full-term group (ITGA11 gene: 14.20 vs. 1.57, P<0.01; THBS2 gene: 1.18 vs. 10.34, P<0.05). Conclusion Methylation of the ITGA11 and THBS2 genes in the amnion was associated with preterm birth. Thus, ITGA11 and THBS2 gene methylation status in the amnion may be valuable in explaining the mechanism underlying preterm birth.
Collapse
|
15
|
Toure DM, ElRayes W, Barnes-Josiah D, Hartman T, Klinkebiel D, Baccaglini L. Epigenetic modifications of human placenta associated with preterm birth: a systematic review. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 31:530-541. [PMID: 28282769 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1291620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preterm birth (PTB) is one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality and morbidity around the world. Epigenetic alterations of the human placenta may be involved in the causal chain of adverse pregnancy outcomes specifically PTB. In this systematic review, we investigated whether epigenetic dysregulation of the human placenta is associated with PTB. METHODS We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE and systematically reviewed all relevant studies on epigenetic placental modifications in PTB. Two independent reviewers selected controlled human studies published in any language, evaluated their quality, and graded them using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. We resolved disagreements by consensus with a third reviewer. RESULTS Eleven observational studies of low to moderate quality met the eligibility criteria out of 60 unique studies. Most studies reported an association between placental epigenetic changes (methylation, mRNA and miRNA) and PTB, although research methods were highly heterogeneous. CONCLUSIONS Studies reported various associations between specific epigenetic findings and PTB, although methodological concerns limited results' validity. Additional high quality studies are needed to assess the repeatability of these findings. The STROBE guidelines can be used to improve the quality of reporting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Drissa M Toure
- a Department of Health Promotion, Social and Behavioral Health , College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha , NE , USA
| | - Wael ElRayes
- b Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health , College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha , NE , USA
| | - Debora Barnes-Josiah
- c Department of Epidemiology , College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha , NE , USA
| | - Teresa Hartman
- d McGoogan Library of Medicine , University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha , NE , USA
| | - David Klinkebiel
- e Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , University of Nebraska Epigenomics Core Facility , Omaha , NE , USA
| | - Lorena Baccaglini
- c Department of Epidemiology , College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha , NE , USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Genome-wide alteration in DNA hydroxymethylation in the sperm from bisphenol A-exposed men. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178535. [PMID: 28582417 PMCID: PMC5459435 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental BPA exposure has been shown to impact human sperm concentration and motility, as well as rodent spermatogenesis. However, it is unclear whether BPA exposure is associated with alteration in DNA hydroxymethylation, a marker for epigenetic modification, in human sperm. A genome-wide DNA hydroxymethylation study was performed using sperm samples of men who were occupationally exposed to BPA. Compared with controls who had no occupational BPA exposure, the total levels of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmc) increased significantly (19.37% increase) in BPA-exposed men, with 72.69% of genome regions harboring 5hmc. A total of 9,610 differential 5hmc regions (DhMRs) were revealed in BPA-exposed men relative to controls, which were mainly located in intergenic and intron regions. These DhMRs were composed of 8,670 hyper-hMRs and 940 hypo-hMRs, affecting 2,008 genes and the repetitive elements. The hyper-hMRs affected genes were enriched in pathways associated with nervous system, development, cardiovascular diseases and signal transduction. Additionally, enrichment of 5hmc was observed in the promoters of eight maternally expressed imprinted genes in BPA-exposed sperm. Some of the BPA-affected genes, for example, MLH1, CHD2, SPATA12 and SPATA20 might participate in the response to DNA damage in germ cells caused by BPA. Our analysis showed that enrichment of 5hmc both in promoters and gene bodies is higher in the genes whose expression has been detected in human sperm than those whose expression is absent. Importantly, we observed that BPA exposure affected the 5hmc level in 11.4% of these genes expressed in sperm, and in 6.85% of the sperm genome. Finally, we also observed that BPA exposure tends to change the 5hmc enrichment in the genes which was previously reported to be distributed with the trimethylated Histone 3 (H3K27me3, H3K4me2 or H3K4me3) in sperm. Thus, these results suggest that BPA exposure likely interferes with gene expression via affecting DNA hydroxymethylation in a way partially dependent on trimethylation of H3 in human spermatogenesis. Our current study reveals a new mechanism by which BPA exposure reduces human sperm quality.
Collapse
|
17
|
Barcelona de Mendoza V, Wright ML, Agaba C, Prescott L, Desir A, Crusto CA, Sun YV, Taylor JY. A Systematic Review of DNA Methylation and Preterm Birth in African American Women. Biol Res Nurs 2017; 19:308-317. [PMID: 27646016 PMCID: PMC5357599 DOI: 10.1177/1099800416669049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The causes of many cases of preterm birth (PTB) remain enigmatic. Increased understanding of how epigenetic factors are associated with health outcomes has resulted in studies examining DNA methylation (DNAm) as a contributing factor to PTB. However, few studies on PTB and DNAm have included African American women, the group with the highest rate of PTB. METHODS The objective of this review was to systematically analyze the existing studies on DNAm and PTB among African American women. RESULTS Studies ( N = 10) were limited by small sample size, cross-sectional study designs, inconsistent methodologies for epigenomic analysis, and evaluation of different tissue types across studies. African Americans comprised less than half of the sample in 50% of the studies reviewed. Despite these limitations, there is evidence for an association between DNAm patterns and PTB. CONCLUSIONS Future research on DNAm patterns and PTB should use longitudinal study designs, repeated DNAm testing, and a clinically relevant definition of PTB and should include large samples of high-risk African American women to better understand the mechanisms for PTB in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Cindy A. Crusto
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yan V. Sun
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lin VW, Baccarelli AA, Burris HH. Epigenetics-a potential mediator between air pollution and preterm birth. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2016; 2:dvv008. [PMID: 26900485 PMCID: PMC4760696 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvv008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Preterm birth is a major cause of infant morbidity and mortality and a potential risk factor for adult chronic disease. With over 15 million infants born preterm worldwide each year, preterm birth poses a global health concern. There is a possible association between air pollution and preterm birth, though studies have been inconsistent, likely due to variation in study design. How air pollution induces health effects is uncertain; however, studies have repeatedly demonstrated the effects of air pollution on epigenetic modifications. More recent evidence suggests that epigenetics may, in turn, be linked to preterm birth. Discovery of environmentally modifiable epigenetic processes connected to preterm birth may help to identify women at risk of preterm birth, and ultimately lead to development of new preterm birth prevention measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vania W. Lin
- Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064 USA
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center & Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215 USA
| | - Andrea A. Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115 USA
| | - Heather H. Burris
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center & Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215 USA
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115 USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fernando F, Keijser R, Henneman P, van der Kevie-Kersemaekers AMF, Mannens MM, van der Post JA, Afink GB, Ris-Stalpers C. The idiopathic preterm delivery methylation profile in umbilical cord blood DNA. BMC Genomics 2015; 16:736. [PMID: 26419829 PMCID: PMC4588235 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-1915-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm delivery is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Two-thirds of preterm deliveries are idiopathic. The initiating molecular mechanisms behind spontaneous preterm delivery are unclear. Umbilical cord blood DNA samples are an easy source of material to study the neonatal state at birth. DNA methylation changes can be exploited as markers to identify spontaneous preterm delivery. To identify methylation differences specific to idiopathic preterm delivery, we assessed genome-wide DNA methylation changes in 24 umbilical cord blood samples (UCB) using the 450 K Illumina methylation array. After quality control, conclusions were based on 11 term and 11 idiopathic preterm born neonates. The differentially methylated positions (DMPs) specific for preterm/term delivery, neonatal sex, use of oxytocin and mode of initiation of labor were calculated by controlling the FDR p value at 0.05. RESULTS The analysis identifies 1855 statistically significant DMPs between preterm and term deliveries of which 508 DMPs are also attributable to clinical variables other than preterm versus term delivery. 1347 DMPs are unique to term vs preterm delivery, of which 196 DMPs do not relate to gestational age as such. Pathway analysis indicated enrichment of genes involved in calcium signalling, myometrial contraction and relaxation pathways. The 1151 DMPs that correlate with advancing gestational age (p < 0.05) include 161 DMPs that match with two previously reported studies on UCB methylation. Additionally, 123 neonatal sex specific DMPs, 97 DMPs specific to the induction of labour and 42 DMPs specific to the mode of initiation of labor were also identified. CONCLUSION This study identifies 196 DMPs in UCB DNA of neonates which do not relate to gestational age or any other clinical variable recorded and are specific to idiopathic preterm delivery. Furthermore, 161 DMPs from our study overlap with previously reported studies of which a subset is also reported to be differentially methylated at 18 years of age. A DMP on MYL4, encoding myosin light chain 4, is a robust candidate for the identification of idiopathic preterm labour as it is identified by all 3 independent studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Febilla Fernando
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Remco Keijser
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Peter Henneman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Marcel Mam Mannens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Joris Am van der Post
- Women's and Children's Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Gijs B Afink
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Carrie Ris-Stalpers
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Women's and Children's Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Parets SE, Conneely KN, Kilaru V, Menon R, Smith AK. DNA methylation provides insight into intergenerational risk for preterm birth in African Americans. Epigenetics 2015; 10:784-92. [PMID: 26090903 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2015.1062964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
African Americans are at increased risk for spontaneous preterm birth (PTB). Though PTB is heritable, genetic studies have not identified variants that account for its intergenerational risk, prompting the hypothesis that epigenetic factors may also contribute. The objective of this study was to evaluate DNA methylation from maternal leukocytes to identify patterns specific to PTB and its intergenerational risk. DNA from peripheral leukocytes from African American women that delivered preterm (24-34 weeks; N = 16) or at term (39-41 weeks; N = 24) was assessed for DNA methylation using the HumanMethylation450 BeadChip. In maternal samples, 17,829 CpG sites associated with PTB, but no CpG site remained associated after correction for multiple comparisons. Examination of paired maternal-fetal samples identified 5,171 CpG sites in which methylation of maternal samples correlated with methylation of her respective fetus (FDR < 0.05). These correlated sites were enriched for association with PTB in maternal leukocytes. The majority of correlated CpG sites could be attributed to one or more genetic variants. They were also significantly more likely to be in genes involved in metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune pathways, suggesting a role for genetic and environmental contributions to PTB risk and chronic disease. The results of this study may provide insight into the factors underlying intergenerational risk for PTB and its consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sasha E Parets
- a Genetics and Molecular Biology Program; Emory University ; Atlanta , GA USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Eidem HR, Ackerman WE, McGary KL, Abbot P, Rokas A. Gestational tissue transcriptomics in term and preterm human pregnancies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Med Genomics 2015; 8:27. [PMID: 26044726 PMCID: PMC4456776 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-015-0099-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth (PTB), or birth before 37 weeks of gestation, is the leading cause of newborn death worldwide. PTB is a critical area of scientific study not only due to its worldwide toll on human lives and economies, but also due to our limited understanding of its pathogenesis and, therefore, its prevention. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizes the landscape of PTB transcriptomics research to further our understanding of the genes and pathways involved in PTB subtypes. METHODS We evaluated published genome-wide pregnancy studies across gestational tissues and pathologies, including those that focus on PTB, by performing a targeted PubMed MeSH search and systematically reviewing all relevant studies. RESULTS Our search yielded 2,361 studies on gestational tissues including placenta, decidua, myometrium, maternal blood, cervix, fetal membranes (chorion and amnion), umbilical cord, fetal blood, and basal plate. Selecting only those original research studies that measured transcription on a genome-wide scale and reported lists of expressed genetic elements identified 93 gene expression, 21 microRNA, and 20 methylation studies. Although 30 % of all PTB cases are due to medical indications, 76 % of the preterm studies focused on them. In contrast, only 18 % of the preterm studies focused on spontaneous onset of labor, which is responsible for 45 % of all PTB cases. Furthermore, only 23 of the 10,993 unique genetic elements reported to be transcriptionally active were recovered 10 or more times in these 134 studies. Meta-analysis of the 93 gene expression studies across 9 distinct gestational tissues and 29 clinical phenotypes showed limited overlap of genes identified as differentially expressed across studies. CONCLUSIONS Overall, profiles of differentially expressed genes were highly heterogeneous both between as well as within clinical subtypes and tissues as well as between studies of the same clinical subtype and tissue. These results suggest that large gaps still exist in the transcriptomic study of specific clinical subtypes as well in the generation of the transcriptional profile of well-studied clinical subtypes; understanding the complex landscape of prematurity will require large-scale, systematic genome-wide analyses of human gestational tissues on both understudied and well-studied subtypes alike.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haley R Eidem
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, VU Station B #35-1634, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA.
| | - William E Ackerman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Kriston L McGary
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, VU Station B #35-1634, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA.
| | - Patrick Abbot
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, VU Station B #35-1634, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA.
| | - Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, VU Station B #35-1634, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hammock EAD. Developmental perspectives on oxytocin and vasopressin. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:24-42. [PMID: 24863032 PMCID: PMC4262889 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The related neuropeptides oxytocin and vasopressin are involved in species-typical behavior, including social recognition behavior, maternal behavior, social bonding, communication, and aggression. A wealth of evidence from animal models demonstrates significant modulation of adult social behavior by both of these neuropeptides and their receptors. Over the last decade, there has been a flood of studies in humans also implicating a role for these neuropeptides in human social behavior. Despite popular assumptions that oxytocin is a molecule of social bonding in the infant brain, less mechanistic research emphasis has been placed on the potential role of these neuropeptides in the developmental emergence of the neural substrates of behavior. This review summarizes what is known and assumed about the developmental influence of these neuropeptides and outlines the important unanswered questions and testable hypotheses. There is tremendous translational need to understand the functions of these neuropeptides in mammalian experience-dependent development of the social brain. The activity of oxytocin and vasopressin during development should inform our understanding of individual, sex, and species differences in social behavior later in life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A D Hammock
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center and Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Parets SE, Bedient CE, Menon R, Smith AK. Preterm birth and its long-term effects: methylation to mechanisms. BIOLOGY 2014; 3:498-513. [PMID: 25256426 PMCID: PMC4192624 DOI: 10.3390/biology3030498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2014] [Revised: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The epigenetic patterns established during development may influence gene expression over a lifetime and increase susceptibility to chronic disease. Being born preterm (<37 weeks of gestation) is associated with increased risk mortality and morbidity from birth until adulthood. This brief review explores the potential role of DNA methylation in preterm birth (PTB) and its possible long-term consequences and provides an overview of the physiological processes central to PTB and recent DNA methylation studies of PTB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sasha E Parets
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Program, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Carrie E Bedient
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Program, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|