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Rodríguez-Eguren A, Bueno-Fernandez C, Gómez-Álvarez M, Francés-Herrero E, Pellicer A, Bellver J, Seli E, Cervelló I. Evolution of biotechnological advances and regenerative therapies for endometrial disorders: a systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae013. [PMID: 38796750 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The establishment and maintenance of pregnancy depend on endometrial competence. Asherman syndrome (AS) and intrauterine adhesions (IUA), or endometrial atrophy (EA) and thin endometrium (TE), can either originate autonomously or arise as a result from conditions (i.e. endometritis or congenital hypoplasia), or medical interventions (e.g. surgeries, hormonal therapies, uterine curettage or radiotherapy). Affected patients may present an altered or inadequate endometrial lining that hinders embryo implantation and increases the risk of poor pregnancy outcomes and miscarriage. In humans, AS/IUA and EA/TE are mainly treated with surgeries or pharmacotherapy, however the reported efficacy of these therapeutic approaches remains unclear. Thus, novel regenerative techniques utilizing stem cells, growth factors, or tissue engineering have emerged to improve reproductive outcomes. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review comprehensively summarizes the methodologies and outcomes of emerging biotechnologies (cellular, acellular, and bioengineering approaches) to treat human endometrial pathologies. Regenerative therapies derived from human tissues or blood which were studied in preclinical models (in vitro and in vivo) and clinical trials are discussed. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search of full-text articles available in PubMed and Embase was conducted to identify original peer-reviewed studies published in English between January 2000 and September 2023. The search terms included: human, uterus, endometrium, Asherman syndrome, intrauterine adhesions, endometrial atrophy, thin endometrium, endometritis, congenital hypoplasia, curettage, radiotherapy, regenerative therapy, bioengineering, stem cells, vesicles, platelet-rich plasma, biomaterials, microfluidic, bioprinting, organoids, hydrogel, scaffold, sheet, miRNA, sildenafil, nitroglycerine, aspirin, growth hormone, progesterone, and estrogen. Preclinical and clinical studies on cellular, acellular, and bioengineering strategies to repair or regenerate the human endometrium were included. Additional studies were identified through manual searches. OUTCOMES From a total of 4366 records identified, 164 studies (3.8%) were included for systematic review. Due to heterogeneity in the study design and measured outcome parameters in both preclinical and clinical studies, the findings were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively without meta-analysis. Groups using stem cell-based treatments for endometrial pathologies commonly employed mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from the human bone marrow or umbilical cord. Alternatively, acellular therapies based on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or extracellular vesicles are gaining popularity. These are accompanied by the emergence of bioengineering strategies based on extracellular matrix (ECM)-derived hydrogels or synthetic biosimilars that sustain local delivery of cells and growth factors, reporting promising results. Combined therapies that target multiple aspects of tissue repair and regeneration remain in preclinical testing but have shown translational value. This review highlights the myriad of therapeutic material sources, administration methods, and carriers that have been tested. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Therapies that promote endometrial proliferation, vascular development, and tissue repair may help restore endometrial function and, ultimately, fertility. Based on the existing evidence, cost, accessibility, and availability of the therapies, we propose the development of triple-hit regenerative strategies, potentially combining high-yield MSCs (e.g. from bone marrow or umbilical cord) with acellular treatments (PRP), possibly integrated in ECM hydrogels. Advances in biotechnologies together with insights from preclinical models will pave the way for developing personalized treatment regimens for patients with infertility-causing endometrial disorders such as AS/IUA, EA/TE, and endometritis. REGISTRATION NUMBER https://osf.io/th8yf/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Rodríguez-Eguren
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Clara Bueno-Fernandez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - María Gómez-Álvarez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Emilio Francés-Herrero
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - José Bellver
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA
| | - Irene Cervelló
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
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Fan J, Xie J, Liao Y, Lai B, Zhou G, Lian W, Xiong J. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells and auto-crosslinked hyaluronic acid gel complex for treatment of intrauterine adhesion. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:6273-6289. [PMID: 38568100 PMCID: PMC11042966 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to explore the therapeutic characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells generated from human umbilical cord (hUC-MSCs) when utilized in conjunction with auto-crosslinked hyaluronic acid gel (HA-gel) for the management of intrauterine adhesion (IUA). The goal was to see how this novel therapy could enhance healing and improve outcomes for IUA patients. METHODS In this study, models of intrauterine adhesion (IUA) were established in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, which were then organized and divided into hUC-MSCs groups. The groups involved: hUC-MSCs/HA-gel group, control group, and HA-gel group. Following treatment, the researchers examined the uterine cavities and performed detailed analyses of the endometrial tissues to determine the effectiveness of the interventions. RESULTS The results indicated that in comparison with to the control group, both HA-gel, hUC-MSCs, and hUC-MSCs/HA-gel groups showed partial repair of IUA. However, in a more notable fashion transplantation of hUC-MSCs/HA-gel complex demonstrated significant dual repair effects. Significant outcomes were observed in the group treated with hUC-MSCs and HA-gel, they showed thicker endometrial layers, less fibrotic tissue, and a higher number of endometrial glands. This treatment strategy also resulted in a significant improvement in fertility restoration, indicating a profound therapeutic effect. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest that both HA-gel, hUC-MSCs, and hUC-MSCs/HA-gel complexes have the potential for partial repair of IUA and fertility restoration caused by endometrium mechanical injury. Nonetheless, the transplantation of the hUC-MSCs/HA-gel complex displayed exceptional dual healing effects, combining effective anti-adhesive properties with endometrial regeneration stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingying Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunsheng Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Baoyu Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Guixin Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenqin Lian
- Department of Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, Guangdong, China
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Zhu Y, Bao M, Wang T, Ai X, Qiu D, Wang C. Novel therapeutic targets, including IGFBP3, of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem-cell-conditioned medium in intrauterine adhesion. Biol Open 2024; 13:bio060141. [PMID: 38224009 PMCID: PMC10886714 DOI: 10.1242/bio.060141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells play important roles in repairing injured endometrium. However, the molecular targets and potential mechanism of the endometrial recipient cells for stem cell therapy in intrauterine adhesion (IUA) are poorly understood. In this study, umbilical cord mesenchymal stem-cell-conditioned medium (UCMSCs-CM) produced positive effects on a Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) induced IUA cell model. RNA-sequencing was performed on clinical IUA tissues, and the top 40 upregulated and top 20 downregulated mRNAs were selected and verified using high-throughput (HT) qPCR in both tissues and cell models. Based on a bioinformatic analysis of RNA-sequencing and HT-qPCR results, 11 mRNAs were uncovered to be the intervention targets of UCMSCs-CM on IUA endometrium cell models. Among them, IGFBP3 was striking as a key pathogenic gene and a potential diagnostic marker of IUA, which exhibited the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity were 0.924, 93.1% and 80.6%, respectively in 60 endometrial tissues. The silencing of IGFBP3 exerted positive effects on the IUA cell model through partially upregulating MMP1 and KLF2. In conclusion, RNA-sequencing combined with HT qPCR based on clinical tissues and IUA cell models were used in IUA research and our results may provide some scientific ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Mingjie Bao
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ai
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Dewen Qiu
- Clinical laboratory, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Changhua Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, 330000, China
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Saad-Naguib MH, Kenfack Y, Sherman LS, Chafitz OB, Morelli SS. Impaired receptivity of thin endometrium: therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1268990. [PMID: 38344687 PMCID: PMC10854221 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1268990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a resilient and highly dynamic tissue, undergoing cyclic renewal in preparation for embryo implantation. Cyclic endometrial regeneration depends on the intact function of several cell types, including parenchymal, endothelial, and immune cells, as well as adult stem cells that can arise from endometrial or extrauterine sources. The ability of the endometrium to undergo rapid, repeated regeneration without scarring is unique to this tissue. However, if this tissue renewal process is disrupted or dysfunctional, women may present clinically with infertility due to endometrial scarring or persistent atrophic/thin endometrium. Such disorders are rate-limiting in the treatment of female infertility and in the success of in vitro fertilization because of a dearth of treatment options specifically targeting the endometrium. A growing number of studies have explored the potential of adult stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), to treat women with disorders of endometrial regeneration. MSCs are multipotent adult stem cells with capacity to differentiate into cells such as adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. In addition to their differentiation capacity, MSCs migrate toward injured sites where they secrete bioactive factors (e.g. cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, proteins and extracellular vesicles) to aid in tissue repair. These factors modulate biological processes critical for tissue regeneration, such as angiogenesis, cell migration and immunomodulation. The MSC secretome has therefore attracted significant attention for its therapeutic potential. In the uterus, studies utilizing rodent models and limited human trials have shown a potential benefit of MSCs and the MSC secretome in treatment of endometrial infertility. This review will explore the potential of MSCs to treat women with impaired endometrial receptivity due to a thin endometrium or endometrial scarring. We will provide context supporting leveraging MSCs for this purpose by including a review of mechanisms by which the MSC secretome promotes regeneration and repair of nonreproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Saad-Naguib
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Yannick Kenfack
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Lauren S. Sherman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Olivia B. Chafitz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States
| | - Sara S. Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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Wang J, Qin W, Zhong Y, Hu H, Yang J, Huang H, Huang N, Liu S, Li J, Zheng L, Qin A, Lu Z. Injectable collagen hydrogel combines human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells to promote endometrial regeneration in rats with thin endometrium. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127591. [PMID: 37884246 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The regeneration of thin endometrium still remains as a great challenge in the field of reproductive medicine. Stem cells-based therapy has been considered as a promising strategy for the restoration of thin endometrium. However, the low transplantation and retention rate of stem cells and loss of stemness due to in vitro expansion limits the therapeutic efficacy. In our study, we combined collagen hydrogel and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (uMSCs) for improving the regeneration of thin endometrium, by using the potent pluripotency and low immunogenicity of uMSCs and collagen hydrogel that promotes the anchorage and proliferation of stem cells. Results showed that collagen hydrogel has favorable biocompatibility and the capacity to enhance the cell viability and expression of stemness-associated genes (including organic cation/carnitine transporter4 (Oct-4), Nanog homeobox (Nanog) and SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2)) of uMSCs. The combination of collagen hydrogel and uMSCs prolonged the retention time of the constructs in the uterine cavity and improved endometrial thickness compared with uMSCs alone, leading to increase the fertility of the rats with thin endometrium. These highlighted therapeutic prospects of collagen hydrogel combined with uMSCs for the minimally invasive therapy of thin endometrium in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Wang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Weili Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Yanping Zhong
- Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Junxu Yang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Hanji Huang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Nanchang Huang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Shuhan Liu
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Jiaxu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Aiping Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Zhenhui Lu
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
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Li Y, An S, Deng C, Xiao S. Human Acellular Amniotic Membrane as Skin Substitute and Biological Scaffold: A Review of Its Preparation, Preclinical Research, and Clinical Application. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2249. [PMID: 37765218 PMCID: PMC10534359 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human acellular amniotic membrane (HAAM) has emerged as a promising tool in the field of regenerative medicine, particularly for wound healing and tissue regeneration. HAAM provides a natural biological scaffold with low immunogenicity and good anti-infective and anti-scarring results. Despite its potential, the clinic application of HAAM faces challenges, particularly with respect to the preparation methods and its low mechanical strength. This review provides a comprehensive overview of HAAM, covering its preparation, sterilization, preclinical research, and clinical applications. This review also discusses promising decellularization and sterilization methods, such as Supercritical Carbon Dioxide (SC-CO2), and the need for further research into the regenerative mechanisms of HAAM. In addition, we discuss the potential of HAAM as a skin dressing and cell delivery system in preclinical research and clinical applications. Both the safety and effectiveness of HAAM have been validated by extensive research, which provides a robust foundation for its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqi Li
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China;
| | - Siyu An
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China;
| | - Chengliang Deng
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China;
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China;
| | - Shune Xiao
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China;
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China;
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7
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Wang S, Liu T, Nan N, Lu C, Liang M, Wang S, Wang H, He B, Chen X, Xu X, Zheng Y. Exosomes from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Facilitates Injured Endometrial Restoring in Early Repair Period through miR-202-3p Mediating Formation of ECM. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:1954-1964. [PMID: 37226011 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10549-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial damage repair disorder is the main reason of intrauterine adhesions (IUA) and thin endometrium (TA), which is caused by curettage or infection. Exosomal miRNAs derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs) were reported to play an important role in damage repair disorder, including endometrial fibrosis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of hucMSCs-derived exosomal microRNA-202-3p (miR-202-3p) in endometrial damage repair. We established rat endometrial injury model according to curettage to mimic women curettage abortion operation. The miRNA array analysis indicated that miR-202-3p was increased and matrix metallopeptidase 11 (MMP11) was decreased in the exosomes-treated rat uterine tissues. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that MMP11 is the target gene of miR-202-3p. We observed that the mRNA and protein of MMP11 were significantly decreased in exosome treatment group on day 3, and the components of extracellular matrix (ECM) COL1A1, COL3A1, COLVI and fibronectin (FN) protein were increased. And we found that when the injured human stromal cells were treated with miR-202-3p overexpression exosomes, the COLVI and FN were also upregulated in protein and mRNA expression level. For the first time MMP11 was proved to be the target gene of miR-202-3p by dual luciferase reporter system. At last, we found the state of stromal cells was better in miR-202-3p overexpression exosomes group compared to exosomes group, and miR-202-3p overexpression exosomes markedly upregulated the FN and collagen on day 3 after endometrial injury. We thought that miR-202-3p overexpression exosomes promoted endometrial repair by regulating ECM remodeling in early repair of damaged endometrium. Taken together, these experimental findings may provide a theoretical basis for understanding endometrial repair and an insight into the clinical treatment for IUA. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells exosomal miR-202-3p could regulate the expression of MMP11 and promote the accumulation of extracellular matrix, such as COL1A1, COL3A1, COLVI, FN, in the early repair period of endometrial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufang Wang
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
| | - Nan Nan
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
| | - Cong Lu
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
| | - Min Liang
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
| | - Siyu Wang
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
| | - Hu Wang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China
| | - Xihua Chen
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China.
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China.
| | - Xiangbo Xu
- Department of Reproduction and Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China.
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100081 & 100730, China.
| | - Yufeng Zheng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
- International Research Organization for Advanced Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, 2-39-1 Kurokami, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto, 860-8555, Japan.
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Zhang D, Du Q, Li C, Ding C, Chen J, He Y, Duan T, Feng Q, Yu Y, Zhou Q. Functionalized Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Injectable HA/Gel Hydrogel Synergy in Endometrial Repair and Fertility Recovery. Acta Biomater 2023:S1742-7061(23)00339-2. [PMID: 37331615 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) caused by endometrial injury are one of the main causes of female infertility. The current treatments for endometrial injury offer limited clinical benefits and cannot improve endometrial receptivity and pregnancy outcomes. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine are considered potential solutions to address this concern and may offer effective treatment methods for the regeneration of injured human endometrium. Herein, we prepared an injectable hydrogel based on oxidized hyaluronic acid (HA-CHO) and hydrazide-grafted gelatin (Gel-ADH). The injectable hydrogel showed satisfactory biocompatibility when mixed with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs). In an endometrial injury rat model, the treatment with hUCMSCs-loaded injectable hydrogel significantly enhanced the thickness of the endometrium and increased the abundance of blood vessels and glands in the injured endometrium compared to the control group. The hUCMSCs-loaded injectable hydrogel treatment significantly reduced endometrial fibrosis, decreased the expression of the pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β and IL-6) and increased the expression of the anti-inflammatory factor (IL-10). This treatment induced endometrial VEGF expression by activating the MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Moreover, this treatment improved endometrial receptivity to the embryo and restored the embryo implantation rate similar to the sham group (48% in the sham group vs 46% in the treatment group), and this treatment achieved pregnancy and live birth in rats with endometrial injury. In addition, we also preliminarily validated the safety of this treatment in the maternal rats and fetuses. Collectively, our study showed that the hUCMSCs-loaded injectable hydrogel hold potential as an effective treatment strategy promoting rapid recovery of endometrial injury, and this hydrogel is a promising biomaterial for regenerative medicine applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : 1. Oxidized hyaluronic acid (HA-CHO)/hydrazide-grafted gelatin (Gel-ADH) hydrogel combined with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) are effective in improving the regeneration of endometrium in the endometrial injury rat model. 2. The hUCMSCs-loaded hydrogel treatment promotes the expression of endometrial VEGF through MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway and regulates the balance of inflammatory factors. 3. The embryo implantation and live birth rates restore to normal level in the endometrial injury rat model, and the hydrogel has no adverse effects on maternal rats, fetuses, and offspring development after the treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghai Zhang
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Qianqian Du
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Department of Biomaterial, College of Life Sciences, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang 157011, China
| | - Cong Li
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Department of Biomaterial, College of Life Sciences, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang 157011, China
| | - Chuanfeng Ding
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Junfeng Chen
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Yun He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Tao Duan
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qian Feng
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Yongsheng Yu
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China.
| | - Qian Zhou
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China; Department of Reproductive Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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9
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Rodríguez-Eguren A, Gómez-Álvarez M, Francés-Herrero E, Romeu M, Ferrero H, Seli E, Cervelló I. Human Umbilical Cord-Based Therapeutics: Stem Cells and Blood Derivatives for Female Reproductive Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415942. [PMID: 36555583 PMCID: PMC9785531 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There are several conditions that lead to female infertility, where traditional or conventional treatments have limited efficacy. In these challenging scenarios, stem cell (SC) therapies have been investigated as alternative treatment strategies. Human umbilical cord (hUC) mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSC), along with their secreted paracrine factors, extracts, and biomolecules, have emerged as promising therapeutic alternatives in regenerative medicine, due to their remarkable potential to promote anti-inflammatory and regenerative processes more efficiently than other autologous treatments. Similarly, hUC blood derivatives, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or isolated plasma elements, such as growth factors, have also demonstrated potential. This literature review aims to summarize the recent therapeutic advances based on hUC-MSCs, hUC blood, and/or other plasma derivatives (e.g., extracellular vesicles, hUC-PRP, and growth factors) in the context of female reproductive medicine. We present an in-depth analysis of the principal molecules mediating tissue regeneration, compiling the application of these therapies in preclinical and clinical studies, within the context of the human reproductive tract. Despite the recent advances in bioengineering strategies that sustain delivery and amplify the scope of the therapeutic benefits, further clinical trials are required prior to the wide implementation of these alternative therapies in reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Rodríguez-Eguren
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 05610, USA
| | | | - Emilio Francés-Herrero
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Mónica Romeu
- Gynecological Service, Consortium General University Hospital of Valencia, 46014 Valencia, Spain
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 05610, USA
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA
| | - Irene Cervelló
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: or
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10
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Liang S, Huang Y, Xia Y, Liang S, Wu Q, Zhi Z. Animal models in intrauterine adhesion research. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:3409-3415. [PMID: 36129458 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2124854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a gynaecological disease caused by uterine cavity surgeries and infections that leads to partial or total occlusion of the uterine cavity. However, the underlying mechanism(s) and progression of the disease have not yet been identified. IUA has a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis, and effective drugs to prevent adhesion are lacking. Therefore, establishing an effective animal model of IUA is of great significance for revealing the pathogenesis of IUA and the mechanism(s) governing drug effects. Rats, mice, rabbits, and other animals are currently used to establish intrauterine adhesion models. The IUA induction methods include chemical, thermal, or mechanical damage and mechanical damage combined with an infective method. We analysed the advantages and disadvantages of various models and their clinical simulations in order to provide a precise animal model for exploring the pathogenesis, treatment strategies, and prevention of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanlan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanfen Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Qiaoling Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Zhifu Zhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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11
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Li X, Huang Q, Zhang X, Xie C, Liu M, Yuan Y, Feng J, Xing H, Ru L, Yuan Z, Xu Z, Yang Y, Long Y, Xing C, Song J, Hu X, Xu Q. Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity Assessment of Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Rats. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:883996. [PMID: 35663387 PMCID: PMC9160830 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.883996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have shown very attractive potential in clinical applications for the treatment of various diseases. However, the data about the reproductive and developmental toxicity of hUC-MSCs remains insufficient. Thus, we assessed the potential effects of intravenous injection of hUC-MSCs on reproduction and development in Sprague-Dawley rats. Methods: In the fertility and early embryonic development study, hUC-MSCs were administered at dose levels of 0, 6.0 × 106, 8.5 × 106, and 1.2 × 107/kg to male and female rats during the pre-mating, mating and gestation period. In the embryo-fetal development study, the pregnant female rats received 0, 6.0 × 106, 1.2 × 107, and 2.4 × 107/kg of hUC-MSCs from gestation days (GD) 6-15. Assessments made included mortality, clinical observations, body weight, food consumption, fertility parameters of male and female, litter, and fetus parameters, etc. Results: No hUC-MSCs-related toxicity was observed on the fertility of male and female rats, and no teratogenic effect on fetuses. hUC-MSCs at 1.2 × 107/kg caused a mildly decrease in body weight gain of male rats, transient listlessness, tachypnea, and hematuria symptoms in pregnant female rats. Death was observed in part of the pregnant females at a dose of 2.4 × 107/kg, which could be due to pulmonary embolism. Conclusion: Based on the results of the studies, the no-observed-adverse-effect levels (NOAELs) are 8.5 × 106/kg for fertility and early embryonic development, 1.2 × 107/kg for maternal toxicity and 2.4 × 107/kg for embryo-fetal development in rats intravenous injected with hUC-MSCs, which are equivalent to 8.5-fold, 12-fold, and 24-fold respectively of its clinical dosage in humans. These findings may provide a rational basis for human health risk assessment of hUC-MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Li
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Country Sci-Tech Industrial Park, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qijing Huang
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangxiang Zhang
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changfeng Xie
- Shenzhen Beike Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Muyun Liu
- Shenzhen Beike Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Yueming Yuan
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Country Sci-Tech Industrial Park, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianjia Feng
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoyu Xing
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Ru
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Country Sci-Tech Industrial Park, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Yuan
- Country Sci-Tech Industrial Park, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Xu
- Country Sci-Tech Industrial Park, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - YaoXiang Yang
- Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Long
- Guangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengfeng Xing
- Country Sci-Tech Industrial Park, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianping Song
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Hu
- Shenzhen Beike Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Qin Xu
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Future Challenges and Opportunities of Extracellular Matrix Hydrogels in Female Reproductive Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073765. [PMID: 35409119 PMCID: PMC8998701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioengineering and reproductive medicine have progressed shoulder to shoulder for several decades. A key point of overlap is the development and clinical translation of technologies to support reproductive health, e.g., scaffold-free constructs, polymeric scaffolds, bioprinting or microfluidics, and hydrogels. Hydrogels are the focus of intense study, and those that are derived from the extracellular matrix (ECM) of reproductive tissues and organs are emerging as promising new players given their results in pre-clinical models. This literature review addresses the recent advances in the use of organ-specific ECM hydrogels in reproductive medicine, considering the entire female reproductive tract. We discuss in-depth papers describing the development of ECM hydrogels, their use in in vitro models, and their in vivo application in preclinical studies. We also summarize the functions of hydrogels, including as grafts, carriers for cell transplantation, or drug depots, and present the potential and possible scope for use of ECM hydrogels in the near future based on recent scientific advances.
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13
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Yang R, Wang Z, Li J, Pi X, Wang X, Xu Y, Shi Y, Zhou S. Identification and Verification of Five Potential Biomarkers Related to Skin and Thermal Injury Using Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis. Front Genet 2022; 12:781589. [PMID: 35047008 PMCID: PMC8762241 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.781589] [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: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Burn injury is a life-threatening disease that does not have ideal biomarkers. Therefore, this study first applied weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differentially expressed gene (DEG) screening methods to identify pivotal genes and diagnostic biomarkers associated with the skin burn process. Methods: After obtaining transcriptomic datasets of burn patient skin and normal skin from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and performing differential analysis and functional enrichment, WGCNA was used to identify hub gene modules associated with burn skin processes in the burn patient peripheral blood sample dataset and determine the correlation between modules and clinical features. Enrichment analysis was performed to identify the functions and pathways of key module genes. Differential analysis, WGCNA, protein-protein interaction analysis, and enrichment analysis were utilized to screen for hub genes. Hub genes were validated in two other GEO datasets, tested by immunohistochemistry for hub gene expression in burn patients, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed. Finally, we constructed the specific drug activity, transcription factors, and microRNA regulatory network of the five hub genes. Results: A total of 1,373 DEGs in GSE8056 were obtained, and the top 5 upregulated genes were S100A12, CXCL8, CXCL5, MMP3, and MMP1, whereas the top 5 downregulated genes were SCGB1D2, SCGB2A2, DCD, TSPAN8, and KRT25. DEGs were significantly enriched in the immunity, epidermal development, and skin development processes. In WGCNA, the yellow module was identified as the most closely associated module with tissue damage during the burn process, and the five hub genes (ANXA3, MCEMP1, MMP9, S100A12, and TCN1) were identified as the key genes for burn injury status, which consistently showed high expression in burn patient blood samples in the GSE37069 and GSE13902 datasets. Furthermore, we verified using immunohistochemistry that these five novel hub genes were also significantly elevated in burn patient skin. In addition, MCEMP1, MMP9, and S100A12 showed perfect diagnostic performance in the receiver operating characteristic analysis. Conclusion: In conclusion, we analyzed the changes in genetic processes in the skin during burns and used them to identify five potential novel diagnostic markers in blood samples from burn patients, which are important for burn patient diagnosis. In particular, MCEMP1, MMP9, and S100A12 are three key blood biomarkers that can be used to identify skin damage in burn patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronghua Yang
- Department of Burn Surgery and Skin Regeneration, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Zhengguang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jiehua Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Xiaobing Pi
- Department of Dermatology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Xiaoxiang Wang
- Department of Burn Surgery and Skin Regeneration, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Department of Wound Repair and Institute of Wound Repair, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sitong Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
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Sun D, Jiang Z, Chen Y, Shang D, Miao P, Gao J. MiR-455-5p upregulation in umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells attenuates endometrial injury and promotes repair of damaged endometrium via Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling. Bioengineered 2021; 12:12891-12904. [PMID: 34784837 PMCID: PMC8810187 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2006976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) are regarded as an ideal source for clinical use. Increasing evidence has suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) work as a crucial regulator in the development of plentiful diseases, including intrauterine adhesions (IUA). Herein, we investigated the specific impacts of UCMSCs overexpressing miR-455-5p in IUA. UCMSCs were cocultured with endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Thirty-two female mice were divided into four different treated groups: sham, model, model + UCMSC-miR-NC and model + UCMSC-miR-455-5p. Mice in model groups were induced by uterine curettage. MiR-455-5p overexpressed UCMSCs facilitated the proliferation and cell cycle progression of ESCs according to 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine assay and flow cytometry analysis. Hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining revealed that miR-455-5p upregulation in UCMSCs increased the number of endometrial glands and suppressed endometrial fibrosis in murine uterine tissues. Western blotting displayed that miR-455-5p overexpressed UCMSCs promoted the activation of Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling in ESCs and murine uterine tissues. Mechanistically, miR-455-5p targeted 3’ untranslated region of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), which was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that miR-455-5p was lowly expressed and SOCS3 was highly expressed in murine uterine tissues of IUA model. Moreover, Pearson correlation analysis showed that their expression was inversely correlated. Rescue assays suggested that inhibiting JAK/STAT3 signaling reversed effects of miR-455-5p on the behaviors of ESCs. The results indicated that miR-455-5p overexpression in UCMSCs helps to attenuate endometrial injury and repair damaged endometrium by activating SOCS3-mediated JAK/STAT3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyan Sun
- Department of Gynecology, Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Zhihe Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Yanling Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Di Shang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Pan Miao
- Yangtze University Health Science Center, Jingzhou 430199, Hubei, China
| | - Jian Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
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