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Svigkou A, Katsi V, Kordalis VG, Tsioufis K. The Molecular Basis of the Augmented Cardiovascular Risk in Offspring of Mothers with Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5455. [PMID: 38791492 PMCID: PMC11121482 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105455] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The review examines the impact of maternal preeclampsia (PE) on the cardiometabolic and cardiovascular health of offspring. PE, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, is responsible for 2 to 8% of pregnancy-related complications. It significantly contributes to adverse outcomes for their infants, affecting the time of birth, the birth weight, and cardiometabolic risk factors such as blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), abdominal obesity, lipid profiles, glucose, and insulin. Exposure to PE in utero predisposes offspring to an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) through mechanisms that are not fully understood. The incidence of CMD and CVD is constantly increasing, whereas CVD is the main cause of morbidity and mortality globally. A complex interplay of genes, environment, and developmental programming is a plausible explanation for the development of endothelial dysfunction, which leads to atherosclerosis and CVD. The underlying molecular mechanisms are angiogenic imbalance, inflammation, alterations in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), endothelium-derived components, serotonin dysregulation, oxidative stress, and activation of both the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Moreover, the potential role of epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation and microRNAs as mediators of these effects is emphasized, suggesting avenues for future research and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasiliki Katsi
- Cardiology Department, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece;
| | - Vasilios G. Kordalis
- School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- Cardiology Department, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece;
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Alexander BT, South AM, August P, Bertagnolli M, Ferranti EP, Grobe JL, Jones EJ, Loria AS, Safdar B, Sequeira-Lopez MLS. Appraising the Preclinical Evidence of the Role of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in Antenatal Programming of Maternal and Offspring Cardiovascular Health Across the Life Course: Moving the Field Forward: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Hypertension 2023; 80:e75-e89. [PMID: 36951054 PMCID: PMC10242542 DOI: 10.1161/hyp.0000000000000227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the long-term cardiovascular health of women with complicated pregnancies and their affected offspring. Emerging antenatal risk factors such as preeclampsia appear to increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease across the life course in both the offspring and women after pregnancy. However, the antenatal programming mechanisms responsible are complex and incompletely understood, with roots in alterations in the development, structure, and function of the kidney, heart, vasculature, and brain. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is a major regulator of maternal-fetal health through the placental interface, as well as kidney and cardiovascular tissue development and function. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system dysregulation plays a critical role in the development of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and programming of long-term adverse cardiovascular health in both the mother and the offspring. An improved understanding of antenatal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system programming is crucial to identify at-risk individuals and to facilitate development of novel therapies to prevent and treat disease across the life course. Given the inherent complexities of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, it is imperative that preclinical and translational research studies adhere to best practices to accurately and rigorously measure components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. This comprehensive synthesis of preclinical and translational scientific evidence of the mechanistic role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in antenatal programming of hypertension and cardiovascular disease will help (1) to ensure that future research uses best research practices, (2) to identify pressing needs, and (3) to guide future investigations to maximize potential outcomes. This will facilitate more rapid and efficient translation to clinical care and improve health outcomes.
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Dubey H, Sharma RK, Krishnan S, Knickmeyer R. SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) as a possible risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1021721. [PMID: 36590303 PMCID: PMC9800937 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1021721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnant women constitute one of the most vulnerable populations to be affected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, the cause of coronavirus disease 2019. SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy could negatively impact fetal brain development via multiple mechanisms. Accumulating evidence indicates that mother to fetus transmission of SARS-CoV-2 does occur, albeit rarely. When it does occur, there is a potential for neuroinvasion via immune cells, retrograde axonal transport, and olfactory bulb and lymphatic pathways. In the absence of maternal to fetal transmission, there is still the potential for negative neurodevelopmental outcomes as a consequence of disrupted placental development and function leading to preeclampsia, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction. In addition, maternal immune activation may lead to hypomyelination, microglial activation, white matter damage, and reduced neurogenesis in the developing fetus. Moreover, maternal immune activation can disrupt the maternal or fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis leading to altered neurodevelopment. Finally, pro-inflammatory cytokines can potentially alter epigenetic processes within the developing brain. In this review, we address each of these potential mechanisms. We propose that SARS-CoV-2 could lead to neurodevelopmental disorders in a subset of pregnant women and that long-term studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harikesh Dubey
- Division of Neuroengineering, Institute for Quantitative Health Sciences and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Ravindra K. Sharma
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Suraj Krishnan
- Jacobi Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, The Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Rebecca Knickmeyer
- Division of Neuroengineering, Institute for Quantitative Health Sciences and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States,Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States,*Correspondence: Rebecca Knickmeyer,
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Vesce F, Battisti C, Crudo M. The Inflammatory Cytokine Imbalance for Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss and COVID-19 Pneumonia. Front Immunol 2022; 13:861245. [PMID: 35359975 PMCID: PMC8961687 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.861245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy can be defined a vascular event upon endocrine control. In the human hemo-chorial placentation the chorionic villi penetrate the wall of the uterine spiral arteries, to provide increasing amounts of nutrients and oxygen for optimal fetal growth. In any physiological pregnancy the natural maternal response is of a Th1 inflammatory type, aimed at avoiding blood loss through the arteriolar wall openings. The control of the vascular function, during gestation as in any other condition, is achieved through the action of two main types of prostanoids: prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane on the one hand (for vasoconstriction and coagulation), prostacyclin on the other (for vasodilation and blood fluidification). The control of the maternal immune response is upon the responsibility of the fetus itself. Indeed, the chorionic villi are able to counteract the natural maternal response, thus changing the inflammatory Th1 type into the anti-inflammatory Th2. Clinical and experimental research in the past half century address to inflammation as the leading cause of abortion, pregnancy loss, premature delivery and related pulmonary, cerebral, intestinal fetal syndromes. Increased level of Interleukin 6, Interleukin 1-beta, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alfa, Interferon-gamma, are some among the well-known markers of gestational inflammation. On the other side, COVID-19 pneumonia is a result of extensive inflammation induced by viral replication within the cells of the respiratory tract. As it may happen in the uterine arteries in the absence of an effective fetal control, viral pneumonia triggers pulmonary vascular coagulation. The cytokines involved in the process are the same as those in gestational inflammation. As the fetus breathes throughout the placenta, fetal death from placental thrombosis is similar to adult death from pulmonary thrombosis. Preventing and counteracting inflammation is mandatory in both conditions. The most relevant literature dealing with the above-mentioned concepts is reviewed in the present article.
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Shukla V, Soares MJ. Modeling Trophoblast Cell-Guided Uterine Spiral Artery Transformation in the Rat. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23062947. [PMID: 35328368 PMCID: PMC8950824 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23062947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The rat possesses hemochorial placentation with deep intrauterine trophoblast cell invasion and trophoblast-guided uterine spiral artery remodeling, which resembles human placentation. Uterine spiral arteries are extensively remodeled to deliver sufficient supply of maternal blood and nutrients to the developing fetus. Inadequacies in these key processes negatively impact fetal growth and development. Recent innovations in genome editing combined with effective phenotyping strategies have provided new insights into placental development. Application of these research approaches has highlighted both conserved and species-specific features of hemochorial placentation. The review provides foundational information on rat hemochorial placental development and function during physiological and pathological states, especially as related to the invasive trophoblast cell-guided transformation of uterine spiral arteries. Our goal is to showcase the utility of the rat as a model for in vivo mechanistic investigations targeting regulatory events within the uterine-placental interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Shukla
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Correspondence: (V.S.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Michael J. Soares
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Center for Perinatal Research, Children’s Mercy Research Institute, Children’s Mercy, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Correspondence: (V.S.); (M.J.S.)
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Garner KL, Bowdridge EC, Griffith JA, DeVallance E, Seman MG, Engels KJ, Groth CP, Goldsmith WT, Wix K, Batchelor TP, Nurkiewicz TR. Maternal Nanomaterial Inhalation Exposure: Critical Gestational Period in the Uterine Microcirculation is Angiotensin II Dependent. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2022; 22:167-180. [PMID: 35066857 PMCID: PMC9013006 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-021-09712-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Maternal inhalation exposure to engineered nanomaterials (ENM) has been associated with microvascular dysfunction and adverse cardiovascular responses. Pregnancy requires coordinated vascular adaptation and growth that are imperative for survival. Key events in pregnancy hallmark distinct periods of gestation such as implantation, spiral artery remodeling, placentation, and trophoblast invasion. Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a critical vasoactive mediator responsible for adaptations and is implicated in the pathology of preeclampsia. If perturbations occur during gestation, such as those caused by ENM inhalation exposure, then maternal-fetal health consequences may occur. Our study aimed to identify the period of gestation in which maternal microvascular functional and fetal health are most vulnerable. Additionally, we wanted to determine if Ang II sensitivity and receptor density is altered due to exposure. Dams were exposed to ENM aerosols (nano-titanium dioxide) during three gestational windows: early (EE, gestational day (GD) 2-6), mid (ME, GD 8-12) or late (LE, GD 15-19). Within the EE group dry pup mass decreased by 16.3% and uterine radial artery wall to lumen ratio (WLR) increased by 25.9%. Uterine radial artery response to Ang II sensitivity increased by 40.5% in the EE group. Ang II receptor density was altered in the EE and LE group with decreased levels of AT2R. We conclude that early gestational maternal inhalation exposures resulted in altered vascular anatomy and physiology. Exposure during this time-period results in altered vascular reactivity and changes to uterine radial artery WLR, leading to decreased perfusion to the fetus and resulting in lower pup mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista L Garner
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Bowdridge
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Julie A Griffith
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Evan DeVallance
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Madison G Seman
- Division of Exercise Physiology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Kevin J Engels
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Caroline P Groth
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - William T Goldsmith
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Kim Wix
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Thomas P Batchelor
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Timothy R Nurkiewicz
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA.
- Center for Inhalation Toxicology (iTOX), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, 64 Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, 26506-9229, USA.
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Bakrania BA, George EM, Granger JP. Animal models of preeclampsia: investigating pathophysiology and therapeutic targets. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S973-S987. [PMID: 33722383 PMCID: PMC8141071 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Animal models have been critical in investigating the pathogenesis, mediators, and even therapeutic options for a number of diseases, including preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The placenta is thought to play a central role in the pathogenesis of this disease because it releases antiangiogenic and proinflammatory factors into the maternal circulation, resulting in the maternal syndrome. Despite the deleterious effects preeclampsia has been shown to have on the mother and baby during pregnancy and postpartum, there is still no effective treatment for this disease. Although clinical studies in patients are crucial to identify the involvement of pathogenic factors in preeclampsia, there are obvious limitations that prevent detailed investigation of the quantitative importance of time-dependent mechanisms involved in this syndrome. Animal models allow investigators to perform proof-of-concept studies and examine whether certain factors found in women with preeclampsia mediate hypertension and other manifestations of this disease. In this brief review, we summarize some of the more widely studied models used to investigate pathophysiological mechanisms that are thought to be involved in preeclampsia. These include models of placental ischemia, angiogenic imbalance, and maternal immune activation. Infusion of preeclampsia-related factors into animals has been widely studied to understand the specific mediators of this disease. These models have been included, in addition to a number of genetic models involved in overexpression of the renin-angiotensin system, complement activation, and trophoblast differentiation. Together, these models cover multiple mechanisms of preeclampsia from trophoblast dysfunction and impaired placental vascularization to the excess circulating placental factors and clinical manifestation of this disease. Most animal studies have been performed in rats and mice; however, we have also incorporated nonhuman primate models in this review. Preclinical animal models not only have been instrumental in understanding the pathophysiology of preeclampsia but also continue to be important tools in the search for novel therapeutic options for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavisha A Bakrania
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Eric M George
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Joey P Granger
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS.
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Liu Y, Hao H, Lan T, Jia R, Cao M, Zhou L, Zhao Z, Pan W. Physiological and pathological roles of Ang II and Ang- (1-7) in the female reproductive system. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1080285. [PMID: 36619582 PMCID: PMC9817105 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1080285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The local Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) has been demonstrated to exist in a wide range of tissues and organs, In the female reproductive system, it is mainly found in the ovary, uterus and placenta. The RAS system is made up of a series of active substances and enzymes, in addition to the circulating endocrine renin-angiotensin system. The active peptides Angiotensin II (Ang II) and Angiotensin (1-7) (Ang-(1-7)), in particular, appear to have distinct activities in the local RAS system, which also controls blood pressure and electrolytes. Therefore, in addition to these features, angiotensin and its receptors in the reproductive system seemingly get involved in reproductive processes, such as follicle growth and development, as well as physiological functions of the placenta and uterus. In addition, changes in local RAS components may induce reproductive diseases as well as pathological states such as cancer. In most tissues, Ang II and Ang- (1-7) seem to maintain antagonistic effects, but this conclusion is not always true in the reproductive system, where they play similar functions in some physiological and pathological roles. This review investigated how Ang II, Ang- (1-7) and their receptors were expressed, localized, and active in the female reproductive system. This review also summarized their effects on follicle development, uterine and placental physiological functions. The changes of local RAS components in a series of reproductive system diseases including infertility related diseases and cancer and their influence on the occurrence and development of diseases were elucidated. This article reviews the physiological and pathological roles of Ang II and Ang- (1-7) in female reproductive system,a very intricate system of tissue factors that operate as agonists and antagonists was found. Besides, the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting components of this system may be a research direction in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Haomeng Hao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Tingting Lan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Rui Jia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingya Cao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Liang Zhou
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhiming Zhao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- *Correspondence: Wensen Pan, ; Zhiming Zhao,
| | - Wensen Pan
- Second Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- *Correspondence: Wensen Pan, ; Zhiming Zhao,
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Miller D, Motomura K, Galaz J, Gershater M, Lee ED, Romero R, Gomez-Lopez N. Cellular immune responses in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. J Leukoc Biol 2022; 111:237-260. [PMID: 33847419 PMCID: PMC8511357 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5ru1120-787rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia, defined as new-onset hypertension accompanied by proteinuria occurring at 20 weeks of gestation or later, is a leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The pathophysiology of this major multi-systemic syndrome includes defective deep placentation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, the presence of an anti-angiogenic state, and intravascular inflammation, among others. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the cellular immune responses involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Specifically, we summarize the role of innate and adaptive immune cells in the maternal circulation, reproductive tissues, and at the maternal-fetal interface of women affected by this pregnancy complication. The major cellular subsets involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia are regulatory T cells, effector T cells, NK cells, monocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils. We also summarize the literature on those immune cells that have been less characterized in this clinical condition, such as γδ T cells, invariant natural killer T cells, dendritic cells, mast cells, and B cells. Moreover, we discuss in vivo studies utilizing a variety of animal models of preeclampsia to further support the role of immune cells in this disease. Finally, we highlight the existing gaps in knowledge of the immunobiology of preeclampsia that require further investigation. The goal of this review is to promote translational research leading to clinically relevant strategies that can improve adverse perinatal outcomes resulting from the obstetrical syndrome of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Miller
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS); Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Kenichiro Motomura
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS); Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Jose Galaz
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS); Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Meyer Gershater
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS); Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Eun D. Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS); Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS); Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Reduced urinary angiotensinogen excretion in preeclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2021; 27:1-5. [PMID: 34798372 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2021.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study evaluated urinary angiotensinogen in preeclampsia. METHODS Normal pregnant (n = 57) and preeclamptic patients (n = 31); Normal pregnant (n = 10) and preeclamptic rats (n = 10) were studied. Urinary angiotensinogen and plasma angiotensin II were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS Urinary angiotensinogen in preeclampsia patients (2.0 ± 1.1 ng/mg creatinine) was suppressed (*p < 0.05) compared to normal pregnant (2.7 ± 1.5 ng/mg creatinine). Plasma angiotensin II in preeclampsia patients (preeclampsia: 36.2 ± 7; normal pregnant: 48.1 ± 5 fmol/mL) was lower. The similar result was observed in preeclampsia rat model. CONCLUSIONS The reduced urinary excretion of angiotensinogen was both in human preeclampsia patients and rat model of preeclampsia.
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Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a serious respiratory disease mediated by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The worldwide spread of COVID-19 has caused millions of confirmed cases and morbidity, and the crisis has greatly affected global economy and daily life and changed our attitudes towards life. The reproductive system, as a potential target, is at a high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and females are more vulnerable to viral infection compared with males. Therefore, female fertility and associated reproductive health care in the COVID-19 era need more attention. This review summarises the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the female reproductive system and discusses the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on female fertility. Studies have proven that COVID-19 might affect female fertility and interfere with assisted reproductive technology procedures. The side effects of vaccines against the virus on ovarian reserve and pregnancy have not yet been well investigated. In the future, the female fertility after SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination needs more attention because of the uncertainty of COVID-19.
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Yart L, Roset Bahmanyar E, Cohen M, Martinez de Tejada B. Role of the Uteroplacental Renin-Angiotensin System in Placental Development and Function, and Its Implication in the Preeclampsia Pathogenesis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101332. [PMID: 34680449 PMCID: PMC8533592 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental development and function implicate important morphological and physiological adaptations to thereby ensure efficient maternal–fetal exchanges, as well as pregnancy-specific hormone secretion and immune modulation. Incorrect placental development can lead to severe pregnancy disorders, such as preeclampsia (PE), which endangers both the mother and the infant. The implication of the systemic renin–angiotensin system (RAS) in the pregnancy-related physiological changes is now well established. However, despite the fact that the local uteroplacental RAS has been described for several decades, its role in placental development and function seems to have been underestimated. In this review, we provide an overview of the multiple roles of the uteroplacental RAS in several cellular processes of placental development, its implication in the regulation of placental function during pregnancy, and the consequences of its dysregulation in PE pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Yart
- Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (L.Y.); (M.C.)
| | | | - Marie Cohen
- Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (L.Y.); (M.C.)
| | - Begoña Martinez de Tejada
- Department of Pediatrics, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (L.Y.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence:
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13
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Xue B, Yu Y, Beltz TG, Guo F, Felder RB, Wei SG, Kim Johnson A. Maternal Angiotensin II-Induced Hypertension Sensitizes Postweaning High-Fat Diet-Elicited Hypertensive Response Through Increased Brain Reactivity in Rat Offspring. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e022170. [PMID: 34482712 PMCID: PMC8649524 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.022170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Prenatal and postnatal insults can induce a physiological state that leaves offspring later in life vulnerable to subsequent challenges (stressors) eliciting cardiometabolic diseases including hypertension. In this study, we investigated whether maternal angiotensin II–induced hypertension in rats sensitizes postweaning high‐fat diet (HFD)‐elicited hypertensive response and whether this is associated with autonomic dysfunction and altered central mechanisms controlling sympathetic tone in offspring. Methods and Results When eating a low‐lard‐fat diet, basal mean arterial pressure of male offspring of normotensive or hypertensive dams were comparable. However, HFD feeding significantly increased mean arterial pressure in offspring of normotensive and hypertensive dams, but the elevated mean arterial pressure induced by HFD was greater in offspring of hypertensive dams, which was accompanied by greater sympathetic tone and enhanced pressor responses to centrally administrated angiotensin II or leptin. HFD feeding also produced comparable elevations in cardiac sympathetic activity and plasma levels of angiotensin II, interleukin‐6, and leptin in offspring of normotensive and hypertensive dams. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analyses in key forebrain regions implicated in the control of sympathetic tone and blood pressure indicated that HFD feeding led to greater increases in mRNA expression of leptin, several components of the renin‐angiotensin system and proinflammatory cytokines in offspring of hypertensive dams when compared with offspring of normotensive dams. Conclusions The results indicate that maternal hypertension sensitized male adult offspring to HFD‐induced hypertension. Increased expression of renin‐angiotensin system components and proinflammatory cytokines, elevated brain reactivity to pressor stimuli, and augmented sympathetic drive to the cardiovascular system likely contributed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baojian Xue
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences University of Iowa Iowa City IA
| | - Yang Yu
- Internal Medicine University of Iowa Iowa City IA
| | - Terry G Beltz
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences University of Iowa Iowa City IA
| | - Fang Guo
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences University of Iowa Iowa City IA
| | - Robert B Felder
- Internal Medicine University of Iowa Iowa City IA.,the François M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of Iowa Iowa City IA
| | - Shun-Guang Wei
- Internal Medicine University of Iowa Iowa City IA.,the François M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of Iowa Iowa City IA
| | - Alan Kim Johnson
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences University of Iowa Iowa City IA.,Neuroscience and Pharmacology University of Iowa Iowa City IA.,Health and Human Physiology University of Iowa Iowa City IA.,the François M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of Iowa Iowa City IA
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14
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Azinheira Nobrega Cruz N, Stoll D, Casarini D, Bertagnolli M. Role of ACE2 in pregnancy and potential implications for COVID-19 susceptibility. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:1805-1824. [PMID: 34338772 PMCID: PMC8329853 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In times of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronavirus (CoV)-2 infection on pregnancy is still unclear. The presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2 (ACE2), the main receptor for SARS-CoV-2, in human placentas indicates that this organ can be vulnerable for viral infection during pregnancy. However, for this to happen, additional molecular processes are critical to allow viral entry in cells, its replication and disease manifestation, particularly in the placenta and/or feto-maternal circulation. Beyond the risk of vertical transmission, COVID-19 is also proposed to deplete ACE2 protein and its biological actions in the placenta. It is postulated that such effects may impair essential processes during placentation and maternal hemodynamic adaptations in COVID-19 pregnancy, features also observed in several disorders of pregnancy. This review gathers information indicating risks and protective features related to ACE2 changes in COVID-19 pregnancies. First, we describe the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection having ACE2 as a main entry door and current evidence of viral infection in the placenta. Further, we discuss the central role of ACE2 in physiological systems such as the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS), both active during placentation and hemodynamic adaptations of pregnancy. Significant knowledge gaps are also identified and should be urgently filled to better understand the fate of ACE2 in COVID-19 pregnancies and the potential associated risks. Emerging knowledge will be able to improve the early stratification of high-risk pregnancies with COVID-19 exposure as well as to guide better management and follow-up of these mothers and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayara Azinheira Nobrega Cruz
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Nephrology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Research Center of the Hospital Sacré-Coeur, CIUSSS Nord-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Danielle Stoll
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Nephrology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dulce Elena Casarini
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Nephrology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariane Bertagnolli
- Research Center of the Hospital Sacré-Coeur, CIUSSS Nord-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
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15
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Kedziora SM, Kräker K, Markó L, Binder J, Sugulle M, Gauster M, Müller DN, Dechend R, Haase N, Herse F. Kidney Injury Caused by Preeclamptic Pregnancy Recovers Postpartum in a Transgenic Rat Model. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073762. [PMID: 33916404 PMCID: PMC8038582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by the onset of hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg) and presence of proteinuria (>300 mg/L/24 h urine) or other maternal organ dysfunctions. During human PE, renal injuries have been observed. Some studies suggest that women with PE diagnosis have an increased risk to develop renal diseases later in life. However, in human studies PE as a single cause of this development cannot be investigated. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of PE on postpartum renal damage in an established transgenic PE rat model. Female rats harboring the human-angiotensinogen gene develop a preeclamptic phenotype after mating with male rats harboring the human-renin gene, but are normotensive before and after pregnancy. During pregnancy PE rats developed mild tubular and glomerular changes assessed by histologic analysis, increased gene expression of renal damage markers such as kidney injury marker 1 and connective-tissue growth factor, and albuminuria compared to female wild-type rats (WT). However, four weeks postpartum, most PE-related renal pathologies were absent, including albuminuria and elevated biomarker expression. Only mild enlargement of the glomerular tuft could be detected. Overall, the glomerular and tubular function were affected during pregnancy in the transgenic PE rat. However, almost all these pathologies observed during PE recovered postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M. Kedziora
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), A Joint Cooperation of Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (S.M.K.); (K.K.); (L.M.); (D.N.M.); (R.D.); (N.H.)
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kristin Kräker
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), A Joint Cooperation of Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (S.M.K.); (K.K.); (L.M.); (D.N.M.); (R.D.); (N.H.)
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lajos Markó
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), A Joint Cooperation of Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (S.M.K.); (K.K.); (L.M.); (D.N.M.); (R.D.); (N.H.)
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Binder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Meryam Sugulle
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway;
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway
| | - Martin Gauster
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Centre, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria;
| | - Dominik N. Müller
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), A Joint Cooperation of Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (S.M.K.); (K.K.); (L.M.); (D.N.M.); (R.D.); (N.H.)
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), A Joint Cooperation of Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (S.M.K.); (K.K.); (L.M.); (D.N.M.); (R.D.); (N.H.)
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Helios Klinikum, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nadine Haase
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), A Joint Cooperation of Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (S.M.K.); (K.K.); (L.M.); (D.N.M.); (R.D.); (N.H.)
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), A Joint Cooperation of Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (S.M.K.); (K.K.); (L.M.); (D.N.M.); (R.D.); (N.H.)
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence:
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16
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Forestieri S, Pintus R, Marcialis MA, Pintus MC, Fanos V. COVID-19 and developmental origins of health and disease. Early Hum Dev 2021; 155:105322. [PMID: 33571742 PMCID: PMC7837628 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2021.105322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
From the moment of the identification of SARS-CoV-2 as an etiological agent of the severe clinical pictures of pneumonia that were being slowly observed all over the world, numerous studies have been conducted to increase the knowledge about what was an unknown virus until then. The efforts were mainly aimed to acquire epidemiological, microbiological, pathogenetic, clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive information in order to increase the available weapons to fight an infection which was rapidly taking on the characteristics of the pandemic. Given the topicality of the problem, not everything has yet been fully understood and clarified, especially in the maternal-fetal‑neonatal field, where we are beginning to question what could be the outcomes of newborn babies born to mothers who contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy. Thus, the aim of this review is to analyze the long-term outcomes of this infection that could affect the offspring, regardless of a possible maternal-fetal transmission, focusing on, above all, the role of maternal immune activation and the expression of the Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in particular at the placental level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberta Pintus
- Department of Surgery, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | | | | | - Vassilios Fanos
- Department of Surgery, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy,Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, AOU, Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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17
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Haase N, Foster DJ, Cunningham MW, Bercher J, Nguyen T, Shulga-Morskaya S, Milstein S, Shaikh S, Rollins J, Golic M, Herse F, Kräker K, Bendix I, Serdar M, Napieczynska H, Heuser A, Gellhaus A, Thiele K, Wallukat G, Müller DN, LaMarca B, Dechend R. RNA interference therapeutics targeting angiotensinogen ameliorate preeclamptic phenotype in rodent models. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:2928-2942. [PMID: 32338644 DOI: 10.1172/jci99417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Haase
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany.,Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Mark W Cunningham
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Julia Bercher
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tuyen Nguyen
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jeff Rollins
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michaela Golic
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany.,Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Herse
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany.,Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Kristin Kräker
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany.,Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ivo Bendix
- Department of Pediatrics I Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences and
| | - Meray Serdar
- Department of Pediatrics I Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences and
| | - Hanna Napieczynska
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Arnd Heuser
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Kristin Thiele
- Department of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerd Wallukat
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dominik N Müller
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany.,Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Babbette LaMarca
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany.,Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany.,HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany.Preeclampsia, with the hallmark features of new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation, is a major cause of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality. Studies have demonstrated a role for the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in its pathogenesis; however, small-molecule RAS blockers are contraindicated because of fetal toxicity. We evaluated whether siRNA targeting maternal hepatic angiotensinogen (Agt, ) could ameliorate symptoms of preeclampsia without adverse placental or fetal effects in 2 rodent models. The first model used a cross of females expressing human Agt, with males expressing human renin, resulting in upregulation of the circulating and uteroplacental RAS. The second model induced ischemia/reperfusion injury and subsequent local and systemic inflammation by surgically reducing placental blood flow mid-gestation (reduced uterine perfusion pressure [RUPP]). These models featured hypertension, proteinuria, and fetal growth restriction, with altered biomarkers. siRNA treatment ameliorated the preeclamptic phenotype in both models, reduced blood pressure, and improved intrauterine growth restriction, with no observed deleterious effects on the fetus. Treatment also improved the angiogenic balance and proteinuria in the transgenic model, and it reduced angiotensin receptor activating antibodies in both. Thus, an RNAi therapeutic targeting Agt, ameliorated the clinical sequelae and improved fetal outcomes in 2 rodent models of preeclampsia
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18
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Bakrania BA, Spradley FT, Drummond HA, LaMarca B, Ryan MJ, Granger JP. Preeclampsia: Linking Placental Ischemia with Maternal Endothelial and Vascular Dysfunction. Compr Physiol 2020; 11:1315-1349. [PMID: 33295016 PMCID: PMC7959189 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c200008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE), a hypertensive disorder, occurs in 3% to 8% of pregnancies in the United States and affects over 200,000 women and newborns per year. The United States has seen a 25% increase in the incidence of PE, largely owing to increases in risk factors, including obesity and cardiovascular disease. Although the etiology of PE is not clear, it is believed that impaired spiral artery remodeling of the placenta reduces perfusion, leading to placental ischemia. Subsequently, the ischemic placenta releases antiangiogenic and pro-inflammatory factors, such as cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and the angiotensin II type 1 receptor autoantibody (AT1-AA), among others, into the maternal circulation. These factors cause widespread endothelial activation, upregulation of the endothelin system, and vasoconstriction. In turn, these changes affect the function of multiple organ systems including the kidneys, brain, liver, and heart. Despite extensive research into the pathophysiology of PE, the only treatment option remains early delivery of the baby and importantly, the placenta. While premature delivery is effective in ameliorating immediate risk to the mother, mounting evidence suggests that PE increases risk of cardiovascular disease later in life for both mother and baby. Notably, these women are at increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke, while offspring are at risk of obesity, hypertension, and neurological disease, among other complications, later in life. This article aims to discuss the current understanding of the diagnosis and pathophysiology of PE, as well as associated organ damage, maternal and fetal outcomes, and potential therapeutic avenues. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1315-1349, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavisha A. Bakrania
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Frank T. Spradley
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Heather A. Drummond
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Babbette LaMarca
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Michael J. Ryan
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Joey P. Granger
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
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19
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Yagel S, Verlohren S. Role of placenta in development of pre-eclampsia: revisited. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2020; 56:803-808. [PMID: 32275112 DOI: 10.1002/uog.22040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Yagel
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - S Verlohren
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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20
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Jing Y, Run-Qian L, Hao-Ran W, Hao-Ran C, Ya-Bin L, Yang G, Fei C. Potential influence of COVID-19/ACE2 on the female reproductive system. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 26:367-373. [PMID: 32365180 PMCID: PMC7239105 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) appeared in December 2019 and then spread throughout the world rapidly. The virus invades the target cell by binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2 and modulates the expression of ACE2 in host cells. ACE2, a pivotal component of the renin-angiotensin system, exerts its physiological functions by modulating the levels of angiotensin II (Ang II) and Ang-(1-7). We reviewed the literature that reported the distribution and function of ACE2 in the female reproductive system, hoping to clarify the potential harm of 2019-nCoV to female fertility. The available evidence suggests that ACE2 is widely expressed in the ovary, uterus, vagina and placenta. Therefore, we believe that apart from droplets and contact transmission, the possibility of mother-to-child and sexual transmission also exists. Ang II, ACE2 and Ang-(1-7) regulate follicle development and ovulation, modulate luteal angiogenesis and degeneration, and also influence the regular changes in endometrial tissue and embryo development. Taking these functions into account, 2019-nCoV may disturb the female reproductive functions through regulating ACE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jing
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Li Run-Qian
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Wang Hao-Ran
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Chen Hao-Ran
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Liu Ya-Bin
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Gao Yang
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Chen Fei
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
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21
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Gatford KL, Andraweera PH, Roberts CT, Care AS. Animal Models of Preeclampsia: Causes, Consequences, and Interventions. Hypertension 2020; 75:1363-1381. [PMID: 32248704 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.14598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a common pregnancy complication, affecting 2% to 8% of pregnancies worldwide, and is an important cause of both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Importantly, although aspirin and calcium are able to prevent preeclampsia in some women, there is no cure apart from delivery of the placenta and fetus, often necessitating iatrogenic preterm birth. Preclinical models of preeclampsia are widely used to investigate the causes and consequences of preeclampsia and to evaluate safety and efficacy of potential preventative and therapeutic interventions. In this review, we provide a summary of the published preclinical models of preeclampsia that meet human diagnostic criteria, including the development of maternal hypertension, together with new-onset proteinuria, maternal organ dysfunction, and uteroplacental dysfunction. We then discuss evidence from preclinical models for multiple causal factors of preeclampsia, including those implicated in early-onset and late-onset preeclampsia. Next, we discuss the impact of exposure to a preeclampsia-like environment for later maternal and progeny health. The presence of long-term impairment, particularly cardiovascular outcomes, in mothers and progeny after an experimentally induced preeclampsia-like pregnancy, implies that later onset or reduced severity of preeclampsia will improve later maternal and progeny health. Finally, we summarize published intervention studies in preclinical models and identify gaps in knowledge that we consider should be targets for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L Gatford
- From the Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Prabha H Andraweera
- From the Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Claire T Roberts
- From the Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Alison S Care
- From the Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Australia
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22
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Martell Claros N, Asenjo de la Fuente JE, Abad Cardiel M, García Donaire JA, Herráiz MA. [Role of the renin-angiotensin system in pregnancy and preeclampsia]. HIPERTENSION Y RIESGO VASCULAR 2020; 37:72-77. [PMID: 32147515 DOI: 10.1016/j.hipert.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (ARS) is a hormonal cascade that regulates blood pressure, electrolytes and water balance. AngiotensinII (AII) exerts its effects through the AT1 and AT2 receptors. AT1 is found in the syncytiotrophoblast, AT2 predominates during foetal development and its stimulation inhibits cell growth, increases apoptosis, causes vasodilation and regulates the development of foetal tissue. There is also an SRA in the placenta. The local generation of AII is responsible for the activation of AT1 receptors in the trophoblast. In normal pregnancy, concomitantly with reduction of blood pressure the circulating RAS increases, but blood pressure does not rise due to AII refractoriness, which does not occur in preeclampsia. We review the role of the SRA in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Martell Claros
- Unidad de Hipertensión y Riesgo Vascular, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, España; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, España; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, España.
| | - J E Asenjo de la Fuente
- Unidad de Ecografía y Diagnóstico Prenatal, Instituto de Salud de la Mujer JBLL, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, España
| | - M Abad Cardiel
- Unidad de Hipertensión y Riesgo Vascular, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, España; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, España; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, España
| | - J A García Donaire
- Unidad de Hipertensión y Riesgo Vascular, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, España; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, España
| | - M A Herráiz
- Instituto de Salud de la Mujer JBLL, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, España
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23
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Meyer N, Zenclussen AC. Immune Cells in the Uterine Remodeling: Are They the Target of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals? Front Immunol 2020; 11:246. [PMID: 32140155 PMCID: PMC7043066 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sufficient uterine remodeling is essential for fetal survival and development. Pathologies related to poor remodeling have a negative impact on maternal and fetal health even years after birth. Research of the last decades yielded excellent studies demonstrating the key role of immune cells in the remodeling processes. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the relevance of immune cells for uterine remodeling during pregnancy and further discusses immunomodulatory effects of man-made endocrine disrupting chemicals on immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Meyer
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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24
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Kräker K, Schütte T, O’Driscoll J, Birukov A, Patey O, Herse F, Müller DN, Thilaganathan B, Haase N, Dechend R. Speckle Tracking Echocardiography: New Ways of Translational Approaches in Preeclampsia to Detect Cardiovascular Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031162. [PMID: 32050556 PMCID: PMC7037420 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have shown that women with a preeclamptic pregnancy exhibit an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are unknown. Animal models are essential to investigate the causes of this increased risk and have the ability to assess possible preventive and therapeutic interventions. Using the latest technologies such as speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), it is feasible to map subclinical changes in cardiac diastolic and systolic function as well as structural changes of the maternal heart. The aim of this work is to compare cardiovascular changes in an established transgenic rat model with preeclampsia-like pregnancies with findings from human preeclamptic pregnancies by STE. The same algorithms were used to evaluate and compare the changes in echoes of human and rodents. Parameters of functionality such as global longitudinal strain (animal -23.54 ± 1.82% vs. -13.79 ± 0.57%, human -20.60 ± 0.47% vs. -15.45 ± 1.55%) as well as indications of morphological changes such as relative wall thickness (animal 0.20 ± 0.01 vs. 0.25 ± 0.01, human 0.34 ± 0.01 vs. 0.40 ± 0.02) are significantly altered in both species after preeclamptic pregnancies. Thus, the described rat model simulates the human situation quite well and is a valuable tool for future investigations regarding cardiovascular changes. STE is a unique technique that can be applied in animal models and humans with a high potential to uncover cardiovascular maladaptation and subtle pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Kräker
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
- Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), 10178 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Till Schütte
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), 10178 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, 10785 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jamie O’Driscoll
- Molecular & Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St. George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London SW17 0QT, UK
- Canterbury Christ Church University, School of Human and Life Sciences, Kent CT1 1QU, UK
| | - Anna Birukov
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, 10785 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Molecular Epidemiology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbrücke, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany
| | - Olga Patey
- Molecular & Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St. George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London SW17 0QT, UK
- Brompton Centre for Fetal Cardiology, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
- Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), 10178 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dominik N. Müller
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
- Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), 10178 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Basky Thilaganathan
- Molecular & Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St. George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London SW17 0QT, UK
| | - Nadine Haase
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
- Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), 10178 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, 10785 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max – Delbrück—Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), 10178 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, 10785 Berlin, Germany
- HELIOS-Klinikum, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-30-450540303
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25
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Kräker K, O'Driscoll JM, Schütte T, Herse F, Patey O, Golic M, Geisberger S, Verlohren S, Birukov A, Heuser A, Müller DN, Thilaganathan B, Dechend R, Haase N. Statins Reverse Postpartum Cardiovascular Dysfunction in a Rat Model of Preeclampsia. Hypertension 2019; 75:202-210. [PMID: 31786987 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.13219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is associated with increased cardiovascular long-term risk; however, the underlying functional and structural mechanisms are unknown. We investigated maternal cardiac alterations after preeclampsia. Female rats harboring the human angiotensinogen gene [TGR(hAogen)L1623] develop a preeclamptic phenotype with hypertension and albuminuria during pregnancy when mated with male rats bearing the human renin gene [TGR(hRen)L10J] but behave physiologically normal before and after pregnancy. Furthermore, rats were treated with pravastatin. We tested the hypothesis that statins are a potential therapeutic intervention to reduce cardiovascular alterations due to simulated preeclamptic pregnancy. Although hypertension persists for only 8 days in pregnancy, former preeclampsia rats exhibit significant cardiac hypertrophy 28 days after pregnancy observed in both speckle tracking echocardiography and histological staining. In addition, fibrosis and capillary rarefaction was evident. Pravastatin treatment ameliorated the remodeling and improved cardiac output postpartum. Preeclamptic pregnancy induces irreversible structural changes of cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, which can be moderated by pravastatin treatment. This pathological cardiac remodeling might be involved in increased cardiovascular risk in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Kräker
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
| | - Jamie M O'Driscoll
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, United Kingdom (J.M.O., O.P., B.T.).,Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom (J.M.O., O.P., B.T.).,Canterbury Christ Church University, School of Human and Life Sciences, Kent, United Kingdom (J.M.O.)
| | - Till Schütte
- Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Institute of Pharmacology (T.S.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany
| | - Florian Herse
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
| | - Olga Patey
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, United Kingdom (J.M.O., O.P., B.T.).,Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom (J.M.O., O.P., B.T.)
| | - Michaela Golic
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
| | - Sabrina Geisberger
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
| | - Stefan Verlohren
- Institute of Obstetrics (S.V.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany
| | - Anna Birukov
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
| | - Arnd Heuser
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
| | - Dominik N Müller
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
| | - Basky Thilaganathan
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, United Kingdom (J.M.O., O.P., B.T.).,Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom (J.M.O., O.P., B.T.)
| | - Ralf Dechend
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Nadine Haase
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center-a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., T.S., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Berlin, Germany (K.K., T.S., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., D.N.M., R.D., N.H.).,Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (K.K., F.H., M.G., S.G., A.B., A.H., D.N.M., N.H.)
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26
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Shaheen G, Sajid S, Razak S, Mazhar SB, Afsar T, Almajwal A, Alam I, Jahan S. Role of ACE I/D polymorphism in pathological assessment of preeclampsia in Pakistan. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e00799. [PMID: 31173490 PMCID: PMC6625086 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder, which may stem from impair placentation. Renin-angiotensin system is one of the mediators of decidualization and trophoblastic proliferation. In the present study women with PE were studied in a comparison of normotensive controls to determine whether Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene I/D polymorphism affect the placental villi and umbilical cord formation with the assessment of biochemical and clinical risk factors. METHODS Total 400 blood (PE/controls = 200), 400 urine (PE/controls = 200), 90 tissue samples of UC (PE = 50, controls = 40) and 90 placental tissue samples (PE = 50, controls = 40) were recruited. Histomorphological and Histomorphometric analysis were done for placental and umbilical cord tissues. Blood and serum parameters were analyzed, samples were genotyped for I/D polymorphism. Data were statistically analyzed by Independent sample t-test, Chi-square test and the odds ratio. RESULTS Histological study revealed significant increase (p < 0.001) in distance from Wharton jelly (in both artery and vein) and outer layer thickness of vein; significant reduction (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05) in the lumen area of artery and vein. Abnormal villi, more syncytial knots (SK) and a significant decrease in elongated and large villi in PE placentas. Analysis of ACE gene determined that genotypic frequencies were statistically significant (p < 0.02) among both groups and DD genotype was predominant in the PE group. CONCLUSION Present study reveals that ACE I/D polymorphism might affect the normal placental villi and umbilical cord formation in women with PE. In addition, histological studies and genetic evaluation can provide useful information in the determination of various reasons and mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of PE in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazala Shaheen
- Reproductive Physiology Lab, Department of Animal SciencesQuaid‐i‐Azam UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | - Sabahat Sajid
- Reproductive Physiology Lab, Department of Animal SciencesQuaid‐i‐Azam UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | - Suhail Razak
- Reproductive Physiology Lab, Department of Animal SciencesQuaid‐i‐Azam UniversityIslamabadPakistan
- Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical SciencesKing Saud UniversityRiyadhKSA
| | - Saeeda Batool Mazhar
- Department of Gynae/ObstatricsPakistan Institute of Medical SciencesIslamabadPakistan
| | - Tayyaba Afsar
- Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical SciencesKing Saud UniversityRiyadhKSA
| | - Ali Almajwal
- Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical SciencesKing Saud UniversityRiyadhKSA
| | - Iftikhar Alam
- Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical SciencesKing Saud UniversityRiyadhKSA
| | - Sarwat Jahan
- Reproductive Physiology Lab, Department of Animal SciencesQuaid‐i‐Azam UniversityIslamabadPakistan
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27
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Systemic Outcomes of (Pyr 1)-Apelin-13 Infusion at Mid-Late Pregnancy in a Rat Model with Preeclamptic Features. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8579. [PMID: 31189936 PMCID: PMC6561917 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44971-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a syndrome with diverse clinical presentation that currently has no cure. The apelin receptor system is a pleiotropic pathway with a potential for therapeutic targeting in preeclampsia. We established the systemic outcomes of (Pyr1)-apelin-13 administration in rats with preeclamptic features (TGA-PE, female transgenic for human angiotensinogen mated to male transgenic for human renin). (Pyr1)-apelin-13 (2 mg/kg/day) or saline was infused in TGA-PE rats via osmotic minipumps starting at day 13 of gestation (GD). At GD20, TGA-PE rats had higher blood pressure, proteinuria, lower maternal and pup weights, lower pup number, renal injury, and a larger heart compared to a control group (pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats administered vehicle). (Pyr1)-apelin-13 did not affect maternal or fetal weights in TGA-PE. The administration of (Pyr1)-apelin-13 reduced blood pressure, and normalized heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity in TGA-PE rats compared to controls. (Pyr1)-apelin-13 increased ejection fraction in TGA-PE rats. (Pyr1)-apelin-13 normalized proteinuria in association with lower renal cortical collagen deposition, improved renal pathology and lower immunostaining of oxidative stress markers (4-HNE and NOX-4) in TGA-PE. This study demonstrates improved hemodynamic responses and renal injury without fetal toxicity following apelin administration suggesting a role for apelin in the regulation of maternal outcomes in preeclampsia.
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Shi YZ, Jin S, Qin H, Jiang HB, Song GH, Qin SC. Hydrogen-rich water ameliorates rat placental stress induced by water restriction. Med Gas Res 2018; 8:79-84. [PMID: 30319761 PMCID: PMC6178645 DOI: 10.4103/2045-9912.241064] [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: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Dehydration is one of the intrauterine abnormalities that could lead to fetal growth retardation and to increase the risk of a variety of adult diseases later in life. This study were to determine the impact of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) supplementation on placental angiotensin II type 1 receptor and placental oxidative stress induced by water restriction. Pregnant Wistar rat were randomly assigned to one of the three groups (n =12 per group). In control group, pure water and food were supplied ad libitum. Water restriction group and HRW group were respectively given pure water and HRW with free access to food, excepting only one hour was available for drinking from day 7 to day 17 of pregnancy. The placental damages and biomarkers of stress were detected by histopathology, immunohistochemistry and western blot, as well as serological test were performed. We demonstrated that maternal water restriction resulted in reduced urine volume and increased serum osmotic pressure, along with decreased fetus weight and crown-rump length. Although placental weight and the number of fetuses had no significant difference among groups, the placental efficiency significantly increased after the oral administration of HRW to the mothers. Meanwhile, the serological derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites decreased, a significant improvement of placental microstructure with more developed junctional zone and denser labyrinth was manifested, the upregulated expression of angiotensin II type 1 receptor, nuclear factoκB, malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase and down-regulation of superoxide dismutase were revealed in the placenta. Collectively, HRW administration is able to effectively attenuate placental stress induced by water restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Zhi Shi
- Department of Basic Stomatology and Technology, School of Stomatology, Taishan Medical University, Taishan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Song Jin
- Department of Stomatology, Taian City Central Hospital, Taishan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Han Qin
- Department of Basic Stomatology and Technology, School of Stomatology, Taishan Medical University, Taishan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Heng-Bo Jiang
- Department of Basic Stomatology and Technology, School of Stomatology, Taishan Medical University, Taishan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Guo-Hua Song
- Key Laboratory of Atherosclerosis in Universities of Shandong and Institute of Atherosclerosis, Taishan Medical University, Taishan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shu-Cun Qin
- Key Laboratory of Atherosclerosis in Universities of Shandong and Institute of Atherosclerosis, Taishan Medical University, Taishan, Shandong Province, China
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Mata-Greenwood E, Blood AB, Sands LD, Bragg SL, Xiao D, Zhang L. A novel rodent model of pregnancy complications associated with genetically determined angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2018; 315:E52-E62. [PMID: 29360395 PMCID: PMC6087725 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00289.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Brown Norway (BN) and Lewis (LW) inbred rat strains harbor different angiotensin-converting enzyme ( Ace) polymorphisms that result in higher ACE activity in BN than LW rats. Thus we hypothesized that pregnant BN rats would show pregnancy complications linked to angiotensin II (AII) activity. We performed longitudinal and cross-sectional studies in pregnant LW and BN rats. We found that BN rats have significantly higher ACE activity and AII levels at prepregnancy and throughout pregnancy compared with LW rats, except at midgestation. BN placentas and maternal kidneys had significantly higher expression of AII receptor 1 (AGTR1) and lower expression of AGTR2 than the respective LW placentas and maternal kidneys. Renin-angiotensin system activation in BN rats correlated with hypertension and proteinuria at gestational days 17-21, which were resolved after delivery. In addition, BN rat pregnancies were characterized by significant fetal loss, restricted growth in surviving fetuses, decreased uteroplacental blood flows, and decreased trophoblast remodeling of uterine arteries compared with LW pregnancies. Short-term losartan treatment significantly increased uteroplacental blood flow and fetal weight and decreased maternal blood pressure (BP) and proteinuria in BN pregnancies. In contrast, losartan treatment significantly decreased uteroplacental blood flow and fetal weight but had no significant effect on maternal BP in LW pregnancies. We conclude that Ace polymorphisms play an important role in the reproductive phenotype of BN and LW rats and that BN rats are a novel model of pregnancy complications in association with genetically controlled, increased ACE activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Mata-Greenwood
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
| | - Arlin B Blood
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
| | - LeeAnna D Sands
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
| | - Shannon L Bragg
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
| | - Daliao Xiao
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University , Loma Linda, California
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Morgan HL, Butler E, Ritchie S, Herse F, Dechend R, Beattie E, McBride MW, Graham D. Modeling Superimposed Preeclampsia Using Ang II (Angiotensin II) Infusion in Pregnant Stroke-Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. Hypertension 2018; 72:208-218. [PMID: 29844145 PMCID: PMC6012051 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.118.10935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are the second leading cause of maternal deaths worldwide. Superimposed preeclampsia is an increasingly common problem and often associated with impaired placental perfusion. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing treatment options are crucial. The pregnant stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat has impaired uteroplacental blood flow and abnormal uterine artery remodeling. We used Ang II (angiotensin II) infusion in pregnant stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats to mimic the increased cardiovascular stress associated with superimposed preeclampsia and examine the impact on the maternal cardiovascular system and fetal development. Continuous infusion of Ang II at 500 or 1000 ng/kg per minute was administered from gestational day 10.5 until term. Radiotelemetry and echocardiography were used to monitor hemodynamic and cardiovascular changes, and urine was collected prepregnancy and throughout gestation. Uterine artery myography assessed uteroplacental vascular function and structure. Fetal measurements were made at gestational day 18.5, and placentas were collected for histological and gene expression analyses. The 1000 ng/kg per minute Ang II treatment significantly increased blood pressure (P<0.01), reduced cardiac output (P<0.05), and reduced diameter and increased stiffness of the uterine arteries (P<0.01) during pregnancy. The albumin:creatinine ratio was increased in both Ang II treatment groups (P<0.05; P<0.0001). The 1000 ng/kg per minute-treated fetuses were significantly smaller than vehicle treatment (P<0.001). Placental expression of Ang II receptors was increased in the junctional zone in 1000 ng/kg per minute Ang II-treated groups (P<0.05), with this zone showing depletion of glycogen content and structural abnormalities. Ang II infusion in pregnant stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats mirrors hemodynamic, cardiac, and urinary profiles observed in preeclamptic women, with evidence of impaired fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah L Morgan
- From the BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom (H.L.M., E. Butler, S.R., E. Beattie, M.W.M., D.G.)
| | - Elaine Butler
- From the BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom (H.L.M., E. Butler, S.R., E. Beattie, M.W.M., D.G.)
| | - Shona Ritchie
- From the BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom (H.L.M., E. Butler, S.R., E. Beattie, M.W.M., D.G.)
| | - Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Joint Cooperation Between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (F.H., R.D.).,HELIOS Clinic Berlin-Buch, Germany (F.H., R.D.)
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Joint Cooperation Between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (F.H., R.D.).,HELIOS Clinic Berlin-Buch, Germany (F.H., R.D.)
| | - Elisabeth Beattie
- From the BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom (H.L.M., E. Butler, S.R., E. Beattie, M.W.M., D.G.)
| | - Martin W McBride
- From the BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom (H.L.M., E. Butler, S.R., E. Beattie, M.W.M., D.G.)
| | - Delyth Graham
- From the BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom (H.L.M., E. Butler, S.R., E. Beattie, M.W.M., D.G.)
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Ghadhanfar E, Alsalem A, Al-Kandari S, Naser J, Babiker F, Al-Bader M. The role of ACE2, angiotensin-(1-7) and Mas1 receptor axis in glucocorticoid-induced intrauterine growth restriction. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:97. [PMID: 29321064 PMCID: PMC6389120 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0316-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma and urine levels of the potent vasodilator Ang-(1-7) are elevated in mid and late pregnancy and are correlated with elevated placental angiogenesis, fetal blood flow, and rapid fetal growth. We hypothesized that Ang-(1-7), its receptor (Mas1) and the enzymes involved in Ang-(1-7) production (ACE2 and Membrane metallo-endopeptidase; MME) are down regulated in response to glucocorticoid administration contributing to IUGR. METHODS Pregnant female Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with dexamethasone (DEX; 0.4 mg/kg/day) starting from 14 day gestation (dg) till sacrifice at 19 or 21 dg while control groups were injected with saline (n = 6/group). The gene and protein expression of ACE2, MME, Ang-(1-7) and Mas1 receptor in the placental labyrinth (LZ) and basal zones (BZ) were studied. RESULTS DEX administration caused a reduction in LZ weight at 19 and 21 dg (p < 0.001). IUGR, as shown by decreased fetal weights, was evident in DEX treated rats at 21 dg (p < 0.01). ACE2 gene expression was elevated in the LZ of control placentas at 21 dg (p < 0.01) compared to 19 dg and DEX prevented this rise at both gene (p < 0.01) and protein levels (p < 0.05). In addition, Ang-(1-7) protein expression in LZ was significantly reduced in DEX treated rats at 21 dg (p < 0.05). On the other hand, Mas1 and MME were upregulated in LZ at 21 dg in both groups (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION The results of this study indicate that a reduced expression of ACE2 and Ang-(1-7) in the placenta by DEX treatment may be responsible for IUGR and consequent disease programming later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Ghadhanfar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Aseel Alsalem
- Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | | | - Jumana Naser
- Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Fawzi Babiker
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Maie Al-Bader
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
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Zhang W, Yuan W, Xu N, Li J, Chang W. Icariin improves acute kidney injury and proteinuria in a rat model of pregnancy‑induced hypertension. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:7398-7404. [PMID: 28944832 PMCID: PMC5865871 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Icariin has previously been demonstrated to attenuate hyperglycemia-induced renal injury, however the renoprotective effects of icariin in a rat model of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) remain to be elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of icariin on PIH-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) and proteinuria. Following 18 days of icariin treatment between day 1 and day 18 of gestation, which was combined with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) treatment between day 12 and day 18 of gestation to induce PIH, the 24 h urine protein level, blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine were measured by using the Coomassie Brilliant Blue method, a commercial enzymatic kit and the picric acid method, respectively. Renal tissues were collected at day 18 of gestation for hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. The mRNA expression of AGT and protein expression of angiotensin II (Ang II) in the kidneys of control and PIH rats was investigated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis, respectively, to determine the effect of icariin on components of the renin-angiotensin system. The results demonstrated that L-NAME treatment in pregnant rats resulted in significant increases in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure, in addition to the induction of severe proteinuria. The significant increase in SBP and proteinuria in PIH rats was prevented by icariin. L-NAME-induced AKI resulted in profound renal histological alterations, including mesangial expansion and glomerular lesions. L-NAME administration exerted a marked decrease in the mRNA and protein expression levels of nephrin in the kidneys from PIH rats compared with control group. Furthermore, upregulation of circulating and renal Ang II levels in PIH rats was observed. However, icariin treatment significantly reversed the L-NAME-induced downregulation of nephrin and upregulation of circulating and renal Ang II levels in PIH rats. These results demonstrated that icariin administration improved urinary protein excretion levels and renal tissue damage in PIH rats, and the underlying mechanism was mediated in part, via upregulation of nephrin expression and downregulation of Ang II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin 300192, P.R. China
| | - Wei Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin 300192, P.R. China
| | - Ning Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin 300192, P.R. China
| | - Jinping Li
- Department of Nephrology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin 300192, P.R. China
| | - Wenxiu Chang
- Department of Nephrology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin 300192, P.R. China
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Soto SDF, Melo JOD, Marchesi GD, Lopes KL, Veras MM, Oliveira IBD, Souza RMD, de Castro I, Furukawa LNS, Saldiva PHN, Heimann JC. Exposure to fine particulate matter in the air alters placental structure and the renin-angiotensin system. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183314. [PMID: 28820906 PMCID: PMC5562329 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
METHODS Female Wistar rats were exposed to filtered air (F) or to concentrated fine particulate matter (P) for 15 days. After mating, the rats were divided into four groups and again exposed to F or P (FF, FP, PF, PP) beginning on day 6 of pregnancy. At embryonic day 19, the placenta was collected. The placental structure, the protein and gene expression of TGFβ1, VEGF-A, and its receptor Flk-1 and RAS were evaluated by indirect ELISA and quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS Exposure to P decreased the placental mass, size, and surface area as well as the TGFβ1, VEGF-A and Flk-1 content. In the maternal portion of the placenta, angiotensin II (AngII) and its receptors AT1 (AT1R) and AT2 (AT2R) were decreased in the PF and PP groups. In the fetal portion of the placenta, AngII in the FP, PF and PP groups and AT2R in the PF and PP groups were decreased, but AT1R was increased in the FP group. VEGF-A gene expression was lower in the PP group than in the FF group. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to pollutants before and/or during pregnancy alters some characteristics of the placenta, indicating a possible impairment of trophoblast invasion and placental angiogenesis with possible consequences for the maternal-fetal interaction, such as a limitation of fetal nutrition and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sônia de Fátima Soto
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Oliveira de Melo
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme D'Aprile Marchesi
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Karen Lucasechi Lopes
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Matera Veras
- Department of Pathology / Pathology / Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ivone Braga de Oliveira
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Regiane Machado de Souza
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Isac de Castro
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luzia Naôko Shinohara Furukawa
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo Hilário Nascimento Saldiva
- Department of Pathology / Pathology / Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Joel C Heimann
- Department of Internal Medicine / Nephrology / Laboratory of Renal Physiopathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Regulation of the prorenin - angiotensin system by oxygen and miRNAs; parallels between placentation and tumour development? Placenta 2017; 56:27-33. [PMID: 28318555 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Tissue renin-angiotensin systems (RASs) are involved in tissue growth and development as they are important regulators of angiogenesis, cell proliferation and migration. The placental RAS is most highly expressed in early gestation, at a time when the oxygen tension within the conceptus is reduced, and plays a key role in placental growth and development. Similar to the placenta, tumour development relies on proliferation, angiogenesis and invasion in order to grow and metastasize. The RAS is known to be upregulated in a variety of solid tumours, including ovarian, endometrial, cervical, breast and prostate. This review explores the roles of oxygen and microRNAs in regulating the normal expression of the placental RAS, providing insight into regulation of its development as well as the development of disease states in which the RAS is overexpressed. We propose that the placental RAS is downregulated by microRNAs that are suppressed during the physiologically normal 'hypoxic' phase of early placentation. Suppression of these miRNAs allows the placental RAS to stimulate placental growth and angiogenesis. We propose that similar mechanisms may be at play in solid tumours, which are characterised by hypoxia.
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A Low-Protein Diet Enhances Angiotensin II Production in the Lung of Pregnant Rats but not Nonpregnant Rats. J Pregnancy 2016; 2016:4293431. [PMID: 27195150 PMCID: PMC4853963 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4293431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary angiotensin II production is enhanced in pregnant rats fed a low-protein (LP) diet. Here we assessed if LP diet induces elevations in angiotensin II production in nonpregnant rats and whether Ace expression and ACE activity in lungs are increased. Nonpregnant rats were fed a normal (CT) or LP diet for 8, 12, or 17 days and timed pregnant rats fed for 17 days from Day 3 of pregnancy. Plasma angiotensin II, expressions of Ace and Ace2, and activities of these proteins in lungs, kidneys, and plasma were measured. These parameters were compared among nonpregnant rats or between nonpregnant and pregnant rats fed different diets. Major findings are as follows: (1) plasma angiotensin II levels were slightly higher in the LP than CT group on Days 8 and 12 in nonpregnant rats; (2) expression of Ace and Ace2 and abundance and activities of ACE and ACE2 in lungs, kidneys, and plasma of nonpregnant rats were unchanged by LP diet except for minor changes; (3) the abundance and activities of ACE in lungs of pregnant rats fed LP diet were greater than nonpregnant rats, while those of ACE2 were decreased. These results indicate that LP diet-induced increase in pulmonary angiotensin II production depends on pregnancy.
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Haase N, Golic M, Herse F, Rugor J, Linz D, Solano ME, Müller DN, Dechend R. Relaxin Treatment in an Ang-II-Based Transgenic Preeclamptic-Rat Model. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150743. [PMID: 26963382 PMCID: PMC4786114 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Relaxin is a peptide related to pregnancy that induces nitric oxide-related and gelatinase-related effects, allowing vasodilation and pregnancy-related adjustments permitting parturition to occur. Relaxin controls the hemodynamic and renovascular adaptive changes that occur during pregnancy. Interest has evolved regarding relaxin and a therapeutic principle in preeclampsia and heart failure. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy disorder, featuring hypertension, proteinuria and placental anomalies. We investigated relaxin in an established transgenic rat model of preeclampsia, where the phenotype is induced by angiotensin (Ang)-II production in mid pregnancy. We gave recombinant relaxin to preeclamtic rats at day 9 of gestation. Hypertension and proteinuria was not ameliorated after relaxin administration. Intrauterine growth retardation of the fetus was unaltered by relaxin. Heart-rate responses and relaxin levels documented drug effects. In this Ang-II-based model of preeclampsia, we could not show a salubrious effect on preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Haase
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michaela Golic
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julianna Rugor
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dominik Linz
- Klinik für Innere Medizin III, Kardiologie, Angiologie und Internistische Intensivmedizin, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Maria Emilia Solano
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Laboratory for Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dominik N. Müller
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany
- HELIOS-Klinikum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Yamaleyeva LM, Chappell MC, Brosnihan KB, Anton L, Caudell DL, Shi S, McGee C, Pirro N, Gallagher PE, Taylor RN, Merrill DC, Mertz HL. Downregulation of apelin in the human placental chorionic villi from preeclamptic pregnancies. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2015; 309:E852-60. [PMID: 26394665 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00272.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The role of the endogenous apelin system in pregnancy is not well understood. Apelin's actions in pregnancy are further complicated by the expression of multiple forms of the peptide. Using radioimmunoassay (RIA) alone, we established the expression of apelin content in the chorionic villi of preeclamptic (PRE) and normal pregnant women (NORM) at 36-38 wk of gestation. Total apelin content was lower in PRE compared with NORM chorionic villi (49.7±3.4 vs. 72.3±9.8 fmol/mg protein; n=20-22) and was associated with a trend for lower preproapelin mRNA in the PRE. Further characterization of apelin isoforms by HPLC-RIA was conducted in pooled samples from each group. The expression patterns of apelin peptides in NORM and PRE villi revealed little or no apelin-36 or apelin-17. Pyroglutamate apelin-13 [(Pyr1)-apelin-13] was the predominant form of the peptide in NORM and PRE villi. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activity was higher in PRE villi (572.0±23.0 vs. 485.3±24.8 pmol·mg(-1)·min(-1); n=18-22). A low dose of ANG II (1 nM; 2 h) decreased apelin release in NORM villous explants that was blocked by the ANG II receptor 1 (AT1) antagonist losartan. Moreover, losartan enhanced apelin release above the 2-h baseline levels in both NORM and PRE villi (P<0.05). In summary, these studies are the first to demonstrate the lower apelin content in human placental chorionic villi of PRE subjects using quantitative RIA. (Pyr1)-apelin-13 is the predominant form of endogenous apelin in the chorionic villi of NORM and PRE. The potential mechanism of lower apelin expression in the PRE villi may involve a negative regulation of apelin by ANG II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliya M Yamaleyeva
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina;
| | - Mark C Chappell
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - K Bridget Brosnihan
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Lauren Anton
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - David L Caudell
- Department of Pathology/Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sara Shi
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Carolynne McGee
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Nancy Pirro
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Patricia E Gallagher
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and
| | - David C Merrill
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and
| | - Heather L Mertz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and
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38
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Shirasuna K, Karasawa T, Usui F, Kobayashi M, Komada T, Kimura H, Kawashima A, Ohkuchi A, Taniguchi S, Takahashi M. NLRP3 Deficiency Improves Angiotensin II-Induced Hypertension But Not Fetal Growth Restriction During Pregnancy. Endocrinology 2015; 156:4281-92. [PMID: 26360504 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific syndrome characterized by elevated blood pressure, proteinuria, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Although sterile inflammation appears to be involved, its pathogenesis remains unclear. Recent evidence indicates that sterile inflammation is mediated through the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes, composed of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), and caspase-1. Here we investigated the role of the NLRP3 inflammasomes in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia using Nlrp3(-/-) and Asc(-/-) (Nlrp3 and Asc deficient) pregnant mice. During pregnancy in mice, continuous infusion of high-dose angiotensin II (AngII) induced hypertension, proteinuria, and IUGR, whereas infusion of low-dose AngII caused hypertension alone. AngII-induced hypertension was prevented in Nlrp3(-/-) mice but not in Asc(-/-), indicating that NLRP3 contributes to gestational hypertension independently of ASC-mediated inflammasomes. Although NLRP3 deficiency had no effect on IUGR, it restored the IL-6 up-regulation in the placenta and kidney of AngII-infused mice. Furthermore, treatment with hydralazine prevented the development of gestational hypertension but not IUGR or IL-6 expression in the placenta and kidney. These findings demonstrate that NLRP3 contributes to the development of gestational hypertension independently of the inflammasomes and that IUGR and kidney injury can occur independent of blood pressure elevation during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koumei Shirasuna
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Tadayoshi Karasawa
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Fumitake Usui
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Motoi Kobayashi
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Tadanori Komada
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kimura
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Akira Kawashima
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Akihide Ohkuchi
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Shun'ichiro Taniguchi
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
| | - Masafumi Takahashi
- Division of Inflammation Research (K.S., T.Ka., F.U., M.K., T.Ko., H.K., A.K., M.T.), Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.O.), Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan; Department of Animal Science (K.S.), Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan; and Department of Molecular Oncology (S.T.), Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagano 390-8621, Japan
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39
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Pulgar VM, Yamaleyeva LM, Varagic J, McGee C, Bader M, Dechend R, Brosnihan KB. Functional changes in the uterine artery precede the hypertensive phenotype in a transgenic model of hypertensive pregnancy. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2015; 309:E811-7. [PMID: 26394667 PMCID: PMC4628942 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00526.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The pregnant female human angiotensinogen (hAGN) transgenic rat mated with the male human renin (hREN) transgenic rat is a model of preeclampsia (TgA) with increased blood pressure, proteinuria, and placenta alterations of edema and necrosis at late gestation. We studied vascular responses and the role of COX-derived prostanoids in the uterine artery (UA) at early gestation in this model. TgA UA showed lower stretch response, similar smooth muscle α-actin content, and lower collagen content compared with Sprague-Dawley (SD) UA. Vasodilation to acetylcholine was similar in SD and TgA UA (64 ± 8 vs. 75 ± 6% of relaxation, P > 0.05), with an acetylcholine-induced contraction in TgA UA that was abolished by preincubation with indomethacin (78 ± 6 vs. 83 ± 11%, P > 0.05). No differences in the contraction to phenylephrine were observed (159 ± 11 vs. 134 ± 12 %KMAX, P > 0.05), although in TgA UA this response was greatly affected by preincubation with indomethacin (179 ± 16 vs. 134 ± 9 %KMAX, P < 0.05, pD2 5.92 ± 0.08 vs. 5.85 ± 0.03, P < 0.05). Endothelium-independent vasodilation was lower in TgA UA (92 ± 2 vs. 74 ± 5% preconstricted tone, P < 0.05), and preincubation with indomethacin restored the response to normal values (90 ± 3 vs. 84 ± 3%). Immunostaining showed similar signals for α-actin, COX-2, and eNOS between groups (P > 0.05). Plasma thromboxane levels were similar between groups. In summary, TgA UA displays functional alterations at early gestation before the preeclamptic phenotype is established. Inhibition of COX enzymes normalizes some of the functional defects in the TgA UA. An increased role for COX-derived prostanoids in this model of preeclampsia may contribute to the development of a hypertensive pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor M Pulgar
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Biomedical Research and Infrastructure Center, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina;
| | | | | | | | - Michael Bader
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité University Hospital Berlin, and HELIOS-Clinic, Berlin, Germany; and Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité University Hospital Berlin, and HELIOS-Clinic, Berlin, Germany; and
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40
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Vaswani K, Chan HW, Verma P, Dekker Nitert M, Peiris HN, Wood-Bradley RJ, Armitage JA, Rice GE, Mitchell MD. The rat placental renin-angiotensin system - a gestational gene expression study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:89. [PMID: 26260700 PMCID: PMC4532142 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0088-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is an essential organ that provides nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus and removes toxic waste products from the fetal circulation. Maintaining placental blood osmotic pressure and blood flow is crucial for viable offspring. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the placenta is a key player in the regulation of maternal-fetal blood flow during pregnancy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine if RAS genes are differentially expressed in mid to late gestation in rat placenta. METHODS Whole placental tissue samples from pregnant Sprague Dawley rats at embryonic (E) days 14.25, 15.25, 17.25 and 20 (n = 6 for each gestational age) were used for genome-wide gene expression by microarray. RAS genes with expression differences of >2 fold were further analyzed. Quantitative Real-Time PCR (qPCR) was performed on independent samples to confirm and validate microarray data. Immunohistochemisty and Western blotting were performed on a differentially expressed novel RAS pathway gene (ANPEP). RESULTS Six out of 17 genes of the RAS pathway were differentially expressed at different gestational ages. Gene expression of four genes (Angiotensin converting enzyme (Ace), angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (Ace2), membrane metalloendopeptidase (Mme) and angiotensin II receptor 1A (Agtr1a)) were significantly upregulated at E20 whereas two others (Thimet oligopeptidase 1 (Thop1) and Alanyl aminopeptidase (Anpep)) were downregulated at E20 prior to the onset of labour. These changes were confirmed by qPCR. Western blots revealed no overall differences in ANPEP protein expression in the placentae. Immunohistochemical studies, however, indicated that the localization of ANPEP differed at E17.25 and E20 as ANPEP localization in the giant trophoblast cell of the junctional zone was no longer detectable at E20. CONCLUSIONS The current study investigated the expression of members of the RAS pathway in rat placentae and observed significantly altered expression of 6 RAS genes at 4 gestational ages. These findings present the need for further comprehensive investigation of RAS genes in normal and complicated pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Vaswani
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Hsiu-Wen Chan
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Pali Verma
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Marloes Dekker Nitert
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Hassendrini N Peiris
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Ryan J Wood-Bradley
- Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - James A Armitage
- Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Gregory E Rice
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Murray D Mitchell
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
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41
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Przybyl L, Ibrahim T, Haase N, Golic M, Rugor J, Luft FC, Bendix I, Serdar M, Wallukat G, Staff AC, Müller DN, Hünig T, Felderhoff-Müser U, Herse F, LaMarca B, Dechend R. Regulatory T cells ameliorate intrauterine growth retardation in a transgenic rat model for preeclampsia. Hypertension 2015; 65:1298-306. [PMID: 25847949 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.114.04892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a multisystemic syndrome during pregnancy that is often associated with intrauterine growth retardation. Immunologic dysregulation, involving T cells, is implicated in the pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of upregulating regulatory T cells in an established transgenic rat model for preeclampsia. Application of superagonistic monoclonal antibody for CD28 has been shown to effectively upregulate regulatory T cells. In the first protocol (treatment protocol), we applied 1 mg of CD28 superagonist or control antibody on days 11 and 15 of pregnancy. In the second protocol (prevention protocol), the superagonist or control antibody was applied on days 1, 5, and 9. Superagonist increased regulatory T cells in circulation and placenta from 8.49±2.09% of CD4-positive T cells to 23.50±3.05% and from 3.85±1.45% to 23.27±7.64%, respectively. Blood pressure and albuminuria (30.6±15.1 versus 14.6±5.5 mg/d) were similar in the superagonist or control antibody-treated preeclamptic group for both protocols. Rats treated with CD28 superagonist showed increased pup weights in the prevention protocol (2.66±0.03 versus 2.37±0.05 g) and in the treatment protocol (3.04±0.04 versus 2.54±0.1 g). Intrauterine growth retardation, calculated by brain:liver weight ratio, was also decreased by the superagonist in both protocols. Further analysis of brain development revealed a 20% increase in brain volume by the superagonist. Induction of regulatory T cells in the circulation and the uteroplacental unit in an established preeclamptic rat model had no influence on maternal hypertension and proteinuria. However, it substantially improved fetal outcome by ameliorating intrauterine growth retardation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Przybyl
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Tarek Ibrahim
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Nadine Haase
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Michaela Golic
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Julianna Rugor
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Friedrich C Luft
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Ivo Bendix
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Meray Serdar
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Gerd Wallukat
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Anne Cathrine Staff
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Dominik N Müller
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Thomas Hünig
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Ursula Felderhoff-Müser
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Florian Herse
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Babette LaMarca
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Ralf Dechend
- From the Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and the Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany (L.P., N.H., M.G., J.R., F.C.L., G.W., D.N.M., F.H., R.D.); Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Jackson, MS (T.I., B.L.); Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatal Neuroscience Lab, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany (I.B., M.S., U.F.-M.); Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.); Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, Würzburg, Germany (T.H.); and Department of Cardiology and Nephrology, HELIOS-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.).
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Blois SM, Dechend R, Barrientos G, Staff AC. A potential pathophysiological role for galectins and the renin-angiotensin system in preeclampsia. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:39-50. [PMID: 25192660 PMCID: PMC11113509 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1713-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses a potential role of galectins and the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia (PE). Preeclampsia affects between 3 and 5 % of all pregnancies and is a heterogeneous disease, which may be caused by multiple factors. The only cure is the delivery of the placenta, which may result in a premature delivery and baby. Probably due to its heterogeneity, PE studies in human have hitherto only led to the identification of a limited number of factors involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Animal models, particularly in mice and rats, have been used to gain further insight into the molecular pathology behind PE. In this review, we discuss the picture emerging from human and animal studies pointing to galectins and the RAS being associated with the PE syndrome and affecting a broad range of cellular signaling components. Moreover, we review the epidemiological evidence for PE increasing the risk of future cardiovascular disease later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Blois
- Charité Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany,
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Placental Evolution within the Supraordinal Clades of Eutheria with the Perspective of Alternative Animal Models for Human Placentation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1155/2014/639274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Here a survey of placental evolution is conducted. Placentation is a key factor for the evolution of placental mammals that had evolved an astonishing diversity. As a temporary organ that does not allow easy access, it is still not well understood. The lack of data also is a restriction for better understanding of placental development, structure, and function in the human. Animal models are essential, because experimental access to the human placenta is naturally restricted. However, there is not a single ideal model that is entirely similar to humans. It is particularly important to establish other models than the mouse, which is characterised by a short gestation period and poorly developed neonates that may provide insights only for early human pregnancy. In conclusion, current evolutionary studies have contributed essentially to providing a pool of experimental models for recent and future approaches that may also meet the requirements of a long gestation period and advanced developmental status of the newborn in the human. Suitability and limitations of taxa as alternative animal models are discussed. However, further investigations especially in wildlife taxa should be conducted in order to learn more about the full evolutionary plasticity of the placenta system.
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Jahan P, Deepthi G, Komaravalli PL, Usha Rani V. A study on the role of HLA-G 14bp and ACE IN/DEL polymorphisms in pre-eclamptic South Indian women. Pregnancy Hypertens 2014; 4:164-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 12/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Warrington JP, George EM, Palei AC, Spradley FT, Granger JP. Recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. Hypertension 2013; 62:666-73. [PMID: 23897068 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.113.00588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Junie P Warrington
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216-4505.
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AT1, AT2, and AT(1-7) receptor expression in the uteroplacental unit of normotensive and hypertensive rats during early and late pregnancy. Placenta 2013; 34:497-502. [PMID: 23602334 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Revised: 03/02/2013] [Accepted: 03/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We investigated the expression of angiotensin receptors in early pregnancy and established whether normal pregnancy or preeclampsia alters the expression and distribution of the uteroplacental AT1R, AT2R and mas/AT1-7R at late gestation. METHODS The percentage of each receptor subtype present in tissues from virgin rats and from normotensive and RUPP hypertensive pregnant rats was established by in vitro receptor autoradiography. Receptor mRNA levels were determined by quantitative PCR at early and late pregnancy. RESULTS AT1R mRNA levels were up-regulated in the interimplantation (IIS) site at day 7 of gestation. AT2R mRNA levels were decreased at day 5 and 7 in the IIS but increased in the implantation site (IS) at day 5 and 7 as compared to the IIS at day 5. Mas/AT1-7R mRNA was increased in early pregnancy. In normal pregnancy and RUPP the mRNA for all angiotensin receptors was reduced in the uterus at late gestation. The AT1R accounted for the majority of binding in the uterus of virgin and the placenta of pregnant and RUPP. In RUPP pregnancy there was a significant competition with d-Ala in the placenta labyrinth. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The expression of angiotensin receptors suggests their involvement in the maintenance of early stages of pregnancy. During late gestation down-regulation of Ang receptors in the uterus may arise from feedback down-regulation by Ang II. In the placenta the levels of AT1Rs are equivalent in the RUPP model. The increased binding of mas/AT1-7R at late gestation in RUPP may represent a compensatory mechanism to reduce uteroplacental vascular resistance.
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Herse F, Lamarca B, Hubel CA, Kaartokallio T, Lokki AI, Ekholm E, Laivuori H, Gauster M, Huppertz B, Sugulle M, Ryan MJ, Novotny S, Brewer J, Park JK, Kacik M, Hoyer J, Verlohren S, Wallukat G, Rothe M, Luft FC, Muller DN, Schunck WH, Staff AC, Dechend R. Cytochrome P450 subfamily 2J polypeptide 2 expression and circulating epoxyeicosatrienoic metabolites in preeclampsia. Circulation 2012; 126:2990-9. [PMID: 23155181 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.112.127340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is a multisystem disorder of pregnancy, originating in the placenta. Cytochrome P450 (CYP)-dependent eicosanoids regulate vascular function, inflammation, and angiogenesis, which are mechanistically important in preeclampsia. METHODS AND RESULTS We performed microarray screening of placenta and decidua (maternal placenta) from 25 preeclamptic women and 23 control subjects. The CYP subfamily 2J polypeptide 2 (CYP2J2) was upregulated in preeclamptic placenta and decidua. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction confirmed the upregulation, and immunohistochemistry localized CYP2J2 in trophoblastic villi and deciduas at 12 weeks and term. The CYP2J2 metabolites, 5,6-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET), 14,15-EET, and the corresponding dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids, were elevated in preeclamptic women compared with controls in the latter two thirds of pregnancy and after delivery. Stimulating a trophoblast-derived cell line with the preeclampsia-associated cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α enhanced CYP2J2 gene and protein expression. In 2 independent rat models of preeclampsia, reduced uterine-perfusion rat and the transgenic angiotensin II rat, we observed elevated EET, dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid, and preeclamptic features that were ameliorated by the CYP epoxygenase inhibitor N-(methylsulfonyl)-2-(2-propynyloxy)-benzenehexanamide (MsPPOH). Uterine arterial rings of these rats also dilated in response to MsPPOH. Furthermore, 5,6-EET could be metabolized to a thromboxane analog. In a bioassay, 5,6-EET increased the beating rate of neonatal cardiomyocytes. Blocking thromboxane synthesis reversed that finding and also normalized large-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel activity. CONCLUSIONS Our data implicate CYP2J2 in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and as a potential candidate for the disturbed uteroplacental remodeling, leading to hypertension and endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Lindenberger Weg 80, 13125 Berlin, Germany.
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Watanabe N, Bokuda K, Fujiwara T, Suzuki T, Mito A, Morimoto S, Jwa SC, Egawa M, Arai Y, Suzuki F, Sago H, Ichihara A. Soluble (pro)renin receptor and blood pressure during pregnancy: a prospective cohort study. Hypertension 2012; 60:1250-6. [PMID: 23045457 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.112.197418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system is believed to influence blood pressure (BP) during pregnancy, but the associations between BP during pregnancy and the soluble form of the (pro)renin receptor (s[P]RR), a new component of the tissue renin-angiotensin system, remain undetermined. In this prospective cohort study of 437 pregnant women with normal BP (systolic <140 mm Hg and diastolic <90 mm Hg) during early pregnancy (<16 weeks of gestation) regression analysis was performed to examine the associations between plasma s(P)RR concentrations and BP in 3 gestational stages (20-24, 28-32, and 36-40 weeks of gestation) and logistic regression analysis to evaluate the incidence of preeclampsia. Plasma s(P)RR concentrations at early, middle (16-28 weeks), and late pregnancy (>28 weeks) and at delivery averaged 29.7 ± 10.0, 31.3 ± 12.0, 39.2 ± 8.9, and 40.4 ± 10.2 ng/mL (mean ± SD), respectively. A 1-ng/mL increase in plasma s(P)RR concentration in early pregnancy predicted systolic/diastolic BP elevation in the later 3 gestational stages: 0.11 (95% CI, 0.014-0.20)/0.093 (0.027-0.16) mm Hg for 20 to 24 weeks, 0.11 (0.029-0.19)/0.088 (0.027-0.15) mm Hg for 28 to 32 weeks, and 0.16 (0.058-0.26)/0.12 (0.043-0.19]) mm Hg for 36 to 40 weeks, respectively. Plasma s(P)RR concentrations in middle and late pregnancy were not associated with BP. Adjusted models revealed that women with plasma s(P)RR concentrations above the 75th percentile at delivery had a significantly increased risk of preeclampsia (odds ratio, 22.5 [95% CI, 1.8-279.9]). In conclusion, high circulating levels of s(P)RR at early pregnancy predicted a subsequent elevation in BP, and high concentrations at delivery were significantly associated with preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyoshi Watanabe
- Department of Endocrinology and Hypertension, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinju, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
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Gao H, Yallampalli U, Yallampalli C. Protein restriction to pregnant rats increases the plasma levels of angiotensin II and expression of angiotensin II receptors in uterine arteries. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:68. [PMID: 22088913 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.095844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether gestational protein restriction affects the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in uterine artery remains unknown. In this study, we hypothesized that gestational protein restriction alters the expression of RAS components in uterine artery. In study one, time-scheduled pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were fed a normal or low-protein (LP) diet from Day 3 of pregnancy until they were killed at Days 19 and 22. The uterine arteries were collected and used for gene expression of Ace, Ace2, Agtr1a, Agtr1b, Agtr2, Esr1, and Esr2 by quantitative real-time PCR and/or Western blotting. LP increased plasma levels of angiotensin II in pregnant rats. In the uterine artery, the expressions of Agtr1a, Agtr1b, and Esr1 were increased by LP at Days 19 and 22 of pregnancy, whereas the abundance of AGTR1 and AGTR2 was increased by LP at Day 19 of pregnancy. The expression of Ace2 was not detectable in rat uterine artery. In study two, virgin female rats were ovariectomized and implanted with either 17beta-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), both E2 and P4, or placebo pellets until they were killed 7 days later. In rat uterine artery, E2 and P4 reduced the expression of Agtr1a, and E2 increased the expression of Agtr1b and Agtr2, but neither E2 nor P4 regulated the expression of Ace. These results indicate that gestational protein restriction induces an increase in Agtr1 expression in uterine artery, and thus may exacerbate the vasoconstriction to elevated angiotensin II present in maternal circulation, and that female sex hormones also play a role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijun Gao
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555-1062, USA
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Gao H, Yallampalli U, Yallampalli C. Maternal protein restriction reduces expression of angiotensin I-converting enzyme 2 in rat placental labyrinth zone in late pregnancy. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:31. [PMID: 22011389 PMCID: PMC3290663 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.094607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Revised: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Both the systemic and the uteroplacental renin-angiotensin system (RAS) display dramatic changes during pregnancy. However, whether gestational protein insufficiency affects the expressions of RAS in the placenta remains unknown. In this study, we hypothesized that the expression of Ace2 in the placental labyrinth was reduced by maternal protein restriction. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a normal diet or a low-protein diet (LP) from Day 1 of pregnancy until they were killed at Day 14 or Day 18. The labyrinth zone (LZ) of the placenta was then dissected and snap frozen for expression analysis by quantitative real-time PCR of Ace, Ace2, Agtr1a, Agtr1b, and Agtr2. Formalin-fixed placentas were used for immunohistochemical analysis on ACE and ACE2 proteins. The findings include 1) the expression of Ace2 in rat LZ was reduced by maternal protein restriction in late pregnancy; 2) ACE protein was mainly present in syncytiotrophoblasts, whereas ACE2 protein was found predominantly in fetal mesenchymal tissue and fetal capillaries; 3) Agtr1a was predominant in the rat LZ, and its mRNA levels, but not protein levels, were reduced by LP; 4) expressions of Ace, Ace2, and Agtr1a in the rat LZ and their response to LP occurred in a gender-dependent manner. These results may indicate that a reduced expression of Ace2 and perhaps an associated reduction in angiotensin (1-7) production in the placenta by maternal protein restriction may be responsible for fetal growth restriction and associated programming of adulthood hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijun Gao
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Uma Yallampalli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Chandra Yallampalli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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