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Park Y, Lee I, Lee MJ, Park H, Jung GS, Kim N, Im W, Kim H, Lee JH, Cho S, Choi YS. Particulate matter exposure induces adverse effects on endometrium and fertility via aberrant inflammatory and apoptotic pathways in vitro and in vivo. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142466. [PMID: 38810796 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the adverse effects of particulate matter (PM) exposure on endometrial cells and fertility and to identify possible underlying mechanisms. Thirteen women (aged 15-52 years) were included in this study. Enrolled patients underwent laparoscopic surgery at Gangnam Severance Hospital between 1 January and 31 December 2021. For in vivo experiments, 36 female and nine male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control(vehicle), low-dose(10 mg/kg/d), and high-dose exposure groups(20 mg/kg/d). PM was inhaled nasally for four weeks and natural mating was performed. NIST® SRM® 1648a was used for PM exposure. qRT-PCR, western blotting and Masson's trichrome staining were performed. PM treatment in human endometrial stromal cells induced inflammation with significant upregulation of IL-1β, p-NF-kB, and p-c-Jun compared to those of controls. Additionally, PM treatment significantly increased apoptosis in human endometrial stromal cells by downregulating p-AKT and upregulating p-p53/p53, Cas-3, BAX/Bcl-2, p-AMPK, and p-ERK. After PM treatment, the relative expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, p-NF-κB, p-c-Jun, and p-Nrf2/Nrf2 significantly increased in murine endometrium compared to those of the controls. Expression of apoptotic proteins p53, p27, and Cas-3, was also significantly elevated in murine endometrium of the PM exposure group compared to that of the controls. A significant increase in expression of procollagen Ⅰ, and Masson's trichrome staining scores in the murine endometrium was noted after PM treatment. PM treatment significantly decreased ERα expression. After natural mating, all 3 female mice in the control group gave birth to 25 offspring (mean 8.1), whereas in the low-dose PM treatment group, two of three female mice gave birth to nine offspring (mean 4.5). No pregnant mice or offspring was present in the high-dose PM treatment group. PM exposure induces adverse effects on the endometrium through aberrant activation of inflammatory and apoptotic pathways and is associated with detrimental effects on murine fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjeong Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Inha Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jung Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyemin Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea
| | - Gee Soo Jung
- Department of Medical Device Engineering and Management, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea
| | - Nara Kim
- Department of Medical Device Engineering and Management, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooseok Im
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Heeyon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - SiHyun Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young Sik Choi
- Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
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Ammar AY, Minisy FM, Shawki HH, Mansour M, Hemeda SA, El Nahas AF, Sherif AH, Oishi H. Exposure to a Low-Oxygen Environment Causes Implantation Failure and Transcriptomic Shifts in Mouse Uteruses and Ovaries. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1016. [PMID: 38790978 PMCID: PMC11118081 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is a condition in which tissues of the body do not receive sufficient amounts of oxygen supply. Numerous studies have elucidated the intricate roles of hypoxia and its involvement in both physiological and pathological conditions. This study aimed to clarify the impact of a forced low-oxygen environment in early pregnancy by exposing mice to low-oxygen conditions for 24-72 h after fertilization. The treatment resulted in the complete failure of blastocyst implantation, accompanied by vascular hyperpermeability in the uterus. A transcriptome analysis of the uterus revealed remarkable alterations in gene expression between control normoxic- and hypoxic-treatment groups. These alterations were characterized by the differentially expressed genes categorized into the immune responses and iron coordination. Furthermore, exposure to a low-oxygen environment caused apoptosis in the corpus luteum within the ovary and a reduction in progesterone secretion. Consequently, diminished plasma progesterone levels were considered to contribute to implantation failure in combination with the activation of the hypoxic pathway in the uterus. Additionally, previous studies have demonstrated the impact of hypoxic reactions on blastocyst development and the pre-implantation process in the endometrium. Our findings suggest that the corpus luteum exhibits elevated susceptibility to hypoxia, thereby elucidating a critical aspect of its physiological response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Y. Ammar
- Biotechnology Department, Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI), Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Kafrelsheikh 12619, Egypt;
- Genetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt; (S.A.H.); (A.F.E.N.)
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
| | - Fatma M. Minisy
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
| | - Hossam H. Shawki
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
| | | | - Shabaan A. Hemeda
- Genetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt; (S.A.H.); (A.F.E.N.)
| | - Abeer F. El Nahas
- Genetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt; (S.A.H.); (A.F.E.N.)
| | - Ahmed H. Sherif
- Fish Disease Department, Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI), Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Kafrelsheikh 12619, Egypt
| | - Hisashi Oishi
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
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Chen H, Chen Y, Zheng Q. The regulated cell death at the maternal-fetal interface: beneficial or detrimental? Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:100. [PMID: 38409106 PMCID: PMC10897449 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01867-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulated cell death (RCD) plays a fundamental role in placental development and tissue homeostasis. Placental development relies upon effective implantation and invasion of the maternal decidua by the trophoblast and an immune tolerant environment maintained by various cells at the maternal-fetal interface. Although cell death in the placenta can affect fetal development and even cause pregnancy-related diseases, accumulating evidence has revealed that several regulated cell death were found at the maternal-fetal interface under physiological or pathological conditions, the exact types of cell death and the precise molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In this review, we summarized the apoptosis, necroptosis and autophagy play both promoting and inhibiting roles in the differentiation, invasion of trophoblast, remodeling of the uterine spiral artery and decidualization, whereas ferroptosis and pyroptosis have adverse effects. RCD serves as a mode of communication between different cells to better maintain the maternal-fetal interface microenvironment. Maintaining the balance of RCD at the maternal-fetal interface is of utmost importance for the development of the placenta, establishment of an immune microenvironment, and prevention of pregnancy disorders. In addition, we also revealed an association between abnormal expression of key molecules in different types of RCD and pregnancy-related diseases, which may yield significant insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of pregnancy-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Chen
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 3025# Shennan Road, Shenzhen, 518000, P.R. China
| | - Yin Chen
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 3025# Shennan Road, Shenzhen, 518000, P.R. China
| | - Qingliang Zheng
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 3025# Shennan Road, Shenzhen, 518000, P.R. China.
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Wang P, Du S, Guo C, Ni Z, Huang Z, Deng N, Bao H, Deng W, Lu J, Kong S, Zhang H, Wang H. The presence of blastocyst within the uteri facilitates lumenal epithelium transformation for implantation via upregulating lysosome proteostasis activity. Autophagy 2024; 20:58-75. [PMID: 37584546 PMCID: PMC10761037 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2023.2247747] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
ABBREVIATIONS ACTB: actin beta; AREG: amphiregulin; ATP6V0A4: ATPase, H+ transporting, lysosomal V0 subunit A4; Baf A1: bafilomycin A1; BSA: bovine serum albumin; CLDN1: claudin 1; CTSB: cathepsin B; DEGs: differentially expressed genes; E2: 17β-estradiol; ESR: estrogen receptor; GATA2: GATA binding protein 2; GLA: galactosidase, alpha; GO: gene ontology; HBEGF: heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor; IGF1R: insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor; Ihh: Indian hedgehog; ISH: in situ hybridization; LAMP1: lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1; LCM: laser capture microdissection; Le: lumenal epithelium; LGMN: legumain; LIF: leukemia inhibitory factor; LIFR: LIF receptor alpha; MSX1: msh homeobox 1; MUC1: mucin 1, transmembrane; P4: progesterone; PBS: phosphate-buffered saline; PCA: principal component analysis; PPT1: palmitoyl-protein thioesterase 1; PGR: progesterone receptor; PSP: pseudopregnancy; PTGS2/COX2: prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2; qPCR: quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction; SP: pregnancy; TFEB: transcription factor EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peike Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Shuailin Du
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chuanhui Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhangli Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Ziying Huang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Na Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Haili Bao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Wenbo Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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Fukui Y, Hirota Y, Aikawa S, Sakashita A, Shimizu-Hirota R, Takeda N, Ishizawa C, Iida R, Kaku T, Hirata T, Hiraoka T, Akaeda S, Matsuo M, Osuga Y. The EZH2-PRC2-H3K27me3 axis governs the endometrial cell cycle and differentiation for blastocyst invasion. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:320. [PMID: 37198149 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05832-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Infertility occurs in 15% of couples worldwide. Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is one of the major problems in in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) programs, and how to manage patients with RIF to achieve successful pregnancy outcomes remains unresolved. Here, a uterine polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2)-regulated gene network was found to control embryo implantation. Our RNA-seq analyses of the human peri-implantation endometrium obtained from patients with RIF and fertile controls revealed that PRC2 components, including its core enzyme enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2)-catalyzing H3K27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) and their target genes are dysregulated in the RIF group. Although fertility of uterine epithelium-specific knockout mice of Ezh2 (eKO mice) was normal, Ezh2-deleted mice in the uterine epithelium and stroma (uKO mice) exhibited severe subfertility, suggesting that stromal Ezh2 plays a key role in female fertility. The RNA-seq and ChIP-seq analyses revealed that H3K27me3-related dynamic gene silencing is canceled, and the gene expression of cell-cycle regulators is dysregulated in Ezh2-deleted uteri, causing severe epithelial and stromal differentiation defects and failed embryo invasion. Thus, our findings indicate that the EZH2-PRC2-H3K27me3 axis is critical to preparing the endometrium for the blastocyst invasion into the stroma in mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 160-0016, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 160-0016, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Chihiro Ishizawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Rei Iida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
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zheng W, Zhao S, He H, Gu X, Long G, Chen X, Liang G, Li S. E2F2 is upregulated by the ERK pathway and regulates decidualization via MCM4. Gene 2023; 871:147400. [PMID: 37028609 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Cell cycle modulation is an important event during decidualization. E2F2 is a transcription regulator that plays a vital role in cell cycle regulation. However, the biological role of E2F2 in decidualization has not yet been identified. In this study, estrogen (E2) and progestin (P4)-induced in vitro and in vivo decidualization models were applied. Our data showed that the expression levels of E2F2 and its downstream target MCM4 were downregulated in the uterus tissues of E2P4-treated mice compared with control mice. In hESCs, exposure to E2P4 resulted in a significant decrease in E2F2 and MCM4 expression. E2P4 treatment reduced hESC proliferation and ectopic expression of E2F2 or MCM4 elevated the viability of E2P4-treated hESCs. In addition, ectopic expression of E2F2 or MCM4 restored the expression of G1 phase-associated proteins. The ERK pathway was inactivated in E2P4-treated hESCs. Treatment with ERK agonist Ro 67-7476 restored the expression of E2F2, MCM4, and G1 phase-associated proteins that were inhibited by E2P4. Moreover, Ro 67-7476 retracted the levels of IGFBP1 and PRL that were induced by E2P4. Collectively, our results indicate that E2F2 is regulated by ERK signaling and contributes to decidualization via regulation of MCM4. Therefore, E2F2/MCM4 cascade may serve as promising targets for alleviating decidualization dysfunction.
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Hashimoto Y, Tsuzuki-Nakao T, Kida N, Matsuo Y, Maruyama T, Okada H, Hirota K. Inflammatory Cytokine-Induced HIF-1 Activation Promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Endometrial Epithelial Cells. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11010210. [PMID: 36672719 PMCID: PMC9855875 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium undergoes repeated proliferation and shedding during the menstrual cycle. Significant changes to this environment include fluctuations in the partial pressure of oxygen, exposure to a high-cytokine environment associated with intrauterine infection, and inflammation. Chronic endometritis is a condition wherein mild inflammation persists in the endometrium and is one of the causes of implantation failure and miscarriage in early pregnancy. It is thought that the invasion of embryos into the endometrium requires epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated changes in the endometrial epithelium. However, the effects of inflammation on the endometrium remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of the intrauterine oxygen environment, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), and inflammation on the differentiation and function of endometrial epithelial cells. We elucidated the ways in which inflammatory cytokines affect HIF activity and EMT in an immortalized cell line (EM-E6/E7/TERT) derived from endometrial epithelium. Pro-inflammatory cytokines caused significant accumulation of HIF-1α protein, increased HIF-1α mRNA levels, and enhanced hypoxia-induced accumulation of HIF-1α protein. The combined effect of inflammatory cytokines and hypoxia increased the expression of EMT-inducing factors and upregulated cell migration. Our findings indicate that pro-inflammatory factors, including cytokines and LPS, work synergistically with hypoxia to activate HIF-1 and promote EMT in endometrial epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shinmachi, Hirakata 573-1191, Japan
| | - Tomoko Tsuzuki-Nakao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shinmachi, Hirakata 573-1191, Japan
| | - Naoko Kida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shinmachi, Hirakata 573-1191, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Matsuo
- Department of Human Stress Response Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shinmachi, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Maruyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shinmachi, Hirakata 573-1191, Japan
| | - Kiichi Hirota
- Department of Human Stress Response Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shinmachi, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-72-804-0101
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Sagae Y, Horie A, Yanai A, Ohara T, Nakakita B, Kitawaki Y, Okunomiya A, Tani H, Yamaguchi K, Hamanishi J, Lydon JP, Daikoku T, Watanabe H, Mandai M. Versican provides the provisional matrix for uterine spiral artery dilation and fetal growth. Matrix Biol 2023; 115:16-31. [PMID: 36423736 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.11.004] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) in the endometrium plays a crucial role in mammalian pregnancy. We have shown that versican secreted from the endometrial epithelium promotes embryo implantation. Versican is a proteoglycan, a major player in the provisional matrix, and versikine, its N-terminal fragment cleaved by ADAMTS proteinases, serves as a bioactive molecule. Here, since versican expression in the placenta was dynamically altered in humans and mice, we investigated the role of versican in pregnancy using uterine-specific Vcan deletion mice (uKO mice) and ADAMTS-resistant versican expressing mice (V1R mice). uKO mice exhibited insufficient spiral artery dilation, followed by fetal growth restriction and maternal hypertension. Further analysis revealed impaired proliferation of tissue-resident natural killer cells required for spiral artery dilation. V1R mice showed the same results as the control, eliminating the involvement of versikine. Our results provide a new concept that versican, one factor of ECM, contributes to placentation and following fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Sagae
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihito Horie
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Akihiro Yanai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Ohara
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Baku Nakakita
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Kitawaki
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Asuka Okunomiya
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirohiko Tani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shizuoka General Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Ken Yamaguchi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Junzo Hamanishi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Center for Drug Discovery, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling of Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hideto Watanabe
- Institute for Molecular Science of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Masaki Mandai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Seki M, Takeuchi E, Fukui E, Matsumoto H. Upregulation of iNOS and phosphorylated eNOS in the implantation-induced blastocysts of mice. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12545. [PMID: 37841392 PMCID: PMC10568119 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to examine expressions of iNOS and phosphorylated eNOS (p-eNOS) in implantation-induced blastocysts. We also examined the upstream of p-eNOS. Methods To address the protein expressions in implantation-induced blastocysts, we performed immunohistochemical analysis using a delayed implantation mouse model. Immunostaining for iNOS, p-eNOS, and p-Akt was done. To address the relationship between p-eNOS and p-Akt, activated blastocysts were treated with an Akt inhibitor, MK-2206. Results iNOS expression was at low levels in dormant blastocysts, whereas the expression was significantly increased in the activated blastocysts. Double staining of p-eNOS and p-Akt in individual blastocysts showed colocalization of p-eNOS and p-Akt of the trophectoderm. p-eNOS and p-Akt expressions were at low levels in dormant blastocysts, whereas both of them were significantly increased in the activated blastocysts. Both dormant and activated blastocysts showed significant positive correlations between p-eNOS and p-Akt. MK-2206 treatment for activated blastocysts showed that blastocysts with lower p-Akt had significantly lower p-eNOS levels. Conclusions iNOS and p-eNOS, Ca2+ independent NOS, are upregulated by E2 in the blastocysts during implantation activation. Furthermore, p-eNOS is upregulated in implantation-induced blastocysts downstream of p-Akt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misato Seki
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Division of Animal Science, School of AgricultureUtsunomiya UniversityUtsunomiya, TochigiJapan
| | - Eisaku Takeuchi
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Division of Animal Science, School of AgricultureUtsunomiya UniversityUtsunomiya, TochigiJapan
| | - Emiko Fukui
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Division of Animal Science, School of AgricultureUtsunomiya UniversityUtsunomiya, TochigiJapan
- Center for Bioscience Research and EducationUtsunomiya UniversityUtsunomiya, TochigiJapan
| | - Hiromichi Matsumoto
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Division of Animal Science, School of AgricultureUtsunomiya UniversityUtsunomiya, TochigiJapan
- Center for Bioscience Research and EducationUtsunomiya UniversityUtsunomiya, TochigiJapan
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10
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Shoutai Wan Improves Embryo Survival by Regulating Aerobic Glycolysis of Trophoblast Cells in a Mouse Model of Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8251503. [PMID: 36212974 PMCID: PMC9534620 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8251503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background During embryo implantation, the blastocyst exhibits a high capacity for aerobic glycolysis, which results in a unique microenvironment of high lactate/low pH at the maternal-fetal interface. Shoutai Wan (STW) is an effective Chinese herbal formula widely used in the clinical treatment of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). However, the specific molecular mechanism by which STW prevents abortion is yet to be elucidated. Methods Female CBA/J mice were allocated into six groups randomly and then mated with BALB/c mice as the control group, DBA/2 mice as the RSA model, CBA/J×DBA/2 mice treated with dydrogesterone as the DQYT group, or CBA/J×DBA/2 mice treated with low, medium, and high-dose STW as the STW-L, STW-M, and STW-H groups, respectively. Drug administration started 14 days before mating and ended on the 14th day of pregnancy. The embryo loss rate of each group was calculated on day 14 of gestation, and the pregnancy outcomes of the mice in each group were observed. The mouse serum was collected to determine the levels of progesterone (P) and chorionic gonadotropin (CG). The activities of HK2, PKM2, and LDHA, the key glycolytic enzymes in each group, were detected. The expressions of lactate, ATP, HK2, PKM2, LDHA, MCT4, GLUT1, and GPR81 as well as the morphology of trophoblast cells were examined. Results The embryo loss rate and adverse pregnancy outcomes were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the RSA model group. After dydrogesterone or different doses of STW treatment, the embryo loss rate and adverse pregnancy outcomes were rescued to varying degrees (P < 0.05). Interestingly, there was no significant difference among the groups in terms of serum P and CG (P < 0.05). Moreover, the activities of key glycolytic enzymes, lactate, ATP, HK2, PKM2, LDHA, MCT4, GLUT1, GPR81 protein or mRNA expression, and morphological abnormalities of trophoblast cells improved significantly in the RSA mice after dydrogesterone or different doses of STW treatment (P < 0.05). Conclusion STW can promote aerobic glycolysis in trophoblast cells of RSA mouse embryos, thereby improving the microenvironment of the maternal-fetal interface and enhancing embryo implantation.
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The Regulators of Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091275. [PMID: 36139114 PMCID: PMC9496326 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091275] [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: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several factors are important for implantation and subsequent placentation in the endometrium, including immunity, angiogenesis, extracellular matrix, glucose metabolism, reactive oxidative stress, and hormones. The involvement or abnormality of these factors can impair canonical decidualization. Unusual decidualization can lead to perinatal complications, such as disruption of trophoblast invasion. Drastic changes in the morphology and function of human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) are important for decidualization of the human endometrium; hESCs are used to induce optimal morphological and functional decidualization in vitro because they contain estrogen and progesterone receptors. In this review, we will focus on the studies that have been conducted on hESC decidualization, including the results from our laboratory.
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12
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Kojima J, Ono M, Kuji N, Nishi H. Human Chorionic Villous Differentiation and Placental Development. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23148003. [PMID: 35887349 PMCID: PMC9325306 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, the placenta provides the only fetomaternal connection and is essential for establishing a pregnancy as well as fetal well-being. Additionally, it allows maternal physiological adaptation and embryonic immunological acceptance, support, and nutrition. The placenta is derived from extra-embryonic tissues that develop rapidly and dynamically in the first weeks of pregnancy. It is primarily composed of trophoblasts that differentiate into villi, stromal cells, macrophages, and fetal endothelial cells (FEC). Placental differentiation may be closely related to perinatal diseases, including fetal growth retardation (FGR) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), and miscarriage. There are limited findings regarding human chorionic villous differentiation and placental development because conducting in vivo studies is extremely difficult. Placental tissue varies widely among species. Thus, experimental animal findings are difficult to apply to humans. Early villous differentiation is difficult to study due to the small tissue size; however, a detailed analysis can potentially elucidate perinatal disease causes or help develop novel therapies. Artificial induction of early villous differentiation using human embryonic stem (ES) cells/induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells was attempted, producing normally differentiated villi that can be used for interventional/invasive research. Here, we summarized and correlated early villous differentiation findings and discussed clinical diseases.
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13
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Hwang YJ, Sung GJ, Marquardt R, Young SL, Lessey BA, Kim TH, Cheon YP, Jeong JW. SIRT1 plays an important role in implantation and decidualization during mouse early pregnancy. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:1072-1082. [PMID: 35134122 PMCID: PMC9198957 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is a member of the sirtuin family that functions to deacetylate both histones and non-histone proteins. Previous studies have identified significant SIRT1 upregulation in eutopic endometrium from infertile women with endometriosis. However, SIRT1 function in the uterus has not been directly studied. Using immunochemistry analysis, we found SIRT1 to be most strongly expressed at GD4.5 and GD5.5 in decidualized cells and at GD7.5 in secondary decidual cells in mouse. To assess the role of SIRT1 in uterine function, we generated uterine Sirt1 conditional knockout mice (Pgrcre/+Sirt1f/f; Sirt1d/d). A 6-month fertility trial revealed that Sirt1d/d females were subfertile. Implantation site numbers were significantly decreased in Sirt1d/d mice compared with controls at GD5.5. Sirt1d/d implantation sites at GD4.5 could be divided into two groups, Group #1 with luminal closure and nonspecific COX2 expression compared with controls (14/20) and Group #2 with an open lumen and no COX2 (6/20). In Sirt1d/d Group #1, nuclear FOXO1 expression in luminal epithelial cells was significantly decreased. In Sirt1d/d Group #2, nuclear FOXO1 expression was almost completely absent, and there was strong PGR expression in epithelial cells. At GD5.5, stromal PGR and COX2 were significantly decreased in Sirt1d/d uterine in the areas surrounding the embryo compared with controls, indicating defective decidualization. An artificially induced decidualization test revealed that Sirt1d/d females showed defects in decidualization response. All together, these data suggest that SIRT1 is important for decidualization and contributes to preparing a receptive endometrium for successful implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon Jeong Hwang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Division of Developmental Biology and Physiology, Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Basic Sciences, Sungshin Women’s University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Gi-Jun Sung
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Ryan Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, College of Natural Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertilithy, Atrium Health, Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Yong-Pil Cheon
- Division of Developmental Biology and Physiology, Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Basic Sciences, Sungshin Women’s University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
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Kim MK, Yoon JA, Yoon SY, Park M, Lee WS, Lyu SW, Song H. Human Platelet-Rich Plasma Facilitates Angiogenesis to Restore Impaired Uterine Environments with Asherman’s Syndrome for Embryo Implantation and Following Pregnancy in Mice. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091549. [PMID: 35563855 PMCID: PMC9101537 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Asherman’s syndrome (AS) is caused by intrauterine adhesions and inactive endometrium from repeated curettage of the uterine endometrium. AS is a major cause of recurrent implantation failure and miscarriage and is very difficult to treat because of the poor recovery of endometrial basal cells. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has abundant growth factors that may induce angiogenesis and cell proliferation. Here, we demonstrate that human PRP (hPRP) significantly enhances angiogenesis to restore embryo implantation, leading to successful pregnancy in mice with AS. In mice with AS, hPRP treatment considerably reduced the expression of fibrosis markers and alleviated oligo/amenorrhea phenotypes. Mice with AS did not produce any pups, but the hPRP therapy restored their infertility. AS-induced abnormalities, such as aberrantly delayed embryo implantation and intrauterine growth retardation, were considerably eliminated by hPRP. Furthermore, hPRP significantly promoted not only the elevation of various angiogenic factors, but also the migration of endometrial stromal cells. It also increased the phosphorylation of STAT3, a critical mediator of wound healing, and the expression of tissue remodeling genes in a fibrotic uterus. PRP could be a promising therapeutic strategy to promote angiogenesis and reduce fibrosis in impaired uterine environments, leading to successful embryo implantation for better clinical outcomes in patients with AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Kyoung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Gangnam, CHA University School of Medicine, 569 Nonhyun-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06125, Korea; (M.K.K.); (J.A.Y.); (S.Y.Y.); (W.S.L.); (S.W.L.)
| | - Jung Ah Yoon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Gangnam, CHA University School of Medicine, 569 Nonhyun-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06125, Korea; (M.K.K.); (J.A.Y.); (S.Y.Y.); (W.S.L.); (S.W.L.)
| | - Sook Young Yoon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Gangnam, CHA University School of Medicine, 569 Nonhyun-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06125, Korea; (M.K.K.); (J.A.Y.); (S.Y.Y.); (W.S.L.); (S.W.L.)
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 13488, Korea;
| | - Woo Sik Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Gangnam, CHA University School of Medicine, 569 Nonhyun-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06125, Korea; (M.K.K.); (J.A.Y.); (S.Y.Y.); (W.S.L.); (S.W.L.)
| | - Sang Woo Lyu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Gangnam, CHA University School of Medicine, 569 Nonhyun-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06125, Korea; (M.K.K.); (J.A.Y.); (S.Y.Y.); (W.S.L.); (S.W.L.)
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 13488, Korea;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-031-881-7150
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15
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Hiraoka T, Hirota Y, Aikawa S, Iida R, Ishizawa C, Kaku T, Hirata T, Fukui Y, Akaeda S, Matsuo M, Shimizu-Hirota R, Takeda N, Osuga Y. Constant Activation of STAT3 Contributes to the Development of Adenomyosis in Females. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6563397. [PMID: 35380652 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Adenomyosis is a benign uterine disease that causes dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility; however, its pathophysiology remains unclear. Since signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is crucial for endometrial regeneration, we hypothesized that STAT3 participates in adenomyosis pathophysiology. To investigate the influence of STAT3 on adenomyosis development, this study was performed using a novel mouse model of adenomyosis and human specimens of eutopic endometria and adenomyosis lesions. We established a novel mouse model of adenomyosis by puncturing entire mouse uterine layers with a thin needle. Mouse eutopic and ectopic endometria showed a positive immunoreactivity for phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3), the active form of STAT3. Decreased numbers of adenomyotic lesions and reduced expression of Cxcl1, Icam1, and Spp1, which are associated with immune cell chemotaxis and tissue regeneration, were observed in uterine Stat3-deficient mice compared with the controls. In humans, pSTAT3 was intensely expressed at both the eutopic endometrium and the adenomyotic lesions regardless of the menstrual cycle phases. Conversely, it was limitedly expressed in the eutopic endometrium during the menstrual and proliferative phases in women without adenomyosis. Our findings indicate that continuous STAT3 activation promotes adenomyosis development. STAT3 inhibition can be a promising treatment strategy in patients with adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rei Iida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chihiro Ishizawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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16
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Yu B, Wang X, Song Y, Xie G, Jiao S, Shi L, Cao X, Han X, Qu A. The role of hypoxia-inducible factors in cardiovascular diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 238:108186. [PMID: 35413308 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. During the development of cardiovascular diseases, hypoxia plays a crucial role. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are the key transcription factors for adaptive hypoxic responses, which orchestrate the transcription of numerous genes involved in angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, glycolytic metabolism, inflammation, and so on. Recent studies have dissected the precise role of cell-specific HIFs in the pathogenesis of hypertension, atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysms, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and heart failure using tissue-specific HIF-knockout or -overexpressing animal models. More importantly, several compounds developed as HIF inhibitors or activators have been in clinical trials for the treatment of renal cancer or anemia; however, little is known on the therapeutic potential of these inhibitors for cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of this review is to summarize the recent advances on HIFs in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases and to provide evidence of potential clinical therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoqi Yu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yanting Song
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China; Department of Pathology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Guomin Xie
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Shiyu Jiao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Li Shi
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Xuejie Cao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Xinyao Han
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Aijuan Qu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100069, PR China.
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17
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Li R, Wang TY, Xu X, Emery OM, Yi M, Wu SP, DeMayo FJ. Spatial transcriptomic profiles of mouse uterine microenvironments at pregnancy day 7.5†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:529-545. [PMID: 35357464 PMCID: PMC9382390 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine dysfunctions lead to fertility disorders and pregnancy complications. Normal uterine functions at pregnancy depend on crosstalk among multiple cell types in uterine microenvironments. Here, we performed the spatial transcriptomics and single-cell RNA-seq assays to determine local gene expression profiles at the embryo implantation site of the mouse uterus on pregnancy day 7.5 (D7.5). The spatial transcriptomic annotation identified 11 domains of distinct gene signatures, including a mesometrial myometrium, an anti-mesometrial myometrium, a mesometrial decidua enriched with natural killer cells, a vascular sinus zone for maternal vessel remodeling, a fetal-maternal interface, a primary decidual zone, a transition decidual zone, a secondary decidual zone, undifferentiated stroma, uterine glands, and the embryo. The scRNA-Seq identified 12 types of cells in the D7.5 uterus including three types of stromal fibroblasts with differentiated and undifferentiated markers, one cluster of epithelium including luminal and glandular epithelium, mesothelium, endothelia, pericytes, myelomonocytic cell, natural killer cells, and lymphocyte B. These single-cell RNA signatures were then utilized to deconvolute the cell-type compositions of each individual uterine microenvironment. Functional annotation assays on spatial transcriptomic data revealed uterine microenvironments with distinguished metabolic preferences, immune responses, and various cellular behaviors that are regulated by region-specific endocrine and paracrine signals. Global interactome among regions is also projected based on the spatial transcriptomic data. This study provides high-resolution transcriptome profiles with locality information at the embryo implantation site to facilitate further investigations on molecular mechanisms for normal pregnancy progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Tian-yuan Wang
- Integrative Bioinformatics Supportive Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Xin Xu
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Olivia M Emery
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - MyeongJin Yi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Correspondence: Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 111 T. W. Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA. Tel: +9842873987; E-mail:
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18
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Aikawa S, Hirota Y, Fukui Y, Ishizawa C, IIda R, Kaku T, Hirata T, Akaeda S, Hiraoka T, Matsuo M, Osuga Y. A gene network of uterine luminal epithelium organizes mouse blastocyst implantation. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12435. [PMID: 35386370 PMCID: PMC8967306 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The receptive endometrium is critical for blastocyst implantation. In mice, after blastocysts enter the uterine cavities on day 4 of pregnancy (day 1 = vaginal plug), blastocyst attachment is completed within 24 h, accompanied by dynamic interactions between the uterine luminal epithelium and the blastocysts. Any failures in this process compromise subsequent pregnancy outcomes. Here, we performed comprehensive analyses of gene expression at the luminal epithelium in the peri‐implantation period. Methods RNA‐seq combined with laser microdissection (LMD) was used to reveal unique gene expression kinetics in the epithelium. Results We found that the prereceptive epithelium on day 3 specifically expresses cell cycle‐related genes. In addition, days 3 and 4 epithelia express glutathione pathway‐related genes, which are protective against oxidative stresses. In contrast, day 5 epithelium expresses genes involved in glycolysis and the regulation of cell proliferation. The genes highly expressed on days 3 and 4 compared to day 5 are related to progesterone receptor signaling, and the genes highly expressed on day 5 compared to days 3 and 4 are associated with the ones regulated by H3K27me3. Conclusions These results suggest that specific gene expression patterns govern uterine functions during early pregnancy, contributing to implantation success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Chihiro Ishizawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Rei IIda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
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19
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Zheng X, Ma J, Hu M, Long J, Wei Q, Ren W. Analysis of HIF2α polymorphisms in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome or unexplained infertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:986567. [PMID: 36157441 PMCID: PMC9492870 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.986567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate HIF2α polymorphisms and glucose metabolism in a group of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or unexplained infertility (UI). PATIENTS The infertile group (n=148) consisted of 96 women with PCOS, 52 women with UI, and176 women without infertility as a healthy control group. INTERVENTION We genotyped 29 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of HIF2α by using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS)-based genotyping technology. The genetic associations were analyzed statistically. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Allele frequency, genotype distribution and haplotype analyze of the HIF2α polymorphisms were performed. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, uric acid (UA), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), lipids, glucose and insulin tolerance - were also measured. RESULTS Infertile women with PCOS had a higherBMI and waist circumference, elevated hsCRP and uric acid (UA) levels, impaired glucose tolerance, and increased levels of plasma insulin compared to UI patients and healthy women. SNP analysis of HIF2α revealed that the allele and genotype frequencies of rs4953361 were significantly associated with infertile women with PCOS. Haplotype analysis of the HIF2α polymorphism identified haplotypes TGG and TGA as being associated with infertile women with PCOS. Women with the AA genotype of rs4953361 had a significantly higher BMI and post load plasma glucose and insulin levels than those of women with the GG genotype. CONCLUSION Infertile women with PCOS more commonly have metabolic disturbances than those with UI. This is the first study to report an association between HIF2α polymorphisms (rs4953361) and the risk of infertile women with PCOS, not UI, in Han Chinese population. These results require replication in larger populations.In this observational study, we did not report the results of a health care intervention on human participants. The study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. Clinical data and peripheral blood samples were collected only after explaining the objectives of the study and obtaining a signed informed consent form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya Zheng
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoya Zheng,
| | - Jiani Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Hu
- Reproductive and Infertility Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Long
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Prevention of Disease Department, Chongqing Jiulongpo District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Ren
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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20
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Liu Z, Liu X, Li F, Sun Y, Yu L, Zhang W, Zhu P, Ma D, Wang X, Lai S, Bao H. Overexpression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and excessive vascularization in the peri-implantation endometrium of infertile women with chronic endometritis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1001437. [PMID: 36531509 PMCID: PMC9751377 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1001437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chronic endometritis (CE) contributes to impaired endometrial receptivity and is closely associated with poor in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. However, the mechanisms underlying CE are unclear. Here, we investigated the role of the hypoxic microenvironment and endometrial vascularization in the peri-implantation endometrium of infertile women with CE. METHODS This retrospective study involved 15 fertile women and 77 infertile patients diagnosed with CE based on CD138+ ≥1/10 high-power fields (HPFs). The CE patients were divided into Group 1 (CD138+ 1-4/10 HPFs, 53 cases) and Group 2 (CD138+ ≥5/10 HPFs, 24 cases). The expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in peri-implantation endometrium were assessed by qRT-PCR and western blot analyses. Spatial levels of HIF1α, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 in various endometrial compartments was determined using immunohistochemistry and H-score analysis. Microvascular density (MVD) was determined using CD34 staining and scored using Image J. Finally, we used qRT-PCR to assess changes in the expression of HIF1α, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 in CE patients after treatment with first-line antibiotics. RESULTS Relative to Group 1 and control group, during the implantation window, protein and mRNA levels of HIF1α, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 were markedly high in Group 2 (P<0.05). H-score analysis showed that HIF1α, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 in the luminal, glandular epithelium, and stromal compartments were markedly elevated in Group 2, comparing to control group and Group 1 (P<0.05). Moreover, markedly elevated MVD levels were observed in Group 2. Notably, the above indexes did not differ significantly in the control group versus Group 1. Treatment with antibiotics significantly suppressed the endometrial HIF1α and VEGFA levels in CE-cured patients. CONCLUSIONS Here, we for the first time report the upregulation of HIF1α, VEGFA, and VEGFR2, as well as excessive endometrial vascularization in the peri-implantation endometrium of CE patients. Our findings offer new insights into reduced endometrial receptivity in CE-associated infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Shoucui Lai
- *Correspondence: Shoucui Lai, ; Hongchu Bao,
| | - Hongchu Bao
- *Correspondence: Shoucui Lai, ; Hongchu Bao,
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21
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Li R, Wang X, Huang Z, Balaji J, Kim TH, Wang T, Zhou L, Deleon A, Cook ME, Marbrey MW, Wu SP, Jeong JW, Arora R, DeMayo FJ. The role of epithelial progesterone receptor isoforms in embryo implantation. iScience 2021; 24:103487. [PMID: 34934913 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss of uterine epithelial progesterone receptor (PGR) is crucial for successful embryo implantation in both humans and mice. The two major isoforms PGRA and PGRB have divergent functions under both physiological and pathological conditions. The present study compares phenotypes and gene signatures of PGRA and PGRB in uterine epithelium using uterine epithelial-specific constitutively expressed PGRA or PGRB mouse models. The cistrome and transcriptome analysis reveals substantial overlap between epithelial PGRA and PGRB, and both disrupt embryo implantation through FOXO1 pathways. Constitutive epithelial PGRA and PGRB expression impairs ESR1 occupancy at the promoter of Lif leading to reduced Lif transcription and further exaggerates SGK1 expression leading to enhanced PI3K-SGK1 activities, and both contribute to the decline of nuclear FOXO1 expression. Our study demonstrates that PGRA and PGRB in the uterine epithelium act on a similar set of target genes and commonly regulate the LIF-SGK1-FOXO1 signaling pathway for embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Xiaoqiu Wang
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Zhenyao Huang
- School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jayani Balaji
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, MI, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, MI, USA
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Integrative Bioinformatics, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Lecong Zhou
- Integrative Bioinformatics, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Ashley Deleon
- Laser Capture Microdissection Core Laboratory, Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA.,Kelly Government Solutions, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Molly E Cook
- Epigenomics and DNA Sequencing Core, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Margeaux W Marbrey
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jae Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, MI, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, MI, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
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22
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Uterine Receptivity is Reflected by LIF Expression in the Cervix. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1457-1462. [PMID: 34859388 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00816-8] [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: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure is a major problem in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Although ART systems have evolved rapidly over the decades, it is still difficult to diagnose uterine conditions suitable for embryo transfer (ET) without the use of invasive endometrial procedures. Previous studies in mice showed that leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a well-known endometrial biomarker for uterine implantation capacity, also known as uterine receptivity. This study focused on LIF in the mouse and human cervix as a possible biomarker of implantation capacity. We found that high expression of LIF in the cervical epithelium is strongly correlated with that of the uterine epithelium during the peri-implantation period in mice. Likewise, human cervical epithelia also exhibit elevated levels of LIF in the peri-implantation period. In addition, cervical LIF is downregulated in mice with defective implantation caused by pharmacological treatments. These results indicated that cervical LIF is a possible biomarker that detected uterine receptivity without invasive endometrial damage.
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23
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Fukui Y, Hirota Y, Saito-Fujita T, Aikawa S, Hiraoka T, Kaku T, Hirata T, Akaeda S, Matsuo M, Shimizu-Hirota R, Takeda N, Ikawa M, Osuga Y. Uterine Epithelial LIF Receptors Contribute to Implantation Chamber Formation in Blastocyst Attachment. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6353290. [PMID: 34402888 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that the formation of an implantation chamber composed of a uterine crypt, an implantation-competent blastocyst, and uterine glands is a critical step in blastocyst implantation in mice. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) activates signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) precursors via uterine LIF receptors (LIFRs), allowing successful blastocyst implantation. Our recent study revealed that the role of epithelial STAT3 is different from that of stromal STAT3. However, both are essential for blastocyst attachment, suggesting the different roles of epithelial and stromal LIFR in blastocyst implantation. However, how epithelial and stromal LIFR regulate the blastocyst implantation process remains unclear. To investigate the roles of LIFR in the uterine epithelium and stroma, we generated Lifr-floxed/lactoferrin (Ltf)-iCre (Lifr eKO) and Lifr-floxed/antimüllerian hormone receptor type 2 (Amhr2)-Cre (Lifr sKO) mice with deleted epithelial and stromal LIFR, respectively. Surprisingly, fertility and blastocyst implantation in the Lifr sKO mice were normal despite stromal STAT3 inactivation. In contrast, blastocyst attachment failed, and no implantation chambers were formed in the Lifr eKO mice with epithelial inactivation of STAT3. In addition, normal responsiveness to ovarian hormones was observed in the peri-implantation uteri of the Lifr eKO mice. These results indicate that the epithelial LIFR-STAT3 pathway initiates the formation of implantation chambers, leading to complete blastocyst attachment, and that stromal STAT3 regulates blastocyst attachment without stromal LIFR control. Thus, uterine epithelial LIFR is critical to implantation chamber formation and blastocyst attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoko Saito-Fujita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
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24
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Bishop A, Cartwright JE, Whitley GS. Stanniocalcin-1 in the female reproductive system and pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:1098-1114. [PMID: 34432025 PMCID: PMC8542996 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stanniocalcin-1 (STC-1) is a widely expressed glycoprotein hormone involved in a diverse spectrum of physiological and pathophysiological processes including angiogenesis, mineral homeostasis, cell proliferation, inflammation and apoptosis. Over the last 20 years, numerous studies have reported STC-1 expression within female reproductive tissues including the uterus, ovaries and placenta and implicated STC-1 in processes such as ovarian follicular development, blastocyst implantation, vascular remodelling in early pregnancy and placental development. Notably, dysregulation of STC-1 within reproductive tissues has been linked to the onset of severe reproductive disorders including endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, poor trophoblast invasion and placental perfusion in early pregnancy. Furthermore, significant changes in tissue expression and in maternal systemic concentration take place throughout pregnancy and further substantiate the vital role of this protein in reproductive health and disease. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Our aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing literature, to summarise the expression profile and roles of STC-1 within the female reproductive system and its associated pathologies. We highlight the gaps in the current knowledge and suggest potential avenues for future research. SEARCH METHODS Relevant studies were identified through searching the PubMed database using the following search terms: ‘stanniocalcin-1’, ‘placenta’, ‘ovary’, ‘endometrium’, ‘pregnancy’, ‘reproduction’, ‘early gestation’. Only English language papers published between 1995 and 2020 were included. OUTCOMES This review provides compelling evidence of the vital function that STC-1 plays within the female reproductive system. The literature presented summarise the wide expression profile of STC-1 within female reproductive organs, as well as highlighting the putative roles of STC-1 in various functions in the reproductive system. Moreover, the observed link between altered STC-1 expression and the onset of various reproductive pathologies is presented, including those in pregnancy whose aetiology occurs in the first trimester. This summary emphasises the requirement for further studies on the mechanisms underlying the regulation of STC-1 expression and function. WIDER IMPLICATIONS STC-1 is a pleiotropic hormone involved in the regulation of a number of important biological functions needed to maintain female reproductive health. There is also growing evidence that dysregulation of STC-1 is implicated in common reproductive and obstetric disorders. Greater understanding of the physiology and biochemistry of STC-1 within the field may therefore identify possible targets for therapeutic intervention and/or diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa Bishop
- Centre for Vascular Biology, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Judith E Cartwright
- Centre for Vascular Biology, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Guy S Whitley
- Centre for Vascular Biology, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
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25
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Vrhovac Madunić I, Karin-Kujundžić V, Madunić J, Šola IM, Šerman L. Endometrial Glucose Transporters in Health and Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:703671. [PMID: 34552924 PMCID: PMC8450505 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.703671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy loss is a frequent occurrence during the peri-implantation period, when there is high glucose demand for embryonic development and endometrial decidualization. Glucose is among the most essential uterine fluid components required for those processes. Numerous studies associate abnormal glucose metabolism in the endometrium with a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The endometrium is incapable of synthesizing glucose, which thus must be delivered into the uterine lumen by glucose transporters (GLUTs) and/or the sodium-dependent glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1). Among the 26 glucose transporters (14 GLUTs and 12 SGLTs) described, 10 (9 GLUTs and SGLT1) are expressed in rodents and 8 (7 GLUTs and SGLT1) in the human uterus. This review summarizes present knowledge on the most studied glucose transporters in the uterine endometrium (GLUT1, GLUT3, GLUT4, and GLUT8), whose data regarding function and regulation are still lacking. We present the recently discovered SGLT1 in the mouse and human endometrium, responsible for controlling glycogen accumulation essential for embryo implantation. Moreover, we describe the epigenetic regulation of endometrial GLUTs, as well as signaling pathways included in uterine GLUT’s expression. Further investigation of the GLUTs function in different endometrial cells is of high importance, as numerous glucose transporters are associated with infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome, and gestational diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Vrhovac Madunić
- Molecular Toxicology Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Valentina Karin-Kujundžić
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Centre of Excellence in Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Josip Madunić
- Biochemistry and Organic Analytical Chemistry Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ida Marija Šola
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sisters of Charity University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ljiljana Šerman
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Centre of Excellence in Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
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26
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Biology and pathology of the uterine microenvironment and its natural killer cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:2101-2113. [PMID: 34426671 PMCID: PMC8429689 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00739-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissues are the new frontier of discoveries in immunology. Cells of the immune system are an integral part of tissue physiology and immunity. Determining how immune cells inhabit, housekeep, and defend gut, lung, brain, liver, uterus, and other organs helps revealing the intimate details of tissue physiology and may offer new therapeutic targets to treat pathologies. The uterine microenvironment modulates the development and function of innate lymphoid cells [ILC, largely represented by natural killer (NK) cells], macrophages, T cells, and dendritic cells. These immune cells, in turn, contribute to tissue homeostasis. Regulated by ovarian hormones, the human uterine mucosa (endometrium) undergoes ~400 monthly cycles of breakdown and regeneration from menarche to menopause, with its fibroblasts, glands, blood vessels, and immune cells remodeling the tissue into the transient decidua. Even more transformative changes occur upon blastocyst implantation. Before the placenta is formed, the endometrial glands feed the embryo by histiotrophic nutrition while the uterine spiral arteries are stripped of their endothelial layer and smooth muscle actin. This arterial remodeling is carried out by invading fetal trophoblast and maternal immune cells, chiefly uterine NK (uNK) cells, which also assist fetal growth. The transformed arteries no longer respond to maternal stimuli and meet the increasing demands of the growing fetus. This review focuses on how the everchanging uterine microenvironment affects uNK cells and how uNK cells regulate homeostasis of the decidua, placenta development, and fetal growth. Determining these pathways will help understand the causes of major pregnancy complications.
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27
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Namiki T, Kamoshita M, Kageyama A, Terakawa J, Ito J, Kashiwazaki N. Utility of progesterone receptor-ires-Cre to generate conditional knockout mice for uterine study. Anim Sci J 2021; 92:e13615. [PMID: 34402137 PMCID: PMC9286405 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In mice, the conditional knockout strategy using the Cre-loxP system is useful for various types of research. The Cre mouse line with progesterone receptor promoter (PgrCre ) has been widely used to produce specific uterine gene-deficient mice, but in the Cre line, endogenous Pgr gene is replaced by Cre recombinase gene, which makes the breeding of homozygous mice (PgrCre/Cre ) difficult because they are infertile. Yang et al. (2013, https://10.1016/j.cell.2013.04.017) reported the generation of another PgriresCre mouse line that still has endogenous Pgr gene, and they inserted Cre recombinase downstream of the Pgr gene via an internal ribosome entry site (IRES). It is possible that this new PgriresCre line would be useful for uterine research as the mice can be bred as homozygotes (PgriresCre/iresCre ). Herein, we confirmed the PgriresCre mice effectively directed recombination in the female reproductive tract and was capable of genetic alteration in the endometrium that enables the studies of its uterine function. Our findings demonstrate that the new PgriresCre mouse line is also useful for the generation of uterine-specific knockout mice. The findings using PgriresCre mouse will contribute to the understanding of reproductive systems and diseases in humans and domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Namiki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Maki Kamoshita
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Atsuko Kageyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Jumpei Terakawa
- Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Center for Human and Animal Symbiosis Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Naomi Kashiwazaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
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28
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Maraldi T, Angeloni C, Prata C, Hrelia S. NADPH Oxidases: Redox Regulators of Stem Cell Fate and Function. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:973. [PMID: 34204425 PMCID: PMC8234808 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the major sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated within stem cells is the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase family of enzymes (NOXs), which are critical determinants of the redox state beside antioxidant defense mechanisms. This balance is involved in another one that regulates stem cell fate: indeed, self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation are decisive steps for stem cells during embryo development, adult tissue renovation, and cell therapy application. Ex vivo culture-expanded stem cells are being investigated for tissue repair and immune modulation, but events such as aging, senescence, and oxidative stress reduce their ex vivo proliferation, which is crucial for their clinical applications. Here, we review the role of NOX-derived ROS in stem cell biology and functions, focusing on positive and negative effects triggered by the activity of different NOX isoforms. We report recent findings on downstream molecular targets of NOX-ROS signaling that can modulate stem cell homeostasis and lineage commitment and discuss the implications in ex vivo expansion and in vivo engraftment, function, and longevity. This review highlights the role of NOX as a pivotal regulator of several stem cell populations, and we conclude that these aspects have important implications in the clinical utility of stem cells, but further studies on the effects of pharmacological modulation of NOX in human stem cells are imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tullia Maraldi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41124 Modena, Italy;
| | - Cristina Angeloni
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Gentile III da Varano, 62032 Camerino, Italy;
| | - Cecilia Prata
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvana Hrelia
- Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, Corso d’Augusto 237, 47921 Rimini, Italy;
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29
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Khatun M, Arffman RK, Lavogina D, Kangasniemi M, Laru J, Ahtikoski A, Lehtonen S, Paulson M, Hirschberg AL, Salumets A, Andersson LC, Piltonen TT. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome present with altered endometrial expression of stanniocalcin-1†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:306-315. [PMID: 31494675 PMCID: PMC7016287 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stanniocalcin-1 (STC-1) is a pro-survival factor that protects tissues against stressors, such as hypoxia and inflammation. STC-1 is co-expressed with the endometrial receptivity markers, and recently endometrial STC-1 was reported to be dysregulated in endometriosis, a condition linked with endometrial progesterone resistance and inflammation. These features are also common in the endometrium in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrine disorder in women. Given that women with PCOS present with subfertility, pregnancy complications, and increased risk for endometrial cancer, we investigated endometrial STC-1 expression in affected women. Endometrial biopsy samples were obtained from women with PCOS and controls, including samples from overweight/obese women with PCOS before and after a 3-month lifestyle intervention. A total of 98 PCOS and 85 control samples were used in immunohistochemistry, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, or in vitro cell culture. STC-1 expression was analyzed at different cycle phases and in endometrial stromal cells (eSCs) after steroid hormone exposure. The eSCs were also challenged with 8-bromo-cAMP and hypoxia for STC-1 expression. The findings indicate that STC-1 expression is not steroid hormone mediated although secretory-phase STC-1 expression was blunted in PCOS. Lower expression seems to be related to attenuated STC-1 response to stressors in PCOS eSCs, shown as downregulation of protein kinase A activity. The 3-month lifestyle intervention did not restore STC-1 expression in PCOS endometrium. More studies are warranted to further elucidate the mechanisms behind the altered endometrial STC-1 expression and rescue mechanism in the PCOS endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masuma Khatun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Riikka K Arffman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Darja Lavogina
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marika Kangasniemi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Johanna Laru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anne Ahtikoski
- Department of Pathology, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Siri Lehtonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Mariana Paulson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Leif C Andersson
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Terhi T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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Wang Z, Liu Y, Liu J, Kong N, Jiang Y, Jiang R, Zhen X, Zhou J, Li C, Sun H, Yan G. ATF3 deficiency impairs the proliferative-secretory phase transition and decidualization in RIF patients. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:387. [PMID: 33846304 PMCID: PMC8041902 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03679-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Decidualization is a complex process involving cellular proliferation and differentiation of the endometrial stroma and is required to establish and support pregnancy. Dysregulated decidualization has been reported to be a critical cause of recurrent implantation failure (RIF). In this study, we found that Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) expression was significantly downregulated in the endometrium of RIF patients. Knockdown of ATF3 in human endometrium stromal cells (hESCs) hampers decidualization, while overexpression could trigger the expression of decidual marker genes, and ameliorate the decidualization of hESCs from RIF patients. Mechanistically, ATF3 promotes decidualization by upregulating FOXO1 via suppressing miR-135b expression. In addition, the endometrium of RIF patients was hyperproliferative, while overexpression of ATF3 inhibited the proliferation of hESCs through CDKN1A. These data demonstrate the critical roles of endometrial ATF3 in regulating decidualization and proliferation, and dysregulation of ATF3 in the endometrium may be a novel cause of RIF and therefore represent a potential therapeutic target for RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyu Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Kong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruiwei Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jidong Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaojun Li
- Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Guijun Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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31
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Ajit K, Murphy BD, Banerjee A. Elucidating evolutionarily conserved mechanisms of diapause regulation using an in silico approach. FEBS Lett 2021; 595:1350-1374. [PMID: 33650678 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Embryonic diapause is an enigmatic phenomenon that appears in diverse species. Although regulatory mechanisms have been established, there is much to be discovered. Herein, we have made the first comprehensive attempt to elucidate diapause regulatory mechanisms using a computational approach. We found transcription factors unique to promoters of genes in diapause species. From pathway analysis and STRING PPI networks, the signaling pathways regulated by these unique transcription factors were identified. The pathways were then consolidated into a model to combine various known mechanisms of diapause regulation. This work also highlighted certain transcription factors that may act as 'master transcription factors' to regulate the phenomenon. Promoter analysis further suggested evidence for independent evolution for some of regulatory elements involved in diapause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal Ajit
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani KK Birla Goa Campus, Goa, India
| | - Bruce D Murphy
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médicine Vétérinaire, Université Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Arnab Banerjee
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani KK Birla Goa Campus, Goa, India
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32
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Terawaki K, Saegusa Y, Sekiguchi K, Shimizu T, Takiyama M, Matsumoto T, Iizuka S, Matsumoto C, Motoyama F. The ameliorating effects of tokishakuyakusan in a rat model of implantation failure involves endometrial gland leukemia inhibitory factor and decidualization. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 265:113288. [PMID: 32841695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Tokishakuyakusan (TSS) is a Kampo medicine that is prescribed for the treatment of infertility in Japan. However, its precise mechanism of action remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in the endometrium plays an indispensable role in embryo implantation and is linked to infertility or implantation failure. Previously, we demonstrated that TSS ameliorated implantation failure induced by mifepristone (RU-486), an antagonist of progesterone, in rats. Herein, we aimed to clarify whether the ameliorating effect of TSS on implantation failure in the rat model involves endometrial LIF. Additionally, we determined whether decidualization, the dysfunction of which is linked to infertility or implantation failure similar to LIF, progesterone, and other implantation-related factors, are involved in the effect of TSS. MATERIALS AND METHODS The implantation failure rat model was developed via the subcutaneous administration of RU-486 (7 mg/kg) on day 3 post-coitus. Sesame oil was administered as the vehicle control. Rats were fed a diet containing 1% or 3% TSS or a control diet from day 13 pre-coitus. Subsequently, the implantation sites were assessed, and plasma progesterone levels were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) on day 8 post-coitus. The LIF mRNA of the endometrial gland, which was segmented via laser-microdissection from the endometrial tissue, was measured, and endometrial LIF immunostaining was carried out on day 5. The gene expression of different factors related to implantation, including decidualization and progesterone-responsiveness on days 5 and 6, were measured. The human endometrial Ishikawa cell line derived from human adenocarcinoma was treated with TSS (30-300 μg/mL) for 24 h, and the LIF concentrations in the cell culture supernatants were measured. RESULTS RU-486 decreased the number of implantation sites in the uterus of rats; however, the decrease was significantly alleviated by TSS (3%-diet), which tended to increase plasma progesterone. In rats with RU-486-induced implantation failure, endometrial gland LIF mRNA and endometrial LIF protein were markedly decreased while the gene expression of both decidualization-related factors such as interleukin-11, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1, and cyclooxygenase-2, and progesterone responsive-related factors such as FK506 binding protein 5, were significantly decreased. These changes in the uterus of rats with implantation failure were significantly alleviated by TSS (3%-diet). Additionally, TSS significantly enhanced LIF protein production and LIF mRNA in Ishikawa cells. CONCLUSIONS The mechanism whereby TSS ameliorates RU-486-induced implantation failure in rats may involve the alleviation of decreased LIF production derived from the endometrial gland, and a dysfunction of decidualization, including lower progesterone responsiveness in the model. These findings may partly contribute to the interpretation of the beneficial effects of TSS on infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoshi Terawaki
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan.
| | - Yayoi Saegusa
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan
| | - Kyoji Sekiguchi
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan
| | - Tomofumi Shimizu
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan
| | - Mikina Takiyama
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan
| | - Takashi Matsumoto
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan
| | - Seiichi Iizuka
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan
| | - Chinami Matsumoto
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki, 300-1192, Japan.
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Song Y, Zhou F, Tan X, Liu X, Ding J, Zhang C, Li F, Zhu W, Ma W, Hu R, Zhang M. Bushen Huoxue recipe attenuates early pregnancy loss via activating endometrial COX2-PGE2 angiogenic signaling in mice. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:36. [PMID: 33446182 PMCID: PMC7809844 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the fresh cycles of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, a disturbance in the reproductive endocrine environment following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is closely related to compromised endometrial receptivity. This is a major disadvantage for women during pregnancy. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, Bushen Huoxue recipe (BSHXR) has been indicated to facilitate embryo implantation. METHODS The COH model (Kunming breed) was induced by injecting mice with pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (0.4 IU/g) and human chorionic gonadotropin (1 IU/g), followed by treatment with BSHXR at three different concentrations (5.7, 11.4, and 22.8 g/kg), Bushen recipe (BSR) (5.7 g/kg), and Huoxue recipe (HXR) (5.7 g/kg). After successful mating, the pregnancy rate and implantation sites were examined on embryo day 8 (ED8), and the weight ratio of endometrium was calculated on ED4 midnight. Serum estrogen, progesterone, and endometrial PGE2 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The endometrial microvasculature was evaluated using CD31 immunostaining. The protein and mRNA levels of the angiogenic factors in the endometrium were evaluated using western blot, immunohistochemistry, and polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS In the COH group, the pregnancy rate and implantation sites were significantly decreased, and abnormal serum hormone levels and impaired endometrial vascular development were observed. After BSHXR treatment, the supraphysiological serum progesterone level in COH mice was restored to normalcy. Moreover, the abnormal expression of the endometrial pro-angiogenic factors, including HIF1α, COX2-PGE2 pathway, and the down-stream factors, namely, MMP2, MMP9, TIMP2, and FGF2 after subjecting mice to COH was significantly improved after BSHXR treatment. CONCLUSION BSHXR could improve embryo implantation by regulating hormonal balance and modulating endometrial angiogenesis in mice, without inducing any side effects in normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Fanru Zhou
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiujuan Tan
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahui Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chu Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenxin Zhu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
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Guo S, Zhang D, Lu X, Zhang Q, Gu R, Sun B, Sun Y. Hypoxia and its possible relationship with endometrial receptivity in adenomyosis: a preliminary study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:7. [PMID: 33419445 PMCID: PMC7791798 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00692-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adenomyosis (AM) is an important cause of female infertility. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This report describes a preliminary study of hypoxia and its possible association with endometrial receptivity in AM. METHODS The study was divided into in vitro and in vivo experiments. In vitro, expression levels of the endometrial receptivity markers HOXA10 and HOXA11 in the implantation period were examined using real-time PCR and western blotting. Endometrial expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, HIF-2α, and HIF-3α was determined using immunohistochemistry. In vivo, using an AM mouse model established by oral administration of tamoxifen, we inhibited expression of HIF-2α using an HIF-2α antagonist (PT2399; 30 mg/kg body weight, twice daily by oral gavage for 2 days) and then examined expression levels of Hoxa10 and Hoxa11 using real-time PCR and western blotting. RESULTS Endometrial mRNA and protein expression levels of HOXA10 and HOXA11 were significantly lower in patients with AM than in control patients. Expression of HIF-2α was significantly higher in the AM group than in the control group, whereas that of HIF-1α and HIF-3α was equivalent in both groups. In vivo analysis showed that administration of the HIF-2α antagonist resulted in increased expression of Hoxa10 and Hoxa11 at both the mRNA and protein levels in AM model mice. CONCLUSIONS HIF-2α overexpression may be one reason for decreased endometrial receptivity in AM. The current findings provide insight into HIF-2α-mediated AM-related infertility and suggest that PT2399 has potential as a treatment for AM. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial was retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Guo
- Gynecology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, NO.16766 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Obstetrics Department, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, No.12 Central Wuying Hill Road, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Xiaowei Lu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Gynecology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, NO.16766 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Ruihuan Gu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, NO.588 Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Binghui Sun
- Gynecology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, NO.16766 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, China.
| | - Yijuan Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, NO.588 Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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Akaeda S, Hirota Y, Fukui Y, Aikawa S, Shimizu-Hirota R, Kaku T, Gebril M, Hirata T, Hiraoka T, Matsuo M, Haraguchi H, Saito-Kanatani M, Takeda N, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Retinoblastoma protein promotes uterine epithelial cell cycle arrest and necroptosis for embryo invasion. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e50927. [PMID: 33399260 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202050927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoblastoma protein (RB) encoded by Rb1 is a prominent inducer of cell cycle arrest (CCA). The hormone progesterone (P4 ) promotes CCA in the uterine epithelium and previous studies indicated that P4 activates RB by reducing the phosphorylated, inactive form of RB. Here, we show that embryo implantation is impaired in uterine-specific Rb1 knockout mice. We observe persistent cell proliferation of the Rb1-deficient uterine epithelium until embryo attachment, loss of epithelial necroptosis, and trophoblast phagocytosis, which correlates with subsequent embryo invasion failure, indicating that Rb1-induced CCA and necroptosis of uterine epithelium are involved in embryo invasion. Pre-implantation P4 supplementation is sufficient to restore these defects and embryo invasion. In Rb1-deficient uterine epithelial cells, TNFα-primed necroptosis is impaired, which is rescued by the treatment with a CCA inducer thymidine or P4 through the upregulation of TNF receptor type 2. TNFα is expressed in the luminal epithelium and the embryo at the embryo attachment site. These results provide evidence that uterine Rb1-induced CCA is involved in TNFα-primed epithelial necroptosis at the implantation site for successful embryo invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Frontier Outstanding Research for Clinical Empowerment (FORCE), Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mona Gebril
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Haraguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mayuko Saito-Kanatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Cigarette Smoke Extract Activates Hypoxia-Inducible Factors in a Reactive Oxygen Species-Dependent Manner in Stroma Cells from Human Endometrium. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10010048. [PMID: 33401600 PMCID: PMC7823731 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cigarette smoking (CS) is a major contributing factor in the development of a large number of fatal and debilitating disorders, including degenerative diseases and cancers. Smoking and passive smoking also affect the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. However, to the best of our knowledge, the effects of smoking on the human endometrium remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the regulatory mechanism underlying CS-induced hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α activation using primary human endometrial stromal cells and an immortalized cell line (KC02-44D). We found that the CS extract (CSE) increased reactive oxygen species levels and stimulated HIF-1α protein stabilization in endometrial stromal cells, and that CS-induced HIF-1α-dependent gene expression under non-hypoxic conditions in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Additionally, we revealed the upregulated expression of a hypoxia-induced gene set following the CSE treatment, even under normoxic conditions. These results indicated that HIF-1α might play an important role in CS-exposure-induced cellular stress, inflammation, and endometrial remodeling.
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Liu H, Su LL, Ren Y, Wang WY. Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide increases the expression of erythropoietin and vascular endothelial growth factor in rats with chronic renal failure by activating hypoxia-inducible factor-2α. Pharmacogn Mag 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/pm.pm_13_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Kida N, Nishigaki A, Kakita‐Kobayashi M, Tsubokura H, Hashimoto Y, Yoshida A, Hisamatsu Y, Tsuzuki‐Nakao T, Murata H, Okada H. Exposure to cigarette smoke affects endometrial maturation including angiogenesis and decidualization. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 20:108-118. [PMID: 33488290 PMCID: PMC7812488 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To elucidate the effects of cigarette smoking on human endometrial maturation for reproductive function, the authors examined the in vitro effects of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on angiogenesis and decidualization in primary human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). METHODS Endometrial stromal cells were cultured with CSE and/or estradiol-17β (E2) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). The mRNA, protein levels, and protein secretion of the angiogenic factors and decidual specific factors were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Decidualization was also monitored by the changes in cellular morphology. RESULTS Endometrial stromal cell proliferation substantially decreased after dose-dependent treatments with CSE at concentrations above 1%, whereas cell death was induced at treatment concentrations above 1% CSE. Treatments above 0.025% CSE led to increased vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA through hypoxia-inducible factor-1α accumulation. CSE concentrations at 0.01% and 0.025% increased the prolactin expression levels after treatment with E2 and MPA, whereas 0.1% and 0.25% CSE concentrations suppressed prolactin. Similar tendencies were observed in cellular morphology and other decidual specific factors. CONCLUSION These results suggest that exposure to cigarette smoke affects endometrial appropriate maturation including the processes of angiogenesis and decidualization in the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Kida
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Akemi Nishigaki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | | | - Hiroaki Tsubokura
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Aya Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Yoji Hisamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | | | - Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
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Gebril M, Hirota Y, Aikawa S, Fukui Y, Kaku T, Matsuo M, Hirata T, Akaeda S, Hiraoka T, Shimizu-Hirota R, Takeda N, Taha T, Balah OA, Elnoury MAH, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Uterine Epithelial Progesterone Receptor Governs Uterine Receptivity Through Epithelial Cell Differentiation. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5939206. [PMID: 33099617 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone receptor (PGR) is indispensable for pregnancy in mammals. Uterine PGR responds to the heightened levels of ovarian progesterone (P4) after ovulation and regulates uterine gene transcription for successful embryo implantation. Although epithelial and stromal P4-PGR signaling may interact with each other to form appropriate endometrial milieu for uterine receptivity and the subsequent embryo attachment, it remains unclear what the specific roles of epithelial P4-PGR signaling in the adult uterus are. Here we generated mice with epithelial deletion of Pgr in the adult uterus (Pgrfl/flLtfCre/+ mice) by crossing Pgr-floxed and Ltf-Cre mice. Pgrfl/flLtfCre/+ mice are infertile due to the impairment of embryo attachment. Pgrfl/flLtfCre/+ uteri did not exhibit epithelial growth arrest, suggesting compromised uterine receptivity. Both epithelial and stromal expressions of P4-responsive genes decreased in Pgrfl/flLtfCre/+ mice during the peri-implantation period, indicating that epithelial Pgr deletion affects not only epithelial but stromal P4 responsiveness. In addition, uterine LIF, an inducer of embryo attachment, was decreased in Pgrfl/flLtfCre/+ mice. The RNA-seq analysis using luminal epithelial specimens dissected out by laser capture microdissection revealed that the signaling pathways related to extracellular matrix, cell adhesion, and cell proliferation are altered in Pgr fl/flLtf Cre/+ mice. These findings suggest that epithelial PGR controls both epithelial and stromal P4 responsiveness and epithelial cell differentiation, which provides normal uterine receptivity and subsequent embryo attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Gebril
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Reproductive Health Department, National Research Center of Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Tamer Taha
- Reproductive Health Department, National Research Center of Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Osama Al Balah
- Department of Medical Application of Laser, National Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Amr H Elnoury
- Department of Medical Application of Laser, National Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Li Y, Dewar A, Kim YS, Dey SK, Sun X. Pregnancy success in mice requires appropriate cannabinoid receptor signaling for primary decidua formation. eLife 2020; 9:61762. [PMID: 32990600 PMCID: PMC7550189 DOI: 10.7554/elife.61762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
With implantation, mouse stromal cells begin to transform into epithelial-like cells surrounding the implantation chamber forming an avascular zone called the primary decidual zone (PDZ). In the mouse, the PDZ forms a transient, size-dependent permeable barrier to protect the embryo from maternal circulating harmful agents. The process of decidualization is critical for pregnancy maintenance in mice and humans. Mice deficient in cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, show compromised PDZ with dysregulated angiogenic factors, resulting in the retention of blood vessels and macrophages. This phenotype is replicated in Cnr1-/- but not in Cnr2-/-mice. In vitro decidualization models suggest that Cnr1 levels substantially increase in mouse and human decidualizing stromal cells, and that neutralization of CB1 signaling suppresses decidualization and misregulates angiogenic factors. Taken together, we propose that implantation quality depends on appropriate angiogenic events driven by the integration of CB2 in endothelial cells and CB1 in decidual cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingju Li
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Amanda Dewar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Yeon Sun Kim
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Sudhansu K Dey
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Xiaofei Sun
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, United States
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Hiraoka T, Hirota Y, Fukui Y, Gebril M, Kaku T, Aikawa S, Hirata T, Akaeda S, Matsuo M, Haraguchi H, Saito-Kanatani M, Shimizu-Hirota R, Takeda N, Yoshino O, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Differential roles of uterine epithelial and stromal STAT3 coordinate uterine receptivity and embryo attachment. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15523. [PMID: 32968170 PMCID: PMC7511330 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72640-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although it has been reported that uterine signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is essential for embryo implantation, the exact roles of uterine epithelial and stromal STAT3 on embryo implantation have not been elucidated. To address this issue, we generated Stat3-floxed/Ltf-iCre (Stat3-eKO), Stat3-floxed/Amhr2-Cre (Stat3-sKO), and Stat3-floxed/Pgr-Cre (Stat3-uKO) mice to delete Stat3 in uterine epithelium, uterine stroma, and whole uterine layers, respectively. We found that both epithelial and stromal STAT3 have critical roles in embryo attachment because all the Stat3-eKO and Stat3-sKO female mice were infertile due to implantation failure without any embryo attachment sites. Stat3-eKO uteri showed indented structure of uterine lumen, indicating the role of epithelial STAT3 in slit-like lumen formation in the peri-implantation uterus. Stat3-sKO uteri exhibited hyper-estrogenic responses and persistent cell proliferation of the epithelium in the peri-implantation uterus, suggesting the role of stromal STAT3 in uterine receptivity. In addition, Stat3-uKO female mice possessed not only the characteristic of persistent epithelial proliferation but also that of indented structure of uterine lumen. These findings indicate that epithelial STAT3 controls the formation of slit-like structure in uterine lumen and stromal STAT3 suppresses epithelial estrogenic responses and cell proliferation. Thus, epithelial and stromal STAT3 cooperatively controls uterine receptivity and embryo attachment through their different pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan. .,Frontier Outstanding Research for Clinical Empowerment (FORCE), Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mona Gebril
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Haraguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mayuko Saito-Kanatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Osamu Yoshino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
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Pericuesta E, Laguna-Barraza R, Ramos-Ibeas P, Gutierrez-Arroyo JL, Navarro JA, Vera K, Sanjuan C, Baixeras E, de Fonseca FR, Gutierrez-Adan A. D-Chiro-Inositol Treatment Affects Oocyte and Embryo Quality and Improves Glucose Intolerance in Both Aged Mice and Mouse Models of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6049. [PMID: 32842637 PMCID: PMC7504697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the main cause of female infertility. It is a multifactorial disorder with varying clinical manifestations including metabolic/endocrine abnormalities, hyperandrogenism, and ovarian cysts, among other conditions. D-Chiro-inositol (DCI) is the main treatment available for PCOS in humans. To address some of the mechanisms of this complex disorder and its treatment, this study examines the effect of DCI on reproduction during the development of different PCOS-associated phenotypes in aged females and two mouse models of PCOS. Aged females (8 months old) were treated or not (control) with DCI for 2 months. PCOS models were generated by treatment with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on Days 16, 17, and 18 of gestation, or by testosterone propionate (TP) treatment on the first day of life. At two months of age, PCOS mice were treated with DCI for 2 months and their reproductive parameters analyzed. No effects of DCI treatment were produced on body weight or ovary/body weight ratio. However, treatment reduced the number of follicles with an atretic cyst-like appearance and improved embryo development in the PCOS models, and also increased implantation rates in both aged and PCOS mice. DCI modified the expression of genes related to oocyte quality, oxidative stress, and luteal sufficiency in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) obtained from the aged and PCOS models. Further, the phosphorylation of AKT, a main metabolic sensor activated by insulin in the liver, was enhanced only in the DHT group, which was the only PCOS model showing glucose intolerance and AKT dephosphorylation. The effect of DCI in the TP model seemed mediated by its influence on oxidative stress and follicle insufficiency. Our results indicate that DCI works in preclinical models of PCOS and offer insight into its mechanism of action when used to treat this infertility-associated syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Pericuesta
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.); (R.L.-B.); (P.R.-I.); (J.L.G.-A.)
| | - Ricardo Laguna-Barraza
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.); (R.L.-B.); (P.R.-I.); (J.L.G.-A.)
| | - Priscila Ramos-Ibeas
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.); (R.L.-B.); (P.R.-I.); (J.L.G.-A.)
| | - Julia L. Gutierrez-Arroyo
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.); (R.L.-B.); (P.R.-I.); (J.L.G.-A.)
| | - Juan A. Navarro
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicofarmacología, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto IBIMA, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (J.A.N.); (K.V.); (F.R.d.F.)
| | - Katia Vera
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicofarmacología, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto IBIMA, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (J.A.N.); (K.V.); (F.R.d.F.)
| | - Carlos Sanjuan
- Euronutra S.L., Calle Johannes Kepler 3, 29590 Málaga, Spain;
| | - Elena Baixeras
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain;
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicofarmacología, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto IBIMA, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (J.A.N.); (K.V.); (F.R.d.F.)
| | - Alfonso Gutierrez-Adan
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (E.P.); (R.L.-B.); (P.R.-I.); (J.L.G.-A.)
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Glucose transporter 1 is important for the glycolytic metabolism of human endometrial stromal cells in hypoxic environment. Heliyon 2020; 6:e03985. [PMID: 32548315 PMCID: PMC7286975 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The study aimed to elucidate the glycolytic metabolism of human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) in hypoxic environment. Main methods The hESCs were cultured in hypoxic environment, and their metabolic pathways were analyzed using metabolomics. We assessed glucose uptake using 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) assay. The expression of glucose transporters (GLUTs) required for glucose uptake was determined using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting. Furthermore, we knocked down GLUT1 and examined the uptake of 2-DG. Key findings Under hypoxia, glucose-6-phosphate, fructose-6-phosphate, and fructose-1,6-diphosphate were significantly elevated in hESCs (P < 0.05). This finding indicated enhancement in glycolysis. The volume of glucose uptake increased significantly under hypoxia (P < 0.05). Hypoxia simultaneously induced the expression of GLUT1 and GLUT3 mRNA (P < 0.05) and attenuated the expression of GLUT8 (P < 0.05). Glucose uptake was significantly inhibited upon knockdown of GLUT1 (P < 0.0001). Significance These results demonstrated a very important role of glucose transport under hypoxia. Also, hESCs utilize glycolysis to adapt to hypoxic conditions that could occur in menstrual and implantation period. These findings pave the way to study implantation failure and tumors originating from the endometrium.
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A hypoxia-induced Rab pathway regulates embryo implantation by controlled trafficking of secretory granules. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:14532-14542. [PMID: 32513733 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2000810117] [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] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation is initiated when an embryo attaches to the uterine luminal epithelium and subsequently penetrates into the underlying stroma to firmly embed in the endometrium. These events are followed by the formation of an extensive vascular network in the stroma that supports embryonic growth and ensures successful implantation. Interestingly, in many mammalian species, these processes of early pregnancy occur in a hypoxic environment. However, the mechanisms underlying maternal adaptation to hypoxia during early pregnancy remain unclear. In this study, using a knockout mouse model, we show that the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 2 alpha (Hif2α), which is induced in subluminal stromal cells at the time of implantation, plays a crucial role during early pregnancy. Indeed, when preimplantation endometrial stromal cells are exposed to hypoxic conditions in vitro, we observed a striking enhancement in HIF2α expression. Further studies revealed that HIF2α regulates the expression of several metabolic and protein trafficking factors, including RAB27B, at the onset of implantation. RAB27B is a member of the Rab family of GTPases that allows controlled release of secretory granules. These granules are involved in trafficking MMP-9 from the stroma to the epithelium to promote luminal epithelial remodeling during embryo invasion. As pregnancy progresses, the HIF2α-RAB27B pathway additionally mediates crosstalk between stromal and endothelial cells via VEGF granules, developing the vascular network critical for establishing pregnancy. Collectively, our study provides insights into the intercellular communication mechanisms that operate during adaptation to hypoxia, which is essential for embryo implantation and establishment of pregnancy.
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45
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Hirota K. Basic Biology of Hypoxic Responses Mediated by the Transcription Factor HIFs and its Implication for Medicine. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8020032. [PMID: 32069878 PMCID: PMC7168341 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8020032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxygen (O2) is essential for human life. Molecular oxygen is vital for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in human cells. O2 deficiency leads to a reduction in the energy levels that are required to maintain biological functions. O2 acts as the final acceptor of electrons during oxidative phosphorylation, a series of ATP synthesis reactions that occur in conjunction with the electron transport system in mitochondria. Persistent O2 deficiency may cause death due to malfunctioning biological processes. The above account summarizes the classic view of oxygen. However, this classic view has been reviewed over the last two decades. Although O2 is essential for life, higher organisms such as mammals are unable to biosynthesize molecular O2 in the body. Because the multiple organs of higher organisms are constantly exposed to the risk of “O2 deficiency,” living organisms have evolved elaborate strategies to respond to hypoxia. In this review, I will describe the system that governs oxygen homeostasis in the living body from the point-of-view of the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiichi Hirota
- Department of Human Stress Response Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan
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46
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Matsuo M, Hirota Y, Fukui Y, Fujita H, Saito-Fujita T, Kaku T, Gebril M, Hirata T, Akaeda S, Hiraoka T, Tanaka T, Haraguchi H, Saito-Kanatani M, Shimizu-Hirota R, Takeda N, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Levonorgestrel Inhibits Embryo Attachment by Eliminating Uterine Induction of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5602494. [PMID: 31638694 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqz005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Progestogens including progesterone (P4) and levonorgestrel (LNG) are clinically used for multiple purposes such as contraception and infertility treatment. The effects of progestogens on the uterus remains to be elucidated. Here we examine the effect of excessive progestogen administration on embryo implantation focusing on the function of uterine leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a cytokine that is induced by estrogen and essential for embryo attachment. Treatment of wild-type (WT) female mice with vehicle (control), LNG at the dose of 300 μg/kg/day and P4 at the dose of 10 mg/day from day 1 to day 4 of pregnancy was conducted. LNG-treated and P4-treated mice showed embryo attachment failure on day 5 of pregnancy (The rate of mice with embryo attachment sites [%MAS], 11% and 13%, respectively), while all the control mice had normal attachment sites. Uterine LIF expression was significantly reduced in LNG-treated and P4-treated mice on day 4 evening. Administration of recombinant LIF (rLIF) at the dose of 24 μg/day on day 4 significantly rescued embryo attachment failure in LNG-treated and P4-treated mice (%MAS, 80% and 75%, respectively). Estradiol (E2) administration also rescued embryo attachment failure in LNG-treated mice (%MAS, 83%). Furthermore, excess P4 treatment before implantation decreased decidual P4 receptor (PGR) expression and induced decidualization defect apart from LIF downregulation. These findings indicate that progestogens cause embryo attachment inhibition through downregulation of uterine LIF expression and compromised decidualization through downregulation of PGR independently of LIF reduction. This study may contribute to a better understanding of contraceptive action of progestogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Fujita
- Department of Future Medical Science, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoko Saito-Fujita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mona Gebril
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoki Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Haraguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mayuko Saito-Kanatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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Yang H, Geng YH, Wang P, Zhou YT, Yang H, Huo YF, Zhang HQ, Li Y, He HY, Tian XX, Fang WG. Extracellular ATP promotes breast cancer invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition via hypoxia-inducible factor 2α signaling. Cancer Sci 2019; 110:2456-2470. [PMID: 31148343 PMCID: PMC6676128 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular ATP has been shown to play an important role in invasion and the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in breast cancer; however, the mechanism is unclear. Here, by using a cDNA microarray, we demonstrated that extracellular ATP could stimulate hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF) signaling and upregulate hypoxia‐inducible factor 1/2α (HIF‐1/2α) expression. After knocking down HIF‐1/2α using siRNA, we found that ATP‐driven invasion and EMT were significantly attenuated via HIF2A‐siRNA in breast cancer cells. By using ChIP assays, we revealed that the biological function of extracellular ATP in invasion and EMT process depended on HIF‐2α direct targets, among which lysyl oxidase‐like 2 (LOXL2) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) mediated ATP‐driven invasion, and E‐cadherin and Snail mediated ATP‐driven EMT, respectively. In addition, using silver staining and mass spectrometry, we found that phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) could interact with HIF‐2α and mediate ATP‐driven HIF‐2α upregulation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that expressions of HIF‐2α and its target proteins could be regulated via ATP by AKT‐PGK1 pathway. Using a Balb/c mice model, we illustrated the function of HIF‐2α in promoting tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Moreover, by exploring online databases, we found that molecules involved in ATP‐HIF‐2α signaling were highly expressed in human breast carcinoma tissues and were associated with poor prognosis. Altogether, these findings suggest that extracellular ATP could promote breast carcinoma invasion and EMT via HIF‐2α signaling, which may be a potential target for future anti–metastasis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yang
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Pathology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yue-Hang Geng
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Ting Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Pathology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Han Yang
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Pathology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Fei Huo
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Pathology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Quan Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Ying He
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Pathology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Xia Tian
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Pathology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei-Gang Fang
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Pathology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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Fukui Y, Hirota Y, Matsuo M, Gebril M, Akaeda S, Hiraoka T, Osuga Y. Uterine receptivity, embryo attachment, and embryo invasion: Multistep processes in embryo implantation. Reprod Med Biol 2019; 18:234-240. [PMID: 31312101 PMCID: PMC6613011 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent implantation failure is a critical issue in IVF-ET treatment. Successful embryo implantation needs appropriate molecular and cellular communications between embryo and uterus. Rodent models have been used intensively to understand these mechanisms. METHODS The molecular and cellular mechanisms of embryo implantation were described by referring to the previous literature investigated by us and others. The studies using mouse models of embryo implantation were mainly cited. RESULTS Progesterone (P4) produced by ovarian corpus luteum provides the uterus with receptivity to the embryo, and uterine epithelial growth arrest and stromal proliferation, what we call uterine proliferation-differentiation switching (PDS), take place in the peri-implantation period before embryo attachment. Uterine PDS is a hallmark of uterine receptivity, and several genes such as HAND2 and BMI1, control uterine PDS by modulating P4-PR signaling. As the next implantation process, embryo attachment onto the luminal epithelium occurs. This process is regulated by FOXA2-LIF pathway and planar cell polarity signaling. Then, the luminal epithelium at the embryo attachment site detaches from the stroma, which enables trophoblast invasion. This process of embryo invasion is regulated by HIF2α in the stroma. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that embryo implantation contains multistep processes regulated by specific molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Mona Gebril
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
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Hong M, Shi H, Wang N, Tan HY, Wang Q, Feng Y. Dual Effects of Chinese Herbal Medicines on Angiogenesis in Cancer and Ischemic Stroke Treatments: Role of HIF-1 Network. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:696. [PMID: 31297056 PMCID: PMC6606950 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1)–induced angiogenesis has been involved in numerous pathological conditions, and it may be harmful or beneficial depending on the types of diseases. Exploration on angiogenesis has sparked hopes in providing novel therapeutic approaches on multiple diseases with high mortality rates, such as cancer and ischemic stroke. The HIF-1 pathway is considered to be a major regulator of angiogenesis. HIF-1 seems to be involved in the vascular formation process by synergistic correlations with other proangiogenic factors in cancer and cerebrovascular disease. The regulation of HIF-1–dependent angiogenesis is related to the modulation of HIF-1 bioactivity by regulating HIF-1α transcription or protein translation, HIF-1α DNA binding, HIF-1α and HIF-1α dimerization, and HIF-1 degradation. Traditional Chinese herbal medicines have a long history of clinical use in both cancer and stroke treatments in Asia. Growing evidence has demonstrated potential proangiogenic benefits of Chinese herbal medicines in ischemic stroke, whereas tumor angiogenesis could be inhibited by the active components in Chinese herbal medicines. The objective of this review is to provide comprehensive insight on the effects of Chinese herbal medicines on angiogenesis by regulating HIF-1 pathways in both cancer and ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Hong
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Honglian Shi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hor-Yue Tan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Qi Wang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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50
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Abstract
Blastocyst implantation contains the following three processes: apposition, attachment, and invasion of the blastocyst. Ovarian hormone progesterone (P4) regulates these processes exquisitely. P4-induced molecular communications between the endometrial epithelium and stroma as well as endometrial proliferation-differentiation switching (PDS) until blastocyst attachment are fundamental steps in blastocyst implantation. Based on the knowledge obtained from the previous studies of mouse models by my group and others, this article outlines how P4 directs the uterus to complete blastocyst implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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