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Pai YL, Lavine KJ, Amrute JM. Unraveling the dynamics of myometrial remodeling: insights from single-cell and spatial transcriptomics in term pregnancy. Physiol Genomics 2024; 56:576-577. [PMID: 39072671 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00067.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ling Pai
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Kory J Lavine
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Junedh M Amrute
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
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Almeida GHDR, da Silva RS, Gibin MS, Gonzaga VHDS, dos Santos H, Igleisa RP, Fernandes LA, Fernandes IC, Nesiyama TNG, Sato F, Baesso ML, Hernandes L, Rinaldi JDC, Meirelles FV, Astolfi-Ferreira CS, Ferreira AJP, Carreira ACO. Region-Specific Decellularization of Porcine Uterine Tube Extracellular Matrix: A New Approach for Reproductive Tissue-Engineering Applications. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:382. [PMID: 39056823 PMCID: PMC11274565 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9070382] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The uterine tube extracellular matrix is a key component that regulates tubal tissue physiology, and it has a region-specific structural distribution, which is directly associated to its functions. Considering this, the application of biological matrices in culture systems is an interesting strategy to develop biomimetic tubal microenvironments and enhance their complexity. However, there are no established protocols to produce tubal biological matrices that consider the organ morphophysiology for such applications. Therefore, this study aimed to establish region-specific protocols to obtain decellularized scaffolds derived from porcine infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus to provide suitable sources of biomaterials for tissue-engineering approaches. Porcine uterine tubes were decellularized in solutions of 0.1% SDS and 0.5% Triton X-100. The decellularization efficiency was evaluated by DAPI staining and DNA quantification. We analyzed the ECM composition and structure by optical and scanning electronic microscopy, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy. DNA and DAPI assays validated the decellularization, presenting a significative reduction in cellular content. Structural and spectroscopy analyses revealed that the produced scaffolds remained well structured and with the ECM composition preserved. YS and HEK293 cells were used to attest cytocompatibility, allowing high cell viability rates and successful interaction with the scaffolds. These results suggest that such matrices are applicable for future biotechnological approaches in the reproductive field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Henrique Doná Rodrigues Almeida
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Raquel Souza da Silva
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Mariana Sversut Gibin
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Victória Hellen de Souza Gonzaga
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Henrique dos Santos
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Rebeca Piatniczka Igleisa
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
| | - Leticia Alves Fernandes
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Iorrane Couto Fernandes
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Thais Naomi Gonçalves Nesiyama
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (T.N.G.N.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Francielle Sato
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Mauro Luciano Baesso
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Luzmarina Hernandes
- Department of Morphological Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (L.H.); (J.d.C.R.)
| | | | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (T.N.G.N.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Claudete S. Astolfi-Ferreira
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (C.S.A.-F.); (A.J.P.F.)
| | - Antonio José Piantino Ferreira
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (C.S.A.-F.); (A.J.P.F.)
| | - Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André 09040-902, Brazil
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3
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Ferrai C, Schulte C. Mechanotransduction in stem cells. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151417. [PMID: 38729084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151417] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, it is an established concept that the capability to reach a specialised cell identity via differentiation, as in the case of multi- and pluripotent stem cells, is not only determined by biochemical factors, but that also physical aspects of the microenvironment play a key role; interpreted by the cell through a force-based signalling pathway called mechanotransduction. However, the intricate ties between the elements involved in mechanotransduction, such as the extracellular matrix, the glycocalyx, the cell membrane, Integrin adhesion complexes, Cadherin-mediated cell/cell adhesion, the cytoskeleton, and the nucleus, are still far from being understood in detail. Here we report what is currently known about these elements in general and their specific interplay in the context of multi- and pluripotent stem cells. We furthermore merge this overview to a more comprehensive picture, that aims to cover the whole mechanotransductive pathway from the cell/microenvironment interface to the regulation of the chromatin structure in the nucleus. Ultimately, with this review we outline the current picture of the interplay between mechanotransductive cues and epigenetic regulation and how these processes might contribute to stem cell dynamics and fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Ferrai
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Carsten Schulte
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences and Department of Physics "Aldo Pontremoli", University of Milan, Italy.
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Chen WH, Ku YL, Yang YH, Lee CP, Chen KJ, Ou YC, Lai YJ. Associations between the time interval from myomectomy to subsequent pregnancy and the obstetric outcomes: A population-based cohort study. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38801238 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15610] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the associations between time interval from myomectomy to pregnancy (TIMP) and subsequent pregnancy and obstetric complications, and to explore whether these associations vary according to maternal age at birth. METHODS A retrospective population-based cohort study was conducted from 2008 to 2017. Data were extracted from the National Health Insurance Research Database and the Taiwan Maternal and Child Health Database, comprising 2024 379 births from 1 391 856 pregnancies. Eligible cases were identified using diagnostic and procedure codes; 4006 first singleton births in 4006 women after their first laparotomic myomectomy were identified. We estimated the risks of pregnancy and obstetric outcomes according to TIMP (<6, 6-11, and ≥12 months). Subgroup analysis was performed by further dividing according to maternal age at birth (18-34 vs ≥35 years old). RESULTS We observed higher risks of gestational hypertensive disorders (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.22-3.18, P = 0.005) and neonatal death (aOR 4.59, 95% CI 1.49-14.18, P = 0.008) for TIMP of <6 months versus TIMP of 6-11 months. Likewise, a TIMP ≥12 months was associated with increased risks of gestational hypertensive disorders (aOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.14-2.58, P = 0.010), and neonatal death (aOR 3.27, 95% CI 1.16-9.24, P = 0.025) versus a TIMP of 6-11 months. In subgroup analysis, women over 35 years old still had higher risks of gestational hypertensive disorders when TIMP was <6 months (aOR 2.26, 95% CI 1.17-4.37, P = 0.015) or ≥12 months (aOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.17-3.54, P = 0.012), and a higher risk of neonatal death when TIMP was <6 months (aOR 4.05, 95% CI 1.06-15.53, P = 0.041); whereas women aged 18-34 years old did not. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that a TIMP between 6 and 11 months is associated with lower risks of gestational hypertensive disorders and neonatal death compared with a TIMP <6 months or ≥12 months, especially for women over 35 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Hsin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Lun Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Hsu Yang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Health Information and Epidemiology Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Pin Lee
- Health Information and Epidemiology Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Ko-Jung Chen
- Health Information and Epidemiology Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Che Ou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ju Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Zambuto SG, Jain I, Theriault HS, Underhill GH, Harley BAC. Cell Chirality of Micropatterned Endometrial Microvascular Endothelial Cells. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303928. [PMID: 38291861 PMCID: PMC11076162 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Chirality is an intrinsic cellular property that describes cell polarization biases along the left-right axis, apicobasal axis, or front-rear axes. Cell chirality plays a significant role in the arrangement of organs in the body as well as in the orientation of organelles, cytoskeletons, and cells. Vascular networks within the endometrium, the mucosal inner lining of the uterus, commonly display spiral architectures that rapidly form across the menstrual cycle. Herein, the role of endometrial-relevant extracellular matrix stiffness, composition, and soluble signals on endometrial endothelial cell chirality is systematically examined using a high-throughput microarray. Endometrial endothelial cells display marked patterns of chirality as individual cells and as cohorts in response to substrate stiffness and environmental cues. Vascular networks formed from endometrial endothelial cells also display shifts in chirality as a function of exogenous hormones. Changes in cellular-scale chirality correlate with changes in vascular network parameters, suggesting a critical role for cellular chirality in directing endometrial vessel network organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G Zambuto
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Ishita Jain
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Hannah S Theriault
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Gregory H Underhill
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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6
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Nelson KM, Ferrick BJ, Karimi H, Hatem CL, Gleghorn JP. A straightforward cell culture insert model to incorporate biochemical and biophysical stromal properties into transplacental transport studies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.19.590317. [PMID: 38712271 PMCID: PMC11071360 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.19.590317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The placental extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamically remodels over pregnancy and in disease. How these changes impact placental barrier function is poorly understood as there are limited in vitro models of the placenta with a modifiable stromal compartment to mechanistically investigate these extracellular factors. We developed a straightforward method to incorporate uniform hydrogels into standard cell culture inserts for transplacental transport studies. Methods Uniform polyacrylamide (PAA) gels were polymerized within cell culture inserts by (re)using the insert packaging to create a closed, controllable environmental chamber. PAA pre-polymer solution was added dropwise via a syringe to the cell culture insert and the atmosphere was purged with an inert gas. Transport and cell culture studies were conducted to validate the model. Results We successfully incorporated and ECM functionalized uniform PAA gels to cell culture inserts enable cell adhesion and monolayer formation. Imaging and analyte transport studies validated gel formation and expected mass transport results and successful cell studies confirmed cell viability, monolayer formation, and that the model could be used transplacental transport studies. Detailed methods and validation protocols are included. Discussion It is well appreciated that ECM biophysical and biochemical properties impact cell phenotype and cell signaling in many tissues including the placenta. The incorporation of a PAA gel within a cell culture insert enables independent study of placental ECM biophysical and biochemical properties in the context of transplacental transport. These straightforward and low-cost methods to build three dimensional cellular models are readily adoptable by the wider scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Nelson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713
| | - Bryan J Ferrick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713
| | - Hassan Karimi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713
| | - Christine L Hatem
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713
| | - Jason P Gleghorn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713
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7
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Morey R, Bui T, Cheung VC, Dong C, Zemke JE, Requena D, Arora H, Jackson MG, Pizzo D, Theunissen TW, Horii M. iPSC-based modeling of preeclampsia identifies epigenetic defects in extravillous trophoblast differentiation. iScience 2024; 27:109569. [PMID: 38623329 PMCID: PMC11016801 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive pregnancy disorder with increased risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Abnormal extravillous trophoblast (EVT) development and function is considered to be the underlying cause of PE, but has not been previously modeled in vitro. We previously derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from placentas of PE patients and characterized abnormalities in formation of syncytiotrophoblast and responses to changes in oxygen tension. In this study, we converted these primed iPSC to naïve iPSC, and then derived trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) and EVT to evaluate molecular mechanisms underlying PE. We found that primed (but not naïve) iPSC-derived PE-EVT have reduced surface HLA-G, blunted invasive capacity, and altered EVT-specific gene expression. These abnormalities correlated with promoter hypermethylation of genes associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathway, specifically in primed-iPSC derived PE-EVT. Our findings indicate that abnormal epigenetic regulation might play a role in PE pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Morey
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Tony Bui
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Virginia Chu Cheung
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Chen Dong
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joseph E. Zemke
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Daniela Requena
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Harneet Arora
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Madeline G. Jackson
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Donald Pizzo
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Thorold W. Theunissen
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Mariko Horii
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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8
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Zambuto SG, Scott AK, Oyen ML. Beyond 2D: Novel biomaterial approaches for modeling the placenta. Placenta 2024:S0143-4004(24)00073-0. [PMID: 38514278 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
This review considers fully three-dimensional biomaterial environments of varying complexity as these pertain to research on the placenta. The developments in placental cell sources are first considered, along with the corresponding maternal cells with which the trophoblast interact. We consider biomaterial sources, including hybrid and composite biomaterials. Properties and characterization of biomaterials are discussed in the context of material design for specific placental applications. The development of increasingly complicated three-dimensional structures includes examples of advanced fabrication methods such as microfluidic device fabrication and 3D bioprinting, as utilized in a placenta context. The review finishes with a discussion of the potential for in vitro, three-dimensional placenta research to address health disparities and sexual dimorphism, especially in light of the exciting recent changes in the regulatory environment for in vitro devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G Zambuto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Women's Health Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Adrienne K Scott
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Women's Health Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michelle L Oyen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Women's Health Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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9
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Parameshwar PK, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Engineering placental trophoblast fusion: A potential role for biomechanics in syncytialization. Placenta 2024:S0143-4004(24)00054-7. [PMID: 38448351 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The process by which placental trophoblasts fuse to form the syncytiotrophoblast around the chorionic villi is not fully understood. Mechanical features of the in vivo and in vitro culture environments have recently emerged as having the potential to influence fusion efficiency, and considering these mechanical cues may ultimately allow predictive control of trophoblast syncytialization. Here, we review recent studies that suggest that biomechanical factors such as shear stress, tissue stiffness, and dimensionally-related stresses affect villous trophoblast fusion efficiency. We then discuss how these stimuli might arise in vivo and how they can be incorporated in cultures to study and enhance villous trophoblast fusion. We believe that this mechanical paradigm will provide novel insight into manipulating the syncytialization process to better engineer improved models, understand disease progression, and ultimately develop novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC, H7B 1B7, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, and Research Center Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux (CIUSSS) du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3L 1K5, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0C5, Canada; Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada.
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10
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Hou JH, Lu BJ, Huang YL, Chen CH, Chen CH. Outpatient hysteroscopy impact on subsequent assisted reproductive technology: a systematic review and meta-analysis in patients with normal transvaginal sonography or hysterosalpingography images. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:18. [PMID: 38302947 PMCID: PMC10832084 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01191-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Standard management for intrauterine lesions typically involves initial imaging followed by operative hysteroscopy for suspicious findings. However, the efficacy of routine outpatient hysteroscopy in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) remains uncertain due to a lack of decisive high-quality evidence. This study aimed to determine whether outpatient hysteroscopy is beneficial for infertile women who have unremarkable imaging results prior to undergoing ART. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines, incorporating data up to May 31, 2023, from databases such as PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. The primary outcome assessed was the live birth rate, with secondary outcomes including chemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy rates, and miscarriage rates. Statistical analysis involved calculating risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals and assessing heterogeneity with the I2 statistic. RESULTS The analysis included ten randomized control trials. Receiving outpatient hysteroscopy before undergoing ART was associated with increased live birth (RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.03-1.45, I2 61%) and clinical pregnancy rate (RR 1.27 95% CI 1.10-1.47, I2 53%). Miscarriage rates did not differ significantly (RR 1.25, CI 0.90-1.76, I2 50%). Subgroup analyses did not show a significant difference in clinical pregnancy rates when comparing normal versus abnormal hysteroscopic findings (RR 1.01, CI 0.78-1.32, I2 38%). We analyzed data using both intention-to-treat and per-protocol approaches, and our findings were consistent across both analytical methods. CONCLUSIONS Office hysteroscopy may enhance live birth and clinical pregnancy rates in infertile women undergoing ART, even when previous imaging studies show no apparent intrauterine lesions. Treating lesions not detected by imaging may improve ART outcomes. The most commonly missed lesions are endometrial polyps, submucosal fibroids and endometritis, which are all known to affect ART success rates. The findings suggested that hysteroscopy, given its diagnostic accuracy and patient tolerability, should be considered in the management of infertility. DATABASE REGISTRATION The study was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systemic Review database (CRD42023476403).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Hsiu Hou
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Buo-Jia Lu
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Li Huang
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Heng Chen
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Huang Chen
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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11
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Cherubini M, Erickson S, Padmanaban P, Haberkant P, Stein F, Beltran-Sastre V, Haase K. Flow in fetoplacental-like microvessels in vitro enhances perfusion, barrier function, and matrix stability. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadj8540. [PMID: 38134282 PMCID: PMC10745711 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj8540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Proper placental vascularization is vital for pregnancy outcomes, but assessing it with animal models and human explants has limitations. We introduce a 3D in vitro model of human placenta terminal villi including fetal mesenchyme and vascular endothelium. By coculturing HUVEC, placental fibroblasts, and pericytes in a macrofluidic chip with a flow reservoir, we generate fully perfusable fetal microvessels. Pressure-driven flow facilitates microvessel growth and remodeling, resulting in early formation of interconnected and lasting placental-like vascular networks. Computational fluid dynamics simulations predict shear forces, which increase microtissue stiffness, decrease diffusivity, and enhance barrier function as shear stress rises. Mass spectrometry analysis reveals enhanced protein expression with flow, including matrix stability regulators, proteins associated with actin dynamics, and cytoskeleton organization. Our model provides a powerful tool for deducing complex in vivo parameters, such as shear stress on developing vascularized placental tissue, and holds promise for unraveling gestational disorders related to the vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Cherubini
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Scott Erickson
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Per Haberkant
- Proteomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Stein
- Proteomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Kristina Haase
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Ramírez-López CJ, Barros E, Vidigal PM, Okano DS, Gomes LL, Carvalho RPR, de Castro AG, Baracat-Pereira MC, Guimarães SEF, Guimarães JD. Oxidative stress associated with proteomic and fatty acid profiles of sperm from Nellore bulls at rest†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:878-891. [PMID: 37702320 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual rest is a transient condition, which compromises conception rates, characterized by large volumes of ejaculate with high percentages of dead sperm observed in bulls. The biochemical mechanisms leading to this ejaculate pattern are not fully understood. Six adult resting Nellore bulls were submitted to Breeding Soundness Evaluation by four consecutive semen collections through the electroejaculation method during a 30 min period. Each ejaculate had its semen phenotypic parameters; morphology and physical aspects were evaluated. To assess enzymatic activity (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione S-transferase), lipid peroxidation (concentrations of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide), fatty acid, and proteomic profile aliquots of spermatozoa from the first and fourth ejaculates were used. All sperm parameters differed between the first and fourth ejaculates. Spermatozoa from the first ejaculate showed lower enzymatic activity and a higher concentration of lipid peroxidation markers. Among the 19 identified fatty acids, 52.7% are polyunsaturated. Relative abundance analysis showed that C12:0 and C18:0 fatty acids differed between the first and fourth ejaculates, being the fourth ejaculate richer in spermatozoa. The proteomics analysis identified a total of 974 proteins in both sample groups (first and fourth ejaculates). The majority of identified proteins are related to cellular processes and signaling. Quantitative proteomics showed 36 differentially abundant proteins, 6 up-regulated proteins in the first ejaculate, and 30 up-regulated proteins in the fourth ejaculate. Spermatozoa from bulls at sexual rest have less antioxidant capacity, causing changes in their fatty acid composition and protein profile, which generates the observed sperm pattern and lower fertilization capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo José Ramírez-López
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Structural Biology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerai, Brazil
| | - Edvaldo Barros
- Nucleus for Analysis of Biomolecules, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil
| | | | - Denise Silva Okano
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lidiany Lopes Gomes
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Alex Gazolla de Castro
- Biotechnology and Biodiversity for the Environment Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Baracat-Pereira
- Proteomics and Protein Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Simone Eliza Facioni Guimarães
- LABTEC-Animal Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Domingos Guimarães
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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13
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Kim JH, Choi JI, Che YH, Sung SH, Lee H, Lee S, Park JH, Lee YI, Lee YS, Jeon WB, Kim YJ. Enhancing Viability of Human Embryonic Stem Cells during Cryopreservation via RGD-REP-Mediated Activation of FAK/AKT/FoxO3a Signaling Pathway. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2023; 20:1133-1143. [PMID: 37610706 PMCID: PMC10646010 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-023-00568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryopreservation is a crucial method for long-term storage and stable allocation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), which are increasingly being used in various applications. However, preserving hPSCs in cryogenic conditions is challenging due to reduced recovery rates. METHODS To address this issue, the Arginine-Glycine-Aspartate (RGD) motif was incorporated into a recombinant elastin-like peptide (REP). Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) were treated with REP containing RGD motif (RGD-REP) during suspension and cryopreservation, and the survival rate was analyzed. The underlying mechanisms were also investigated. RESULTS The addition of RGD-REP to the cryopreservation solution improved cell survival and pluripotency marker expression. The improvement was confirmed to be due to the activation of the FAK-AKT cascade by RGD-REP binding to hESC surface interin protein, and consequent inhibition of FoxO3a. The inactivation of FoxO3a reduced the expression of apoptosis-related genes, such as BIM, leading to increased survival of PSCs in a suspension state. CONCLUSION RGD-REP, as a ligand for integrin protein, improves the survival and maintenance of hPSCs during cryopreservation by activating survival signals via the RGD motif. These results have potential implications for improving the efficiency of stem cell usage in both research and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Hee Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong In Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hyun Che
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Haeng Sung
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hojae Lee
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Biomanufacturing Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90069, USA
| | - Sun Lee
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hoon Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Il Lee
- Well Aging Research Center, Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Sam Lee
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Bae Jeon
- Well Aging Research Center, Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Jun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Butt Z, Tinning H, O'Connell MJ, Fenn J, Alberio R, Forde N. Understanding conceptus-maternal interactions: what tools do we need to develop? Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 36:81-92. [PMID: 38064186 DOI: 10.1071/rd23181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Communication between the maternal endometrium and developing embryo/conceptus is critical to support successful pregnancy to term. Studying the peri-implantation period of pregnancy is critical as this is when most pregnancy loss occurs in cattle. Our current understanding of these interactions is limited, due to the lack of appropriate in vitro models to assess these interactions. The endometrium is a complex and heterogeneous tissue that is regulated in a transcriptional and translational manner throughout the oestrous cycle. While there are in vitro models to study endometrial function, they are static and 2D in nature or explant models and are limited in how well they recapitulate the in vivo endometrium. Recent developments in organoid systems, microfluidic approaches, extracellular matrix biology, and in silico approaches provide a new opportunity to develop in vitro systems that better model the in vivo scenario. This will allow us to investigate in a more high-throughput manner the fundamental molecular interactions that are required for successful pregnancy in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenab Butt
- Discovery and Translational Sciences Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Haidee Tinning
- Discovery and Translational Sciences Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Mary J O'Connell
- Computational and Molecular Evolutionary Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Jonathan Fenn
- Computational and Molecular Evolutionary Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ramiro Alberio
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Niamh Forde
- Discovery and Translational Sciences Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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15
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Rock KD, Folts LM, Zierden HC, Marx-Rattner R, Leu NA, Nugent BM, Bale TL. Developmental transcriptomic patterns can be altered by transgenic overexpression of Uty. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21082. [PMID: 38030664 PMCID: PMC10687263 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47977-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The genetic material encoded on X and Y chromosomes provides the foundation by which biological sex differences are established. Epigenetic regulators expressed on these sex chromosomes, including Kdm6a (Utx), Kdm5c, and Ddx3x have far-reaching impacts on transcriptional control of phenotypic sex differences. Although the functionality of UTY (Kdm6c, the Y-linked homologue of UTX), has been supported by more recent studies, its role in developmental sex differences is not understood. Here we test the hypothesis that UTY is an important transcriptional regulator during development that could contribute to sex-specific phenotypes and disease risks across the lifespan. We generated a random insertion Uty transgenic mouse (Uty-Tg) to overexpress Uty. By comparing transcriptomic profiles in developmental tissues, placenta and hypothalamus, we assessed potential UTY functional activity, comparing Uty-expressing female mice (XX + Uty) with wild-type male (XY) and female (XX) mice. To determine if Uty expression altered physiological or behavioral outcomes, adult mice were phenotypically examined. Uty expression masculinized female gene expression patterns in both the placenta and hypothalamus. Gene ontology (GO) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) consistently identified pathways including immune and synaptic signaling as biological processes associated with UTY. Interestingly, adult females expressing Uty gained less weight and had a greater glucose tolerance compared to wild-type male and female mice when provided a high-fat diet. Utilizing a Uty-overexpressing transgenic mouse, our results provide novel evidence as to a functional transcriptional role for UTY in developing tissues, and a foundation to build on its prospective capacity to influence sex-specific developmental and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie D Rock
- Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Lillian M Folts
- Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Hannah C Zierden
- Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20740, USA
| | - Ruth Marx-Rattner
- Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Nicolae Adrian Leu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Bridget M Nugent
- Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Tracy L Bale
- Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, CU Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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16
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Zambuto SG, Jain I, Theriault HS, Underhill GH, Harley BAC. Cell Chirality of Micropatterned Endometrial Microvascular Endothelial Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.20.563368. [PMID: 37961315 PMCID: PMC10634711 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.20.563368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Chirality is an intrinsic cellular property that describes cell polarization biases along the left-right axis, apicobasal axis, or front-rear axes. Cell chirality plays a significant role in the arrangement of organs in the body as well as the orientation of organelles, cytoskeletons, and cells. Vascular networks within the endometrium, the mucosal inner lining of the uterus, commonly display spiral architectures that rapidly form across the menstrual cycle. Herein, we systematically examine the role of endometrial-relevant extracellular matrix stiffness, composition, and soluble signals on endometrial endothelial cell chirality using a high-throughput microarray. Endometrial endothelial cells display marked patterns of chirality as individual cells and as cohorts in response to substrate stiffness and environmental cues. Vascular networks formed from endometrial endothelial cells also display shifts in chirality as a function of exogenous hormones. Changes in cellular-scale chirality correlate with changes in vascular network parameters, suggesting a critical role for cellular chirality in directing endometrial vessel network organization.
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17
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Oh Y, Quiroz E, Wang T, Medina-Laver Y, Redecke SM, Dominguez F, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Wu SP. The NR2F2-HAND2 signaling axis regulates progesterone actions in the uterus at early pregnancy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1229033. [PMID: 37664846 PMCID: PMC10473531 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1229033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial function is dependent on a tight crosstalk between the epithelial and stromal cells of the endometrium. This communication is critical to ensure a fertile uterus and relies on progesterone and estrogen signaling to prepare a receptive uterus for embryo implantation in early pregnancy. One of the key mediators of this crosstalk is the orphan nuclear receptor NR2F2, which regulates uterine epithelial receptivity and stromal cell differentiation. In order to determine the molecular mechanism regulated by NR2F2, RNAseq analysis was conducted on the uterus of PgrCre;Nr2f2f/f mice at Day 3.5 of pregnancy. This transcriptomic analysis demonstrated Nr2f2 ablation in Pgr-expressing cells leads to a reduction of Hand2 expression, increased levels of Hand2 downstream effectors Fgf1 and Fgf18, and a transcriptome manifesting suppressed progesterone signaling with an altered immune baseline. ChIPseq analysis conducted on the Day 3.5 pregnant mouse uterus for NR2F2 demonstrated the majority of NR2F2 occupies genomic regions that have H3K27ac and H3K4me1 histone modifications, including the loci of major uterine transcription regulators Hand2, Egr1, and Zbtb16. Furthermore, functional analysis of an NR2F2 occupying site that is conserved between human and mouse was capable to enhance endogenous HAND2 mRNA expression with the CRISPR activator in human endometrial stroma cells. These data establish the NR2F2 dependent regulation of Hand2 in the stroma and identify a cis-acting element for this action. In summary, our findings reveal a role of the NR2F2-HAND2 regulatory axis that determines the uterine transcriptomic pattern in preparation for the endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeongseok Oh
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Department of Life Science and Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Elvis Quiroz
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Yassmin Medina-Laver
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Skylar Montague Redecke
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - John P. Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Francesco J. DeMayo
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
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18
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Gnecco JS, Brown A, Buttrey K, Ives C, Goods BA, Baugh L, Hernandez-Gordillo V, Loring M, Isaacson KB, Griffith LG. Organoid co-culture model of the human endometrium in a fully synthetic extracellular matrix enables the study of epithelial-stromal crosstalk. MED 2023; 4:554-579.e9. [PMID: 37572651 PMCID: PMC10878405 DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human endometrium undergoes recurring cycles of growth, differentiation, and breakdown in response to sex hormones. Dysregulation of epithelial-stromal communication during hormone-mediated signaling may be linked to myriad gynecological disorders for which treatments remain inadequate. Here, we describe a completely defined, synthetic extracellular matrix that enables co-culture of human endometrial epithelial and stromal cells in a manner that captures healthy and disease states across a simulated menstrual cycle. METHODS We parsed cycle-dependent endometrial integrin expression and matrix composition to define candidate cell-matrix interaction cues for inclusion in a polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel crosslinked with matrix metalloproteinase-labile peptides. We semi-empirically screened a parameter space of biophysical and molecular features representative of the endometrium to define compositions suitable for hormone-driven expansion and differentiation of epithelial organoids, stromal cells, and co-cultures of the two cell types. FINDINGS Each cell type exhibited characteristic morphological and molecular responses to hormone changes when co-encapsulated in hydrogels tuned to a stiffness regime similar to the native tissue and functionalized with a collagen-derived adhesion peptide (GFOGER) and a fibronectin-derived peptide (PHSRN-K-RGD). Analysis of cell-cell crosstalk during interleukin 1B (IL1B)-induced inflammation revealed dysregulation of epithelial proliferation mediated by stromal cells. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, we demonstrate the development of a fully synthetic matrix to sustain the dynamic changes of the endometrial microenvironment and support its applications to understand menstrual health and endometriotic diseases. FUNDING This work was supported by The John and Karine Begg Foundation, the Manton Foundation, and NIH U01 (EB029132).
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan S Gnecco
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Alexander Brown
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Kira Buttrey
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Clara Ives
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Brittany A Goods
- Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth College, 15 Thayer Drive, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Lauren Baugh
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Victor Hernandez-Gordillo
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Megan Loring
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Newton Wellesley Hospital, 2014 Washington Street, Newton, MA 02115, USA
| | - Keith B Isaacson
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Newton Wellesley Hospital, 2014 Washington Street, Newton, MA 02115, USA
| | - Linda G Griffith
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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19
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De Vriendt S, Casares CM, Rocha S, Vankelecom H. Matrix scaffolds for endometrium-derived organoid models. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1240064. [PMID: 37635971 PMCID: PMC10450215 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1240064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus-lining endometrium is essential to mammalian reproduction, receiving and accommodating the embryo for proper development. Despite its key role, mechanisms underlying endometrial biology (menstrual cycling, embryo interaction) and disease are not well understood. Its hidden location in the womb, and thereby-associated lack of suitable research models, contribute to this knowledge gap. Recently, 3D organoid models have been developed from both healthy and diseased endometrium. These organoids closely recapitulate the tissue's epithelium phenotype and (patho)biology, including in vitro reproduction of the menstrual cycle. Typically, organoids are grown in a scaffold made of surrogate tissue extracellular matrix (ECM), with mouse tumor basement membrane extracts being the most commonly used. However, important limitations apply including their lack of standardization and xeno-derivation which strongly hinder clinical translation. Therefore, researchers are actively seeking better alternatives including fully defined matrices for faithful and efficient growth of organoids. Here, we summarize the state-of-the-art regarding matrix scaffolds to grow endometrium-derived organoids as well as more advanced organoid-based 3D models. We discuss remaining shortcomings and challenges to advance endometrial organoids toward defined and standardized tools for applications in basic research and translational/clinical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke De Vriendt
- Laboratory of Tissue Plasticity in Health and Disease, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Department of Chemistry, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Celia Mesias Casares
- Laboratory of Tissue Plasticity in Health and Disease, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Susana Rocha
- Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Department of Chemistry, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Hugo Vankelecom
- Laboratory of Tissue Plasticity in Health and Disease, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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20
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Sun T, Xiao C, Yang Z, Deng J, Yang X. Transcriptome profiling analysis of uterus during chicken laying periods. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:433. [PMID: 37537566 PMCID: PMC10398974 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09521-z] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The avian eggshell is formed in the uterus. Changes in uterine function may have a significant effect on eggshell quality. To identify the vital genes impacting uterine functional maintenance in the chicken, uteri in three different periods (22W, 31W, 51W) were selected for RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. In our study, 520, 706 and 736 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were respectively detected in the W31 vs W22 group, W51 vs W31 group and W51 vs W22 group. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis indicated DEGs were enriched in the extracellular matrix, extracellular region part, extracellular region, extracellular matrix structural constituent, ECM receptor interaction, collagen-containing extracellular matrix and collagen trimer in the uterus (P < 0.05). Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed that FN1, LOX, THBS2, COL1A1, COL1A2, COL5A1, COL5A2, POSTN, MMP13, VANGL2, RAD54B, SPP1, SDC1, BTC, ANGPTL3 might be key candidate genes for uterine functional maintenance in chicken. This study discovered dominant genes and pathways which enhanced our knowledge of chicken uterine functional maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Cong Xiao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Zhuliang Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Jixian Deng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Xiurong Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
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21
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Muhandiram S, Dissanayake K, Orro T, Godakumara K, Kodithuwakku S, Fazeli A. Secretory Proteomic Responses of Endometrial Epithelial Cells to Trophoblast-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11924. [PMID: 37569298 PMCID: PMC10418763 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241511924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Synchronized crosstalk between the embryo and endometrium during the periconception period is integral to pregnancy establishment. Increasing evidence suggests that the exchange of extracellular vesicles (EVs) of both embryonic and endometrial origin is a critical component of embryo-maternal communication during peri-implantation. Here, we investigated whether embryonic signals in the form of EVs can modulate the endometrial epithelial cell secretome. Receptive endometrial analog RL95-2 cells were supplemented with trophoblast analog JAr cell-derived EVs, and the secretory protein changes occurring in the RL95-2 cells were analyzed using mass spectrometry. EVs of non-trophoblastic origin (HEK 293 cells) were used as the control EV source to supplement endometrial cells. Trophoblast cell-derived EVs enriched endometrial epithelial cell secretions with proteins that support embryo development, attachment, or implantation, whereas control EVs were unable to induce the same effect. The present study suggests that embryonic signals in the form of EVs may prime receptive endometrial epithelial cells to enrich their secretory proteome with critical proteomic molecules with functional importance for periconception milieu formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhashini Muhandiram
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 14B, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Toomos Orro
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Kasun Godakumara
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Suranga Kodithuwakku
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 14B, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
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22
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Tan B, Zhou C, Zang X, Zhao X, Xiao L, Zeng J, Hong L, Wu Z, Gu T. Integrated Analysis of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression in Porcine Placental Development. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065169. [PMID: 36982243 PMCID: PMC10049215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065169] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper placental development is crucial for the conceptus to grow and survive, because the placenta is responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygen from the pregnant female to the developing fetus. However, the processes of placental morphogenesis and fold formation remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, we used whole-genome bisulfite sequencing and RNA sequencing to produce a global map of DNA methylation and gene expression changes in placentas from Tibetan pig fetuses 21, 28, and 35 days post-coitus. Substantial changes in morphology and histological structures at the uterine-placental interface were revealed via hematoxylin-eosin staining. Transcriptome analysis identified 3959 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and revealed the key transcriptional properties in three stages. The DNA methylation level in the gene promoter was negatively correlated with gene expression. We identified a set of differentially methylated regions associated with placental developmental genes and transcription factors. The decrease in DNA methylation level in the promoter was associated with the transcriptional activation of 699 DEGs that were functionally enriched in cell adhesion and migration, extracellular matrix remodeling, and angiogenesis. Our analysis provides a valuable resource for understanding the mechanisms of DNA methylation in placental development. The methylation status of different genomic regions plays a key role in establishing transcriptional patterns from placental morphogenesis to fold formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Tan
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xupeng Zang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xinming Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Liyao Xiao
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jiekang Zeng
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ting Gu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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23
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Dusza HM, van Boxel J, van Duursen MBM, Forsberg MM, Legler J, Vähäkangas KH. Experimental human placental models for studying uptake, transport and toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 860:160403. [PMID: 36417947 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are ubiquitous in the environment and have recently been found in human lungs, blood and placenta. However, data on the possible effects of MNPs on human health is extremely scarce. The potential toxicity of MNPs during pregnancy, a period of increased susceptibility to environmental insults, is of particular concern. The placenta provides a unique interface between maternal and fetal circulation which is essential for in utero survival and healthy pregnancy. Placental toxicokinetics and toxicity of MNPs are still largely unexplored and the limited studies performed up to now focus mainly on polystyrene particles. Practical and ethical considerations limit research options in humans, and extrapolation from animal studies is challenging due to marked differences between species. Nevertheless, diverse in vitro and ex vivo human placental models exist e.g., plasma membrane vesicles, mono-culture and co-culture of placental cells, placenta-on-a-chip, villous tissue explants, and placental perfusion that can be used to advance this research area. The objective of this concise review is to recapitulate different human placental models, summarize the current understanding of placental uptake, transport and toxicity of MNPs and define knowledge gaps. Moreover, we provide perspectives for future research urgently needed to assess the potential hazards and risks of MNP exposure to maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna M Dusza
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jeske van Boxel
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Majorie B M van Duursen
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Markus M Forsberg
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Juliette Legler
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kirsi H Vähäkangas
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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24
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Campagna MP, Xavier A, Stankovich J, Maltby VE, Slee M, Yeh WZ, Kilpatrick T, Scott RJ, Butzkueven H, Lechner-Scott J, Lea RA, Jokubaitis VG. Parity is associated with long-term differences in DNA methylation at genes related to neural plasticity in multiple sclerosis. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:20. [PMID: 36765422 PMCID: PMC9921068 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01438-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy in women with multiple sclerosis (wwMS) is associated with a reduction of long-term disability progression. The mechanism that drives this effect is unknown, but converging evidence suggests a role for epigenetic mechanisms altering immune and/or central nervous system function. In this study, we aimed to identify whole blood and immune cell-specific DNA methylation patterns associated with parity in relapse-onset MS. RESULTS We investigated the association between whole blood and immune cell-type-specific genome-wide methylation patterns and parity in 192 women with relapse-onset MS, matched for age and disease severity. The median time from last pregnancy to blood collection was 16.7 years (range = 1.5-44.4 years). We identified 2965 differentially methylated positions in whole blood, 68.5% of which were hypermethylated in parous women; together with two differentially methylated regions on Chromosomes 17 and 19 which mapped to TMC8 and ZNF577, respectively. Our findings validated 22 DMPs and 366 differentially methylated genes from existing literature on epigenetic changes associated with parity in wwMS. Differentially methylated genes in whole blood were enriched in neuronal structure and growth-related pathways. Immune cell-type-specific analysis using cell-type proportion estimates from statistical deconvolution of whole blood revealed further differential methylation in T cells specifically (four in CD4+ and eight in CD8+ T cells). We further identified reduced methylation age acceleration in parous women, demonstrating slower biological aging compared to nulligravida women. CONCLUSION Differential methylation at genes related to neural plasticity offers a potential molecular mechanism driving the long-term effect of pregnancy on MS outcomes. Our results point to a potential 'CNS signature' of methylation in peripheral immune cells, as previously described in relation to MS progression, induced by parity. As the first epigenome-wide association study of parity in wwMS reported, validation studies are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pia Campagna
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Alexandre Xavier
- grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XSchool of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia ,grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XHunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia
| | - Jim Stankovich
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Vicki E. Maltby
- grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XHunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia ,grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XSchool of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia ,grid.414724.00000 0004 0577 6676Neurology Department, John Hunter Hospital, Hunter New England, Newcastle, NSW Australia
| | - Mark Slee
- grid.1014.40000 0004 0367 2697College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Wei Z. Yeh
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.267362.40000 0004 0432 5259Neurology Department, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Trevor Kilpatrick
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.416153.40000 0004 0624 1200Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Rodney J. Scott
- grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XSchool of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia ,grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XHunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.267362.40000 0004 0432 5259Neurology Department, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Jeannette Lechner-Scott
- grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XHunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia ,grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XSchool of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia ,grid.414724.00000 0004 0577 6676Neurology Department, John Hunter Hospital, Hunter New England, Newcastle, NSW Australia
| | - Rodney A. Lea
- grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XHunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia ,grid.1024.70000000089150953Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD Australia
| | - Vilija G. Jokubaitis
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.267362.40000 0004 0432 5259Neurology Department, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.416153.40000 0004 0624 1200Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC Australia
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25
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Callahan TJ, Stefanski AL, Kim JD, Baumgartner WA, Wyrwa JM, Hunter LE. Knowledge-Driven Mechanistic Enrichment of the Preeclampsia Ignorome. PACIFIC SYMPOSIUM ON BIOCOMPUTING. PACIFIC SYMPOSIUM ON BIOCOMPUTING 2023; 28:371-382. [PMID: 36540992 PMCID: PMC9782728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Currently, the only definitive treatment of preeclampsia is delivery of the placenta, which is central to the pathogenesis of the disease. Transcriptional profiling of human placenta from pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia has been extensively performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The decisions to investigate DEGs experimentally are biased by many factors, causing many DEGs to remain uninvestigated. A set of DEGs which are associated with a disease experimentally, but which have no known association to the disease in the literature are known as the ignorome. Preeclampsia has an extensive body of scientific literature, a large pool of DEG data, and only one definitive treatment. Tools facilitating knowledge-based analyses, which are capable of combining disparate data from many sources in order to suggest underlying mechanisms of action, may be a valuable resource to support discovery and improve our understanding of this disease. In this work we demonstrate how a biomedical knowledge graph (KG) can be used to identify novel preeclampsia molecular mechanisms. Existing open source biomedical resources and publicly available high-throughput transcriptional profiling data were used to identify and annotate the function of currently uninvestigated preeclampsia-associated DEGs. Experimentally investigated genes associated with preeclampsia were identified from PubMed abstracts using text-mining methodologies. The relative complement of the text-mined- and meta-analysis-derived lists were identified as the uninvestigated preeclampsia-associated DEGs (n=445), i.e., the preeclampsia ignorome. Using the KG to investigate relevant DEGs revealed 53 novel clinically relevant and biologically actionable mechanistic associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany J Callahan
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA,
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26
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Kim YR, Na ED, Jung JE, Moon JH, Lee JY. Clinical features at the time of non-hysteroscopic myomectomy before pregnancy, which affect adverse pregnancy outcomes: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:896. [PMID: 36463110 PMCID: PMC9719619 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05240-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the association of clinical characteristics at the time of non-hysteroscopic myomectomy before pregnancy and adverse obstetric outcomes in the next pregnancy. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we identified 248 women who underwent abdominal or laparoscopic myomectomy for intramural (IM) and/or subserosal (SS) uterine myomas in Bundang CHA Medical Center before pregnancy and delivered at the same hospital between 2010 and 2020. The association between clinical characteristics at the time of myomectomy and subsequent obstetric outcomes was analyzed using the Chi-square test, the Student t-test or one-way ANOVA, and multivariable analysis. RESULTS There was one case of uterine rupture. The gestational age at delivery was 37.7 ± 2.4 weeks. There were 2 (0.8%) cases of fetal loss before 23 weeks, but there were no cases of perinatal death. The risk of transfusion during or after delivery was higher in the group in which multiple myomas were removed compared to the group in which only one was removed (aOR = 2.41, 95% CI [1.20-4.86], p = 0.014). The risk of neonatal composite morbidity was higher in the group in which myomas including the IM type were removed, than in the group in which only SS myomas were removed (aOR = 14.29, 95% CI [1.82-99.57], p = 0.012). Although not statistically significant, the group in which the sum of the diameters of the three largest myomas was greater than 15 cm showed a higher frequency of preterm birth (19.3% vs. 10.1%, p = 0.001) and lower birth weight (2901 ± 625 g vs. 3063 ± 576 g, p = 0.001) compared to the group with diameters less than 15 cm. Placenta accreta/increta (7.9% vs. 3.8%, p = 0.043) and lower placental weight (646 ± 170 g vs. 750 ± 232 g, p = 0.034) were more common in patients with an interval between myomectomy and pregnancy of less than 12 months compared to more than 12 months. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the association between clinical features at the time of myomectomy before pregnancy and various adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes. If the removed myomas are multiple, IM, large, or the interval between myomectomy and pregnancy is short, the risk of obstetric and neonatal complications may increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Ran Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 13496, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Eun Duc Na
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 13496, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Jae Eun Jung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 13496, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Ji Hyun Moon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 13496, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Ji Yeon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 13496, Seongnam, South Korea.
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Intrachromosomal Looping and Histone K27 Methylation Coordinately Regulates the lncRNA H19-Fetal Mitogen IGF2 Imprinting Cluster in the Decidual Microenvironment of Early Pregnancy. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193130. [PMID: 36231092 PMCID: PMC9563431 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a highly heterogeneous complication of pregnancy with the underlying mechanisms remaining uncharacterized. Dysregulated decidualization is a critical contributor to the phenotypic alterations related to pregnancy complications. To understand the molecular factors underlying RSA, we explored the role of longnoncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the decidual microenvironment where the crosstalk at the fetal–maternal interface occurs. By exploring RNA-seq data from RSA patients, we identified H19, a noncoding RNA that exhibits maternal monoallelic expression, as one of the most upregulated lncRNAs associated with RSA. The paternally expressed fetal mitogen IGF2, which is reciprocally coregulated with H19 within the same imprinting cluster, was also upregulated. Notably, both genes underwent loss of imprinting, as H19 and IGF2 were actively transcribed from both parental alleles in some decidual tissues. This loss of imprinting in decidual tissues was associated with the loss of the H3K27m3 repressive histone marker in the IGF2 promoter, CpG hypomethylation at the central CTCF binding site in the imprinting control center (ICR), and the loss of CTCF-mediated intrachromosomal looping. These data suggest that dysregulation of the H19/IGF2 imprinting pathway may be an important epigenetic factor in the decidual microenvironment related to poor decidualization.
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28
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First trimester serum biomarker discovery study for early onset, preterm onset and preeclampsia at term. Placenta 2022; 128:39-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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29
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Upregulation of miR-181a-5p and miR-125b-2-3p in the Maternal Circulation of Fetuses with Rh-Negative Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn Could Be Related to Dysfunction of Placental Function. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:2594091. [PMID: 36188428 PMCID: PMC9519318 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2594091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The transplacental transfer of maternal antibodies to the fetus is a critical mechanism for infant protection and perinatal disease. Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) is a representative fetal disease caused by transplacental transfer of maternal IgG antibodies. However, it is unclear whether placental-related miRNAs are expressed in Rh-HDFN. Through the investigation of the miR-181a-5p and miR-125b-2-3p levels in maternal plasma using qPCR, we found that both miR-181a-5p and miR-125b-2-3p were highly expressed in maternal plasma of newborns with Rh-HDFN compared with healthy controls, indicating the potential roles of these two miRNAs in Rh-HDFN. To demonstrate whether dysregulation of miR-125b-2-3p and miR-181a-5p contributes to Rh-HDFN development, we analyze the placental miRNA-/mRNA sequencing data (GSE73714) using weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), miRNA target predictive databases, and DAVID (Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery). The results showed that miR-125b-2-3p and miR-181a-5p could regulate several biological processes including cytoplasmic microtubule organization and angiogenesis. Moreover, core promoter sequence-specific DNA binding and protein binding were highly enriched molecular functions, indicating the potential roles of transcriptional regulation. Further pathway enrichment showed that miR-181a-5p and miR-125b-2-3p could regulate several biological pathways that were closely related to placental function, including the FoxO signaling pathway, focal adhesion, mTOR signaling pathway, and central carbon metabolism in cancer. In conclusion, the present results first revealed miRNA expression in the maternal circulation of newborns with Rh-HDFN, which could be caused by dysfunction of the placenta.
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30
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Parameshwar PK, Sagrillo-Fagundes L, Azevedo Portilho N, Pastor WA, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Engineered models for placental toxicology: Emerging approaches based on tissue decellularization. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 112:148-159. [PMID: 35840119 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.07.003] [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: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Recent increases in prescriptions and illegal drug use as well as exposure to environmental contaminants during pregnancy have highlighted the critical importance of placental toxicology in understanding and identifying risks to both mother and fetus. Although advantageous for basic science, current in vitro models often fail to capture the complexity of placental response, likely due to their inability to recreate and monitor aspects of the microenvironment including physical properties, mechanical forces and stiffness, protein composition, cell-cell interactions, soluble and physicochemical factors, and other exogenous cues. Tissue engineering holds great promise in addressing these challenges and provides an avenue to better understand basic biology, effects of toxic compounds and potential therapeutics. The key to success lies in effectively recreating the microenvironment. One strategy to do this would be to recreate individual components and then combine them. However, this becomes challenging due to variables present according to conditions such as tissue location, age, health status and lifestyle. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is known to influence cellular fate by working as a storage of factors. Decellularized ECM (dECM) is a recent tool that allows usage of the original ECM in a refurbished form, providing a relatively reliable representation of the microenvironment. This review focuses on using dECM in modified forms such as whole organs, scaffold sheets, electrospun nanofibers, hydrogels, 3D printing, and combinations as building blocks to recreate aspects of the microenvironment to address general tissue engineering and toxicology challenges, thus illustrating their potential as tools for future placental toxicology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nathalia Azevedo Portilho
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - William A Pastor
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, Québec, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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Deng P, Cui K, Shi Y, Zhu Y, Wang Y, Shao X, Qin J. Fluidic Flow Enhances the Differentiation of Placental Trophoblast-Like 3D Tissue from hiPSCs in a Perfused Macrofluidic Device. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:907104. [PMID: 35845423 PMCID: PMC9280037 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.907104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The human placenta serves as a multifunctional organ to maintain the proper development of a fetus. However, our knowledge of the human placenta is limited due to the lack of appropriate experimental models. In this work, we created an in vitro placental trophoblast-like model via self-organization of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in a perfused 3D culture macrofluidic device. This device allowed cell seeding, in situ trophoblast lineage differentiation, and formation of trophoblast-like tissues from hiPSCs in a biomimetic microenvironment. It incorporated extracellular matrix (ECM) and fluid flow in a single device. After trophoblast lineage differentiation, we were able to generate the 3D clusters with major cell types of the human placenta, including trophoblast progenitor cytotrophoblasts (CTBs), differentiated subtypes, syncytiotrophoblasts (STBs), and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) under long-term 3D culture (∼23 days). Moreover, the formed tissues exhibited enhanced expressions of CTB-, STB-, and EVT-related markers at the level of genes and proteins under a dynamic culture compared with static conditions. RNA-seq analysis revealed the higher expression of trophoblast-specific genes in 3D tissues, indicating the essential role of fluid flow to promote the trophoblast differentiation of hiPSCs. The established placental 3D model combined a bioengineering strategy with developmental principles, providing a promising platform for the study of placental biology in a biomimetic microenvironment in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengwei Deng
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kangli Cui
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Shi
- Dalian Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Mother-child Genetics, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, China
| | - Yujuan Zhu
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yaqing Wang
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaoguang Shao
- Dalian Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Mother-child Genetics, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, China
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jianhua Qin,
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Liu R, Dai M, Gong G, Chen M, Cao C, Wang T, Hou Z, Shi Y, Guo J, Zhang Y, Xia X. The role of extracellular matrix on unfavorable maternal–fetal interface: focusing on the function of collagen in human fertility. JOURNAL OF LEATHER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s42825-022-00087-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AbstractExtracellular matrix (ECM) is characterized as widespread, abundant, and pluripotent. Among ECM members, collagen is widely accepted as one of the most prominent components for its essential structural property that can provide a scaffold for other components of ECM and the rich biological functions, which has been extensively used in tissue engineering. Emerging evidence has shown that the balance of ECM degradation and remodeling is vital to regulations of maternal–fetal interface including menstrual cycling, decidualization, embryo implantation and pregnancy maintenance. Moreover, disorders in these events may eventually lead to failure of pregnancy. Although the improvement of assisted conception and embryo culture technologies bring hope to many infertile couples, some unfavorable outcomes, such as recurrent implantation failure (RIF), recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) or recurrent miscarriage (RM), keep troubling the clinicians and patients. Recently, in vitro three-dimensional (3D) model mimicking the microenvironment of the maternal–fetal interface is developed to investigate the physiological and pathological conditions of conception and pregnancy. The progress of this technology is based on clarifying the role of ECM in the endometrium and the interaction between endometrium and conceptus. Focusing on collagen, the present review summarized the degradation and regulation of ECM and its role in normal menstruation, endometrium receptivity and unsatisfying events occurring in infertility treatments, as well as the application in therapeutic approaches to improve pregnancy outcomes. More investigations about ECM focusing on the maternal–fetal interface interaction with mesenchymal stem cells or local immunoregulation may inspire new thoughts and advancements in the clinical application of infertility treatments.
Graphical abstract
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33
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Opichka MA, Rappelt MW, Gutterman DD, Grobe JL, McIntosh JJ. Vascular Dysfunction in Preeclampsia. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113055. [PMID: 34831277 PMCID: PMC8616535 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a life-threatening pregnancy-associated cardiovascular disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria at 20 weeks of gestation. Though its exact underlying cause is not precisely defined and likely heterogenous, a plethora of research indicates that in some women with preeclampsia, both maternal and placental vascular dysfunction plays a role in the pathogenesis and can persist into the postpartum period. Potential abnormalities include impaired placentation, incomplete spiral artery remodeling, and endothelial damage, which are further propagated by immune factors, mitochondrial stress, and an imbalance of pro- and antiangiogenic substances. While the field has progressed, current gaps in knowledge include detailed initial molecular mechanisms and effective treatment options. Newfound evidence indicates that vasopressin is an early mediator and biomarker of the disorder, and promising future therapeutic avenues include mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction, excess oxidative stress, and the resulting inflammatory state. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of vascular defects present during preeclampsia and connect well-established notions to newer discoveries at the molecular, cellular, and whole-organism levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A. Opichka
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA; (M.A.O.); (D.D.G.); (J.L.G.)
| | - Matthew W. Rappelt
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA;
| | - David D. Gutterman
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA; (M.A.O.); (D.D.G.); (J.L.G.)
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Justin L. Grobe
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA; (M.A.O.); (D.D.G.); (J.L.G.)
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA;
- Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Comprehensive Rodent Metabolic Phenotyping Core, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Jennifer J. McIntosh
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA; (M.A.O.); (D.D.G.); (J.L.G.)
- Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(414)-805-9019
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Parameshwar PK, Sagrillo-Fagundes L, Fournier C, Girard S, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Disease-specific extracellular matrix composition regulates placental trophoblast fusion efficiency. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:7247-7256. [PMID: 34608901 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm00799h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The placental syncytiotrophoblast is a multinucleated layer that regulates transport between the mother and fetus. Fusion of trophoblasts is essential to form this layer, but this process can be disrupted in pregnancy-related disorders such as preeclampsia. Disease progression is also associated with changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM), but whether disease-specific ECM compositions play any causal role in establishing syncytiotrophoblast disease phenotypes remains unknown. Here, we develop a decellularization-based platform to isolate and characterize the role of human placental ECM composition on cell function, while controlling for the confounding effects of matrix structure and mechanics that can arise in conventional tissue decellularization/recellularization experiments. Using this approach, we demonstrate that ECM compositional changes that occur in preeclampsia have a statistically significant effect on adhesion, spreading, and fusion of placental trophoblasts. Proteomic analysis of ECM content then allowed us to identify and recreate selected differences in matrix composition; indicating that replacement of normally present Type IV Collagen by Type I Collagen in preeclampsia significantly affects fusion efficiency. These results indicate that disease-specific matrix compositions can play an important role in trophoblast fusion, suggesting novel matrix-targeting therapeutic strategies for pregnancy-related disorders. More broadly, this work demonstrates the utility of a decellularization-based approach in understanding the functional contributions of matrix composition in driving cellular disease phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucas Sagrillo-Fagundes
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Caroline Fournier
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Sylvie Girard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, Québec, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada. .,Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Almeida GHDR, Iglesia RP, Araújo MS, Carreira ACO, Dos Santos EX, Calomeno CVAQ, Miglino MA. Uterine Tissue Engineering: Where We Stand and the Challenges Ahead. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2021; 28:861-890. [PMID: 34476997 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2021.0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Tissue engineering is an innovative approach to develop allogeneic tissues and organs. The uterus is a very sensitive and complex organ, which requires refined techniques to properly regenerate and even, to rebuild itself. Many therapies were developed in 20th century to solve reproductive issues related to uterus failure and, more recently, tissue engineering techniques provided a significant evolution in this issue. Herein we aim to provide a broad overview and highlights of the general concepts involved in bioengineering to reconstruct the uterus and its tissues, focusing on strategies for tissue repair, production of uterine scaffolds, biomaterials and reproductive animal models, highlighting the most recent and effective tissue engineering protocols in literature and their application in regenerative medicine. In addition, we provide a discussion about what was achieved in uterine tissue engineering, the main limitations, the challenges to overcome and future perspectives in this research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Henrique Doná Rodrigues Almeida
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Professor Orlando Marques de Paiva Avenue, 87, Butantã, SP, Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil, 05508-900.,University of São Paulo Institute of Biomedical Sciences, 54544, Cell and Developmental Biology, Professor Lineu Prestes Avenue, 1374, Butantã, SP, Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil, 05508-900;
| | - Rebeca Piatniczka Iglesia
- University of São Paulo Institute of Biomedical Sciences, 54544, Cell and Developmental Biology, Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Michelle Silva Araújo
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil., São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, SP, Brazil, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Erika Xavier Dos Santos
- State University of Maringá, 42487, Department of Morphological Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil, Maringa, PR, Brazil;
| | - Celso Vitor Alves Queiroz Calomeno
- State University of Maringá, 42487, Department of Morphological Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil, Maringa, PR, Brazil;
| | - Maria Angélica Miglino
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science Professor Orlando Marques de Paiva Avenue, 87 Butantã SP Sao Paulo, São Paulo, BR 05508-900, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
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Winter M, Jankovic-Karasoulos T, Roberts CT, Bianco-Miotto T, Thierry B. Bioengineered Microphysiological Placental Models: Towards Improving Understanding of Pregnancy Health and Disease. Trends Biotechnol 2021; 39:1221-1235. [PMID: 33965246 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2021.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Driven by a lack of appropriate human placenta models, recent years have seen the introduction of bioengineered in vitro models to better understand placental health and disease. Thus far, the focus has been on the maternal-foetal barrier. However, there are many other physiologically and pathologically significant aspects of the placenta that would benefit from state-of-the-art bioengineered models, in particular, integrating advanced culture systems with contemporary biological concepts such as organoids. This critical review defines and discusses the key parameters required for the development of physiologically relevant in vitro models of the placenta. Specifically, it highlights the importance of cell type, mechanical forces, and culture microenvironment towards the use of physiologically relevant models to improve the understanding of human placental function and dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marnie Winter
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent BioNano Science and Technology and Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South Australia, 5095, Australia.
| | - Tanja Jankovic-Karasoulos
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Claire T Roberts
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Tina Bianco-Miotto
- School of Agriculture, Food, and Wine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
| | - Benjamin Thierry
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent BioNano Science and Technology and Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South Australia, 5095, Australia
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Jee B, Dhar R, Singh S, Karmakar S. Heat Shock Proteins and Their Role in Pregnancy: Redefining the Function of "Old Rum in a New Bottle". Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:648463. [PMID: 33996811 PMCID: PMC8116900 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.648463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy in humans is a multi-step complex physiological process comprising three discrete events, decidualization, implantation and placentation. Its overall success depends on the incremental advantage that each of the preceding stages passes on to the next. The success of these synchronized sequels of events is an outcome of timely coordination between them. The pregnancy events are coordinated and governed primarily by the ovarian steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone, which are essentially ligand-activated transcription factors. It's well known that intercellular signaling of steroid hormones engages a plethora of adapter proteins that participate in executing the biological functions. This involves binding of the hormone receptor complex to the DNA response elements in a sequence specific manner. Working with Drosophila melanogaster, the heat shock proteins (HSPs) were originally described by Ferruccio Ritossa back in the early 1960s. Over the years, there has been considerable advancement of our understanding of these conserved families of proteins, particularly in pregnancy. Accumulating evidence suggests that endometrial and uterine cells have an abundance of HSP27, HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90, implying their possible involvement during the pregnancy process. HSPs have been found to be associated with decidualization, implantation and placentation, with their dysregulation associated with implantation failure, pregnancy loss and other feto-maternal complications. Furthermore, HSP is also associated with stress response, specifically in modulating the ER stress, a critical determinant for reproductive success. Recent advances suggest a therapeutic role of HSPs proteins in improving the pregnancy outcome. In this review, we summarized our latest understanding of the role of different members of the HSP families during pregnancy and associated complications based on experimental and clinical evidences, thereby redefining and exploring their novel function with new perspective, beyond their prototype role as molecular chaperones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babban Jee
- Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Ruby Dhar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sunil Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Subhradip Karmakar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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