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Domingues RR, Teixeira NN, Frizzarini WS, Beard AD, Connelly MK, Vang A, Wiltbank MC, Hernandez LL. The antidepressant fluoxetine (Prozac®) modulates serotonin signaling to alter maternal peripartum calcium homeostasis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21832. [PMID: 38071334 PMCID: PMC10710465 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49253-4] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Antidepressant use is two-fold greater in women compared to men; however, most studies have been performed in male subjects. We aimed to understand the impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI, most used antidepressants) on calcium homeostasis and steroid metabolism during the peripartum period. Pregnant sheep (n = 10/group) were treated with vehicle or fluoxetine (most common SSRI) during the last month of gestation. Fluoxetine treatment decreased circulating calcium prior to parturition (8.7 ± 0.1 mg/dL vs 8.2 ± 0.1 mg/dL; P = 0.07). In the control group, total calcium decreased after parturition corresponding to the onset of lactogenesis followed by increase in calcium by day 2 postpartum. Interestingly, this normal transient decrease in circulating calcium was absent in fluoxetine-treated ewes. The steroids cortisol and progesterone were not altered by fluoxetine treatment whereas estradiol was decreased after the onset of treatment (12.4 ± 1.3 vs 9.1 ± 1.2 pg/mL, P = 0.05) and prior to parturition (38.1 ± 8.1 vs 22.3 ± 4.2 pg/mL, P = 0.03). Our hypothesis was supported that fluoxetine treatment alters circulating concentrations of calcium in the peripartum period; however, we surprisingly observed a decrease in estradiol concentrations contrary to reports in in vitro studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael R Domingues
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Natalia N Teixeira
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Waneska S Frizzarini
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Adam D Beard
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Meghan K Connelly
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Alysia Vang
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Milo C Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Laura L Hernandez
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1865 Observatory Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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Colicino E, Cowell W, Pedretti NF, Joshi A, Petrick L, Niedzwiecki M, Wright RO, Wright RJ. Maternal steroids during pregnancy and their associations with exposure to lifetime stressful life events, prenatal stress appraisal and psychological functioning. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 158:106395. [PMID: 37776732 PMCID: PMC10841416 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106395] [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: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During pregnancy, steroids enable physiological adaptations in response to many factors, including maternal stress or psychological functioning. While stress and psychological dysfunction can have endocrine-disrupting effects beyond cortisol disruption, associations between prenatal maternal stress or related psychological dysfunction and the broader steroid milieu remain understudied. AIM To assess associations between independent and joint maternal stress and psychological functioning measures and steroid profiles in pregnancy (22-40 gestational weeks) in the Programming of Intergenerational Stress Mechanisms (PRISM) birth cohort (n = 334). METHODS Serum metabolomics detected 42 steroids and their metabolites, which were grouped into five classes (pregnenolone, androgens, estrogens, progestin, and corticosteroids). The Perceived Stress Scale, Life Stressor Checklist-Revised, and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale indexed lifetime traumatic/non-traumatic stressors, global prenatal stress appraisal, and depressive symptoms during pregnancy, respectively. Exposures were categorized as high-low using the corresponding 3rd quartiles. We assessed associations between both individual and joint stress exposures with steroid classes using linear mixed effect models and with individual steroids using linear regressions. We also examined fetal sex-specific effects. RESULTS High prenatal perceived stress was independently associated with lower levels of androgens and estrogens in the overall sample [β (95%CI): androgens: -0.13 (-0.25;-0.01); estrogens: -0.16 (-0.31;-0.01)], particularly among women carrying males [androgens: -0.22 (-0.39;-0.05); estrogens: -0.28 (-0.50;-0.07)]. Results on estrogens were consistent when considering joint exposure to both greater lifetime stressors and higher prenatal perceived stress. We also found a single testosterone metabolite-5alpha-androstan-3alpha,17alpha-diol disulfate-negatively associated with both individual high perceived stress and joint exposure to high lifetime stressors and high perceived stress among women carrying males. CONCLUSIONS Increased maternal perceived stress experienced in pregnancy was independently associated with lower maternal androgen and estrogen levels during pregnancy in the overall sample, particularly among women carrying males. Results on estrogens were consistent when we considered the joint exposure of increased lifetime stressors and higher prenatal perceived stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Colicino
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Whitney Cowell
- Departments of Pediatrics and Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicolo Foppa Pedretti
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anu Joshi
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren Petrick
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Megan Niedzwiecki
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert O Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rosalind J Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Kravis Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Beal JR, Ma Q, Bagchi IC, Bagchi MK. Role of Endometrial Extracellular Vesicles in Mediating Cell-to-Cell Communication in the Uterus: A Review. Cells 2023; 12:2584. [PMID: 37998319 PMCID: PMC10670844 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There are several critical events that occur in the uterus during early pregnancy which are necessary for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. These events include blastocyst implantation, uterine decidualization, uterine neoangiogenesis, differentiation of trophoblast stem cells into different trophoblast cell lineages, and formation of a placenta. These processes involve several different cell types within the pregnant uterus. Communication between these cell types must be intricately coordinated for successful embryo implantation and the formation of a functional maternal-fetal interface in the placenta. Understanding how this intricate coordination transpires has been a focus of researchers in the field for many years. It has long been understood that maternal endometrial tissue plays a key role in intercellular signaling during early pregnancy, sending signals to nearby tissues in a paracrine manner. Recently, insights have been obtained into the mechanisms by which these signaling events occur. Notably, the endometrium has been shown to secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) that contain crucial cargo (proteins, lipids, RNA, miRNA) that are taken up by recipient cells to initiate a response leading to the occurrence of critical events during implantation and placentation. In this review, we aim to summarize the role that endometrium-derived EVs play in mediating cell-to-cell communications within the pregnant uterus to orchestrate the events that must occur to establish and maintain pregnancy. We will also discuss how aberrant endometrial EV signaling may lead to pathophysiological conditions, such as endometriosis and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob R. Beal
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Qiuyan Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Indrani C. Bagchi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Milan K. Bagchi
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Parisi F, Fenizia C, Introini A, Zavatta A, Scaccabarozzi C, Biasin M, Savasi V. The pathophysiological role of estrogens in the initial stages of pregnancy: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications for pregnancy outcome from the periconceptional period to end of the first trimester. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:699-720. [PMID: 37353909 PMCID: PMC10628507 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogens regulate disparate female physiological processes, thus ensuring reproduction. Altered estrogen levels and signaling have been associated with increased risks of pregnancy failure and complications, including hypertensive disorders and low birthweight babies. However, the role of estrogens in the periconceptional period and early pregnancy is still understudied. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize the current evidence on the role of maternal estrogens during the periconceptional period and the first trimester of pregnancies conceived naturally and following ART. Detailed molecular mechanisms and related clinical impacts are extensively described. SEARCH METHODS Data for this narrative review were independently identified by seven researchers on Pubmed and Embase databases. The following keywords were selected: 'estrogens' OR 'estrogen level(s)' OR 'serum estradiol' OR 'estradiol/estrogen concentration', AND 'early pregnancy' OR 'first trimester of pregnancy' OR 'preconceptional period' OR 'ART' OR 'In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)' OR 'Embryo Transfer' OR 'Frozen Embryo Transfer' OR 'oocyte donation' OR 'egg donation' OR 'miscarriage' OR 'pregnancy outcome' OR 'endometrium'. OUTCOMES During the periconceptional period (defined here as the critical time window starting 1 month before conception), estrogens play a crucial role in endometrial receptivity, through the activation of paracrine/autocrine signaling. A derailed estrogenic milieu within this period seems to be detrimental both in natural and ART-conceived pregnancies. Low estrogen levels are associated with non-conception cycles in natural pregnancies. On the other hand, excessive supraphysiologic estrogen concentrations at time of the LH peak correlate with lower live birth rates and higher risks of pregnancy complications. In early pregnancy, estrogen plays a massive role in placentation mainly by modulating angiogenic factor expression-and in the development of an immune-tolerant uterine micro-environment by remodeling the function of uterine natural killer and T-helper cells. Lower estrogen levels are thought to trigger abnormal placentation in naturally conceived pregnancies, whereas an estrogen excess seems to worsen pregnancy development and outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Most current evidence available endorses a relation between periconceptional and first trimester estrogen levels and pregnancy outcomes, further depicting an optimal concentration range to optimize pregnancy success. However, how estrogens co-operate with other factors in order to maintain a fine balance between local tolerance towards the developing fetus and immune responses to pathogens remains elusive. Further studies are highly warranted, also aiming to identify the determinants of estrogen response and biomarkers for personalized estrogen administration regimens in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Parisi
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, via L. Castelvetro 32, Milan, Italy
| | - C Fenizia
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, via F. Sforza 35, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - A Introini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Nobels väg 5, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Zavatta
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, via L. Castelvetro 32, Milan, Italy
| | - C Scaccabarozzi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - M Biasin
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - V Savasi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
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Allerkamp HH, Leighton S, Pole T, Clark AR, James JL. Synergistic regulation of uterine radial artery adaptation to pregnancy by paracrine and hemodynamic factors. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2023; 325:H790-H805. [PMID: 37539447 PMCID: PMC10643003 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00205.2023] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth throughout pregnancy relies on delivery of an increasing volume of maternal blood to the placenta. To facilitate this, the uterine vascular network adapts structurally and functionally, resulting in wider blood vessels with decreased flow-mediated reactivity. Impaired remodeling of the rate-limiting uterine radial arteries has been associated with fetal growth restriction. However, the mechanisms underlying normal or pathological radial artery remodeling are poorly understood. Here, we used pressure myography to determine the roles of hemodynamic (resistance, flow rate, shear stress) and paracrine [β-estradiol, progesterone, placental growth factor (PlGF), vascular endothelial growth factor] factors on rat radial artery reactivity. We show that β-estradiol, progesterone, and PlGF attenuate flow-mediated constriction of radial arteries from nonpregnant rats, allowing them to withstand higher flow rates in a similar manner to pregnant vessels. This effect was partly mediated by nitric oxide (NO) production. To better understand how the combination of paracrine factors and shear stress may impact human radial artery remodeling in the first half of gestation, computational models of uterine hemodynamics, incorporating physiological parameters for trophoblast plugging and spiral artery remodeling, were used to predict shear stress in the upstream radial arteries across the first half of pregnancy. Human microvascular endothelial cells subjected to these predicted shear stresses demonstrated higher NO production when paracrine factors were added. This suggests that synergistic effects of paracrine and hemodynamic factors induce uterine vascular remodeling and that alterations in this balance could impair radial artery adaptation, limiting blood flow to the placenta and negatively impacting fetal growth.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Placenta-specific paracrine factors β-estradiol, progesterone, and placental growth factor attenuate flow-mediated constriction of the rate-limiting uterine radial arteries, enabling higher flow rates in pregnancy. These paracrine factors induce their actions in part via nitric oxide mediated mechanisms. A synergistic combination of paracrine factors and shear stress is likely necessary to produce sufficient levels of nitric oxide during early human pregnancy to trigger adequate uterine vascular adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. H. Allerkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - S. Leighton
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - T. Pole
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - A. R. Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J. L. James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Kannan A, Beal JR, Neff AM, Bagchi MK, Bagchi IC. Runx1 regulates critical factors that control uterine angiogenesis and trophoblast differentiation during placental development. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad215. [PMID: 37416873 PMCID: PMC10321400 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
During early pregnancy in humans and rodents, uterine stromal cells undergo a remarkable differentiation to form the decidua, a transient maternal tissue that supports the growing fetus. It is important to understand the key decidual pathways that orchestrate the proper development of the placenta, a key structure at the maternal-fetal interface. We discovered that ablation of expression of the transcription factor Runx1 in decidual stromal cells in a conditional Runx1-null mouse model (Runx1d/d) causes fetal lethality during placentation. Further phenotypic analysis revealed that uteri of pregnant Runx1d/d mice exhibited severely compromised decidual angiogenesis and a lack of trophoblast differentiation and migration, resulting in impaired spiral artery remodeling. Gene expression profiling using uteri from Runx1d/d and control mice revealed that Runx1 directly controls the decidual expression of the gap junction protein connexin 43 (also known as GJA1), which was previously shown to be essential for decidual angiogenesis. Our study also revealed that Runx1 controls the expression of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) 2 and IGF-binding protein 4 (IGFBP4) during early pregnancy. While Runx1 deficiency drastically reduced the production of IGF2 by the decidual cells, we observed concurrent elevated expression of the IGFBP4, which regulates the bioavailability of IGFs, thereby controlling trophoblast differentiation. We posit that dysregulated expression of GJA1, IGF2, and IGFBP4 in Runx1d/d decidua contributes to the observed defects in uterine angiogenesis, trophoblast differentiation, and vascular remodeling. This study therefore provides unique insights into key maternal pathways that control the early phases of maternal-fetal interactions within a critical window during placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athilakshmi Kannan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S Lincoln, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Jacob R Beal
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 407 S Goodwin, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Alison M Neff
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 407 S Goodwin, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Utami AM, Horbach SE, Meijer-Jorna LB, Waas IS, de Boer OJ, van der Wal AC, van der Horst CM. Microvascular proliferation in arteriovenous malformation of the hand worsens during pregnancy: a case report. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:1262-1269. [PMID: 37113922 PMCID: PMC10129217 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000000507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are rare congenital disorders characterized by episodes of disproportionate growth that can cause pain and severe bleeding, with microvascular proliferation (MVP) associated with these episodes. Hormonal influences can also worsen the symptoms in patients with AVM. Case presentation This case report presents a female patient with congenital vascular malformations of the left hand since birth, whose symptoms worsened during puberty and pregnancy, ultimately leading to amputation of the left hand due to unbearable pain and loss of function. Pathologic analysis revealed substantial MVP activity within the tissues of the AVM, with an expression of receptors for estrogen, growth hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone in the vessels of the AVM, including MVP areas. Resected materials not related to pregnancy revealed chronic inflammation and fibrosis but hardly any MVP. Discussion and conclusion These findings suggest a role for MVP in the progressive growth of AVM during pregnancy, with a potential role for hormonal influences. The case highlights the relationship between AVM symptoms and size during pregnancy and the pathological findings of MVP areas within the AVM with hormone receptor expression on proliferating vessels in resected materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia M. Utami
- Department of Pathology
- Department of Pathology Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
- Corresponding author. Address: Department of Pathology Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Jln. Perintis Kemerdekaan Km.10, Makassar 90245, Indonesia. Tel./fax: +62411-586010. E-mail address: (A.M. Utami)
| | - Sophie E.R. Horbach
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam
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Kannan A, Beal JR, Neff AM, Bagchi MK, Bagchi IC. Runx1 regulates critical factors that control uterine angiogenesis and trophoblast differentiation during placental development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.21.532831. [PMID: 36993295 PMCID: PMC10055213 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.21.532831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED During early pregnancy in humans and rodents, uterine stromal cells undergo a remarkable differentiation to form the decidua, a transient maternal tissue that supports the growing fetus. It is important to understand the key decidual pathways that orchestrate the proper development of the placenta, a key structure at the maternal-fetal interface. We discovered that ablation of expression of the transcription factor Runx1 in decidual stromal cells in a conditional Runx1 -null mouse model ( Runx1 d/d ) causes fetal lethality during placentation. Further phenotypic analysis revealed that uteri of pregnant Runx1 d/d mice exhibited severely compromised decidual angiogenesis, and a lack of trophoblast differentiation and migration, resulting in impaired spiral artery remodeling. Gene expression profiling using uteri from Runx1 d/d and control mice revealed that Runx1 directly controls the decidual expression of the gap junction protein connexin 43 (also known as GJA1), which was previously shown to be essential for decidual angiogenesis. Our study also revealed a critical role of Runx1 in controlling insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling at the maternal-fetal interface. While Runx1-deficiency drastically reduced the production of IGF2 by the decidual cells, we observed concurrent elevated expression of the IGF-binding protein 4 (IGFBP4), which regulates the bioavailability of IGFs thereby controlling trophoblast differentiation. We posit that dysregulated expression of GJA1, IGF2, and IGFBP4 in Runx1 d/d decidua contributes to the observed defects in uterine angiogenesis, trophoblast differentiation, and vascular remodeling. This study therefore provides unique insights into key maternal pathways that control the early phases of maternal-fetal interactions within a critical window during placental development. SIGNIFICANCE A clear understanding of the maternal pathways that ensure coordination of uterine differentiation and angiogenesis with embryonic growth during the critical early stages of placenta formation still eludes us. The present study reveals that the transcription factor Runx1 controls a set of molecular, cellular, and integrative mechanisms that mediate maternal adaptive responses controlling uterine angiogenesis, trophoblast differentiation, and resultant uterine vascular remodeling, which are essential steps during placenta development.
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Rusidzé M, Gargaros A, Fébrissy C, Dubucs C, Weyl A, Ousselin J, Aziza J, Arnal JF, Lenfant F. Estrogen Actions in Placental Vascular Morphogenesis and Spiral Artery Remodeling: A Comparative View between Humans and Mice. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040620. [PMID: 36831287 PMCID: PMC9954071 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogens, mainly 17β-estradiol (E2), play a critical role in reproductive organogenesis, ovulation, and fertility via estrogen receptors. E2 is also a well-known regulator of utero-placental vascular development and blood-flow dynamics throughout gestation. Mouse and human placentas possess strikingly different morphological configurations that confer important reproductive advantages. However, the functional interplay between fetal and maternal vasculature remains similar in both species. In this review, we briefly describe the structural and functional characteristics, as well as the development, of mouse and human placentas. In addition, we summarize the current knowledge regarding estrogen actions during utero-placental vascular morphogenesis, which includes uterine angiogenesis, the control of trophoblast behavior, spiral artery remodeling, and hemodynamic adaptation throughout pregnancy, in both mice and humans. Finally, the estrogens that are present in abnormal placentation are also mentioned. Overall, this review highlights the importance of the actions of estrogens in the physiology and pathophysiology of placental vascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Rusidzé
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC), INSERM U1297, University of Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), CHU, 31432 Toulouse, France
- Department of Pathology, Cancer University Institute of Toulouse Oncopole-IUCT, 31100 Toulouse, France
| | - Adrien Gargaros
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC), INSERM U1297, University of Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), CHU, 31432 Toulouse, France
| | - Chanaëlle Fébrissy
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC), INSERM U1297, University of Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), CHU, 31432 Toulouse, France
| | - Charlotte Dubucs
- Department of Pathology, Cancer University Institute of Toulouse Oncopole-IUCT, 31100 Toulouse, France
| | - Ariane Weyl
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC), INSERM U1297, University of Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), CHU, 31432 Toulouse, France
- Department of Pathology, Cancer University Institute of Toulouse Oncopole-IUCT, 31100 Toulouse, France
| | - Jessie Ousselin
- Department of Pathology, Cancer University Institute of Toulouse Oncopole-IUCT, 31100 Toulouse, France
| | - Jacqueline Aziza
- Department of Pathology, Cancer University Institute of Toulouse Oncopole-IUCT, 31100 Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-François Arnal
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC), INSERM U1297, University of Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), CHU, 31432 Toulouse, France
| | - Françoise Lenfant
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC), INSERM U1297, University of Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), CHU, 31432 Toulouse, France
- Correspondence:
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Sahni A, Jogdand SD. Effects of Intrahepatic Cholestasis on the Foetus During Pregnancy. Cureus 2022; 14:e30657. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Rusidzé M, Faure MC, Sicard P, Raymond-Letron I, Giton F, Vessieres E, Prevot V, Henrion D, Arnal JF, Cornil CA, Lenfant F. Loss of function of the maternal membrane oestrogen receptor ERα alters expansion of trophoblast cells and impacts mouse fertility. Development 2022; 149:dev200683. [PMID: 36239412 PMCID: PMC9720743 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2024]
Abstract
The binding of 17β-oestradiol to oestrogen receptor alpha (ERα) plays a crucial role in the control of reproduction, acting through both nuclear and membrane-initiated signalling. To study the physiological role of membrane ERα in the reproductive system, we used the C451A-ERα mouse model with selective loss of function of membrane ERα. Despite C451A-ERα mice being described as sterile, daily weighing and ultrasound imaging revealed that homozygous females do become pregnant, allowing the investigation of the role of ERα during pregnancy for the first time. All neonatal deaths of the mutant offspring mice resulted from delayed parturition associated with failure in pre-term progesterone withdrawal. Moreover, pregnant C451A-ERα females exhibited partial intrauterine embryo arrest at about E9.5. The observed embryonic lethality resulted from altered expansion of Tpbpa-positive spiral artery-associated trophoblast giant cells into the utero-placental unit, which is associated with an imbalance in expression of angiogenic factors. Together, these processes control the trophoblast-mediated spiral arterial remodelling. Hence, loss of membrane ERα within maternal tissues clearly alters the activity of invasive trophoblast cells during placentogenesis. This previously unreported function of membrane ERα could open new avenues towards a better understanding of human pregnancy-associated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Rusidzé
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC) Equipe 4, Inserm U1297-UPS, CHU, Toulouse 31432, France
| | | | - Pierre Sicard
- IPAM, BioCampus Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, University of Montpellier, Montpellier 34295, France
| | - Isabelle Raymond-Letron
- Institut Restore, Université de Toulouse, CNRS U-5070, EFS, ENVT, Inserm U1031, Toulouse 31076, France
| | - Frank Giton
- APHP H.Mondor - IMRB - INSERM U955, Créteil 94010, France
| | - Emilie Vessieres
- Angers University, MITOVASC, CarMe team, CNRS UMR 6015, INSERM U1083, Angers 49055, France
| | - Vincent Prevot
- University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, UMR-S 1172, FHU 1000 Days for Health, Lille 59000, France
| | - Daniel Henrion
- Angers University, MITOVASC, CarMe team, CNRS UMR 6015, INSERM U1083, Angers 49055, France
| | | | | | - Françoise Lenfant
- Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC) Equipe 4, Inserm U1297-UPS, CHU, Toulouse 31432, France
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12
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Extracellular vesicles secreted by human uterine stromal cells regulate decidualization, angiogenesis, and trophoblast differentiation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2200252119. [PMID: 36095212 PMCID: PMC9499590 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2200252119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, the uterus undergoes a dramatic transformation to form an endometrial stroma-derived secretory tissue, termed decidua, during early pregnancy. The decidua secretes various factors that act in an autocrine/paracrine manner to promote stromal differentiation, facilitate maternal angiogenesis, and influence trophoblast differentiation and development, which are critical for the formation of a functional placenta. Here, we investigated the mechanisms by which decidual cells communicate with each other and with other cell types within the uterine milieu. We discovered that primary human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) during decidualization and that this process is controlled by a conserved HIF2α-RAB27B pathway. Mass spectrometry revealed that the decidual EVs harbor a variety of protein cargo, including cell signaling molecules, growth modulators, metabolic regulators, and factors controlling endothelial cell expansion and remodeling. We tested the hypothesis that EVs secreted by the decidual cells mediate functional communications between various cell types within the uterus. We demonstrated that the internalization of EVs, specifically those carrying the glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), promotes glucose uptake in recipient HESCs, supporting and advancing the decidualization program. Additionally, delivery of HESC-derived EVs into human endothelial cells stimulated their proliferation and led to enhanced vascular network formation. Strikingly, stromal EVs also promoted the differentiation of trophoblast stem cells into the extravillous trophoblast lineage. Collectively, these findings provide a deeper understanding of the pleiotropic roles played by EVs secreted by the decidual cells to ensure coordination of endometrial differentiation and angiogenesis with trophoblast function during the progressive phases of decidualization and placentation.
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13
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Colicino E, Cowell W, Foppa Pedretti N, Joshi A, Youssef O, Just AC, Kloog I, Petrick L, Niedzwiecki M, Wright RO, Wright RJ. Maternal steroids during pregnancy and their associations with ambient air pollution and temperature during preconception and early gestational periods. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 165:107320. [PMID: 35700570 PMCID: PMC10140184 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hormones play critical roles in facilitating pregnancy progression and the onset of parturition. Several classes of environmental contaminants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ambient temperature, have been shown to alter hormone biosynthesis or activity. However, epidemiologic research has not considered PM2.5 in relation to a broader range of steroid hormones, particularly in pregnant women. Using metabolomics data collected within 20-40 weeks of gestation in an ethnically diverse pregnancy cohort study, we identified 42 steroid hormones that we grouped into five classes (pregnenolone, androgens, estrogens, progestin, and corticosteroids) based on their biosynthesis type. We found that exposure to PM2.5 during the pre-conception and early prenatal periods was associated with higher maternal androgen concentrations in late pregnancy. We also detected a positive association between early pregnancy PM2.5 exposure and maternal pregnenolone levels and a marginal positive association between early pregnancy PM2.5 exposure and progestin levels. When considering each hormone metabolite individually, we found positive associations between early pregnancy PM2.5 exposure and five steroids, two of which survived multiple comparison testing: 11beta-hydroxyandrosterone glucuronide (a pregnenolone steroid) and adrosteroneglucuronide (a progestin steroid). None of the steroid classes were statistically significant associated with ambient temperature. In sex-stratified analyses, we did not detect any sex differences in our associations. This is the first study showing that exposure to fine particulate matter during the pre-conception and early prenatal periods can lead to altered steroid adaptation during the state of pregnancy, which has been shown to have potential consequences on maternal and child health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Colicino
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Whitney Cowell
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicolo Foppa Pedretti
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anu Joshi
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Oulhote Youssef
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Allan C Just
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Itai Kloog
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Department of Geography and Environmental Development, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. Beer Sheva, Israel; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren Petrick
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Megan Niedzwiecki
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert O Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rosalind J Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Kravis Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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14
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The venous system during pregnancy. Part 1: physiologic considerations on the venous system. Int J Obstet Anesth 2022; 50:103273. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijoa.2022.103273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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15
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Dudley JS, Murphy CR, Thompson MB, McAllan BM. Uterine cellular changes during mammalian pregnancy and the evolution of placentation. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1381-1400. [PMID: 34514493 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab170] [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: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many different forms of nutrient provision in viviparous (live bearing) species. The formation of a placenta is one method where the placenta functions to transfer nutrients from mother to fetus (placentotrophy), transfer waste from the fetus to the mother and respiratory gas exchange. Despite having the same overarching function, there are different types of placentation within placentotrophic vertebrates, and many morphological changes occur in the uterus during pregnancy to facilitate formation of the placenta. These changes are regulated in complex ways but are controlled by similar hormonal mechanisms across species. This review describes current knowledge of the morphological and molecular changes to the uterine epithelium preceding implantation among mammals. Our aim is to identify the commonalities and constraints of these cellular changes to understand the evolution of placentation in mammals and propose directions for future research. We compare and discuss the complex modifications to the ultrastructure of uterine epithelial cells and show that there are similarities in the changes to the cytoskeleton and gross morphology of the uterine epithelial cells, especially of the apical and lateral plasma membrane of the cells during the formation of a placenta in all eutherians and marsupials studied to date. We conclude that further research is needed to understand the evolution of placentation among viviparous mammals, particularly concerning the level of placental invasiveness, hormonal control and genetic underpinnings of pregnancy in marsupial taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica S Dudley
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michael B Thompson
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Bronwyn M McAllan
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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16
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Uteroplacental Circulation in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia: Functional Adaptation and Maladaptation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168622. [PMID: 34445328 PMCID: PMC8395300 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Uteroplacental blood flow increases as pregnancy advances. Adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen carried by uteroplacental blood flow is essential for the well-being of the mother and growth/development of the fetus. The uteroplacental hemodynamic change is accomplished primarily through uterine vascular adaptation, involving hormonal regulation of myogenic tone, vasoreactivity, release of vasoactive factors and others, in addition to the remodeling of spiral arteries. In preeclampsia, hormonal and angiogenic imbalance, proinflammatory cytokines and autoantibodies cause dysfunction of both endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells of the uteroplacental vasculature. Consequently, the vascular dysfunction leads to increased vascular resistance and reduced blood flow in the uteroplacental circulation. In this article, the (mal)adaptation of uteroplacental vascular function in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia and underlying mechanisms are reviewed.
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17
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Irvin-Choy NS, Nelson KM, Dang MN, Gleghorn JP, Day ES. Gold nanoparticle biodistribution in pregnant mice following intravenous administration varies with gestational age. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2021; 36:102412. [PMID: 34147664 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2021.102412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The use of nanoparticles (NPs) to deliver therapeutics to reproductive organs is an emerging approach to safely and effectively treat mothers and babies facing pregnancy complications. This study investigates the biodistribution of two different sized gold-based NPs in pregnant mice following systemic delivery as a function of gestational age. Poly(ethylene glycol)-coated 15 nm gold nanoparticles or 150 nm diameter silica core/gold nanoshells were intravenously administered to pregnant mice at gestational days (E)9.5 or 14.5. NP distribution was analyzed twenty-four hours later by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and silver staining of histological specimens. More NPs accumulated in placentas than embryos and delivery to these tissues was greater at E9.5 than E14.5. Neither NP type affected fetal weight or placental weight, indicating minimal short-term toxicity in early to mid-stage pregnancy. These findings warrant continued development of NPs as tools to deliver therapeutics to reproductive tissues safely.
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Affiliation(s)
- N'Dea S Irvin-Choy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, USA
| | - Katherine M Nelson
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, DE, USA
| | - Megan N Dang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, USA
| | - Jason P Gleghorn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, USA.
| | - Emily S Day
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, USA; Helen F. Cancer Research & Research Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, USA.
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18
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Fournier SB, D'Errico JN, Stapleton PA. Uterine Vascular Control Preconception and During Pregnancy. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1871-1893. [PMID: 34061977 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c190015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy and reproduction are dependent on adequate uterine blood flow, placental perfusion, and vascular responsivity to fetal demands. The ability to support pregnancy centers on systemic adaptation and endometrial preparation through decidualization, embryonic implantation, trophoblast invasion, arterial/arteriolar reactivity, and vascular remodeling. These adaptations occur through responsiveness to endocrine signaling and local uteroplacental mediators. The purpose of this article is to highlight the current knowledge associated with vascular remodeling and responsivity during uterine preparation for and during pregnancy. We focus on maternal cardiovascular systemic and uterine modifications, endometrial decidualization, implantation and invasion, uterine and spiral artery remodeling, local uterine regulatory mechanisms, placentation, and pathological consequences of vascular dysfunction during pregnancy. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1-23, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Fournier
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jeanine N D'Errico
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Phoebe A Stapleton
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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19
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Skröder H, Pettersson H, Norlén F, Gustavsson P, Rylander L, Albin M, Selander J. Occupational exposure to whole body vibrations and birth outcomes - A nationwide cohort study of Swedish women. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 751:141476. [PMID: 32871309 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More women in reproductive ages are entering occupations where exposure to whole body vibrations (WBV) is common (e.g. in transportation and construction). Previous studies based on self-assessed exposure suggest increased risks of adverse birth outcomes, but it is unclear at what exposure levels and if the current exposure guidelines are appropriate during pregnancy. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether occupational WBV-exposure increases the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and/or small-for-gestational age, in a large, nationwide, prospective, cohort study. DESIGN The Fetal Air Pollution Exposure cohort (FAIR) was formed by merging data from multiple, national registers, and the present study includes singletons born 1994-2014 to working women in Sweden (n = 1,091,080 births). WBV-exposure was assessed quantitatively using a job-exposure matrix based on measurements, and calculated odds ratios were adjusted for potential confounders such as smoking and BMI, and other occupational exposures like noise, combustion particles, and physically and psychologically strenuous work. Data on absence from work (full-/part time, sick leave, parental leave, etc.) was also used. RESULTS Exposure to WBV during pregnancy, among women with low absence from work (n = 476,419), was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, below the occupational exposure limit (1.15 m/s2). Compared to unexposed mothers, the OR was 1.38 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.83) for exposure ≥0.5 m/s2, corresponding to an increase from 47/1000 cases to 65/1000 cases. No increased risk was found for small-for-gestational age. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to WBV was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. The results suggest that the current permissible exposure and action levels for WBV-exposure do not adequately protect pregnant women with continuous exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Skröder
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - H Pettersson
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - F Norlén
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - P Gustavsson
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - L Rylander
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Box 188, SE-221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - M Albin
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J Selander
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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20
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Bok R, Guerra DD, Lorca RA, Wennersten SA, Harris PS, Rauniyar AK, Stabler SP, MacLean KN, Roede JR, Brown LD, Hurt KJ. Cystathionine γ-lyase promotes estrogen-stimulated uterine artery blood flow via glutathione homeostasis. Redox Biol 2020; 40:101827. [PMID: 33485059 PMCID: PMC7823052 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, estrogen (E2) stimulates uterine artery blood flow (UBF) by enhancing nitric oxide (NO)-dependent vasodilation. Cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) promotes vascular NO signaling by producing hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and by maintaining the ratio of reduced-to-oxidized intracellular glutathione (GSH/GSSG) through l-cysteine production. Because redox homeostasis can influence NO signaling, we hypothesized that CSE mediates E2 stimulation of UBF by modulating local intracellular cysteine metabolism and GSH/GSSG levels to promote redox homeostasis. Using non-pregnant ovariectomized WT and CSE-null (CSE KO) mice, we performed micro-ultrasound of mouse uterine and renal arteries to assess changes in blood flow upon exogenous E2 stimulation. We quantified serum and uterine artery NO metabolites (NOx), serum amino acids, and uterine and renal artery GSH/GSSG. WT and CSE KO mice exhibited similar baseline uterine and renal blood flow. Unlike WT, CSE KO mice did not exhibit expected E2 stimulation of UBF. Renal blood flow was E2-insensitive for both genotypes. While serum and uterine artery NOx were similar between genotypes at baseline, E2 decreased NOx in CSE KO serum. Cysteine was also lower in CSE KO serum, while citrulline and homocysteine levels were elevated. E2 and CSE deletion additively decreased GSH/GSSG in uterine arteries. In contrast, renal artery GSH/GSSG was insensitive to E2 or CSE deletion. Together, these findings suggest that CSE maintenance of uterine artery GSH/GSSG facilitates nitrergic signaling in uterine arteries and is required for normal E2 stimulation of UBF. These data have implications for pregnancy pathophysiology and the selective hormone responses of specific vascular beds. CSE-null mice exhibit abnormal estrogen augmentation of uterine artery blood flow. Estrogen lowers uterine artery nitric oxide metabolites in CSE null mice. CSE loss and estrogen additively impair uterine artery glutathione homeostasis. Neither CSE loss nor estrogen influences renal artery blood flow or glutathione.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Bok
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Damian D Guerra
- Department of Biology, University of Louisville, 2301 S. 3rd Street, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Ramón A Lorca
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Sara A Wennersten
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Peter S Harris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 E. Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Abhishek K Rauniyar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 E. Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kenneth N MacLean
- Section of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - James R Roede
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 E. Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Laura D Brown
- Section of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Perinatal Research Center, 13243 E. 23rd Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - K Joseph Hurt
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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21
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Hu XQ, Song R, Romero M, Dasgupta C, Min J, Hatcher D, Xiao D, Blood A, Wilson SM, Zhang L. Gestational Hypoxia Inhibits Pregnancy-Induced Upregulation of Ca 2+ Sparks and Spontaneous Transient Outward Currents in Uterine Arteries Via Heightened Endoplasmic Reticulum/Oxidative Stress. Hypertension 2020; 76:930-942. [PMID: 32683903 PMCID: PMC7429261 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.15235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia during pregnancy profoundly affects uterine vascular adaptation and increases the risk of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia and fetal intrauterine growth restriction. We recently demonstrated that increases in Ca2+ sparks and spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs) played an essential role in pregnancy-induced uterine vascular adaptation. In the present study, we hypothesize that gestational hypoxia suppresses Ca2+ sparks/STOCs coupling leading to increased uterine vascular tone via enhanced endoplasmic reticulum (ER)/oxidative stress. Uterine arteries were obtained from nonpregnant and near-term pregnant sheep residing in low altitude or acclimatizing to high-altitude (3801 m) hypoxia for ≈110 days. High-altitude hypoxia suppressed pregnancy-induced upregulation of RyR1 and RyR2 (ryanodine receptor 1 and 2) protein abundance, Ca2+ sparks, and STOCs in uterine arteries. Inhibition of Ca2+ sparks/STOCs with the RyR inhibitor ryanodine significantly increased pressure-dependent myogenic tone in uterine arteries from low-altitude normoxic pregnant animals but not those from high-altitude hypoxic pregnant animals. Gestational hypoxia significantly increased ER/oxidative stress in uterine arteries. Of importance, the hypoxia-mediated suppression of Ca2+ sparks/STOCs and increase in myogenic tone in uterine arteries of pregnant animals were reversed by inhibiting ER/oxidative stress. Of great interest, the impaired sex hormonal regulation of STOCs in high-altitude animals was annulled by scavenging reactive oxygen species but not by inhibiting ER stress. Together, the findings reveal the differential mechanisms of ER and oxidative stresses in suppressing Ca2+ sparks/STOCs and increasing myogenic tone of uterine arteries in hypoxia during gestation, providing new insights into the understanding of pregnancy complications associated with hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Qun Hu
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Rui Song
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Monica Romero
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Chiranjib Dasgupta
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Joseph Min
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Daisy Hatcher
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Daliao Xiao
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Arlin Blood
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Sean M Wilson
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Lubo Zhang
- From the Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA
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Irvin-Choy NS, Nelson KM, Gleghorn JP, Day ES. Design of nanomaterials for applications in maternal/fetal medicine. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:6548-6561. [PMID: 32452510 PMCID: PMC7429305 DOI: 10.1039/d0tb00612b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy complications are commonplace and the challenges of treatment during pregnancy with few options available pose a risk to the health of both the mother and baby. Patients suffering from conditions such as preeclampsia, placenta accreta, and intrauterine growth restriction have few treatment options apart from emergency caesarean section. Fortunately, researchers are beginning to develop nanomedicine-based therapies that could be utilized to treat conditions affecting the mother, placenta, or fetus to improve the prognosis for mothers and their unborn children. This review summarizes the field's current understanding of nanoparticle biodistribution and therapeutic effect following systemic or vaginal administration and overviews the design parameters researchers should consider when developing nanomedicines for maternal/fetal health. It also describes safety considerations for nanomedicines to limit undesirable maternal or fetal side effects and discusses future work that should be performed to advance nanomedicine for maternal/fetal health. With additional development and implementation, the application of nanomedicine to treat pregnancy complications may mitigate the need for emergency caesarean sections and allow pregnancies to extend to term.
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Affiliation(s)
- N'Dea S Irvin-Choy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.
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Lechuga TJ, Qi QR, Magness RR, Chen DB. Ovine uterine artery hydrogen sulfide biosynthesis in vivo: effects of ovarian cycle and pregnancy†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1630-1636. [PMID: 30772913 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine vasodilation dramatically increases during the follicular phase of the estrous cycle and pregnancy, which are estrogen-dominant physiological states. Uterine vasodilation is believed to be mainly controlled by local uterine artery (UA) production of vasodilators and angiogenic factors. The extremely potent vasodilator and proangiogenic hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is synthesized via metabolizing L-cysteine by cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH). This study was designed to determine if UA H2S production increases with augmented expression and/or activity of CBS and/or CTH during the ovarian cycle and pregnancy in sheep. Uterine arteries from intact nonpregnant (NP) luteal and follicular phase and late (130-135 days, term ≈ 145 days) pregnant (P) ewes were collected; endothelium-enriched proteins (UAendo) and endothelium-denuded smooth muscle (UAvsm) were mechanically prepared for accessing CBS and CTH proteins by immunoblotting; their cellular localization was determined by semi-quantitative immunofluorescence microscopy. H2S production was measured by the methylene blue assay. Immunoblotting revealed that CBS but not CTH protein was greater in P > > > NP follicular > luteal UAendo and UAvsm (P < 0.001). H2S production was greater in P > > > NP UAendo and UAvsm (P < 0.01). Pregnancy-augmented UAendo and UAvsm H2S production was inhibited by the specific CBS but not CTH inhibitor. CBS and CTH proteins were localized to both endothelium and smooth muscle; however, only CBS protein was significantly greater in P vs NP UA endothelium and smooth muscle. Thus, ovine UA H2S production is significantly augmented via selectively upregulating endothelium and smooth muscle CBS during the follicular phase and pregnancy in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Lechuga
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Qian-Rong Qi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Ronald R Magness
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Dong-Bao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
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Jafarpour R, Pashangzadeh S, Mehdizadeh S, Bayatipoor H, Shojaei Z, Motallebnezhad M. Functional significance of lymphocytes in pregnancy and lymphocyte immunotherapy in infertility: A comprehensive review and update. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 87:106776. [PMID: 32682255 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the fetal-maternal interface underlies several dynamic alterations to permit the fetus to be cultivated and developed in the uterus, in spite of being identifies by the maternal immune system. A large variety of decidual leukocyte populations, including natural killer cells, NKT cells, innate lymphoid cells, dendritic cells, B cells, T cells, subpopulations of helper T cells play a vital role in controlling the trophoblast invasion, angiogenesis as well as vascular remodeling. In contrast, several regulatory immunosuppressive mechanisms, including regulatory T cells, regulatory B cells, several cytokines and mediators are involved in maintain the homeostasis of immune system in the fetal-maternal interface. Nonetheless, aberrant alterations in the balance of immune inflammatory or immunosuppressive arms have been associated with various pregnancy losses and infertilities. As a result, numerous strategies have been developed to revers dysregulated balance of immune players to increase the chance of successful pregnancy. Lymphocyte immunotherapy has been developed through utilization of peripheral white blood cells of the husband or others and administered into the mother to confer an immune tolerance for embryo's antigens. However, the results have not always been promising, implying to further investigations to improve the approach. This review attempts to clarify the involvement of lymphocytes in contributing to the pregnancy outcome and the potential of lymphocyte immunotherapy in treatment of infertilities with dysregulated immune system basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roghayeh Jafarpour
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Salar Pashangzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saber Mehdizadeh
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hashem Bayatipoor
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Shojaei
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Motallebnezhad
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Estrogen Receptors and Estrogen-Induced Uterine Vasodilation in Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124349. [PMID: 32570961 PMCID: PMC7352873 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal pregnancy is associated with dramatic increases in uterine blood flow to facilitate the bidirectional maternal–fetal exchanges of respiratory gases and to provide sole nutrient support for fetal growth and survival. The mechanism(s) underlying pregnancy-associated uterine vasodilation remain incompletely understood, but this is associated with elevated estrogens, which stimulate specific estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent vasodilator production in the uterine artery (UA). The classical ERs (ERα and ERβ) and the plasma-bound G protein-coupled ER (GPR30/GPER) are expressed in UA endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, mediating the vasodilatory effects of estrogens through genomic and/or nongenomic pathways that are likely epigenetically modified. The activation of these three ERs by estrogens enhances the endothelial production of nitric oxide (NO), which has been shown to play a key role in uterine vasodilation during pregnancy. However, the local blockade of NO biosynthesis only partially attenuates estrogen-induced and pregnancy-associated uterine vasodilation, suggesting that mechanisms other than NO exist to mediate uterine vasodilation. In this review, we summarize the literature on the role of NO in ER-mediated mechanisms controlling estrogen-induced and pregnancy-associated uterine vasodilation and our recent work on a “new” UA vasodilator hydrogen sulfide (H2S) that has dramatically changed our view of how estrogens regulate uterine vasodilation in pregnancy.
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Skröder H, Pettersson H, Albin M, Gustavsson P, Rylander L, Norlén F, Selander J. Occupational exposure to whole-body vibrations and pregnancy complications: a nationwide cohort study in Sweden. Occup Environ Med 2020; 77:691-698. [PMID: 32493701 PMCID: PMC7509390 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Pregnancy complications are common contributors to perinatal mortality and morbidity. Still, the cause(s) of gestational hypertensive disorders and diabetes are largely unknown. Some occupational exposures have been inconsistently associated with pregnancy complications, but exposure to whole-body vibrations (WBV) has been largely overlooked even though it has been associated with adverse birth outcomes. Therefore, the aim was to assess whether occupational WBV exposure during pregnancy is associated with pregnancy complications in a nationwide, prospective cohort study. Methods The Fetal Air Pollution Exposure cohort was formed by merging multiple Swedish, national registers containing information on occupation during pregnancy and diagnosis codes, and includes all working women who gave birth between 1994 and 2014 (n=1 091 044). WBV exposure was derived from a job-exposure matrix and was divided into categories (0, 0.1–0.2, 0.3–0.4 and ≥0.5 m/s2). ORs with 95% CIs were calculated using logistic regression adjusted for potential confounders. Results Among women working full time (n=646 490), we found increased risks of all pregnancy complications in the highest exposure group (≥0.5 m/s2), compared with the lowest. The adjusted ORs were 1.76 (95% CI 1.41 to 2.20), 1.55 (95% CI 1.26 to 1.91) and 1.62 (95% CI 1.07 to 2.46) for preeclampsia, gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes, respectively, and were similar in all sensitivity analyses. There were no clear associations for part-time workers. Conclusions The results suggest that women should not be exposed to WBV at/above the action limit value of 0.5 m/s2 (European directive) continuously through pregnancy. However, these results need further confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Skröder
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hans Pettersson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Maria Albin
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Gustavsson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Rylander
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Filip Norlén
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jenny Selander
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Mandalà M. Influence of Estrogens on Uterine Vascular Adaptation in Normal and Preeclamptic Pregnancies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072592. [PMID: 32276444 PMCID: PMC7177259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the maternal cardiovascular system undergoes significant changes, including increased heart rate, cardiac output, plasma volume, and uteroplacental blood flow (UPBF) that are required for a successful pregnancy outcome. The increased UPBF is secondary to profound circumferential growth that extends from the downstream small spiral arteries to the upstream conduit main uterine artery. Although some of the mechanisms underlying uterine vascular remodeling are, in part, known, the factors that drive the remodeling are less clear. That higher circulating levels of estrogens are positively correlated with gestational uterine vascular remodeling suggests their involvement in this process. Estrogens binding to the estrogen receptors expressed in cytotrophoblast cells and in the uterine artery wall stimulate an outward hypertrophic remodeling of uterine vasculature. In preeclampsia, generally lower concentrations of estrogens limit the proper uterine remodeling, thereby reducing UPBF increases and restricting the growth of the fetus. This review aims to report estrogenic regulation of the maternal uterine circulatory adaptation in physiological and pathological pregnancy that favors vasodilation, and to consider the underlying molecular mechanisms by which estrogens regulate uteroplacental hemodynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Mandalà
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
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Stankiewicz T, Błaszczyk B, Udała J, Chundekkad P. Morphometric measurements of the umbilical cord and placentomes and Doppler parameters of the umbilical artery through ultrasonographic analysis in pregnant sheep. Small Rumin Res 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2019.106043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Arab H, Alharbi AJ, Oraif A, Sagr E, Al Madani H, Abduljabbar H, Bajouh OS, Faden Y, Sabr Y. The Role Of Progestogens In Threatened And Idiopathic Recurrent Miscarriage. Int J Womens Health 2019; 11:589-596. [PMID: 31807086 PMCID: PMC6848983 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s224159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that progesterone plays a major role in the maintenance of pregnancy, particularly during the early stages, as it is responsible for preparing the endometrium for implantation and maintenance of the gestational sac. The management of pregnant women at risk of a threatened or idiopathic recurrent miscarriage is complex and critical. Therefore, a group of obstetricians and gynecologists practicing in Saudi Arabia gathered to update the 2014 Saudi guidelines for threatened and recurrent miscarriage management. In preparation, a literature review was conducted to explore the role of oral, vaginal, and injectable progestogens: this was used as a basis to develop position statements to guide and standardize practice across Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisham Arab
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Dr. Arab Medical Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Jaber Alharbi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Ibinsina Medical Private College, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman Oraif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad Sagr
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The International Medical Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hana Al Madani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Maternity Hospital - King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Abduljabbar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama Sadeak Bajouh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yaser Faden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences - Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasser Sabr
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Hu XQ, Zhang L. MicroRNAs in Uteroplacental Vascular Dysfunction. Cells 2019; 8:E1344. [PMID: 31671866 PMCID: PMC6912833 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy complications of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are major causes of maternal and perinatal/neonatal morbidity and mortality. Although their etiologies remain elusive, it is generally accepted that they are secondary to placental insufficiency conferred by both failure in spiral artery remodeling and uteroplacental vascular malfunction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small no-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Increasing evidence suggests that miRNAs participate in virtually all biological processes and are involved in numerous human diseases. Differentially expressed miRNAs in the placenta are typical features of both preeclampsia and IUGR. Dysregulated miRNAs target genes of various signaling pathways in uteroplacental tissues, contributing to the development of both complications. In this review, we provide an overview of how aberrant miRNA expression in preeclampsia and IUGR impacts the expression of genes involved in trophoblast invasion and uteroplacental vascular adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Qun Hu
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California 92350, USA.
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California 92350, USA.
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Effect of Oxidative Stress on the Estrogen-NOS-NO-K Ca Channel Pathway in Uteroplacental Dysfunction: Its Implication in Pregnancy Complications. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:9194269. [PMID: 30881600 PMCID: PMC6387699 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9194269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the adaptive changes in uterine circulation and the formation of the placenta are essential for the growth of the fetus and the well-being of the mother. The steroid hormone estrogen plays a pivotal role in this adaptive process. An insufficient blood supply to the placenta due to uteroplacental dysfunction has been associated with pregnancy complications including preeclampsia and intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR). Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between free radical formation and antioxidant defense. Pregnancy itself presents a mild oxidative stress, which is exaggerated in pregnancy complications. Increasing evidence indicates that oxidative stress plays an important role in the maladaptation of uteroplacental circulation partly by impairing estrogen signaling pathways. This review is aimed at providing both an overview of our current understanding of regulation of the estrogen-NOS-NO-KCa pathway by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in uteroplacental tissues and a link between oxidative stress and uteroplacental dysfunction in pregnancy complications. A better understanding of the mechanisms will facilitate the development of novel and effective therapeutic interventions.
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Choi S, Kim JA, Li HY, Lee SJ, Seok YS, Kim TH, Han KH, Park MH, Cho GJ, Suh SH. Altered Redox State Modulates Endothelial K Ca2.3 and K Ca3.1 Levels in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia. Antioxid Redox Signal 2019; 30:505-519. [PMID: 29334762 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2017.7038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Altered redox state has been related to the development of normal pregnancy (NP) and preeclampsia (PE). Endothelial KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 (KCas) play an important role in vasodilation, and KCas levels are affected by oxidative stress. We investigated the mechanisms of oxidative stress-mediated KCas expression modulation during NP and PE. RESULTS Human uterine microvascular endothelial cells were incubated in serum from normal nonpregnant women (n = 13) and women with NP (n = 24) or PE (n = 15), or in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), progesterone, or estradiol-17β (E2)-containing medium for 24 h. NP serum elevated H2O2 levels via reducing catalase and glutathione peroxidase 1 levels, thereby enhancing KCas levels via a H2O2/fyn/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-mediated pathway. VEGF enhanced H2O2 and KCas levels and KCa3.1 currents. KCas were upregulated and KCas activation-induced endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) was augmented in vessels from pregnant mice and rats. Whereas PE serum, ox-LDL, progesterone, or soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) elevated superoxide levels via elevating NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and NOX4 levels and reducing superoxide dismutase (SOD) 1 levels, thereby downregulating KCas. sFlt-1 inhibited EDR. PE serum- or progesterone-induced alterations in levels of KCas were reversed by polyethylene glycol-SOD, NOX inhibition, or E2. Innovation and Conclusions: This is the first study of how endothelial KCas levels are modulated during NP and PE. KCas were upregulated by soluble serum factors such as VEGF via H2O2 generation in NP, and were downregulated by serum factors such as progesterone and ox-LDL via superoxide generation in PE, which may contribute to hemodynamic adaptations in NP or to the development of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinkyu Choi
- 1 Department of Physiology, Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Aee Kim
- 1 Department of Physiology, Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hai-Yan Li
- 1 Department of Physiology, Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sae-Jin Lee
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Seon Seok
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Korea University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hun Kim
- 4 Department of Internal Medicine, and Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Hwan Han
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Hye Park
- 5 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Geum Joon Cho
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Korea University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Hyo Suh
- 1 Department of Physiology, Medical School, Ewha Womans University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Javan GT, Finley SJ, Tuomisto S, Hall A, Benbow ME, Mills D. An interdisciplinary review of the thanatomicrobiome in human decomposition. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2018; 15:75-83. [PMID: 30519986 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-018-0061-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Death does not occur instantaneously and organs do not decompose at the same rate or in the same way. Nulligravid human uteri and prostate glands are the last internal organs to deteriorate during decomposition; however, the reason for this very important observation is still enigmatic. Recent studies have elucidated that the composition and abundance of microbes in the human thanatomicrobiome (microbiome of death) varies by organ and changes as a function of time and temperature. The ileocecal area has the largest absolute postmortem burden that spreads to the liver and spleen and continues to the heart and brain depending on the cause of death. To truly understand the mechanisms of microbial assembly during decomposition, a thorough examination of different strategies utilized by the trillions of microbes that colonize decaying tissues is needed from a multi-organ and multidisciplinary approach. In this review, we highlight interdisciplinary research and provide an overview of human decomposition investigations of thanatomicrobiomic changes in internal organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulnaz T Javan
- Physical Sciences Department, Forensic Science Program, Alabama State University, 915 S. Jackson St., Hatch Hall Building Room 251, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA.
| | - Sheree J Finley
- Physical Sciences Department, Forensic Science Program, Alabama State University, 915 S. Jackson St., Hatch Hall Building Room 251, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
| | - Sari Tuomisto
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Ashley Hall
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - M Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology and Department of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - DeEtta Mills
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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Almeida Lima Veiga G, Souza Ramos Angrimani D, Garcia Silva LC, Machado Regazzi F, Lúcio CF, Infantosi Vannucchi C. Hemodynamics of the uterine and umbilical arteries during the perinatal period in ewes. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 198:210-219. [PMID: 30297203 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Examining feto-maternal blood flow is extremely important for accurate prenatal control and predicting adverse conditions during puerperium. We aimed to analyze blood flow of uterine artery (UA) and umbilical artery (UMA) from and subsequent to mid-gestation, lambing and postpartum of 15 ewes, subjected to lambing induction with aglepristone. Hemodynamic variables, diameter and blood flow of UA and UMA were determined by Doppler and B-mode ultrasonography at 60, 90 and 120 days of pregnancy, at 12 h before, 12 h after first aglepristone injection and 12 h after induction and days 1, 3, 5, 7, 15 and 30 after lambing. The UMA peak systolic:diastolic velocity (S/D), resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) decreased from mid-pregnancy until 120 d, whereas peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and time average maximum velocity (TAMAX) increased towards 120 d. The UMA RI additionally decreased at 12 h after lambing induction. The UMA diameter and volume increased from mid-gestation until 12 h before lambing induction. UA PSV and TAMAX increased from 60 until 90 days of pregnancy, while EDV, PSV and TAMAX decreased soon after parturition, with a further reduction at 7 days. The UA diameter and volume decreased during postpartum, stabilizing by 15 days after parturition. In conclusion, pregnancy is marked by progressive increase in uterine and umbilical blood flow, while lambing acutely diminishes umbilical vascular resistance, suggesting lack of progesterone influence on vasodilation. Conversely, puerperium is characterized by reduction in uterine blood supply mostly within the first 2 weeks of postpartum in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele Almeida Lima Veiga
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel Souza Ramos Angrimani
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Liege Cristina Garcia Silva
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Machado Regazzi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristina Fátima Lúcio
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Infantosi Vannucchi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Tanner AR, Kennedy VC, Bauer ML, Swanson KC, Kirsch JD, Gaspers J, Negrin-Pereira N, Fontoura ABP, Perry GA, Stokka G, Rodas-Gonzalez A, Ward A, Dahlen CR, Neville B, Reynolds LP, Ominski KH, Vonnahme KA. Corn supplementation as a winter-feeding strategy alters maternal feeding behavior and endocrine profiles in mid- to late-gestating beef cows. Transl Anim Sci 2018; 2:S106-S111. [PMID: 32704753 PMCID: PMC7200833 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txy059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia R Tanner
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | | | - Marc L Bauer
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | - Kendall C Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | - James D Kirsch
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | - James Gaspers
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | | | | | - George A Perry
- Department of Animal Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD
| | - Gerald Stokka
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | | | - Alison Ward
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | - Carl R Dahlen
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | - Bryan Neville
- Central Grasslands Research Extension Center, North Dakota State University, Streeter, ND
| | | | - Kim H Ominski
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Kimberly A Vonnahme
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND.,Zoetis, Parsippany, NJ
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Gyselaers W, Spaanderman M. Assessment of venous hemodynamics and volume homeostasis during pregnancy: recommendations of the International Working Group on Maternal Hemodynamics. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2018; 52:174-185. [PMID: 29120514 DOI: 10.1002/uog.18952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Venous hemodynamics and volume homeostasis are important aspects of cardiovascular physiology. However, today their relevance is still very much underappreciated. Their most important role is maintenance and control of venous return and, as such, cardiac output. A high-flow/low-resistance circulation, remaining constant under physiological circumstances, is mandatory for an uncomplicated course of pregnancy. In this article, characteristics of normal and abnormal venous and volume regulating functions are discussed with respect to normal and pathologic outcomes of pregnancy, and current (non-invasive) methods to assess these functions are summarized. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Gyselaers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ziekenhuis Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium
- Department of Physiology, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - M Spaanderman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Ducsay CA, Goyal R, Pearce WJ, Wilson S, Hu XQ, Zhang L. Gestational Hypoxia and Developmental Plasticity. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:1241-1334. [PMID: 29717932 PMCID: PMC6088145 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00043.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is one of the most common and severe challenges to the maintenance of homeostasis. Oxygen sensing is a property of all tissues, and the response to hypoxia is multidimensional involving complicated intracellular networks concerned with the transduction of hypoxia-induced responses. Of all the stresses to which the fetus and newborn infant are subjected, perhaps the most important and clinically relevant is that of hypoxia. Hypoxia during gestation impacts both the mother and fetal development through interactions with an individual's genetic traits acquired over multiple generations by natural selection and changes in gene expression patterns by altering the epigenetic code. Changes in the epigenome determine "genomic plasticity," i.e., the ability of genes to be differentially expressed according to environmental cues. The genomic plasticity defined by epigenomic mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs during development is the mechanistic substrate for phenotypic programming that determines physiological response and risk for healthy or deleterious outcomes. This review explores the impact of gestational hypoxia on maternal health and fetal development, and epigenetic mechanisms of developmental plasticity with emphasis on the uteroplacental circulation, heart development, cerebral circulation, pulmonary development, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and adipose tissue. The complex molecular and epigenetic interactions that may impact an individual's physiology and developmental programming of health and disease later in life are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A. Ducsay
- The Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
| | - Ravi Goyal
- The Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
| | - William J. Pearce
- The Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
| | - Sean Wilson
- The Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
| | - Xiang-Qun Hu
- The Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
| | - Lubo Zhang
- The Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
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Landeros RV, Pastore MB, Magness RR. Effects of the Catechol and Methoxy Metabolites of 17β-Estradiol on Nitric Oxide Production by Ovine Uterine Artery Endothelial Cells. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:459-468. [PMID: 29929429 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118783265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) production is essential to facilitate rises in uterine blood flow (UBF) during pregnancy. It has been proposed that the metabolites of E2β, 2-hydroxyestradiol (2-OHE2), 4-hydroxyestradiol (4-OHE2), 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME2), and 4-methoxyestradiol (4-ME2) play a role in mediating vasodilation and rises in UBF during pregnancy. We previously showed that the E2β metabolites stimulate prostacyclin production in pregnancy-derived ovine uterine artery endothelial cells (P-UAECs); however, it is unknown whether the E2β metabolites also induce NO production. Herein, UAECs derived from nonpregnant and pregnant ewes were used to test the hypothesis that E2β metabolites stimulate NO production in a pregnancy-specific manner. Specific estrogen receptor (ER) and adrenergic receptor (AR) antagonists were used to determine the roles of ERs or ARs in E2β metabolite-induced NO production. E2β and its metabolites increased total nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) levels (NO2 + NO3) in P-UAECs, but not in NP-UAECs. Pretreatment with combined 1 µmol/L 1,3-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methyl-5-[4-(2-piperidinylethoxy)phenol]-1H-pyrazole dihydrochloride (MPP; ER-α antagonist) and 1 µmol/L 4-[2-phenyl-5,7-bis(trifluoromethyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl]phenol (PHTPP; ER-β antagonist) inhibited the rises in NOx levels stimulated by E2β and 2-ME2, but had no effect on 2-OHE2-, 4-OHE2-, or 4-ME2-stimulated rises in NOx levels. Pretreatment with yohimbine (α2-AR antagonist) and propranolol (β2,3-AR antagonist) inhibited the rises in NOx levels stimulated by 2-OHE2, but not by E2β, 4-OHE2, 2-ME2, or 4-ME2. These data demonstrate that E2β metabolites stimulate NO synthesis via ERs or ARs in UAECs in a pregnancy-specific manner, suggesting that these metabolites contribute to rises in vasodilation and UBF during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalina Villalon Landeros
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Mayra B Pastore
- 2 Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ronald R Magness
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,3 Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,4 Department of Animal Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,5 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, Perinatal Research Vascular Center, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Placental development during early pregnancy in sheep: Progesterone and estrogen receptor protein expression. Theriogenology 2018; 114:273-284. [PMID: 29665573 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the pattern of protein expression of the steroid receptor isoforms of nuclear progesterone receptors (PGR) A and B, and estrogen receptors (ESR1 and 2) in utero-placental compartments during early pregnancy. Utero-placental tissues were collected from days 14-30 (n = 4 ewes/day), and uterine tissues were collected from non-pregnant ewes on day 10 after estrus (n = 4). Cross sections of formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded tissues were immunofluorescently stained to detect PGRAB, PGRB, ESR1 and ESR2, followed by image generation of entire cross-sections of uterine and utero-placental tissues, confocal imaging of individual uterine and utero-placental compartments, and image and statistical analyses. PGRAB, PGRB, ESR1 and ESR2 were detected in several compartments of uterine and utero-placental tissues. Quantitative image analysis of staining intensity demonstrated that compared to non-pregnant controls 1) expression of PGRAB and PGRB was less in luminal epithelium and endometrial glands from day 14-16 till 30; 2) PGRAB expression tended to be greater in endometrial and myometrial blood vessels on days 28 and/or 30; 3) PGRB expression in myometrum was lower on days 16 and 28; 4) ESR1 in endometrial stroma was lower in all days of pregnancy; 5) ESR2 expression was similar in all compartments and not affected by pregnancy stage; and 6) in FM, expression of steroid receptors was similar. Thus, we have demonstrated spatial and temporal expression of nuclear PGR and ESR isoforms in utero-placental compartments during early pregnancy.
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Marshall SA, Senadheera SN, Jelinic M, O'Sullivan K, Parry LJ, Tare M. Relaxin Deficiency Leads to Uterine Artery Dysfunction During Pregnancy in Mice. Front Physiol 2018; 9:255. [PMID: 29623045 PMCID: PMC5874303 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterine vasculature undergoes profound adaptations in response to pregnancy. Augmentation of endothelial vasodilator function and reduced smooth muscle reactivity are factors contributing to uterine artery adaptation and are critical for adequate placental perfusion. The peptide hormone relaxin has an important role in mediating the normal maternal renal vascular adaptations during pregnancy through a reduction in myogenic tone and an increase in flow-mediated vasodilation. Little is known however about the influence of endogenous relaxin on the uterine artery during pregnancy. We tested the hypothesis that relaxin deficiency increases myogenic tone and impairs endothelial vasodilator function in uterine arteries of late pregnant relaxin deficient (Rln−/−) mice. Reactivity of main uterine arteries from non-pregnant and late pregnant wild-type (Rln+/+) and Rln−/− mice was studied using pressure and wire myography and changes in gene expression explored using PCR. Myogenic tone was indistinguishable in arteries from non-pregnant mice. In late pregnancy uterine artery myogenic tone was halved in Rln+/+ mice (P < 0.0001), an adaptation that failed to occur in arteries from pregnant Rln−/− mice. The role of vasodilator prostanoids in the regulation of myogenic tone was significantly reduced in arteries of pregnant Rln−/− mice (P = 0.02). Agonist-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilation was significantly impaired in non-pregnant Rln−/− mice. With pregnancy, differences in total endothelial vasodilator function were resolved, although there remained an underlying deficiency in the role of vasodilator prostanoids and alterations to the contributions of calcium-activated K+ channels. Fetuses of late pregnant Rln−/− mice were ~10% lighter (P < 0.001) than those of Rln+/+ mice. In conclusion, relaxin deficiency is associated with failed suppression of uterine artery myogenic tone in pregnancy, which likely contributes to reduced uteroplacental perfusion and fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Maria Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kelly O'Sullivan
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology and Monash Rural Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Evaluating Stress during Pregnancy: Do We Have the Right Conceptions and the Correct Tools to Assess It? J Pregnancy 2018; 2018:4857065. [PMID: 29484210 PMCID: PMC5816839 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4857065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gestational stress is believed to increase the risk of pregnancy failure and perinatal and adult morbidity and mortality in both the mother and her child or children. However, some contradictions might arise from methodological issues or even from differences in the philosophical grounds that guide the studies on gestational stress. Biased perspectives could lead us to use and/or design inadequate/incomplete panels of biochemical determinations and/or psychological instruments to diagnose it accurately during pregnancy, a psychoneuroimmune-endocrine state in which allostatic loads may be significant. Here, we review these notions and propose a model to evaluate and diagnose stress during pregnancy.
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Wan J, Hu Z, Zeng K, Yin Y, Zhao M, Chen M, Chen Q. The reduction in circulating levels of estrogen and progesterone in women with preeclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Hu XQ, Dasgupta C, Chen M, Xiao D, Huang X, Han L, Yang S, Xu Z, Zhang L. Pregnancy Reprograms Large-Conductance Ca 2+-Activated K + Channel in Uterine Arteries: Roles of Ten-Eleven Translocation Methylcytosine Dioxygenase 1-Mediated Active Demethylation. Hypertension 2017; 69:1181-1191. [PMID: 28396535 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.117.09059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channel is of critical importance in pregnancy-mediated increase in uterine artery vasodilation and blood flow. The present study tested the hypothesis that active DNA demethylation plays a key role in pregnancy-induced reprogramming and upregulation of BKCa channel β1 subunit (BKβ1) in uterine arteries. Uterine arteries were isolated from nonpregnant and near-term pregnant sheep. Pregnancy significantly increased the expression of ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 (TET1) in uterine arteries. A half-palindromic estrogen response element was identified at the TET1 promoter, and estrogen treatment increased TET1 promoter activity and TET1 expression in uterine arteries. In accordance, pregnancy and steroid hormone treatment resulted in demethylation of BKβ1 promoter by increasing 5-hydroxymethylcytosine and decreasing 5-methylcytosine at the CpG in the Sp1-380 binding site that is of critical importance in the regulation of the promoter activity and BKβ1 expression. Inhibition of TET1 with fumarate significantly decreased BKβ1 expression in uterine arteries of pregnant animals and blocked steroid hormone-induced upregulation of BKβ1. Functionally, fumarate treatment inhibited pregnancy and steroid hormone-induced increases in BKCa channel current density and BKCa channel-mediated relaxations. In addition, fumarate blocked pregnancy and steroid hormone-induced decrease in pressure-dependent myogenic tone of the uterine artery. The results demonstrate a novel mechanism of estrogen-mediated active DNA demethylation in reprogramming of BKCa channel expression and function in the adaption of uterine circulation during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Qun Hu
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Chiranjib Dasgupta
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Man Chen
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Daliao Xiao
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Xiaohui Huang
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Limin Han
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Shumei Yang
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Zhice Xu
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.)
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Institute for Fetology, First Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China (X.-Q.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA (X.-Q.H., C.D., D.X., X.H., Z.X., L.Z.); Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, San Bernardino (S.Y.).
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Yin M, Liu X, Xu B, Huang J, Zheng Q, Yang Z, Feng Z, Han ZG, Hu W. Genetic variation between Schistosoma japonicum lineages from lake and mountainous regions in China revealed by resequencing whole genomes. Acta Trop 2016; 161:79-85. [PMID: 27207135 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Schistosoma infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Schistosomiasis japonica is endemic in mainland China along the Yangtze River, typically distributed in two geographical categories of lake and mountainous regions. Study on schistosome genetic diversity is of interest in respect of understanding parasite biology and transmission, and formulating control strategy. Certain genetic variations may be associated with adaptations to different ecological habitats. The aim of this study is to gain insight into Schistosoma japonicum genetic variation, evolutionary origin and associated causes of different geographic lineages through examining homozygous Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) based on resequenced genome data. We collected S. japonicum samples from four sites, three in the lake regions (LR) of mid-east (Guichi and Tonglin in Anhui province, Laogang in Hunan province) and one in mountainous region (MR) (Xichang in Sichuan province) of south-west of China, resequenced their genomes using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, and made use of the available database of S. japonicum draft genomic sequence as a reference in genome mapping. A total of 14,575 SNPs from 2059 genes were identified in the four lineages. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed significant genetic variation exhibited between the different geographical lineages, and further revealed that the MR Xichang lineage is phylogenetically closer to LR Guich lineage than to other two LR lineages, and the MR lineage might be evolved from LR lineages. More than two thirds of detected SNPs were nonsynonymous; functional annotation of the SNP-containing genes showed that they are involved mainly in biological processes such as signaling and response to stimuli. Notably, unique nonsynonymous SNP variations were detected in 66 genes of MR lineage, inferring possible genetic adaption to mountainous ecological condition.
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Blanco PG, Vercellini R, Rube A, Rodríguez R, Arias DO, Gobello C. Evaluation of feline uterine and umbilical arteries blood flow in a pharmacologically induced abnormal gestation model. Theriogenology 2016; 86:2323-2327. [PMID: 27576196 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe resistance index (RI) and systolic/diastolic ratio (S/D ratio) of uterine and umbilical arteries in an experimental model of abnormal pregnancy in felids. On days 30 to 35 (32 ± 2.9) after mating, 20 domestic short-hair pregnant queens were randomly assigned to one of the following treatment groups: a treated group (TG; n = 8), which received 10 mg/kg of aglepristone subcutaneously twice, 24 hours apart, and a control nontreated group (CG; n = 12). M-mode and Doppler ultrasonographic evaluations were performed at the initiation of the treatment (Day 0) and then every other day during 8 days. In both groups, uterine and umbilical arteries were evaluated by Doppler ultrasound, whereas fetal heart rate was assessed by M-mode ultrasound. Resistance index of uterine artery augmented in TG from Day 2 onward, conversely it decreased in CG (P < 0.01). On Day 8, RI values were 0.64 ± 0.05 vs 0.37 ± 0.01 for TG and CG, respectively. Additionally, S/D ratio of the same artery presented an increase in TG, whereas this ratio diminished in CG (P < 0.01). On Day 8, this parameter showed values of 2.98 ± 0.4 vs 1.62 ± 0.06 for TG and CG, respectively. Resistance index of umbilical artery remained almost unchanged in TG from Day 6 onward, whereas it progressively decreased in CG throughout the course of the study (P < 0.05). On Day 8, RI were 0.89 ± 0.04 and 0.82 ± 0.01, for TG and CG, respectively. Furthermore, on Day 8, S/D ratio of umbilical artery progressively diminished in CG but not in TG (P < 0.01), being 14.7 ± 9.1 vs 5.9 ± 0.3 for TG and CG, respectively. Fetal heart rate was higher in TG than in CG (P < 0.05). Group differences in Doppler parameters appeared on Day 2, when the other clinical or ultrasonographic signs were still absent. It is concluded that blood flow of the uterine and umbilical arteries differed between these normal and abnormal gestations predicting an adverse obstetric outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Blanco
- Cardiology Service, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP), La Plata, Argentina; Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, FVS-NULP, La Plata, Argentina; National Research Council (CONICET), La Plata, Argentina.
| | - R Vercellini
- National Research Council (CONICET), La Plata, Argentina; Radiology Service, FVS-NULP, La Plata, Argentina
| | - A Rube
- Ultrasonography Service, FVS-NULP, La Plata, Argentina
| | - R Rodríguez
- Radiology Service, FVS-NULP, La Plata, Argentina
| | - D O Arias
- Cardiology Service, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP), La Plata, Argentina
| | - C Gobello
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, FVS-NULP, La Plata, Argentina; National Research Council (CONICET), La Plata, Argentina
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Reynolds LP, Haring JS, Johnson ML, Ashley RL, Redmer DA, Borowicz PP, Grazul-Bilska AT. Placental development during early pregnancy in sheep: estrogen and progesterone receptor messenger RNA expression in pregnancies derived from in vivo-produced and in vitro-produced embryos. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2015; 53:60-9. [PMID: 26119037 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2015.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroids are important regulators of angiogenesis and growth in reproductive tissues, including the placenta. In experiment (exp.) 1, to examine the expression of a suite of sex steroid receptors throughout early pregnancy, maternal (caruncular [CAR]) and fetal (fetal membranes [FM]) placental tissues were collected on days 14 to 30 after mating and on day 10 after estrus (nonpregnant controls). In exp. 2, to examine the hypothesis that assisted reproductive technology would affect the expression of the same suite of sex steroid receptors, pregnancies were achieved through natural mating (NAT) or transfer of embryos from natural mating (NAT-ET), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or in vitro activation (IVA), and CAR and FM were collected on day 22. In exp. 1, for CAR messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of estrogen receptors (ESR) 1 and 2, nuclear (n) progesterone receptors (PGR) and membrane (m) PGRα, β, and γ were affected (P < 0.02) by pregnancy stage, as were ESR1, nPGR, and mPGRα, β, and γ for FM (P < 0.03). In exp. 2, for CAR, mRNA expression of ESR1 and nPGR was decreased (P < 0.001) in NAT-ET, IVF, and IVA groups compared with NAT. For FM, mRNA expression of ESR1 tended to be greater (P = 0.10) in the IVA group compared with NAT and NAT-ET, and GPER1 was greater (P < 0.05) in NAT-ET and IVF compared with NAT. These data establish the normal pattern of sex steroid receptor mRNA expression in maternal and fetal placenta during early pregnancy in sheep, and in addition, suggest that altered expression of placental sex steroid receptors may be an early event leading to poor placental vascularization and growth after assisted reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L P Reynolds
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA.
| | - J S Haring
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - M L Johnson
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - R L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - D A Redmer
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - P P Borowicz
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - A T Grazul-Bilska
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
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Davila J, Laws MJ, Kannan A, Li Q, Taylor RN, Bagchi MK, Bagchi IC. Rac1 Regulates Endometrial Secretory Function to Control Placental Development. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005458. [PMID: 26305333 PMCID: PMC4549291 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
During placenta development, a succession of complex molecular and cellular interactions between the maternal endometrium and the developing embryo ensures reproductive success. The precise mechanisms regulating this maternal-fetal crosstalk remain unknown. Our study revealed that the expression of Rac1, a member of the Rho family of GTPases, is markedly elevated in mouse decidua on days 7 and 8 of gestation. To investigate its function in the uterus, we created mice bearing a conditional deletion of the Rac1 gene in uterine stromal cells. Ablation of Rac1 did not affect the formation of the decidua but led to fetal loss in mid gestation accompanied by extensive hemorrhage. To gain insights into the molecular pathways affected by the loss of Rac1, we performed gene expression profiling which revealed that Rac1 signaling regulates the expression of Rab27b, another GTPase that plays a key role in targeting vesicular trafficking. Consequently, the Rac1-null decidual cells failed to secrete vascular endothelial growth factor A, which is a critical regulator of decidual angiogenesis, and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 4, which regulates the bioavailability of insulin-like growth factors that promote proliferation and differentiation of trophoblast cell lineages in the ectoplacental cone. The lack of secretion of these key factors by Rac1-null decidua gave rise to impaired angiogenesis and dysregulated proliferation of trophoblast cells, which in turn results in overexpansion of the trophoblast giant cell lineage and disorganized placenta development. Further experiments revealed that RAC1, the human ortholog of Rac1, regulates the secretory activity of human endometrial stromal cells during decidualization, supporting the concept that this signaling G protein plays a central and conserved role in controlling endometrial secretory function. This study provides unique insights into the molecular mechanisms regulating endometrial secretions that mediate stromal-endothelial and stromal-trophoblast crosstalk critical for placenta development and establishment of pregnancy. During early pregnancy, a succession of molecular interactions between the uterus and the developing embryo ensures reproductive success. Although it is conceivable that signaling cues originating in the uterus impact on the developing embryo at the time of placenta establishment, the precise mechanisms regulating the maternal-fetal crosstalk remain unknown. Impaired uterine functions during early pregnancy are likely to contribute to abnormal embryo development and various diseases of pregnancy, such as recurrent miscarriage, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms by which Rac1, a signaling molecule expressed in the decidua, controls uterine secretions that mediate maternal-fetal communication critical for placental development and establishment of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanmahel Davila
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Mary J. Laws
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Athilakshmi Kannan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Quanxi Li
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Robert N. Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Milan K. Bagchi
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MKB); (ICB)
| | - Indrani C. Bagchi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MKB); (ICB)
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Patel S, Kilburn B, Imudia A, Armant DR, Skafar DF. Estradiol Elicits Proapoptotic and Antiproliferative Effects in Human Trophoblast Cells. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:74. [PMID: 26246219 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During the first trimester of pregnancy, appropriate regulation of estradiol (E2) is essential for normal placental development. Previous studies demonstrate that premature elevation in E2 concentrations can lead to abnormal placentation, but have not fully elaborated the mechanism of this effect in the first-trimester trophoblast. Our aim was to determine whether E2 elicits trophoblast cell death or inhibits proliferation. The first-trimester human cytotrophoblast cell line HTR-8/SVneo was cultured in phenol red-free medium containing charcoal-stripped serum and treated with 17beta-E2 at concentrations between 0 and 100 nM. TUNEL and invasion assays indicated that E2 significantly increased cell death and reduced cell invasion at 10 nM, and nuclear Ki67 expression revealed that it decreased cell proliferation at 1 nM. A similar effect on cell death was observed in first-trimester placental explants. The E2 antagonist fulvestrant blocked all effects of E2. Immunohistochemistry showed that protein expression of proapoptotic caspases 3, 8, and 9 increased at E2 concentrations of 25 nM and greater, whereas expression of antiapoptotic BCL2-alpha decreased at E2 concentrations of 10 nM and greater. Additionally, treatments with estrogen receptor (ER) alpha-specific and ERbeta-specific agonists at concentrations between 0 and 1000 nM indicated that only ERalpha mediates E2's effects, although immunohistochemistry and Western immunoblotting showed that HTR-8/SVneo cells and placental explants express both ERalpha and ERbeta. Taken together, these findings reveal the interplay between elevated serum E2 and apoptosis in the first trimester of pregnancy. These factors could be associated with pregnancy complications including infertility and uteroplacental insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivali Patel
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Brian Kilburn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Anthony Imudia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - D Randall Armant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, NICHD, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Debra F Skafar
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
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Vaikkinen A, Rejšek J, Vrkoslav V, Kauppila TJ, Cvačka J, Kostiainen R. Feasibility of desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization and desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry to monitor urinary steroid metabolites during pregnancy. Anal Chim Acta 2015; 880:84-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2015.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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