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Gillen AD, Hunter I, Ullner E, McEwan IJ. Mechanistic insights into steroid hormone-mediated regulation of the androgen receptor gene. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304183. [PMID: 39088439 PMCID: PMC11293711 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Expression of the androgen receptor is key to the response of cells and tissues to androgenic steroids, such as testosterone or dihydrotestosterone, as well as impacting the benefit of hormone-dependent therapies for endocrine diseases and hormone-dependent cancers. However, the mechanisms controlling androgen receptor expression are not fully understood, limiting our ability to effectively promote or inhibit androgenic signalling therapeutically. An autoregulatory loop has been described in which androgen receptor may repress its own expression in the presence of hormone, although the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. In this work, we elucidate the mechanisms of autoregulation and demonstrate, for the first time, that a similar repression of the AR gene is facilitated by the progesterone receptor. We show that the progesterone receptor, like the androgen receptor binds to response elements within the AR gene to effect transcriptional repression in response to hormone treatment. Mechanistically, this repression involves hormone-dependent histone deacetylation within the AR 5'UTR region and looping between sequences in intron 2 and the transcription start site (TSS). This novel pathway controlling AR expression in response to hormone stimulation may have important implications for understanding cell or tissue selective receptor signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D. Gillen
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Irene Hunter
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Ekkehard Ullner
- Department of Physics, Institute of Complex Sciences and Mathematical Biology University of Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Iain J. McEwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Hong L, Xiao S, Diao L, Lian R, Chen C, Zeng Y, Liu S. Decreased AMPK/SIRT1/PDK4 induced by androgen excess inhibits human endometrial stromal cell decidualization in PCOS. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:324. [PMID: 39080028 PMCID: PMC11335245 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05362-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Ovulatory dysfunction is recognized as a primary infertile factor, however, even when ovulation is medically induced and restored, PCOS patients continue to experience reduced cumulative pregnancy rates and a higher spontaneous miscarriage rate. Hyperandrogenism, a hallmark feature of PCOS, affects ovarian folliculogenesis, endometrial receptivity, and the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Decidualization denotes the transformation that the stromal compart of the endometrium must undergo to accommodate pregnancy, driven by the rising progesterone levels and local cAMP production. However, studies on the impact of hyperandrogenism on decidualization are limited. In this study, we observed that primary endometrial stromal cells from women with PCOS exhibit abnormal responses to progesterone during in vitro decidualization. A high concentration of testosterone inhibits human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) decidualization. RNA-Seq analysis demonstrated that pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) expression was significantly lower in the endometrium of PCOS patients with hyperandrogenism compared to those without hyperandrogenism. We also characterized that the expression of PDK4 is elevated in the endometrium stroma at the mid-secretory phase. Artificial decidualization could enhance PDK4 expression, while downregulation of PDK4 leads to abnormal decidualization both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, testosterone excess inhibits IGFBP1 and PRL expression, followed by phosphorylating of AMPK that stimulates PDK4 expression. Based on co-immunoprecipitation analysis, we observed an interaction between SIRT1 and PDK4, promoting glycolysis to facilitate decidualization. Restrain of AR activation resumes the AMPK/SIRT1/PDK4 pathway suppressed by testosterone excess, indicating that testosterone primarily acts on decidualization through AR stimulation. Androgen excess in the endometrium inhibits decidualization by disrupting the AMPK/SIRT1/PDK4 signaling pathway. These data demonstrate the critical roles of endometrial PDK4 in regulating decidualization and provide valuable information for understanding the underlying mechanism during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Hong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China
| | - Shan Xiao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruochun Lian
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Cong Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China.
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China.
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Wei S, Li Z, Xia H, Wang Z, Deng J, Li L, Huang R, Ye T, Huang Y, Yang Y. An endometrial biomimetic extracellular matrix (ECM) for enhanced endometrial regeneration using hyaluronic acid hydrogel containing recombinant human type III collagen. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 268:131723. [PMID: 38649072 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Endometrial injury poses a significant challenge in tissue regeneration, with type III collagen (COL III) playing a pivotal role in maintaining endometrial integrity and facilitating repair. Our study explored the utility of recombinant human type III collagen (RHC) as an intervention for endometrial damage. To address the challenges associated with the inherent instability and rapid degradation of COL III in vivo, we developed an RHC-HA hydrogel by conjugating RHC with hyaluronic acid (HA), thus ensuring a more stable and sustained delivery. Our findings suggested that the RHC-HA hydrogel significantly promoted endometrial regeneration and restored fertility. The hydrogel facilitated prolonged retention of RHC in the uterus, leading to a substantial improvement in the repair process. The synergistic interaction between RHC and HA greatly enhances cell proliferation and adhesion, surpassing the efficacy of HA or RHC alone. Additionally, the RHC-HA hydrogel demonstrated notable anti-fibrotic effects, which are crucial for preventing abnormalities during endometrial healing. These findings suggested that the RHC-HA hydrogel presented a therapeutic strategy in the treatment of uterine endometrial injuries, which may improve female reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siying Wei
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ziyi Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Huan Xia
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jingxian Deng
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Rufei Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Tao Ye
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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4
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Yusuf ANM, Amri MF, Ugusman A, Hamid AA, Wahab NA, Mokhtar MH. Hyperandrogenism and Its Possible Effects on Endometrial Receptivity: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12026. [PMID: 37569402 PMCID: PMC10419014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is a state of the endometrium defined by its readiness for embryo implantation. When the receptivity of the endometrium is impaired due to hyperandrogenism or androgen excess, this condition can lead to pregnancy loss or infertility. Hyperandrogenism encompasses a wide range of clinical manifestations, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), idiopathic hirsutism, hirsutism and hyperandrogaenemia, non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, acanthosis nigricans (HAIR-AN), ovarian or adrenal androgen-secreting neoplasms, Cushing's syndrome, and hyperprolactinaemia. Recurrent miscarriages have been shown to be closely related to elevated testosterone levels, which alter the endometrial milieu so that it is less favourable for embryo implantation. There are mechanisms for endometrial receptivity that are affected by excess androgen. The HOXA gene, aVβ3 integrin, CDK signalling pathway, MECA-79, and MAGEA-11 were the genes and proteins affect endometrial receptivity in the presence of a hyperandrogenic state. In this review, we would like to explore the other manifestations of androgen excess focusing on causes other than PCOS and learn possible mechanisms of endometrial receptivity behind androgen excess leading to pregnancy loss or infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allia Najmie Muhammad Yusuf
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Fariz Amri
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Malaysia
| | - Azizah Ugusman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Adila A. Hamid
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Norhazlina Abdul Wahab
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Helmy Mokhtar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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5
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Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Menkhorst E, Maybin JA, King A, Girling JE. Cyclic processes in the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix: pathways and perturbations. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad012. [PMID: 37225518 PMCID: PMC10208902 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This review leads the 2023 Call for Papers in MHR: 'Cyclical function of the female reproductive tract' and will outline the complex and fascinating changes that take place in the reproductive tract during the menstrual cycle. We will also explore associated reproductive tract abnormalities that impact or are impacted by the menstrual cycle. Between menarche and menopause, women and people who menstruate living in high-income countries can expect to experience ∼450 menstrual cycles. The primary function of the menstrual cycle is to prepare the reproductive system for pregnancy in the event of fertilization. In the absence of pregnancy, ovarian hormone levels fall, triggering the end of the menstrual cycle and onset of menstruation. We have chosen to exclude the ovaries and focus on the other structures that make up the reproductive tract: uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix, which also functionally change in response to fluctuations in ovarian hormone production across the menstrual cycle. This inaugural paper for the 2023 MHR special collection will discuss our current understanding of the normal physiological processes involved in uterine cyclicity (limited specifically to the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix) in humans, and other mammals where relevant. We will emphasize where knowledge gaps exist and highlight the impact that reproductive tract and uterine cycle perturbations have on health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Holdsworth-Carson
- Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Maybin
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna King
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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6
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Giuliani E, Schon SB, Yang K, Burns GW, Neff LM, Remmer HA, Teixeira JM, Marsh EE. Obesity-induced follicular phase endometrial proteome dysregulation in a well-phenotyped population. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:367-375. [PMID: 35710094 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite obesity's significant impact on reproduction, its influence on the physiology of the human endometrium is largely understudied. We hypothesized that endometrial proteomic differences exist between obese (OW; body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m2) and normal-weight women (NWW; BMI, 18.5-24.9 kg/m2). DESIGN Clinical cross-sectional study. SETTING Academic Medical Center. PATIENT(S) Healthy, normally-cycling, 18 to 40-year-old women (n = 6 OW and n = 6 NWW). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Participants underwent screening and midfollicular phase visits. Demographic and anthropometric characteristics, blood samples, ultrasounds, and follicular phase endometrial biopsies were collected. Proteomic analyses of endometrial samples (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) were performed. Proteins with ≥2-fold difference and a false discovery rate of <0.1 were considered statistically significant (Benjamini-Hochberg adjustment). RESULT(S) Reproductive hormone levels did not differ between the two groups. Mean BMI, serum leptin concentration, and bioelectrical impedance analysis indices of adiposity were higher in OW than in NWW. Histological examination of the endometrial samples confirmed normal-appearing endometrium in both OW and NWW. A total of 2,930 proteins were detected across all samples, with an average number of proteins per sample of 2,059 ± 482 in NWW and 2,437 ± 187 in OW. A total of 17 proteins were differentially expressed in OW vs. NWW; 2 were more abundant, whereas 15 were underexpressed in OW, including the progesterone receptor. CONCLUSION(S) In this well-phenotyped population of healthy women, obesity was associated with significant endometrial proliferative phase proteomic differences affecting the hormonal and immunologic pathways. These could contribute to an increased risk of menstrual bleeding abnormalities and create an altered environment for future luteinization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Giuliani
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Samantha B Schon
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kun Yang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Gregory W Burns
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | | | - Henriette A Remmer
- Biomedical Research Core Facilities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jose M Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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Rosato E, Sciarra F, Anastasiadou E, Lenzi A, Venneri MA. Revisiting the physiological role of androgens in women. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:547-561. [PMID: 36352537 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2144834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Extensive research underlines the critical functions of androgens in females. Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms of their action are poorly understood. Here, we review the existing literature regarding the physiological role of androgens in women throughout life. AREAS COVERED Several studies show that androgen receptors (ARs) are broadly expressed in numerous female tissues. They are essential for many physiological processes, including reproductive, sexual, cardiovascular, bone, muscle, and brain health. They are also involved in adipose tissue and liver function. Androgen levels change with the menstrual cycle and decrease in the first decades of life, independently of menopause. EXPERT OPINION To date, studies are limited by including small numbers of women, the difficulty of dosing androgens, and their cyclical variations. In particular, whether androgens play any significant role in regulating the establishment of pregnancy is poorly understood. The neural functions of ARs have also been investigated less thoroughly, although it is expressed at high levels in brain structures. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the decline of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) with age is unclear. Other factors, including estrogen's effect on adrenal androgen production, reciprocal regulation of ARs, and non-classical effects of androgens, remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rosato
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sciarra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Eleni Anastasiadou
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mary Anna Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
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8
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Qiu Y, Lin J, Xu Q, Zeng L, Liu C. Effects of different doses of estrogen on ER expression and ovarian function in patients with unexplained recurrent abortion. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:844-848. [PMID: 36063826 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2118707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Randomized trial. Objective: This study was designed to investigate the effects of different doses of estrogen on the expression of estrogen receptor (ER) in endometrial tissue and ovarian function in patients with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA). Methods: Eighty-eight patients with URSA in our outpatient department were randomly divided into three groups. They were treated with estradiol valerate (EV); standard dose of 4 mg/d (31 cases), high dose of 6 mg/d (27 cases) and 9 mg/d (30 cases). Progesterone was detected in the luteal phase, ovarian ovulation during follow-up treatment and the next month after drug withdrawal. ER expression in intima of EV 4 mg group, EV 6 mg group, and EV 9 mg group was detected by immunohistochemistry and PCR was performed before and 3 months after the treatment. Results: Anovulation of 88 URSA patients during hormone treatment was found as follows: 5 cases in the EV 4 mg group, 18 cases in the EV 6 mg group, 25 cases in the EV 9 mg group; Anovulation in the next month after drug withdrawal: 1 case in EV 4 mg group, 8 cases in EV 6 mg group, and 16 cases in EV 9 mg group. After stratified and grouped analysis, the expression of intimal ER in the EV 4 mg group, EV 6 mg, and EV 9 mg groups was significantly increased compared to before treatment in the 3 groups after treatment compared to before treatment (p < .05). There was no significant difference in ER expression between the three groups before and after treatment (p > .05). Conclusion: The higher the therapeutic dose of estrogen, the stronger the inhibition of ovarian ovulation, and the standard dose of estrogen has obvious advantages in increasing the expression of ER in intima. Limitation: 1) Insufficient sample size; 2) We need to increase the sampling time point to further observe the difference of estrogen in time effect, so as to obtain a more accurate action time of estrogen; 3) The longer-term effects of different doses of estrogen on intima were not studied, such as whether there are adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, placental implantation, or premature exfoliation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamin Qiu
- Department of Reproductive Health and Infertility, Zigong Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Reproductive Health and Infertility, Zigong Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Qing Xu
- Department of Reproductive Health and Infertility, Zigong Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Linhua Zeng
- Department of Pathology, Zigong Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zigong Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Zigong, China
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9
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Abdelnaby EA, Yasin NAE, Abouelela YS, Rashad E, Daghash SM, El-Sherbiny HR. Ovarian, uterine, and luteal vascular perfusions during follicular and luteal phases in the adult cyclic female rabbits with special orientation to their histological detection of hormone receptor. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:301. [PMID: 35927671 PMCID: PMC9351104 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03390-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the does reproductive hemodynamic changes during the estrous cycle is crucial for improving reproductive competence and fertility potential in this species. The objective of this study is to investigate the hemodynamic variations in ovarian (OA) and uterine (UA) arteries, histological and morphometric changes in ovarian and uterine tissues throughout the follicular (FP) and luteal (LP) phases in rabbits and determine estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR) receptors, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) distributions using immunohistochemistry.Fourteen adults pluriparous New Zealand rabbits were divided into rabbits at the FP (Day - 1; n = 7) and those at the LP (Day 9; n = 7). Animals were subjected to Doppler, hormonal (estrogen [E2], progesterone [P4], insulin-like growth factor [ILGF], and VEGF), histological, and immunohistochemical analyses. In LP, OA Doppler indices were significantly increased, whereas peak systolic velocity (PSV) was decreased compared with that in FP. UA Doppler indices were significantly decreased in the LP, whereas PSV was increased (P < 0.05). E2 levels were increased in the FP, whereas P4 levels were increased in the LP. The morphometric analysis of uterine tissues during the LP revealed an increase in the mean uterine endometrium length, endometrial connective tissue area percentage (%), endometrial glands number, myometrial area (%) and thickness. Furthermore, ovarian follicles and corpus luteum (CL) displayed strong positive immunoreactivity for ER, PR, and VEGF-A during both phases. The ovarian sections displayed a substantial (P < 0.05) increase in the area % of VEGF-A in the ovarian follicles during FP while in the CL during LP. Conversely, area percentage of VEGF-A immunoreactivity in the uterine luminal and glandular epithelia during the FP and LP revealed no differences. However, the number of VEGF-A-stained blood capillaries revealed an increase during LP than FP. In conclusion, this study demonstrated for the first time the changes in both ovarian and uterine arteries during two different phases of the rabbit cycle in relation to the histo-morphometric analysis and distribution of ER, PR, and VEGF-A, which regulate uterine functions that play a role in reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elshymaa A Abdelnaby
- Theriogenology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt.
| | - Noha A E Yasin
- Cytology and Histology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Yara S Abouelela
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Eman Rashad
- Cytology and Histology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Samer M Daghash
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hossam R El-Sherbiny
- Theriogenology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
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10
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Persaud K, Zhao Q, Owusu-Akyaw A, Rameshwar P, Goldsmith LT, Morelli SS. Expression of glucocorticoid and androgen receptors in bone marrow-derived hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic murine endometrial cells. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:255-268. [PMID: 35717521 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether bone marrow (BM)-derived cells engrafting the murine endometrium express the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and androgen receptor (AR). Recent data demonstrate that BM is a long-term source of multiple hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic endometrial cell types. Important roles for glucocorticoids and androgens in regulating endometrial functions, including decidualization and early embryo attachment/invasion, have very recently emerged. Whether endometrial cells of BM origin express glucocorticoid or ARs has not been previously studied. DESIGN Animal study. SETTING Basic science laboratory. ANIMAL(S) Wild-type C57BL/6J male mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) and syngeneic wild-type C57BL/6J female mice aged 6-9 weeks. INTERVENTION(S) Murine bone marrow transplant. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Bone marrow cells were harvested from adult wild-type C57BL/6 mice and subjected to flow cytometry to identify the percentage of hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cells expressing GR or AR. Uterine tissue sections from lethally irradiated syngeneic adult female C57BL/6 mice that had been recipients of BM transplants from adult male transgenic donor mice ubiquitously expressing GFP were studied. Immunohistochemistry was performed in the uterine tissue sections of the recipient mice at 5, 9, and 12 months after transplant using specific anti-GR, anti-AR, anti-GFP, anti-CD45 (pan leukocyte marker), and anti-F4/80 (murine macrophage marker) primary antibodies. Confocal laser microscopy was used to localize and quantitate BM-derived (GFP+) cell types in the endometrial stromal and epithelial compartments and determine whether BM-derived cell types in the murine endometrium express GR or AR. RESULT(S) Hematopoietic cells comprised 93.6%-96.6% of all cells in the BM, of which 98.1% ± 0.2% expressed GR and 92.2% ± 4.4% expressed AR. Nonhematopoietic cells comprised 0.4%-1.3% of BM, of which 52.8% ± 5.9% expressed GR and 48.9% ± 3.4% expressed AR. After BM transplant, the proportion of cells originating from BM in the endometrial stromal compartment increased over time, reaching 13.5% ± 2.3% at 12 months after transplant. In the epithelial compartments, <1% of the cells were of BM origin at 12 months after transplant. Most (60%-72%) GR+ and/or AR+ BM-derived cells in the stroma were hematopoietic (CD45+) cells, of which 37%-51% were macrophages. Nonetheless, 28%-33% of GR+ cells, and 28%-40% of AR+ BM-derived cells, were nonhematopoietic (CD45-) stromal cells of BM origin. CONCLUSION(S) A substantial number of BM-derived cells express GR and AR, suggesting a role for these cells in both glucocorticoid-regulated and androgen-regulated endometrial functions, such as proliferation and/or decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavitha Persaud
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey.
| | - Qingshi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Amma Owusu-Akyaw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Laura T Goldsmith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Sara S Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
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Genistein induces long-term expression of progesterone receptor regardless of estrogen receptor status and improves the prognosis of endometrial cancer patients. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10303. [PMID: 35717540 PMCID: PMC9206647 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13842-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone is used to treat uterine endometrial cancer in young patients wishing to preserve their fertility as well as in advanced or recurrent patients, but its response rate is limited. The antitumor effect of progesterone is mediated by progesterone receptor (PR) binding. Hence, loss of progesterone’s therapeutic effect, i.e., development of progesterone resistance, is mainly due to decreased PR expression. However, little is known about underlying mechanisms that regulate PR expression. Immunohistochemistry analysis of specimens from 31 young, endometrial cancer patients showed that elevated PR expression significantly increased (P < 0.05) rates of progression-free and overall survival. We investigated mechanisms of regulating PR expression and suppressing cell proliferation using genistein, a chemotherapeutic agent against different cancers. Genistein inhibits cell growth by inducing cell cycle arrest in G2 and apoptosis; moreover, it upregulates prolonged expression of PR-B and forkhead box protein O1, regardless of estrogen receptor alpha expression in endometrial cancer cells. Genistein-induced PR expression decreases CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta expression and activates c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathway, rather than causing epigenetic alterations of the PR promoter. Therefore, increased PR expression is an important antitumor effect of genistein. This may help to improve the response rates of fertility-sparing treatments for young patients.
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12
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Giordano LA, Giordano MV, Célia Teixeira Gomes R, Dos Santos Simões R, Baracat MCP, Giordano MG, Ferreira-Filho ES, de Medeiros SF, Baracat EC, Soares-Júnior JM. Effects of clinical and metabolic variables and hormones on the expression of immune protein biomarkers in the endometrium of women with polycystic ovary syndrome and normal-cycling controls. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:508-515. [PMID: 35393909 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2061454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at an elevated risk of endometrial cancer, which may be associated with the continuous proliferative state caused by the interaction between hormones and metabolic factors. OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of hormones and metabolic factors in the proliferation and death of endometrium during the proliferative phase. METHODS Cross-sectional study with 11 women with PCOS and eight normal-cycling non-PCOS controls at the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro from February 2011 to June 2019. Clinical, biochemical, and hormonal data were collected to analyze their influence on the expression of biomarkers related to the endometrial tissue breakdown. Hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsies were conducted, and the endometrial samples underwent immunohistochemistry for markers of apoptosis B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2), cleaved caspase-3 (CASP3), fas cell surface death receptor (FAS), FAS ligand (FASLG), BCL2 associated X (BAX), marker of proliferation Ki-67 (MKI67), and cell death using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick and labeling (TUNEL). RESULTS CASP3 and TUNEL expressions were lower in both stroma and endometrium gland of PCOS women than in controls. MKI67 and homeostasis indexes (BCL2/BAX; FASLG/FAS) in the endometrium of the PCOS group were significantly higher. Body mass index (BMI) values were positively correlated with the expression of MKI67 and MKI67/TUNEL ratio in the endometrial stroma compartment. Fasting insulin levels were positively correlated with the expression of BCL2, and DHEA-S levels were negatively correlated with the expression of CASP3 of women with PCOS. CONCLUSION BMI, insulin, and DHEA-S influence the endometrial homeostasis breakdown in PCOS in the endometrium stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Augusto Giordano
- Gynecology Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Gynecology Department, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro - (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mario Vicente Giordano
- Gynecology Department, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro - (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina Célia Teixeira Gomes
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Dos Santos Simões
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Candida Pinheiro Baracat
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mario Gáspare Giordano
- Gynecology Department, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro - (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edson Santos Ferreira-Filho
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião Freitas de Medeiros
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Edmund Chada Baracat
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Maria Soares-Júnior
- Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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13
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Jain V, Chodankar RR, Maybin JA, Critchley HOD. Uterine bleeding: how understanding endometrial physiology underpins menstrual health. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:290-308. [PMID: 35136207 PMCID: PMC9098793 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00629-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Menstruation is a physiological process that is typically uncomplicated. However, up to one third of women globally will be affected by abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) at some point in their reproductive years. Menstruation (that is, endometrial shedding) is a fine balance between proliferation, decidualization, inflammation, hypoxia, apoptosis, haemostasis, vasoconstriction and, finally, repair and regeneration. An imbalance in any one of these processes can lead to the abnormal endometrial phenotype of AUB. Poor menstrual health has a negative impact on a person's physical, mental, social, emotional and financial well-being. On a global scale, iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia are closely linked with AUB, and are often under-reported and under-recognized. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics have produced standardized terminology and a classification system for the causes of AUB. This standardization will facilitate future research endeavours, diagnosis and clinical management. In a field where no new medications have been developed for over 20 years, emerging technologies are paving the way for a deeper understanding of the biology of the endometrium in health and disease, as well as opening up novel diagnostic and management avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Jain
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Rohan R Chodankar
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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14
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Yu K, Huang ZY, Xu XL, Li J, Fu XW, Deng SL. Estrogen Receptor Function: Impact on the Human Endometrium. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:827724. [PMID: 35295981 PMCID: PMC8920307 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.827724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological role of estrogen in the female endometrium is well established. On the basis of responses to steroid hormones (progesterone, androgen, and estrogen), the endometrium is considered to have proliferative and secretory phases. Estrogen can act in the endometrium by interacting with estrogen receptors (ERs) to induce mucosal proliferation during the proliferative phase and progesterone receptor (PR) synthesis, which prepare the endometrium for the secretory phase. Mouse knockout studies have shown that ER expression, including ERα, ERβ, and G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in the endometrium is critical for normal menstrual cycles and subsequent pregnancy. Incorrect expression of ERs can produce many diseases that can cause endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia (EH), and endometrial cancer (EC), which affect numerous women of reproductive age. ERα promotes uterine cell proliferation and is strongly associated with an increased risk of EC, while ERβ has the opposite effects on ERα function. GPER is highly expressed in abnormal EH, but its expression in EC patients is paradoxical. Effective treatments for endometrium-related diseases depend on understanding the physiological function of ERs; however, much less is known about the signaling pathways through which ERs functions in the normal endometrium or in endometrial diseases. Given the important roles of ERs in the endometrium, we reviewed the published literature to elaborate the regulatory role of estrogen and its nuclear and membrane-associated receptors in maintaining the function of endometrium and to provide references for protecting female reproduction. Additionally, the role of drugs such as tamoxifen, raloxifene, fulvestrant and G-15 in the endometrium are also described. Future studies should focus on evaluating new therapeutic strategies that precisely target specific ERs and their related growth factor signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng-Yuan Huang
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xue-Ling Xu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiang-Wei Fu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shou-Long Deng
- National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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15
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Pathare ADS, Hinduja I, Mahadik RC. Basic aspects of endometrial receptivity in PCOS patients. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:1519-1528. [PMID: 34988892 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06976-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder commonly affecting the reproductive capacity of women leading to infertility. PCOS-related infertility is majorly due to anovulation; however, it is not the only cause. The defective endometrium causing recurrent miscarriage and implantation failure can also be accountable for infertility in PCOS women. The unusual levels of hormones and their receptors in the PCOS endometrium have a hostile effect during WOI, making the microenvironment unfavorable for embryo implantation. To date, many studies have been performed to determine the role of candidate genes in endometrial receptivity but very limited data is available using whole genome approach. This review aims at summarizing the existing studies on the basic aspects of endometrial receptivity in PCOS. The review focuses on aberrant levels of hormones and their receptors in the endometrium, affecting the receptivity. Additionally, it explores the novel approach reviewing the effect on treatment options administered for ovulation induction in PCOS on their endometrial receptivity. Overall, this review will help us to understand the molecular milieu in PCOS endometrium and its effect on the receptivity potential. However, to have a thorough understanding of the mechanistic approach of hormonal imbalance in PCOS on endometrial receptivity, there is a need to give more weightage to genome-wide studies in the future. The current review will further guide us to formulate future studies using whole genome technologies for the assessment of endometrial receptivity in different cohorts of PCOS women, which may have future diagnostic implementations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amruta D S Pathare
- Department of IVF and Research, P. D. Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, 400016, India
| | - Indira Hinduja
- Department of IVF and Research, P. D. Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, 400016, India.
| | - Roshani C Mahadik
- Department of IVF and Research, P. D. Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, 400016, India
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16
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Kuan KKW, Saunders PTK. Female Reproductive Systems: Hormone Dependence and Receptor Expression. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1390:21-39. [PMID: 36107311 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-11836-4_2] [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] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The female reproductive system which consists of the ovaries, uterus (myometrium, endometrium), Fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina is exquisitely sensitive to the actions of steroid hormones. The ovaries play a key role in the synthesis of bioactive steroids (oestrogens, androgens, progestins) that act both within the tissue (intracrine/paracrine) as well as on other reproductive organs following release into the blood stream (endocrine action). Sex steroid receptors encoded by the oestrogen (ESR1, ESR2), progesterone (PR) and androgen (AR) receptor genes, which are members of the superfamily of ligand activated transcription factors are widely expressed within these tissues. These receptors play critical role(s) in regulation of cell proliferation, ovulation, endometrial receptivity, myometrial cell function and inflammatory cell infiltration. Our understanding of their importance has been informed by studies on human tissues and cells, which have employed immunohistochemistry as well as a wide range of molecular and genetic methods to identify which processes are dependent steroid ligand activation. The development of mice with targeted deletions of each of these receptors has provided complementary data that has extended our appreciation of cell-cell interactions in the fine tuning of reproductive tissue function. This large body of work has formed the basis of new and improved therapeutics to treat conditions such as infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin K W Kuan
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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17
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Xiao L, Sun W, Su Y, Lu N, He Y, Sheng X, Qi X, Xing K, Guo Y, Chang D, Wang X, Zhao J, Ni H. Dihydrotestosterone regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 expression in bovine endometrial epithelium cells by androgen receptor mediated EGFR/PI3K/Akt pathway. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 214:106001. [PMID: 34547381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.106001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Uterine prostaglandins F2α (PGF2α) is essential for implantation, initiation of luteolysis and delivery. Previous studies have demonstrated that the expression of Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme limiting PGF2α rate, is regulated by steroid hormones, and also dihydrotestosterone (DHT) may be involved in regulating COX-2 expression both positively and negatively. However, it remains unclear how whether DHT regulates COX-2 expression and consequent PGF2α release in bovine endometrial epithelial cells (EECs). In this study, we evaluated the localization of the two isoforms of DHT synthetase 5α-reductase (5α-red1 and 5α-red2) and androgen receptor (AR) in bovine endometria by immunohistochemistry, and investigated 5α-red1, 5α-red2, AR, and DHT levels at the different stages of endometria (follicle, early-, mid-, and late-pregnancy phases). The results showed that 5α-red1, 5α-red2 and AR all were expressed in endometria, and their expressions and the level of DHT significantly increased in the late-pregnancy phase compared with the mid-pregnancy phase. Moreover, we cultured EECs from the mid-pregnancy phase and the in vitro study showed that DHT dose-dependently increased COX-2 expression and PGF2a release, but AR antagonist (flutamide) inhibited the stimulating effect via DHT. In addition, the DHT-induced COX-2 expression and PGF2α release were subjected to the regulation of both EGFR/PI3K/Akt/NFkB signaling as the inhibitors of EGFR (AG1478) and PI3K/Akt (LY294002) and NFkB (QNZ) attenuated the DHT mediated effect. Taken together, the results demonstrated that DHT-induced COX-2 expression and consequent PGF2α release in bovine EECs were mediated through AR-derived EGFR transactivation and PI3K/Akt cascade leading to NFkB activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longfei Xiao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Wanxu Sun
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Su
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Lu
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Yanan He
- Zhangjiagang Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xihui Sheng
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaolong Qi
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Xing
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Guo
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Di Chang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangguo Wang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China.
| | - Junjin Zhao
- National Grazing Headquarter, Beijing, China
| | - Hemin Ni
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China.
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18
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Goto K, Kawano Y, Utsunomiya T, Narahara H. The Possibility of Analyzing Endometrial Receptivity Using Cells from Embryo Transfer Catheters. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2623-2629. [PMID: 34085206 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00645-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It is very important to investigate the expression of endometrial receptive markers in the endometrium during implantation. Therefore, we examined whether it would be possible to analyze endometrial receptivity using cells from embryo transfer catheters. A total of 81 cycles from 81 consenting patients were enrolled in this study. The tip of the embryo transfer (ET) catheter was cut and immersed in a dedicated reagent. Confirmation of cell distribution was carried out using a Papanicolaou stain and immunocytochemistry. Protein expression was carried out by immunocytochemistry. The expressions of estrogen receptor α, progesterone receptor, and homeobox A10 mRNA were analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. We analyzed the relationship between the gene expression profiles associated with pregnancy from endometrial cells. Samples collected from the ET catheter showed clear staining for endometrial cells. Most of the cells were endometrial epithelial cells. Cervical cells were not observed. The protein expression was also confirmed. Three genes were analyzed that are associated with endometrial receptivity. Progesterone receptor expression was 1.4-fold (p<0.05) and homeobox A10 was 2.8-fold (p<0.01) higher in patients who became non-pregnant group, compared to the pregnant group. Estrogen receptor α expression tended to be higher in the non-pregnant group (p=0.18). Our results suggest that endometrial receptivity can be evaluated using cells obtained from the ET catheter. This method may be useful for elucidating the cause of implantation failure by comparing a receptive and non-receptive endometrium at the time of ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Goto
- St. Luke Clinic, Oita, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
| | - Yasushi Kawano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan.
| | | | - Hisashi Narahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
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Maclean A, Bunni E, Makrydima S, Withington A, Kamal AM, Valentijn AJ, Hapangama DK. Fallopian tube epithelial cells express androgen receptor and have a distinct hormonal responsiveness when compared with endometrial epithelium. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:2097-2106. [PMID: 32876325 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does steroid receptor expression, proliferative activity and hormone responsiveness of the fallopian tube (FT) epithelium compare to that of the endometrial epithelium? SUMMARY ANSWER Proliferative indices, hormone receptor expression-scores and in vitro response to oestrogen and androgens of the human FT demonstrate a distinct pattern from the matched endometrium. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The FT epithelium exists as a continuum of the endometrium, and both express steroid hormone receptors. The ovarian steroid hormones regulate cyclical proliferation and regeneration of the endometrium, but their effects on steroid hormone receptor expression and proliferation in the FT have not yet been fully elucidated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We included women with proven fertility, undergoing hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for benign, gynaecological conditions at Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust. They had no known endometrial or tubal pathology and were not on hormonal treatments for at least 3 months preceding sample collection in this prospective observational study (conducted between 2010 and 2018). A full-thickness sample of the endometrium and a sample from the FT were collected from each woman. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The differential protein and mRNA levels of steroid hormone receptors, oestrogen receptors α and β, androgen receptor (AR) and progesterone receptor (PR), and the proliferative marker (Ki67) of the endometrium and the FT tissue samples from 47 healthy women undergoing surgery (37 premenopausal and 10 postmenopausal) were investigated using immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR. The comparative responsiveness to oestrogen and androgen of the endometrium and the fimbrial end of the FT was analysed using an in vitro short-term explant culture model. The endpoints assessed in the explants were the changes in mRNA and protein levels for AR, PR and the epithelial proliferative index after 24 h treatment with oestradiol (E2) or dihydrotestosterone (DHT). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The premenopausal endometrial functionalis glands (FG) displayed the well-known cyclic variation in cellular proliferation and steroid receptor scores. Compared with the endometrial FG, the matched FT epithelium (both fimbrial or isthmic ends) displayed a significantly lower proportion of cells expressing Ki67 (2.8% ± 2.2%, n = 18 vs 30.0% ± 26.3%, n = 16, P = 0.0018, respectively) accompanied with a significantly higher AR immunoscores (6.7 ± 2.7, n = 16 vs 0.3 ± 1.0, n = 10, P = 0.0136). The proportion of cells expressing Ki67 and the AR immunoscores of the FT epithelium correlated positively with endometrial luminal epithelium (r = 0.62, P = 0.005, and r = 0.68, P = 0.003, respectively). In vitro experiments suggested the tubal explants to be apparently less responsive to E2 yet more sensitive to DHT compared with the matched endometrium explants. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The short-term in vitro nature of the tissue explant cultures used in the study may not be representative of how different anatomical regions of the endometrium and FT behave in vivo. Our study included a high proportion of older premenopausal women with a regular menstrual cycle, which may therefore affect extrapolation of findings to a younger group. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Advancing our understanding of tubal and endometrial epithelial cell function has important implications for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis and cancer. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The work included in this article was funded by Wellbeing of Women project grants RG1073 and RG2137 (D.K.H.) and Wellbeing of Women Entry-Level Scholarship ELS706 (A.M). A.M. was also supported by an NIHR ACF fellowship grant. Further support received from Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Trust (S.M.), University of Liverpool (E.B. and A.W.). All authors declare there are no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Maclean
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - E Bunni
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - S Makrydima
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - A Withington
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - A M Kamal
- Pathology Department, Oncology Teaching Hospital, Baghdad Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - A J Valentijn
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - D K Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
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20
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Marla S, Mortlock S, Houshdaran S, Fung J, McKinnon B, Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Girling JE, Rogers PAW, Giudice LC, Montgomery GW. Genetic risk factors for endometriosis near estrogen receptor 1 and coexpression of genes in this region in endometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa082. [PMID: 33394050 PMCID: PMC8453628 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The etiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis are complex with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to disease risk. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified multiple signals in the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) region associated with endometriosis and other reproductive traits and diseases. In addition, candidate gene association studies identified signals in the ESR1 region associated with endometriosis risk suggesting genetic regulation of genes in this region may be important for reproductive health. This study aimed to investigate hormonal and genetic regulation of genes in the ESR1 region in human endometrium. Changes in serum oestradiol and progesterone concentrations and expression of hormone receptors ESR1 and progesterone receptor (PGR) were assessed in endometrial samples from 135 women collected at various stages of the menstrual cycle. Correlation between hormone concentrations, receptor expression and expression of genes in the ESR1 locus was investigated. The effect of endometriosis risk variants on expression of genes in the region was analyzed to identify gene targets. Hormone concentrations and receptor expression varied significantly across the menstrual cycle. Expression of genes in the ESR1 region correlated with progesterone concentration; however, they were more strongly correlated with expression of ESR1 and PGR suggesting coregulation of genes. There was no evidence that endometriosis risk variants directly regulated expression of genes in the region. Limited sample size and cellular heterogeneity in endometrial tissue may impact the ability to detect significant genetic effects on gene expression. Effects of these variants should be validated in a larger dataset and in relevant individual cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Marla
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - S Mortlock
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - S Houshdaran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - J Fung
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - B McKinnon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Department of Gynaecology, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - S J Holdsworth-Carson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - J E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - P A W Rogers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - L C Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - G W Montgomery
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
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21
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Molecular Mechanisms of Endometrial Functioning in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. ACTA BIOMEDICA SCIENTIFICA 2021. [DOI: 10.29413/abs.2020-5.6.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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22
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Sharma RK, Singh P. Histomorphometric analysis of goat uterine tissue on in vitro exposure with ovarian hormones and mifepristone. BULGARIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.15547/bjvm.2019-0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterus, the largest reproductive tract organ in female mammals, is the site of implantation of fertilised egg and foetus development. Uterus is a dynamic reproductive organ; its morphology alters with reproductive phase and steroidal cues. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of progesterone (P4), estrogen (E2) and antiprogestogen i.e., mifepristone on goat’s uterine histoarchitecture in in vitro short term culture. Uterine tissue slices were cultured in the presence of E2, P4 and mifepristone at the dose of 10–9 M, 10–7 M and 10–6 M respectively for 24 hours. Uter-ine morphology of E2- and P4-treated groups did not reveal marked changes from that of control group. Mifepristone treatment caused conspicuous changes in uterine histoarchitecture, led to congested endometrium, regressed uterine glands and constricted blood vessels. The changes ob-served in morphometry after E2 and P4 exposure included increased uterine gland diameter (47.00 and 45.95 µm respectively) and glandular epithelial cell height (18.37 and 17.43 µm respectively) while the mifepristone treatment resulted in significant reduction of gland diameter (34.95 µm) as well as epithelium height (14.25 µm) as compared to those in control group (39.9 and 15.56 µm respectively). These morphometrical changes revealed prominent regressive changes in anti-progestin treated group while E2 and P4 showed prolific effects in in vitro culture. Thus it is envis-aged that E2 and P4 induced characteristic progressive changes in the histologic structure especially in endometrial glands of the goat uterus while anti-steroidogenic formulation i.e. mifepristone severely reduced the normal histoarchitecture of the uterus which is a prerequisite for implanta-tion.
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23
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Palomba S, Piltonen TT, Giudice LC. Endometrial function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a comprehensive review. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:584-618. [PMID: 33302299 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. An endometrial component has been suggested to contribute to subfertility and poor reproductive outcomes in affected women. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this review was to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to support that endometrial function is altered in women with PCOS, whether clinical features of PCOS affect the endometrium, and whether there are evidence-based interventions to improve endometrial dysfunction in PCOS women. SEARCH METHODS An extensive literature search was performed from 1970 up to July 2020 using PubMed and Web of Science without language restriction. The search included all titles and abstracts assessing a relationship between PCOS and endometrial function, the role played by clinical and biochemical/hormonal factors related to PCOS and endometrial function, and the potential interventions aimed to improve endometrial function in women with PCOS. All published papers were included if considered relevant. Studies having a specific topic/hypothesis regarding endometrial cancer/hyperplasia in women with PCOS were excluded from the analysis. OUTCOMES Experimental and clinical data suggest that the endometrium differs in women with PCOS when compared to healthy controls. Clinical characteristics related to the syndrome, alone and/or in combination, may contribute to dysregulation of endometrial expression of sex hormone receptors and co-receptors, increase endometrial insulin-resistance with impaired glucose transport and utilization, and result in chronic low-grade inflammation, immune dysfunction, altered uterine vascularity, abnormal endometrial gene expression and cellular abnormalities in women with PCOS. Among several interventions to improve endometrial function in women with PCOS, to date, only lifestyle modification, metformin and bariatric surgery have the highest scientific evidence for clinical benefit. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Endometrial dysfunction and abnormal trophoblast invasion and placentation in PCOS women can predispose to miscarriage and pregnancy complications. Thus, patients and their health care providers should advise about these risks. Although currently no intervention can be universally recommended to reverse endometrial dysfunction in PCOS women, lifestyle modifications and metformin may improve underlying endometrial dysfunction and pregnancy outcomes in obese and/or insulin resistant patients. Bariatric surgery has shown its efficacy in severely obese PCOS patients, but a careful evaluation of the benefit/risk ratio is warranted. Large scale randomized controlled clinical trials should address these possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Palomba
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Terhi T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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24
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Reinholdt K, Kjaer SK, Guleria S, Frederiksen K, Mellemkjær L, Munk C, Jensen A. Risk of endometrial cancer among women with benign ovarian tumors - A Danish nationwide cohort study. Gynecol Oncol 2020; 157:549-554. [PMID: 32139149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The few studies on the association between benign ovarian tumors and endometrial cancer have been inconclusive. Using data from a large Danish register-based cohort study, we assessed the overall and type-specific risk of endometrial cancer among women with a benign ovarian tumor. METHODS We identified all Danish women diagnosed with a benign ovarian tumor during 1978-2016 in the Danish National Patient Register (n = 149,807). The study population was followed for subsequent development of endometrial cancer by linkage to the Danish Cancer Register and standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated after correction for hysterectomy. RESULTS After a one-year delayed study entry, women with benign ovarian tumors had a decreased incidence of endometrial cancer (SIR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.68-0.81) compared with women in the general Danish population. Both solid benign ovarian tumors (SIR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.70-0.88) and cystic benign ovarian tumors (SIR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.58-0.78) were associated with decreased incidences of endometrial cancer. Likewise, women with benign ovarian tumors had decreased incidences of both type I and type II endometrial cancer. The incidence of endometrial cancer was decreased to virtually the same magnitude irrespective of the age at diagnosis of a benign ovarian tumor and the reduction persisted throughout the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS The risk of endometrial cancer was decreased beyond the first year after a benign ovarian tumor and the decrease persisted for 20 or more years. The possible underlying mechanisms are not known and should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Reinholdt
- Virus, Lifestyle and Genes, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S K Kjaer
- Virus, Lifestyle and Genes, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S Guleria
- Virus, Lifestyle and Genes, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - K Frederiksen
- Statistics and Pharmacoepidemiology, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - L Mellemkjær
- Virus, Lifestyle and Genes, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Munk
- Virus, Lifestyle and Genes, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A Jensen
- Virus, Lifestyle and Genes, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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25
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Wen L, Liu Q, Xu J, Liu X, Shi C, Yang Z, Zhang Y, Xu H, Liu J, Yang H, Huang H, Qiao J, Tang F, Chen ZJ. Recent advances in mammalian reproductive biology. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 63:18-58. [PMID: 31813094 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-019-1572-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive biology is a uniquely important topic since it is about germ cells, which are central for transmitting genetic information from generation to generation. In this review, we discuss recent advances in mammalian germ cell development, including preimplantation development, fetal germ cell development and postnatal development of oocytes and sperm. We also discuss the etiologies of female and male infertility and describe the emerging technologies for studying reproductive biology such as gene editing and single-cell technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jingjing Xu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xixi Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Chaoyi Shi
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Zuwei Yang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Yili Zhang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Hong Xu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Hui Yang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Research Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Hefeng Huang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Jie Qiao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Fuchou Tang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250021, China.
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26
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Anupa G, Sharma JB, Roy KK, Sengupta J, Ghosh D. An assessment of the multifactorial profile of steroid-metabolizing enzymes and steroid receptors in the eutopic endometrium during moderate to severe ovarian endometriosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:111. [PMID: 31878927 PMCID: PMC6933937 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0553-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies of expression profiles of major endometrial effectors of steroid physiology in endometriosis have yielded markedly conflicting conclusions, presumably because the relative effects of type of endometriosis, fertility history and menstrual cycle phases on the measured variables were not considered. In the present study, endometrial mRNA and protein levels of several effectors of steroid biosynthesis and action in patients with stage III-IV ovarian endometriosis (OE) with known fertility and menstrual cycle histories were compared with the levels in control endometrium to test this concept. METHODS Endometrial samples were collected from patients without endometriosis (n = 32) or OE stages III-IV (n = 52) with known fertility and cycle histories. qRT-PCR and immunoblotting experiments were performed to measure levels of NR5A1, STAR, CYP19A1, HSD17Bs, ESRs and PGR transcripts and proteins, respectively. Tissue concentrations of steroids (P4, T, E1 and E2) were measured using ELISAs. RESULTS The levels of expression of aromatase and ERβ were lower (P < 0.0001) and 17β-HSD1 (P < 0.0001) and PRA (P < 0.01) were higher in OE endometrium. Lower aromatase levels and higher 17β-HSD1 levels were detected in fertile (aromatase: P < 0.05; 17β-HSD1: P < 0.0001) and infertile (aromatase: P < 0.0001; 17β-HSD1: P < 0.0001) OE endometrium than in the matched control tissues. Both proliferative (PP) and secretory (SP) phase OE samples expressed aromatase (P < 0.0001) and ERβ (PP: P < 0.001; SP: P < 0.01) at lower levels and 17β-HSD1 (P < 0.0001) and PRA (PP: P < 0.01; SP: P < 0.0001) at higher levels than matched controls. Higher 17β-HSD1 (P < 0.01) and E2 (P < 0.05) levels and a lower (P < 0.01) PRB/PRA ratio was observed in infertile secretory phase OE endometrium than in control. CONCLUSIONS We report that dysregulated expression of 17β-HSD1 and PGR resulting in hyperestrogenism and progesterone resistance during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, rather than an anomaly in aromatase expression, was the hallmark of eutopic endometrium from infertile OE patients. Furthermore, the results provide proof of concept that the fertility and menstrual cycle histories exerted relatively different effects on steroid physiology in the endometrium from OE patients compared with the control subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Anupa
- 0000 0004 1767 6103grid.413618.9Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- 0000 0004 1767 6103grid.413618.9Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jai Bhagwan Sharma
- 0000 0004 1767 6103grid.413618.9Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Kallol K. Roy
- 0000 0004 1767 6103grid.413618.9Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jayasree Sengupta
- 0000 0004 1767 6103grid.413618.9Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Debabrata Ghosh
- 0000 0004 1767 6103grid.413618.9Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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27
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Perturbed ovarian and uterine glucocorticoid receptor signaling accompanies the balanced regulation of mitochondrial function and NFκB-mediated inflammation under conditions of hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Life Sci 2019; 232:116681. [PMID: 31344428 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.116681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to determine whether glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling, mitochondrial function, and local inflammation in the ovary and uterus are intrinsically different in rats with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance compared to controls. MAIN METHODS Female Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to daily injections of human chorionic gonadotropin and/or insulin. KEY FINDINGS In both the ovary and the uterus, decreased expression of the two GR isoforms was concurrent with increased expression of Fkbp51 but not Fkbp52 mRNA in hCG + insulin-treated rats. However, these rats exhibited contrasting regulation of Hsd11b1 and Hsd11b2 mRNAs in the two tissues. Further, the expression of several oxidative phosphorylation-related proteins decreased in the ovary and uterus following hCG and insulin stimulation, in contrast to increased expression of many genes involved in mitochondrial function and homeostasis. Additionally, hCG + insulin-treated rats showed increased expression of ovarian and uterine NFκB signaling proteins and Tnfaip3 mRNA. The mRNA expression of Il1b, Il6, and Mmp2 was decreased in both tissues, while the mRNA expression of Tnfa, Ccl2, Ccl5, and Mmp3 was increased in the uterus. Ovaries and uteri from animals co-treated with hCG and insulin showed increased collagen deposition compared to controls. SIGNIFICANCE Our observations suggest that hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance disrupt ovarian and uterine GR activation and trigger compensatory or adaptive effects for mitochondrial homeostasis, allowing tissue-level maintenance of mitochondrial function in order to limit ovarian and uterine dysfunction. Our study also suggests that hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance activate NFκB signaling resulting in aberrant regulation of inflammation-related gene expression.
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28
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Wang T, Zhang J, Hu M, Zhang Y, Cui P, Li X, Li J, Vestin E, Brännström M, Shao LR, Billig H. Differential Expression Patterns of Glycolytic Enzymes and Mitochondria-Dependent Apoptosis in PCOS Patients with Endometrial Hyperplasia, an Early Hallmark of Endometrial Cancer, In Vivo and the Impact of Metformin In Vitro. Int J Biol Sci 2019; 15:714-725. [PMID: 30745857 PMCID: PMC6367580 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.31425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The underlying mechanisms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)-induced endometrial dysfunction are not fully understood, and although accumulating evidence shows that the use of metformin has beneficial effects in PCOS patients, the precise regulatory mechanisms of metformin on endometrial function under PCOS conditions have only been partially explored. To address these clinical challenges, this study aimed to assess the protein expression patterns of glycolytic enzymes, estrogen receptor (ER), and androgen receptor (AR) along with differences in mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in PCOS patients with and without endometrial hyperplasia in vivo and to investigate the effects of metformin in PCOS patients with endometrial hyperplasia in vitro. Here, we showed that compared to non-PCOS patients and PCOS patients without hyperplasia, the endometria from PCOS patients with hyperplasia had a distinct protein expression pattern of glycolytic enzymes, including pyruvate kinase isozyme M2 isoform (PKM2) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM). In PCOS patients with endometrial hyperplasia, increased glandular epithelial cell secretion and infiltrated stromal cells in the glands were associated with decreased PDH immunoreactivity in the epithelial cells. Using endometrial tissues from PCOS patients with hyperplasia, we found that in response to metformin treatment in vitro, hexokinase 2 (HK2) expression was decreased, whereas phosphofructokinase (PFK), PKM2, and lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) expression was increased compared to controls. Although there was no change in PDH expression, metformin treatment increased the expression of TFAM and cleaved caspase-3. Moreover, our in vivo study showed that while endometrial ERβ expression was no different between non-PCOS and PCOS patients regardless of whether or not hyperplasia was present, ERα and AR protein expression was gradually increased in women with PCOS following the onset of endometrial hyperplasia. Our in vitro study showed that treatment with metformin inhibited ERα expression without affecting ERβ expression. Our findings suggest that decreased glycolysis and increased mitochondrial activity might contribute to the onset of ERα-dependent endometrial hyperplasia and that metformin might directly reverse impaired glycolysis and normalize mitochondrial function in PCOS patients with endometrial hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- The School of Basic Medical Science, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Second Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 510120 Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, 510120 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuehui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China.,Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Peng Cui
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 200011 Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, 200011 Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 510120 Guangzhou, China
| | - Edvin Vestin
- The School of Basic Medical Science, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 41345 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linus R Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Håkan Billig
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
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29
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Wageh A, Fawzy M. PCOS patients; how the endometrium can be ready for frozen embryo transfer? A retrospective study. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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30
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Gibson DA, Simitsidellis I, Collins F, Saunders PTK. Endometrial Intracrinology: Oestrogens, Androgens and Endometrial Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3276. [PMID: 30360364 PMCID: PMC6214123 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral tissue metabolism of steroids (intracrinology) is now accepted as a key way in which tissues, such as the endometrium, can utilise inactive steroids present in the blood to respond to local physiological demands and 'fine-tune' the activation or inhibition of steroid hormone receptor-dependent processes. Expression of enzymes that play a critical role in the activation and inactivation of bioactive oestrogens (E1, E2) and androgens (A4, T, DHT), as well as expression of steroid hormone receptors, has been detected in endometrial tissues and cells recovered during the menstrual cycle. There is robust evidence that increased expression of aromatase is important for creating a local microenvironment that can support a pregnancy. Measurement of intra-tissue concentrations of steroids using liquid chromatography⁻tandem mass spectrometry has been important in advancing our understanding of a role for androgens in the endometrium, acting both as active ligands for the androgen receptor and as substrates for oestrogen biosynthesis. The emergence of intracrinology, associated with disordered expression of key enzymes such as aromatase, in the aetiology of common women's health disorders such as endometriosis and endometrial cancer has prompted renewed interest in the development of drugs targeting these pathways, opening up new opportunities for targeted therapies and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Gibson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Ioannis Simitsidellis
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Frances Collins
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ Edinburgh, UK.
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Lai TH, Chang FW, Lin JJ, Ling QD. Gene expression of human endometrial L-selectin ligand in relation to the phases of the natural menstrual cycle. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1443. [PMID: 29362381 PMCID: PMC5780486 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19911-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigates peptide components of L-selectin ligand (LSL) and their gene expressions in human endometrium during the natural menstrual cycle. We recruited 41 endometrial samples from reproductive-aged women with leiomyoma and undergoing hysterectomy and 11 endometrial samples from menopausal women as controls. Immunohistochemistry revealed strong MECA-79 expression from the early through the mid-secretory phase and low expression in menopausal endometrium. Five peptide components of LSL were detected in reproductive and menopausal endometrium by one-step quantitative RT-PCR: podocalyxin, endomucin, nepmucin, GlyCAM-1, and CD34. Endomucin differed significantly between the proliferative and early-secretory phases. CHST2 and CHST4 genes (which are involved in the generation of LSL epitopes) were expressed without significant differences among phases. The gene expression of progesterone receptor decreased from the proliferative to the late-secretory phase, and the difference was significant. However, estrogen receptor α expression showed stability among phases. The significant expression of endomucin between the proliferative and early-secretory phases might play a vital role in endometrial receptivity. Further studies are needed to investigate the factors that regulate the expression of endomucin and other LSL peptide components in different phases of the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Hsuan Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, 10693, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Institute of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, National Central University, Taoyuan City, 32001, Taiwan
| | - Fung-Wei Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, 11490, Taiwan
| | - Jun-Jie Lin
- Institute of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, National Central University, Taoyuan City, 32001, Taiwan
- Cathay Medical Research Institute, Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City, 22174, Taiwan
| | - Qing-Dong Ling
- Institute of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, National Central University, Taoyuan City, 32001, Taiwan.
- Cathay Medical Research Institute, Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City, 22174, Taiwan.
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MIG-6 negatively regulates STAT3 phosphorylation in uterine epithelial cells. Oncogene 2017; 37:255-262. [PMID: 28925396 PMCID: PMC5764811 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is the most common malignancy of the female genital tract.
Progesterone (P4) has been used for several decades in endometrial cancer treatment,
especially in women who wish to retain fertility. However, it is unpredictable which
patients will respond to P4 treatment and which may have a P4 resistant cancer. Therefore,
identifying the mechanism of P4 resistance is essential to improve the therapies for
endometrial cancer. Mitogen-inducible gene 6 (Mig-6) is a critical
mediator of progesterone receptor (PGR) action in the uterus. In order to study the
function of Mig-6 in P4 resistance, we generated a mouse model in which
we specifically ablated Mig-6 in uterine epithelial cells using
Sprr2f-cre mice
(Sprr2fcre+Mig-6f/f). Female mutant
mice develop endometrial hyperplasia due to aberrant phosphorylation of STAT3 and
proliferation of the endometrial epithelial cells. The results from our
immunoprecipitation and cell culture experiments showed that MIG-6 inhibited
phosphorylation of STAT3 via protein interactions. Our previous study showed P4 resistance
in mice with Mig-6 ablation in Pgr positive cells
(Pgrcre/+Mig-6f/f). However,
Sprr2fcre+Mig-6f/f mice were P4
responsive. P4 treatment significantly decreased STAT3 phosphorylation and epithelial
proliferation in the uterus of mutant mice. We showed that Mig-6 has an
important function of tumor suppressor via inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation in uterine
epithelial cells and the anti-tumor effects of P4 are mediated by the endometrial stroma.
This data helps to develop a new signaling pathway in the regulation of steroid hormones
in the uterus, and to overcome P4 resistance in human reproductive diseases, such as
endometrial cancer.
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Yoo JY, Ahn JI, Kim TH, Yu S, Ahn JY, Lim JM, Jeong JW. G-protein coupled receptor 64 is required for decidualization of endometrial stromal cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:5021. [PMID: 28694502 PMCID: PMC5503986 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05165-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Although GPR64 has an important role for male fertility, its physiological roles in the female reproductive system are still unknown. In the present study, immunohistochemical analysis reveals a spatiotemporal expression of GPR64 in the uterus during early pregnancy. Observation of remarkable induction of GPR64 expression in uterine decidual cells points to its potential physiological significance on decidualization. The decidualization of uterine stromal cells is a key event in implantation. Progesterone (P4) signaling is crucial for the decidualization of the endometrial stromal cells for successful pregnancy. Therefore, we examined ovarian steroid hormone regulation of GPR64 expression in the murine uterus. P4 induced GPR64 expression in the epithelial and stromal cells of the uterus in ovariectomized wild-type mice, but not in PRKO mice. ChIP analysis confirmed that PGR proteins were recruited on progesterone response element of Gpr64 gene in the uteri of wild-type mice treated with P4. Furthermore, the expression of GPR64 was increased in human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) during in vitro decidualization. Interestingly, small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown of GPR64 in hESCs remarkably reduced decidualization. These results suggest that Gpr64 has a crucial role in the decidualization of endometrial stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Yoon Yoo
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapid, MI, 49503, United States
| | - Jong Il Ahn
- Research Institutes of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapid, MI, 49503, United States
| | - Sungryul Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Semyung University, Jecheon, 27136, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Yeon Ahn
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Mook Lim
- Research Institutes of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapid, MI, 49503, United States.
- Department of Women's Health, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, MI, 49341, United States.
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Paulson M, Sahlin L, Hirschberg AL. Progesterone Receptors and Proliferation of the Endometrium in Obese Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-A Lifestyle Intervention Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:1244-1253. [PMID: 28388727 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-3155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with increased risk of endometrial cancer. This is usually explained by chronic anovulation and deficient progesterone activity. However, the role of progesterone receptors (PRs) in endometrial proliferation is unclear. OBJECTIVE To evaluate PRs in relation to endometrial proliferation in women with PCOS. DESIGN Cross-sectional study and lifestyle intervention. SETTING Clinical and laboratory research unit at a university hospital. PARTICIPANTS Twenty obese women with PCOS and 10 age- and body mass index-matched regularly menstruating controls. INTERVENTION Dietary management and physical exercise. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Endometrial messenger RNA (mRNA) levels and immunostaining of the nuclear PRs A (PRA) and B (PRB), nongenomic progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) and 2 (PGRMC2), and proliferation marker Ki67. RESULTS Before lifestyle intervention, mRNA expression of PRAB was lower while PRB was higher in proliferative endometrium of obese women with PCOS compared with controls (P < 0.05). After lifestyle intervention and weight loss, mRNA expression of PRAB was still low but PRB mRNA decreased and was not different to controls in proliferative endometrium (P < 0.01). The subgroup of PCOS women who remained anovulatory displayed higher protein levels of PRB, PGRMC1, PGRMC2 and of the proliferative marker Ki67 on cycle days 21 to 23 than controls (P < 0.05). In contrast, the subgroup of PCOS women with confirmed ovulation showed immunostaining, including Ki67, in secretory endometrium that was not different to controls, except for higher PRA (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Lifestyle intervention improves, but not fully restores PR expression and decreases proliferation in secretory endometrium of obese PCOS women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Paulson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
| | - Lena Sahlin
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 17177, Sweden
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
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Wu D, Kimura F, Zheng L, Ishida M, Niwa Y, Hirata K, Takebayashi A, Takashima A, Takahashi K, Kushima R, Zhang G, Murakami T. Chronic endometritis modifies decidualization in human endometrial stromal cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:16. [PMID: 28259137 PMCID: PMC5336610 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0233-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic endometritis (CE) is a continuous inflammation of uterine endometrium, and it is usually symptomless. As CE has been thought not to affect the reproductive status and general health of affected women, its significance has not been explored. However, recent studies have shown that CE is related with repeated implantation failures after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer, unexplained infertility, and recurrent miscarriages. As decidua differentiates to support the implantation process and maintains the pregnancy, we hypothesized that CE may influence the process of decidualization. METHODS Seventeen patients were employed in the experiment involving culture of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). After obtaining endometrial samples, ESCs were harvested and cultured for 13 days. The concentrations in culture media and the protein expressions in ESCs of prolactin (PRL) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), two well known decidualization markers used in a large number of in vitro models, were analyzed by ELISA and Western blotting, respectively, and the cell numbers were also counted. The mRNA levels of PRL and IGFBP-1 were tested by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Since sex hormone induce proliferation and differentiation to decidua via binding to the sex hormone receptors (ERα, ERβ, PRA, and PRB), their expression was assessed in another 17 patients' paraffin-embedded endometrial tissue specimens by immunohistochemistry and semi-quantified by H-score. RESULTS Increased cell numbers and reduced secretion of PRL and IGFBP-1 were detected by ELISA in the ESCs of CE patients after culture for 13 days compared with non-CE patients. The decreased protein expression of IGFBP-1 in ESCs of CE patients was detected by Western blotting. The decreased expression of PRL mRNA and IGFBP-1 mRNA were detected by RT-PCR. Increased expressions of ERα, ERβ, PRA, and PRB were observed in the stromal cells of CE patients in comparison to non-CE patients, whereas increased expressions of ERα and ERβ were detected in the glandular cells of CE. CONCLUSION Our data suggests that CE modifies decidualization of human ESC through untuning the function of sex steroid hormone receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
- 0000 0001 2204 9268grid.410736.7Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1st Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150001 China
| | - Fuminori Kimura
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Luyi Zheng
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Mitsuaki Ishida
- grid.410783.9Department of Clinical Sciences and Laboratory Medicine, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shin-machi, Hirakata City, Osaka 573-1010 Japan
| | - Yoko Niwa
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Kimiko Hirata
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Akie Takebayashi
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Akiko Takashima
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Kentaro Takahashi
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Ryoji Kushima
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Guangmei Zhang
- 0000 0001 2204 9268grid.410736.7Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1st Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150001 China
| | - Takashi Murakami
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
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Ahn JI, Yoo JY, Kim TH, Kim YI, Ferguson SD, Fazleabas AT, Young SL, Lessey BA, Ahn JY, Lim JM, Jeong JW. cAMP-Response Element-Binding 3-Like Protein 1 (CREB3L1) is Required for Decidualization and its Expression is Decreased in Women with Endometriosis. Curr Mol Med 2016; 16:276-87. [PMID: 26917262 DOI: 10.2174/1566524016666160225153659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a major cause of infertility and pelvic pain, affecting more than 10% of reproductive-aged women. Progesterone resistance has been observed in the endometrium of women with this disease, as evidenced by alterations in progesterone-responsive gene and protein expression. cAMPResponse Element-Binding 3-like protein 1 (Creb3l1) has previously been identified as a progesterone receptor (PR) target gene in mouse uterus via high density DNA microarray analysis. However, CREB3L1 function has not been studied in the context of endometriosis and uterine biology. In this study, we validated progesterone (P4) regulation of Creb3l1 in the uteri of wild-type and progesterone receptor knockout (PRKO) mice. Furthermore, we observed that CREB3L1 expression was significantly higher in secretory phase human endometrium compared to proliferative phase and that CREB3L1 expression was significantly decreased in the endometrium of women with endometriosis. Lastly, by transfecting CREB3L1 siRNA into cultured human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) prior to hormonal induction of in vitro decidualization, we showed that CREB3L1 is required for the decidualization process. Interestingly, phosphorylation of ERK1/2, critical factor for decidualization, was also significantly reduced in CREB3L1-silenced hESCs. It is known that hESCs from patients with endometriosis show impaired decidualization and that dysregulation of the P4-PR signaling axis is linked to a variety of endometrial diseases including infertility and endometriosis. Therefore, these results suggest that CREB3L1 is required for decidualization in mice and humans and may be linked to the pathogenesis of endometriosis in a P4-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - J M Lim
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Bioevaluation, Major in Biomodulation, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea.
| | - J-W Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, 333 Bostwick Avenue NE, Suite 4024, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA.
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37
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Kumar R, Yadav A, Pakrasi PL. Expression of ER-α and ER-β during peri-implantation period in uterus is essential for implantation and decidualization in golden hamster. Life Sci 2016; 170:115-122. [PMID: 27939940 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The role of estrogen in embryo implantation in golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) is still ambiguous. In order to clarify it, we investigated the spatial distribution and expression of estrogen receptors, ER-α and ER-β in the uterus of pregnant hamster during peri-implantation period and identified the effect of estrogen receptor antagonist ICI-182,780 on the embryo implantation. MAIN METHODS We performed in vivo experiments on early pregnant hamsters involving treatment with ICI-182,780, an estrogen receptor antagonist. Immunohistochemistry, western blot analysis and quantitative PCR were employed to evaluate the spatio-temporal distribution and expression of ER-α and ER-β in the uterus of normal early pregnant and treated hamsters. KEY FINDINGS Results showed that embryo implantation was completely absent in ICI-182,780 treated uterine horn while, normal implantation occurred in control and vehicle treated horns. Both the receptors were differentially expressed in the uterus of hamster from day 1 (D1) to day7 (D7). In contrast, treated horns without any implantation site showed no trace of any receptors. Protein and mRNA expression of both the receptors were high around the day of implantation while, ER-β expression was up-regulated on D7 of embryo implantation. P value˂0.05 is considered significant. SIGNIFICANCE Spatio-temporal expression of ERs in the uterus during peri-implantation period have crucial role for endometrium receptivity and implantation in hamster. Recurrent implantation failure is the devastating problem among the desirable couple and is mainly due to defect in endometrium receptivity. This study may provide a new insight to manage the problem of idiopathic infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randhir Kumar
- Embryo Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India.
| | - Akhilesh Yadav
- Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR), Varanasi, India.
| | - P L Pakrasi
- Embryo Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India.
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38
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Evidence for a dynamic role for mononuclear phagocytes during endometrial repair and remodelling. Sci Rep 2016; 6:36748. [PMID: 27827431 PMCID: PMC5101509 DOI: 10.1038/srep36748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In women, endometrial breakdown, which is experienced as menstruation, is characterised by high concentrations of inflammatory mediators and immune cells which account for ~40% of the stromal compartment during tissue shedding. These inflammatory cells are known to play a pivotal role in tissue breakdown but their contribution to the rapid scarless repair of endometrium remains poorly understood. In the current study we used a mouse model of menstruation to investigate dynamic changes in mononuclear phagocytes during endometrial repair and remodelling. Menstruation was simulated in MacGreen mice to allow visualisation of CSF1R+ mononuclear phagocytes. Immunohistochemistry revealed dynamic spatio-temporal changes in numbers and location of CSF1R-EGFP+ cells and Ly6G+ neutrophils. Flow cytometry confirmed a striking increase in numbers of GFP+ cells during repair (24 h): influxed cells were 66% F4/80+Gr-1+ and 30% F4/80−Gr-1+. Immunostaining identified distinct populations of putative ‘classical’ monocytes (GFP+F4/80−), monocyte-derived macrophages (GFP+F4/80+) and a stable population of putative tissue-resident macrophages (GFP-F4/80+) localised to areas of breakdown, repair and remodelling respectively. Collectively, these data provide the first compelling evidence to support a role for different populations of monocytes/macrophages in endometrial repair and provide the platform for future studies on the role of these cells in scarless healing.
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Gibson DA, Simitsidellis I, Saunders PTK. Regulation of androgen action during establishment of pregnancy. J Mol Endocrinol 2016; 57:R35-47. [PMID: 27067639 DOI: 10.1530/jme-16-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
During the establishment of pregnancy, the ovarian-derived hormones progesterone and oestradiol regulate remodelling of the endometrium to promote an environment that is able to support and maintain a successful pregnancy. Decidualisation is characterised by differentiation of endometrial stromal cells that secrete growth factors and cytokines that regulate vascular remodelling and immune cell influx. This differentiation process is critical for reproduction, and inadequate decidualisation is implicated in the aetiology of pregnancy disorders such as foetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. In contrast to progesterone and oestradiol, the role of androgens in regulating endometrial function is poorly understood. Androgen receptors are expressed in the endometrium, and androgens are reported to regulate both the transcriptome and the secretome of endometrial stromal cells. In androgen-target tissues, circulating precursors are activated to mediate local effects, and recent studies report that steroid concentrations detected in endometrial tissue are distinct to those detected in the peripheral circulation. New evidence suggests that decidualisation results in dynamic changes in the expression of androgen biosynthetic enzymes, highlighting a role for pre-receptor regulation of androgen action during the establishment of pregnancy. These results suggest that such enzymes could be future therapeutic targets for the treatment of infertility associated with endometrial dysfunction. In conclusion, these data support the hypothesis that androgens play a beneficial role in regulating the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Future studies should be focussed on investigating the safety and efficacy of androgen supplementation with the potential for utilisation of novel therapeutics, such as selective androgen receptor modulators, to improve reproductive outcomes in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Gibson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation ResearchQueen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ioannis Simitsidellis
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation ResearchQueen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation ResearchQueen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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40
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Wagenfeld A, Saunders PTK, Whitaker L, Critchley HOD. Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs): progesterone receptor action, mode of action on the endometrium and treatment options in gynecological therapies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2016; 20:1045-54. [PMID: 27138351 PMCID: PMC4989858 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2016.1180368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The progesterone receptor plays an essential role in uterine physiology and reproduction. Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) have emerged as a valuable treatment option for hormone dependent conditions like uterine fibroids, which have a major impact on women’s quality of life. SPRMs offer potential for longer term medical treatment and thereby patients may avoid surgical intervention. Areas covered: The authors have reviewed the functional role of the progesterone receptor and its isoforms and their molecular mechanisms of action via genomic and non-genomic pathways. The current knowledge of the interaction of the PR and different SPRMs tested in clinical trials has been reviewed. The authors focused on pharmacological effects of selected SPRMs on the endometrium, their anti-proliferative action, and their suppression of bleeding. Potential underlying molecular mechanisms and the specific histological changes in the endometrium induced by SPRMs (PAEC; Progesterone receptor modulator Associated Endometrial Changes) have been discussed. The clinical potential of this compound class including its impact on quality of life has been covered. Expert Opinion: Clinical studies indicate SPRMs hold promise for treatment of benign gynecological complaints (fibroids, heavy menstrual bleeding; HMB). There however remains a knowledge gap concerning mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Wagenfeld
- a Bayer HealthCare , Drug Discovery, TRG Gynecological Therapies , Berlin , Germany
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- b MRC Centre for Inflammation Research , The University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh , UK
| | - Lucy Whitaker
- c MRC Centre for Reproductive Health , The University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh , UK
| | - Hilary O D Critchley
- c MRC Centre for Reproductive Health , The University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh , UK
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41
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KOUKOURA OURANIA, SIFAKIS STAVROS, SPANDIDOS DEMETRIOSA. DNA methylation in endometriosis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:2939-48. [PMID: 26934855 PMCID: PMC4805102 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.4925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined by the presence and growth of functional endometrial tissue, outside the uterine cavity, primarily in the ovaries, pelvic peritoneum and rectovaginal septum. Although it is a benign disease, it presents with malignant characteristics, such as invasion to surrounding tissues, metastasis to distant locations and recurrence following treatment. Accumulating evidence suggests that various epigenetic aberrations may play an essential role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Aberrant DNA methylation represents a possible mechanism repsonsible for this disease, linking gene expression alterations observed in endometriosis with hormonal and environmental factors. Several lines of evidence indicate that endometriosis may partially be due to selective epigenetic deregulations influenced by extrinsic factors. Previous studies have shed light into the epigenetic component of endometriosis, reporting variations in the epigenetic patterns of genes known to be involved in the aberrant hormonal, immunologic and inflammatory status of endometriosis. Although recent studies, utilizing advanced molecular techniques, have allowed us to further elucidate the possible association of DNA methylation with altered gene expression, whether these molecular changes represent the cause or merely the consequence of the disease is a question which remains to be answered. This review provides an overview of the current literature on the role of DNA methylation in the pathophysiology and malignant evolution of endometriosis. We also provide insight into the mechanisms through which DNA methylation-modifying agents may be the next step in the research of the pharmaceutical treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- OURANIA KOUKOURA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41500, Greece
| | - STAVROS SIFAKIS
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - DEMETRIOS A. SPANDIDOS
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71409, Greece
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Schatz F, Guzeloglu-Kayisli O, Arlier S, Kayisli UA, Lockwood CJ. The role of decidual cells in uterine hemostasis, menstruation, inflammation, adverse pregnancy outcomes and abnormal uterine bleeding. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:497-515. [PMID: 26912000 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human pregnancy requires robust hemostasis to prevent hemorrhage during extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion of the decidualized endometrium, modification of spiral arteries and post-partum processes. However, decidual hemorrhage (abruption) can occur throughout pregnancy from poorly transformed spiral arteries, causing fetal death or spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), or it can promote the aberrant placentation observed in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and pre-eclampsia; all leading causes of perinatal or maternal morbidity and mortality. In non-fertile cycles, the decidua undergoes controlled menstrual bleeding. Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) accompanying progestin-only, long-acting, reversible contraception (pLARC) accounts for most discontinuations of these safe and highly effective agents, thereby contributing to unwanted pregnancies and abortion. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of decidual cells in uterine hemostasis, menstruation, inflammation, adverse pregnancy outcomes and abnormal uterine bleeding. METHODS We conducted a critical review of the literature arising from PubMed searches up to December 2015, regarding in situ and in vitro expression and regulation of several specific proteins involved in uterine hemostasis in decidua and cycling endometrium. In addition, we discussed clinical and molecular mechanisms associated with pLARC-induced AUB and pregnancy complications with abruptions, chorioamnionitis or pre-eclampsia. RESULTS Progestin-induced decidualization of estradiol-primed human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) increases in vivo and in vitro expression of tissue factor (TF) and type-1 plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) while inhibiting plasminogen activators (PAs), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and the vasoconstrictor, endothelin-1 (ET-1). These changes in decidual cell-derived regulators of hemostasis, fibrinolysis, extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover, and vascular tone prevent hemorrhage during EVT invasion and vascular remodeling. In non-fertile cycles, progesterone withdrawal reduces TF and PAI-1 while increasing PA, MMPs and ET-1, causing menstrual-associated bleeding, fibrinolysis, ECM degradation and ischemia. First trimester decidual hemorrhage elicits later adverse outcomes including pregnancy loss, pre-eclampsia, abruption, IUGR and PTB. Decidual hemorrhage generates excess thrombin that binds to decidual cell-expressed protease-activated receptors (PARs) to induce chemokines promoting shallow placentation; such bleeding later in pregnancy generates thrombin to down-regulate decidual cell progesterone receptors and up-regulate cytokines and MMPs linked to PTB. Endometria of pLARC users display ischemia-induced excess vasculogenesis and progestin inhibition of spiral artery vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration leading to dilated fragile vessels prone to bleeding. Moreover, aberrant TF-derived thrombin signaling also contributes to the pathogenesis of endometriosis via induction of angiogenesis, inflammation and cell survival. CONCLUSION Perivascular decidualized HESCs promote endometrial hemostasis during placentation yet facilitate menstruation through progestational regulation of hemostatic, proteolytic, and vasoactive proteins. Pathological endometrial hemorrhage elicits excess local thrombin generation, which contributes to pLARC associated AUB, endometriosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes through several biochemical mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick Schatz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Ozlem Guzeloglu-Kayisli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Sefa Arlier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Umit A Kayisli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Charles J Lockwood
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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Demiral İ, Doğan M, Baştu E, Buyru F. Genomic, proteomic and lipidomic evaluation of endometrial receptivity. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 12:237-243. [PMID: 28913076 PMCID: PMC5588478 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.98475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is a complex phenomenon that plays a vital role in infertility. Although quality of embryo can be evaluated for a successful implantation, endometrial receptivity is still an unknown factor. With advances in technology, the microarray approach has provided an 'omic' tool to evaluate endometrial receptivity. In Latin, 'omic' means the whole family. The genomic, proteomic, and lipidomic evaluations of endometrium mean a wholesome evaluation of the genes, lipids and proteins of the endometrium. Evaluation of receptivity with this three-way approach may provide insight to the potential markers of implantation. Genomic analysis has been limited to date because not every gene alteration affects protein expression. Lipidomic analysis has recently gained popularity because lipids are strictly controlled during the implantation period. In summary, with the recent advances in microarray technology, genomic, lipidomic, and proteomic analyses of the endometrium may provide 'optimal' evaluation tools and criteria to assess receptivity in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- İrem Demiral
- İstanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Murat Doğan
- Acıbadem Fulya Hospital, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ercan Baştu
- İstanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Faruk Buyru
- İstanbul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
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Li X, Pishdari B, Cui P, Hu M, Yang HP, Guo YR, Jiang HY, Feng Y, Billig H, Shao R. Regulation of Androgen Receptor Expression Alters AMPK Phosphorylation in the Endometrium: In Vivo and In Vitro Studies in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int J Biol Sci 2015; 11:1376-89. [PMID: 26681917 PMCID: PMC4671995 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.13109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The failure of reproductive success in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients could be in part due to endometrial dysfunction. However, no studies have investigated any causality between androgen, androgen receptor (AR) expression, and adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation in the endometrium under physiological and pathological conditions. In the present study, we show that 1) endometrial AR expression levels fluctuate in non-PCOS and PCOS patients during the menstrual cycle; 2) the menstrual phase-dependent alteration of p-AMPKα expression occurs in non-PCOS patients but not in PCOS patients; 3) AR expression is higher in PCOS patients than non-PCOS patients during hyperplasia while AMPKα activation (indicated by the ratio of p-AMPKα to AMPKα); and 4) co-localization of AR and Ki-67 in epithelial cell nuclei is observed in endometrial hyperplasia. Importantly, using in vitro human tissue culture and an in vivo 5α-dihydrotestosterone-treated rat model, we show that the action of androgen on AMPKα activation is likely mediated through nuclear AR, especially in epithelial cells. Collectively, we present evidence that AR expression and AMPKα activation depend on menstrual cycle phase and the presence of PCOS, and the data suggest that AR-mediated regulation of AMPKα activation might play a role in the development of endometrial hyperplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. ; 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Bano Pishdari
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Peng Cui
- 4. Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Hu
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hong-Ping Yang
- 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Rong Guo
- 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Yuan Jiang
- 2. Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China; ; 3. Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Feng
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. ; 4. Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Håkan Billig
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ruijin Shao
- 1. Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Cui P, Li X, Wang X, Feng Y, Lin JF, Billig H, Shao R. Lack of cyclical fluctuations of endometrial GLUT4 expression in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: Evidence for direct regulation of GLUT4 by steroid hormones. BBA CLINICAL 2015; 4:85-91. [PMID: 26675316 PMCID: PMC4661728 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Background Determination of the role of steroid hormones in expression and regulation of endometrial glucose transport 4 (GLUT4) in humans is important for understanding endometrial disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common hormone-imbalance disease. Methods Endometrial biopsy samples were collected from non-PCOS patients with regular menstrual cycles or with hyperplasia and from PCOS patients with or without hyperplasia. In addition, endometrial tissues from postmenopausal women were incubated with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG, 10 IU/ml), 17β-estradiol (E2, 10 nM), progesterone (P4, 100 nM), or a combination of E2 and P4 for 24 h. The expression of GLUT4 was measured at the mRNA level using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and at the protein level using Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Results A cyclical change in GLUT4 expression pattern was observed in non-PCOS patients, and a high level of GLUT4 expression was seen in the proliferative phase compared to the secretory phase. Low levels of GLUT4 expression were found in PCOS patients compared to menstrual cycle phase-matched non-PCOS patients, and there was no significant change in GLUT4 expression in PCOS patients during the menstrual cycle. GLUT4 was localized in both epithelial and stromal cells, with notable changes in epithelial cells. We postulate that decreased GLUT4 expression might be regulated by steroid hormones. In support of this, we showed that in cultured endometrial tissues hCG and E2 alone had no effect on GLUT4 expression. However, P4 alone and P4 in combination with E2 decreased GLUT4 expression. Compared with non-PCOS controls, PCOS patients with endometrial hyperplasia exhibited decreased GLUT4 expression in particular in the epithelial cells. Conclusion We conclude that P4 can induce changes in endometrial GLUT4 expression during the menstrual cycle and that abnormal hormonal conditions such as PCOS disrupt normal patterns of GLUT4 expression in endometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Cui
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden ; Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 200011, Shanghai China ; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, 200011 Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqin Wang
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden ; BIOMATCELL VINN Excellence Center of Biomaterials and Cell Therapy, Department of Biomaterials, Institute of Clinical Sciences, The Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 40530, Sweden
| | - Yi Feng
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China ; Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jin-Fang Lin
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 200011, Shanghai China ; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, 200011 Shanghai, China
| | - Håkan Billig
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
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Masuda H, Maruyama T, Gargett CE, Miyazaki K, Matsuzaki Y, Okano H, Tanaka M. Endometrial side population cells: potential adult stem/progenitor cells in endometrium. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:84. [PMID: 26316062 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.131490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine endometrium is one of the most important organs for species preservation. However, the physiology of human endometrium remains poorly understood, because the human endometrium undergoes rapid and large changes during each menstrual cycle and it is very difficult to investigate human endometrium as one organ. This remarkable regenerative capacity of human endometrium strongly suggests the existence of adult stem cells, and physiology of endometrium cannot be explained without adult stem cells. Therefore, investigating endometrial stem/progenitor cells should lead to a breakthrough in understanding the normal endometrial physiology and the pathophysiology of endometrial neoplastic disorders, such as endometriosis and endometrial cancer. Several cell populations have been discovered as putative endometrial stem/progenitor cells. Emerging evidence reveals that the endometrial side population (SP) is one of the potential endometrial stem/progenitor populations. Of all the endometrial stem/progenitor cell candidates, the endometrial SP (ESP) is best investigated in vitro and in vivo, and has the largest number of references. In this review, we provide an overview of the accumulating evidence for the ESP cells, both directly from human endometria and from cultured endometrial cells. Furthermore, SP cells are compared to other potential stem/progenitor cells, and we discuss their stem cell properties. We also discuss the difficulties and unsolved issues in endometrial stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotaka Masuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Maruyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Monash Institute of Medical Research and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kaoru Miyazaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yumi Matsuzaki
- Department of Life Science Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo, Shimane, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mamoru Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Xu J, Li M, Zhang L, Xiong H, Lai L, Guo M, Zong T, Zhang D, Yang B, Wu L, Tang M, Kuang H. Expression and regulation of androgen receptor in the mouse uterus during early pregnancy and decidualization. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:898-906. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjie Xu
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Mo Li
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Hao Xiong
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Lidan Lai
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Meijun Guo
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Teng Zong
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Dalei Zhang
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Bei Yang
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Min Tang
- Department of Cell Biology; School of Medicine; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
| | - Haibin Kuang
- Department of Physiology; Nanchang University; Nanchang Jiangxi China
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Li Y, Gao R, Liu X, Chen X, Liao X, Geng Y, Ding Y, Wang Y, He J. Folate Deficiency Could Restrain Decidual Angiogenesis in Pregnant Mice. Nutrients 2015; 7:6425-45. [PMID: 26247969 PMCID: PMC4555123 DOI: 10.3390/nu7085284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of birth defects induced by folate deficiency was focused on mainly in fetal development. Little is known about the effect of folate deficiency on the maternal uterus, especially on decidual angiogenesis after implantation which establishes vessel networks to support embryo development. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of folate deficiency on decidual angiogenesis. Serum folate levels were measured by electrochemiluminescence. The status of decidual angiogenesis was examined by cluster designation 34 (CD34) immunohistochemistry and the expression of angiogenic factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), placental growth factor (PLGF), and VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) were also tested. Serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), progesterone (P4), and estradiol (E2) were detected by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The folate-deficient mice had a lower folate level and a higher Hcy level. Folate deficiency restrained decidual angiogenesis with significant abnormalities in vascular density and the enlargement and elongation of the vascular sinus. It also showed a reduction in the expressions of VEGFA, VEGFR2, and PLGF. In addition, the serum levels of P4, E2, LH, and PRL were reduced in folate-deficient mice, and the expression of progesterone receptor (PR) and estrogen receptor α (ERα) were abnormal. These results indicated that folate deficiency could impaire decidual angiogenesis and it may be related to the vasculotoxic properties of Hcy and the imbalance of the reproductive hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Li
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Rufei Gao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Xueqing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Xinggui Liao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yanqing Geng
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yubin Ding
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Junlin He
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
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Wang Y, Meng C, Wei Q, Shi F, Mao D. Expression and regulation of scavenger receptor class B type 1 in the rat ovary and uterus during the estrous cycle. Acta Histochem 2015; 117:297-304. [PMID: 25817199 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2015.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Scavenger receptor class B type 1 (SR-B1) preferentially mediates the selective uptake of high density lipoprotein-cholesterol ester and the delivery of cholesterol for steroidogenesis. Although multiple analyses have investigated the function of SR-B1 in the liver, adrenal and ovary, its expression in rat ovary and uterus during the estrous cycle is lacking. In the present study, real-time PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to investigate SR-B1 expression in the rat ovary and uterus during the estrous cycle. The results demonstrated that ovarian SR-B1 expression was in a stage-dependent manner, continuously increased from proestrus and kept elevated during metoestrus, while uterine SR-B1 expression decreased from proestrus to diestrus. To determine whether ovarian and uterine SR-B1 expression were affected by sex steroid hormones, immature rats were treated with 17 β-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), or their antagonists from postnatal days 24-26. Results showed that the levels of SR-B1 mRNA and protein were significantly up-regulated by E2 in both the ovary and uterus. IHC results showed that SR-B1 was primarily localized in the oocytes, theca internal cells (T-I) of follicles, interstitial cells (IC) as well as corpus luteum (CL), but not granulosa cells (GC) in the ovary during the estrous cycle. Uterine SR-B1 was highly expressed in the endometrial luminal epithelial cells (LEC) and glandular epithelial cells (GEC) as well as in the circular muscle (CM) cells, and weak staining in stromal cells (SC) through estrous cycle. Taken together, SR-B1 expression in the ovary and uterus across the estrous cycle demonstrate that SR-B1 may be involved in uterine function, follicular development as well as luteal function.
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K-Ras 4A Transcript variant is up-regulated in eutopic endometrium of endometriosis patients during proliferative phase of menstrual cycle. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2014; 292:225-9. [PMID: 25537670 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-014-3596-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS K-Ras transcripts comprise two main isoforms: K-Ras 4A and K-Ras 4B, which act differently. The expression of both isoforms was reported in many human tissues. However, K-Ras 4B was the major expressed transcript variant. An increased expression of K-Ras 4B mRNA was reported in eutopic endometrium of endometriosis patients. In this way, we aimed to study the expression of K-Ras 4A transcript in eutopic endometrium related to endometriosis. METHODS Employing exon4-flanking primers, K-Ras isoforms were simultaneously amplified in a RT-PCR reaction. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed using GAPDH as an internal control. K-Ras 4A transcript expression in eutopic endometrium was analyzed by ΔΔC T method. RESULTS We identified existence of both of K-Ras 4A and K-Ras 4B in eutopic endometrium of patients and controls. Quantitative real-time analysis demonstrated that K-Ras 4A expression was 2.7-fold higher in endometriosis than non-endometriosis eutopic samples. Interestingly, this overexpression mainly occurs through the proliferative phase of menstrual cycle. CONCLUSION The findings bring to light the eminent role of K-Ras 4A in endometriosis. This splice variant which is known for promoting apoptosis could be an effective factor in balance between proliferation and death of eutopic endometrial cells.
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