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Gong Y, Liu M, Zhang Q, Li J, Cai H, Ran J, Ma L, Ma Y, Quan S. Lysine acetyltransferase 14 mediates TGF-β-induced fibrosis in ovarian endometrioma via co-operation with serum response factor. J Transl Med 2024; 22:561. [PMID: 38867256 PMCID: PMC11167823 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05243-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrogenesis within ovarian endometrioma (endometrioma), mainly induced by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), is characterized by myofibroblast over-activation and excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, contributing to endometrioma-associated symptoms such as infertility by impairing ovarian reserve and oocyte quality. However, the precise molecular mechanisms that underpin the endometrioma- associated fibrosis progression induced by TGF-β remain poorly understood. METHODS The expression level of lysine acetyltransferase 14 (KAT14) was validated in endometrium biopsies from patients with endometrioma and healthy controls, and the transcription level of KAT14 was further confirmed by analyzing a published single-cell transcriptome (scRNA-seq) dataset of endometriosis. We used overexpression, knockout, and knockdown approaches in immortalized human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) or human primary ectopic endometrial stromal cells (EcESCs) to determine the role of KAT14 in TGF-β-induced fibrosis. Furthermore, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) carrying KAT14-shRNA was used in an endometriosis mice model to assess the role of KAT14 in vivo. RESULTS KAT14 was upregulated in ectopic lesions from endometrioma patients and predominantly expressed in activated fibroblasts. In vitro studies showed that KAT14 overexpression significantly promoted a TGF-β-induced profibrotic response in endometrial stromal cells, while KAT14 silencing showed adverse effects that could be rescued by KAT14 re-enhancement. In vivo, Kat14 knockdown ameliorated fibrosis in the ectopic lesions of the endometriosis mouse model. Mechanistically, we showed that KAT14 directly interacted with serum response factor (SRF) to promote the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) by increasing histone H4 acetylation at promoter regions; this is necessary for TGF-β-induced ECM production and myofibroblast differentiation. In addition, the knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of SRF significantly attenuated KAT14-mediating profibrotic effects under TGF-β treatment. Notably, the KAT14/SRF complex was abundant in endometrioma samples and positively correlated with α-SMA expression, further supporting the key role of KAT14/SRF complex in the progression of endometrioma-associated fibrogenesis. CONCLUSION Our results shed light on KAT14 as a key effector of TGF-β-induced ECM production and myofibroblast differentiation in EcESCs by promoting histone H4 acetylation via co-operating with SRF, representing a potential therapeutic target for endometrioma-associated fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Gong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Mian Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523001, China
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jinjing Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Hong Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Jing Ran
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Linna Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Yanlin Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hainan Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, 54-1 LongHua road, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China.
| | - Song Quan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China.
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Ochoa Bernal MA, Fazleabas AT. The Known, the Unknown and the Future of the Pathophysiology of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5815. [PMID: 38892003 PMCID: PMC11172035 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115815] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain and infertility, affecting 10% of women of reproductive age. A delay of up to 9 years is estimated between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of endometriosis. Endometriosis is currently defined as the presence of endometrial epithelial and stromal cells at ectopic sites; however, advances in research on endometriosis have some authors believing that endometriosis should be re-defined as "a fibrotic condition in which endometrial stroma and epithelium can be identified". There are several theories on the etiology of the disease, but the origin of endometriosis remains unclear. This review addresses the role of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are naturally occurring post-transcriptional regulatory molecules, in endometriotic lesion development, the inflammatory environment within the peritoneal cavity, including the role that cytokines play during the development of the disease, and how animal models have helped in our understanding of the pathology of this enigmatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ariadna Ochoa Bernal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
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Luo L, Zhao L, Cui L, Peng C, Ou S, Zeng Y, Liu B. The roles of chromatin regulatory factors in endometriosis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:863-873. [PMID: 38270747 PMCID: PMC11052748 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03026-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease and one of the most common gynecological diseases in women of reproductive age. The aim of the review was to explore the relationship between the chromatin regulatory factors and endometriosis. METHODS By searching for literature on chromatin regulators and endometriosis in PuMed. Finally, 98 documents were selected. RESULTS Chromatin regulators (CRs) are essential epigenetic regulatory factors that can regulate chromatin structure changes and are usually divided into three categories: DNA methylation compounds, histone modification compounds, and chromatin remodeling complexes. Noncoding RNAs are also chromatin regulators and can form heterochromatin by binding to protein complexes. Chromatin regulators cause abnormal gene expression by regulating chromatin structure, thereby affecting the occurrence and development of endometriosis. CONCLUSION This review summarizes the participation of chromatin regulators in the mechanisms of endometriosis, and these changes in related chromatin regulators provide a comprehensive reference for diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liumei Luo
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lanyu Cui
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-Related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education; Guangxi Colleges and Universities, Key Laboratory of Biological Molecular Medicine Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences,, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Chuyu Peng
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shanshan Ou
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.
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Bedrick BS, Courtright L, Zhang J, Snow M, Amendola ILS, Nylander E, Cayton-Vaught K, Segars J, Singh B. A Systematic Review of Epigenetics of Endometriosis. F&S REVIEWS 2024; 5:100070. [PMID: 38524912 PMCID: PMC10956470 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfnr.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Objective To assess the current literature evaluating the epigenetics of endometriosis in humans. Evidence Review A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines within PubMed, EBSCOhost, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection. A comprehensive search strategy was developed by a data informationist. Observational and interventional studies assessing epigenetics in humans published in English up to January 15th, 2023, were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies evaluating the role of epigenetics in endometriosis. The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Extracted data were analyzed descriptively. Results We identified 18.639 studies, of which 57 were included, comprising 1.623 patients with endometriosis and 1.243 controls. Among the 57 studies included, 50 (88%) were case-control studies, and 7 (12%) were cross-sectional. Fifty-nine percent of the studies were Asian, 25% were from America, 14% were European, and 2% were from Africa. Acetylation and methylation were the two main key histone modifications that were centered in this review. Accordingly, we classified the studies as those focusing on genome-wide methylation and those on histone acetylation. Several studies identified an association between endometriosis and hypermethylated genes, including the PGR-B, SF-1, and RASSF1A. The genes HOXA10, COX-2, IL-12B, and GATA6 were found to be hypomethylated in endometriotic tissue by several studies. In regards to histone modification, multiple studies reported that the acetylation levels of histones H3 and H4 affect multiple genes associated with endometriosis. In addition, HDAC2 was found to be elevated in endometriosis patients in two studies. Conclusion Several studies reported a significant difference between specific genes' methylation levels in endometrial biopsies and normal tissue, which suggests that DNA methylation may play an important role in the modulation of the genotype in endometriotic tissue. Acetylation and methylation are the two key histone modifications leading to differential gene expression in endometriotic tissues. The alterations in gene expression reported by the 57 studies can have direct implications on cell cycle growth, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis and, therefore, might play a key role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. This review offers insight that histone modifications need further research to evaluate their role as potential biomarkers and treatment targets for endometriosis. Although several key similarities were reported, there were some disagreements among the results, which might be attributable to the heterogeneity between studies. Further research with a more robust standardization is needed to validate the epigenetic changes in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn S. Bedrick
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura Courtright
- Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jiahui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Morgan Snow
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Isabela Landsteiner Sampaio Amendola
- Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elisabeth Nylander
- Informationist Services, Welch Medical Library, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kamaria Cayton-Vaught
- Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - James Segars
- Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bhuchitra Singh
- Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Marquardt RM, Tran DN, Lessey BA, Rahman MS, Jeong JW. Epigenetic Dysregulation in Endometriosis: Implications for Pathophysiology and Therapeutics. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:1074-1095. [PMID: 37409951 PMCID: PMC10638603 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnad020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecological condition associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Despite more than a century of research, the etiology of endometriosis still eludes scientific consensus. This lack of clarity has resulted in suboptimal prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options. Evidence of genetic contributors to endometriosis is interesting but limited; however, significant progress has been made in recent years in identifying an epigenetic role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis through clinical studies, in vitro cell culture experiments, and in vivo animal models. The predominant findings include endometriosis-related differential expression of DNA methyltransferases and demethylases, histone deacetylases, methyltransferases, and demethylases, and regulators of chromatin architecture. There is also an emerging role for miRNAs in controlling epigenetic regulators in the endometrium and endometriosis. Changes in these epigenetic regulators result in differential chromatin organization and DNA methylation, with consequences for gene expression independent of a genetic sequence. Epigenetically altered expression of genes related to steroid hormone production and signaling, immune regulation, and endometrial cell identity and function have all been identified and appear to play into the pathophysiological mechanisms of endometriosis and resulting infertility. This review summarizes and critically discusses early seminal findings, the ever-growing recent evidence of epigenetic contributions to the pathophysiology of endometriosis, and implications for proposed epigenetically targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Dinh Nam Tran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Md Saidur Rahman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Yang SC, Park M, Hong KH, La H, Park C, Wang P, Li G, Chen Q, Choi Y, DeMayo FJ, Lydon JP, Skalnik DG, Lim HJ, Hong SH, Park SH, Kim YS, Kim HR, Song H. CFP1 governs uterine epigenetic landscapes to intervene in progesterone responses for uterine physiology and suppression of endometriosis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3220. [PMID: 37270588 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39008-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) is required for the preparation of the endometrium for a successful pregnancy. P4 resistance is a leading cause of the pathogenesis of endometrial disorders like endometriosis, often leading to infertility; however, the underlying epigenetic cause remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that CFP1, a regulator of H3K4me3, is required for maintaining epigenetic landscapes of P4-progesterone receptor (PGR) signaling networks in the mouse uterus. Cfp1f/f;Pgr-Cre (Cfp1d/d) mice showed impaired P4 responses, leading to complete failure of embryo implantation. mRNA and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing analyses showed that CFP1 regulates uterine mRNA profiles not only in H3K4me3-dependent but also in H3K4me3-independent manners. CFP1 directly regulates important P4 response genes, including Gata2, Sox17, and Ihh, which activate smoothened signaling pathway in the uterus. In a mouse model of endometriosis, Cfp1d/d ectopic lesions showed P4 resistance, which was rescued by a smoothened agonist. In human endometriosis, CFP1 was significantly downregulated, and expression levels between CFP1 and these P4 targets are positively related regardless of PGR levels. In brief, our study provides that CFP1 intervenes in the P4-epigenome-transcriptome networks for uterine receptivity for embryo implantation and the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Chel Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Kwon-Ho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Hyeonwoo La
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Chanhyeok Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Peike Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Gaizhen Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Qionghua Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Youngsok Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, 12233, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - David G Skalnik
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Hyunjung J Lim
- Department of Veterinary Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Seok-Ho Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 24431, Korea
- KW-Bio Co., Ltd, Wonju, 26493, Korea
| | - So Hee Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Yeon Sun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Hye-Ryun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea.
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Chen LH, Lo WC, Huang HY, Wu HM. A Lifelong Impact on Endometriosis: Pathophysiology and Pharmacological Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087503. [PMID: 37108664 PMCID: PMC10139092 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with bothersome symptoms in premenopausal women and is complicated with long-term systemic impacts in the post-menopausal stage. It is generally defined by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterine cavity, which causes menstrual disorders, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility. Endometriotic lesions can also spread and grow in extra-pelvic sites; the chronic inflammatory status can cause systemic effects, including metabolic disorder, immune dysregulation, and cardiovascular diseases. The uncertain etiologies of endometriosis and their diverse presentations limit the treatment efficacy. High recurrence risk and intolerable side effects result in poor compliance. Current studies for endometriosis have paid attention to the advances in hormonal, neurological, and immunological approaches to the pathophysiology and their potential pharmacological intervention. Here we provide an overview of the lifelong impacts of endometriosis and summarize the updated consensus on therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Che Lo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yuan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Ming Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
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Rossi M, Seidita I, Vannuccini S, Prisinzano M, Donati C, Petraglia F. Epigenetics, endometriosis and sex steroid receptors: An update on the epigenetic regulatory mechanisms of estrogen and progesterone receptors in patients with endometriosis. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 122:171-191. [PMID: 36863793 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a benign gynecological disease affecting ∼10% of reproductive-aged women and is defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Endometriosis can cause a variety of health problems, from pelvic discomfort to catamenial pneumothorax, but it's mainly linked with severe and chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and deep dyspareunia, as well as reproductive issues. The pathogenesis of endometriosis involves an endocrine dysfunction, with estrogen dependency and progesterone resistance, and inflammatory mechanism activation, together with impaired cell proliferation and neuroangiogenesis. The present chapter aims to discuss the main epigenetic mechanisms related to estrogen receptors (ERs) and progesterone receptors (PRs) in patients with endometriosis. There are numerous epigenetic mechanisms participating in endometriosis, regulating the expression of the genes encoding these receptors both indirectly, through the regulation of transcription factors, and directly, through DNA methylation, histone modifications, micro RNAs and long noncoding RNAs. This represents an open field of investigation, which may lead to important clinical implications such as the development of epigenetic drugs for the treatment of endometriosis and the identification of specific and early biomarkers for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Rossi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Isabelle Seidita
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Prisinzano
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Donati
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
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Bonavina G, Taylor HS. Endometriosis-associated infertility: From pathophysiology to tailored treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1020827. [PMID: 36387918 PMCID: PMC9643365 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1020827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the clinically recognized association between endometriosis and infertility, the mechanisms implicated in endometriosis-associated infertility are not fully understood. Endometriosis is a multifactorial and systemic disease that has pleiotropic direct and indirect effects on reproduction. A complex interaction between endometriosis subtype, pain, inflammation, altered pelvic anatomy, adhesions, disrupted ovarian reserve/function, and compromised endometrial receptivity as well as systemic effects of the disease define endometriosis-associated infertility. The population of infertile women with endometriosis is heterogeneous, and diverse patients' phenotypes can be observed in the clinical setting, thus making difficult to establish a precise diagnosis and a single mechanism of endometriosis related infertility. Moreover, clinical management of infertility associated with endometriosis can be challenging due to this heterogeneity. Innovative non-invasive diagnostic tools are on the horizon that may allow us to target the specific dysfunctional alteration in the reproduction process. Currently the treatment should be individualized according to the clinical situation and to the suspected level of impairment. Here we review the etiology of endometriosis related infertility as well as current treatment options, including the roles of surgery and assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bonavina
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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10
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Veena KV, Siddamalla S, Deenadayal M, Sisinthy S, Bhanoori M. Histone deacetylase 1, Sirtuin 1, and Sirtuin 3 single-nucleotide polymorphisms and the risk of endometriosis in South Indian women. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:3230-3235. [PMID: 35980861 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2109955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the association between Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), Sirtuin1 (SIRT1), and Sirtuin3 (SIRT3) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and risk of endometriosis in South Indian women. A total of 300 subjects were recruited in this case-control study comprising 150 affected women and 150 women with no evidence of disease. All the subjects were of South Indian origin. The genotyping of HDAC1, SIRT1, and SIRT3 SNPs (rs1741981T/C, rs144124002A/G, and rs536715G/A) was carried out on DNA from subjects by PCR-RFLP and sequencing analysis. The genotype (p = .00782) and allele (p = .02561) frequencies of the HDAC1 rs1741981 polymorphism showed significant difference between cases and controls. In contrast, SIRT1 (rs144124002) and SIRT3 (rs536715) SNPs did not show significant association with the disease. The HDAC1 polymorphism may constitute a heritable risk factor for endometriosis in South Indian women. To date, there is no reported study on the association of polymorphisms in HDAC1, SIRT1, and SIRT3 with endometriosis risk. Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological disease characterised by the implantation of functional endometrial tissue at ectopic positions, associated with an increased risk of malignant transformation. Epigenetic mechanisms are essential for normal development and maintenance of tissue-specific gene expression patterns. Histone modification, including deacetylation of lysine residues by HDACs, is a key epigenetic mechanism of gene expression regulation in endometriosis, therefore genetic variation in HDACs causing epigenetic control defects might lead to disease susceptibility.What do the results of this study add? Our study shows that the HDAC1 SNP is significantly associated with endometriosis in South Indian women, whereas the SNPs of SIRT1 and SIRT3 could not show any association with the disease.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The polymorphism of HDAC1 rs1741981 could be used as an important marker of genetic susceptibility to endometriosis development. Analysis of this SNP might help to identify patients at high risk for disease outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- K V Veena
- Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Mamata Deenadayal
- Infertility Institute and Research Centre (IIRC), Secundrabad, India
| | - Shivaji Sisinthy
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, India
| | - Manjula Bhanoori
- Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
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Szukiewicz D. Epigenetic regulation and T-cell responses in endometriosis – something other than autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:943839. [PMID: 35935991 PMCID: PMC9355085 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.943839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial-like glands and stroma located outside the uterine cavity. This common, estrogen dependent, inflammatory condition affects up to 15% of reproductive-aged women and is a well-recognized cause of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Despite the still unknown etiology of endometriosis, much evidence suggests the participation of epigenetic mechanisms in the disease etiopathogenesis. The main rationale is based on the fact that heritable phenotype changes that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence are common triggers for hormonal, immunological, and inflammatory disorders, which play a key role in the formation of endometriotic foci. Epigenetic mechanisms regulating T-cell responses, including DNA methylation and posttranslational histone modifications, deserve attention because tissue-resident T lymphocytes work in concert with organ structural cells to generate appropriate immune responses and are functionally shaped by organ-specific environmental conditions. Thus, a failure to precisely regulate immune cell transcription may result in compromised immunological integrity of the organ with an increased risk of inflammatory disorders. The coexistence of endometriosis and autoimmunity is a well-known occurrence. Recent research results indicate regulatory T-cell (Treg) alterations in endometriosis, and an increased number of highly active Tregs and macrophages have been found in peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis. Elimination of the regulatory function of T cells and an imbalance between T helper cells of the Th1 and Th2 types have been reported in the endometria of women with endometriosis-associated infertility. This review aims to present the state of the art in recognition epigenetic reprogramming of T cells as the key factor in the pathophysiology of endometriosis in the context of T-cell-related autoimmunity. The new potential therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic modulation and/or adoptive transfer of T cells will also be outlined.
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Skliutė G, Baušytė R, Ramašauskaitė D, Navakauskienė R. Characterization of Epigenetic and Molecular Factors in Endometrium of Females with Infertility. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061324. [PMID: 35740346 PMCID: PMC9219839 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is one of the most rapidly increasing global health concerns of the 21st century. Embryo quality and endometrial thickness and receptivity are the main factors for successful embryo implantation and pregnancy development. Nevertheless, until now, there has been a lack of understanding about the regulation of human endometrium function and its structure. This raises the demand for more research of the human endometrium in these fields. In our study, we analyzed the genetic and epigenetic changes of endometrial tissue’s samples isolated from females admitted for treatment due to male infertility and females diagnosed with reproductive pathologies, who are preparing for assisted reproductive technologies procedures. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction method, we demonstrated that endometrium of females with reproductive pathology has significantly upregulated decidualization related genes HAND2, MUC1, CSF2, increased expression of angiogenesis related gene PDGFA, and increases of overall immune response and inflammation-related genes expression with significant changes of RELA and CXCL10 genes expression. Females with reproductive pathology have altered endometrium epigenetic regulation since expression of miRNAs—specifically, miRNA-34a, miRNA-223, and miRNA-125b—is lower in endometrium of females with reproductive pathology. Our findings suggest that the potential changes in genetic and epigenetic profile of endometrium from females with reproductive pathology could enrich the knowledge in the field of core biological knowledge and treatment of reproductive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giedrė Skliutė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (G.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Raminta Baušytė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (G.S.); (R.B.)
- Centre of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Santariškiu˛ St., LT-08661 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Diana Ramašauskaitė
- Centre of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Santariškiu˛ St., LT-08661 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Rūta Navakauskienė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (G.S.); (R.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Epigenetic Factors in Eutopic Endometrium in Women with Endometriosis and Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073804. [PMID: 35409163 PMCID: PMC8998720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Eutopic endometrium in patients with endometriosis is characterized by aberrant expression of essential genes during the implantation window. It predisposes to disturbance of endometrial receptivity. The pathomechanism of implantation failures in women with endometriosis remains unclear. This paper aims to summarize the knowledge on epigenetic mechanisms in eutopic endometrium in the group of patients with both endometriosis and infertility. The impaired DNA methylation patterns of gene promoter regions in eutopic tissue was established. The global profile of histone acetylation and methylation and the analysis of selected histone modifications showed significant differences in the endometrium of women with endometriosis. Aberrant expression of the proposed candidate genes may promote an unfavorable embryonic implantation environment of the endometrium due to an immunological dysfunction, inflammatory reaction, and apoptotic response in women with endometriosis. The role of the newly discovered proteins regulating gene expression, i.e., TET proteins, in endometrial pathology is not yet completely known. The cells of the eutopic endometrium in women with endometriosis contain a stable, impaired methylation pattern and a histone code. Medication targeting critical genes responsible for the aberrant gene expression pattern in eutopic endometrium may help treat infertility in women with endometriosis.
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Wilson MR, Reske JJ, Koeman J, Adams M, Joshi NR, Fazleabas AT, Chandler RL. SWI/SNF Antagonism of PRC2 Mediates Estrogen-Induced Progesterone Receptor Expression. Cells 2022; 11:1000. [PMID: 35326450 PMCID: PMC8946988 DOI: 10.3390/cells11061000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is characterized by high estrogen levels unopposed by progesterone. Treatment with progestins is standard for early EC, but the response to progestins is dependent on progesterone receptor (PGR) expression. Here, we show that the expression of PGR in endometrial epithelial cells is dependent on ARID1A, a DNA-binding subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex that is commonly mutated in EC. In endometrial epithelial cells with estrogen receptor overexpression, we find that ARID1A promotes estrogen signaling and regulates common gene expression programs. Normally, endometrial epithelial cells expressing estrogen receptors respond to estrogen by upregulating the PGR. However, when ARID1A expression is lost, upregulation of PGR expression is significantly reduced. This phenomenon can also occur following the loss of the SWI/SNF subunit BRG1, suggesting a role for ARID1A- and BRG1-containing complexes in PGR regulation. We find that PGR is regulated by a bivalent promoter, which harbors both H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 histone tail modifications. H3K27me3 is deposited by EZH2, and inhibition of EZH2 in the context of ARID1A loss results in restoration of estrogen-induced PGR expression. Our results suggest a role for ARID1A deficiency in the loss of PGR in late-stage EC and a therapeutic utility for EZH2 inhibitors in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike R. Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
| | - Jake J. Reske
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
| | - Julie Koeman
- Genomics Core Facility, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (J.K.); (M.A.)
| | - Marie Adams
- Genomics Core Facility, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (J.K.); (M.A.)
| | - Niraj R. Joshi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
- Department of Women’s Health, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, MI 49341, USA
| | - Ronald L. Chandler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (M.R.W.); (J.J.R.); (N.R.J.); (A.T.F.)
- Department of Women’s Health, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, MI 49341, USA
- Center for Epigenetics, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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15
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Ferst JG, Glanzner WG, Gutierrez K, de Macedo MP, Ferreira R, Gasperin BG, Duggavathi R, Gonçalves PB, Bordignon V. Supplementation of oleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid and β-hydroxybutyrate increase H3K9me3 in endometrial epithelial cells of cattle cultured in vitro. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 233:106851. [PMID: 34560342 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that greater than homeostatic blood concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) have negative consequences on dairy cow's fertility, but effects on cell homeostasis in the reproductive system is not completely understood. In this study, lipids accumulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations, abundance of gene transcripts, and immunofluorescence signal of H3K4me3 and H3K9me3 were evaluated in endometrial epithelial cells of cattle cultured with NEFAs (Oleic (OA), Stearic (SA) and Palmitic (PA) acids), BHBA, NEFAs + BHBA or each of the three NEFAs alone. The cellular lipids were in greater concentrations as a result of NEFAs + BHBA, NEFAs, SA or OA supplementation, but not by BHBA or PA. The ROS concentrations were greater when there were treatments with NEFAs + BHBA, NEFAs or BHBA. The relative mRNA abundance for genes involved in the regulation of apoptosis (XIAP), glucose transport (GLUT3), and DNA methylation (DNMT1) were greater when there were NEFAs + BHBA, but not NEFAs, BHBA, OA, SA or PA treatments. The immunofluorescence signal for H3K9me3 was greater when there were NEFAs + BHBA, NEFAs or PA, but not by BHBA, OA or SA treatments. These findings indicate that NEFAs and BHBA have an additive effect on endometrial cells of cattle by altering epigenetic markers and the expression of genes controlling important cellular pathways. Furthermore, there was cellular lipid accumulation and increased H3K9me3 in cultured bovine endometrial cells that was mainly induced by OA and PA treatments, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana G Ferst
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction - BioRep, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
| | - Werner G Glanzner
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
| | - Karina Gutierrez
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
| | - Mariana P de Macedo
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
| | - Rogério Ferreira
- Department of Animal Production, Santa Catarina State University, Lages, SC, Brazil.
| | - Bernardo G Gasperin
- Department of Animal Pathology, Federal University of Pelotas, Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil.
| | - Raj Duggavathi
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
| | - Paulo Bayard Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction - BioRep, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Molecular and Integrative Physiology of Reproduction Laboratory, MINT, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil.
| | - Vilceu Bordignon
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
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Retis-Resendiz AM, González-García IN, León-Juárez M, Camacho-Arroyo I, Cerbón M, Vázquez-Martínez ER. The role of epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of gene expression in the cyclical endometrium. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:116. [PMID: 34034824 PMCID: PMC8146649 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01103-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human endometrium is a highly dynamic tissue whose function is mainly regulated by the ovarian steroid hormones estradiol and progesterone. The serum levels of these and other hormones are associated with three specific phases that compose the endometrial cycle: menstrual, proliferative, and secretory. Throughout this cycle, the endometrium exhibits different transcriptional networks according to the genes expressed in each phase. Epigenetic mechanisms are crucial in the fine-tuning of gene expression to generate such transcriptional networks. The present review aims to provide an overview of current research focused on the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate gene expression in the cyclical endometrium and discuss the technical and clinical perspectives regarding this topic. MAIN BODY The main epigenetic mechanisms reported are DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, and non-coding RNAs. These epigenetic mechanisms induce the expression of genes associated with transcriptional regulation, endometrial epithelial growth, angiogenesis, and stromal cell proliferation during the proliferative phase. During the secretory phase, epigenetic mechanisms promote the expression of genes associated with hormone response, insulin signaling, decidualization, and embryo implantation. Furthermore, the global content of specific epigenetic modifications and the gene expression of non-coding RNAs and epigenetic modifiers vary according to the menstrual cycle phase. In vitro and cell type-specific studies have demonstrated that epithelial and stromal cells undergo particular epigenetic changes that modulate their transcriptional networks to accomplish their function during decidualization and implantation. CONCLUSION AND PERSPECTIVES Epigenetic mechanisms are emerging as key players in regulating transcriptional networks associated with key processes and functions of the cyclical endometrium. Further studies using next-generation sequencing and single-cell technology are warranted to explore the role of other epigenetic mechanisms in each cell type that composes the endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. The application of this knowledge will definitively provide essential information to understand the pathological mechanisms of endometrial diseases, such as endometriosis and endometrial cancer, and to identify potential therapeutic targets and improve women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Monserrat Retis-Resendiz
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Montes Urales 800, Lomas Virreyes, Miguel Hidalgo, 11000, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ixchel Nayeli González-García
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Montes Urales 800, Lomas Virreyes, Miguel Hidalgo, 11000, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Moisés León-Juárez
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Montes Urales 800, Lomas Virreyes, Miguel Hidalgo, 11000, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Montes Urales 800, Lomas Virreyes, Miguel Hidalgo, 11000, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Montes Urales 800, Lomas Virreyes, Miguel Hidalgo, 11000, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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DIA proteomics analysis through serum profiles reveals the significant proteins as candidate biomarkers in women with PCOS. BMC Med Genomics 2021; 14:125. [PMID: 33964924 PMCID: PMC8106864 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-021-00962-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to apply proteomic methodology for the analysis of proteome changes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Material and methods All the participators including 31 PCOS patients and 31 healthy female as controls were recruited, the clinical characteristics data was recorded at the time of recruitment, the laboratory biochemical data was detected. Then, a data-independent acquisition (DIA)-based proteomics method was performed to compare the serum protein changes between PCOS patients and controls. In addition, Western blotting was used to validate the expression of identified proteomic biomarkers. Results There were 80 proteins differentially expressed between PCOS patients and controls significantly, including 54 downregulated and 26 upregulated proteins. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that downregulated proteins were enriched in platelet degranulation, cell adhesion, cell activation, blood coagulation, hemostasis, defense response and inflammatory response terms; upregulated proteins were enriched in cofactor catabolic process, hydrogen peroxide catabolic process, antioxidant activity, cellular oxidant detoxification, cellular detoxification, antibiotic catabolic process and hydrogen peroxide metabolic process. Receiver operating characteristic curves analysis showed that the area under curve of Histone H4 (H4), Histone H2A (H2A), Trem-like transcript 1 protein (TLT-1) were all over than 0.9, indicated promising diagnosis values of these proteins. Western blotting results proved that the detected significant proteins, including H4, H2A, TLT-1, Peroxiredoxin-1, Band 3 anion transport protein were all differently expressed in PCOS and control groups significantly. Conclusion These proteomic biomarkers provided the potentiality to help us understand PCOS better, but future studies comparing systemic expression and exact role of these candidate biomarkers in PCOS are essential for confirmation of this hypothesis.
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Brunty S, Mitchell B, Bou-Zgheib N, Santanam N. Endometriosis and ovarian cancer risk, an epigenetic connection. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1715. [PMID: 33490227 PMCID: PMC7812227 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-2449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder that affects 176 million women worldwide and 1 in 10 females in the United States. Endometriosis most often affects women of child-bearing age, with most going undiagnosed. Endometriosis also shares many characteristics common to invasive cancer and has been known to be associated with epithelial ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the 11th most common cancer among women and over 22,000 new cases will be diagnosed within the next year. Women most commonly diagnosed with this cancer are between the ages of 55–64 years, outside the range of the age of women affected with endometriosis. While no known cause of either disease has been established, epigenetic regulation is thought to play a major role in both. This review focuses on epigenetic changes that occur within each individual disease as well as those that are similar in both, suggesting a possible etiological link between the two diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Brunty
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| | - Brenda Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| | - Nadim Bou-Zgheib
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| | - Nalini Santanam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
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Guo SW. Cancer-associated mutations in endometriosis: shedding light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:423-449. [PMID: 32154564 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological disease. Thus, it came as a complete surprise when it was reported recently that the majority of deep endometriosis lesions harbour somatic mutations and a sizeable portion of them contain known cancer-associated mutations (CAMs). Four more studies have since been published, all demonstrating the existence of CAMs in different subtypes of endometriosis. While the field is still evolving, the confirmation of CAMs has raised many questions that were previously overlooked. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A comprehensive overview of CAMs in endometriosis has been produced. In addition, with the recently emerged understanding of the natural history of endometriotic lesions as well as CAMs in normal and apparently healthy tissues, this review attempts to address the following questions: Why has there been such a wild discrepancy in reported mutation frequencies? Why does ectopic endometrium have a higher mutation rate than that of eutopic endometrium? Would the presence of CAMs in endometriotic lesions increase the risk of cancer to the bearers? Why do endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart? What clinical implications, if any, do the CAMs have for the bearers? Do these CAMs tell us anything about the pathogenesis and/or pathophysiology of endometriosis? SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was searched, from its inception to September 2019, for all papers in English using the term 'endometriosis and CAM', 'endometriosis and cancer-driver mutation', 'somatic mutations', 'fibrosis', 'fibrosis and epigenetic', 'CAMs and tumorigenesis', 'somatic mutation and normal tissues', 'oestrogen receptor and fibrosis', 'oxidative stress and fibrosis', 'ARID1A mutation', and 'Kirsten rat sarcoma mutation and therapeutics'. All retrieved papers were read and, when relevant, incorporated into the review results. OUTCOMES Seven papers that identified CAMs in endometriosis using various sequencing methods were retrieved, and their results were somewhat different. Yet, it is apparent that those using microdissection techniques and more accurate sequencing methods found more CAMs, echoing recent discoveries that apparently healthy tissues also harbour CAMs as a result of the replicative aging process. Hence endometriotic lesions, irrespective of subtype, if left intact, would generate CAMs as part of replicative aging, oxidative stress and perhaps other factors yet to be identified and, in some rare cases, develop cancer. The published data still are unable to paint a clear picture on pathogenesis of endometriosis. However, since endometriotic epithelial cells have a higher turnover than their stromal counterpart due to cyclic bleeding, and since the endometriotic stromal component can be formed by refresh influx of mesenchymal cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, mesothelial-mesenchymal transition and other processes as well as recruitment of bone-marrow-derived stem cells and outflow due to smooth muscle metaplasia, endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart. The epithelial and stromal cellular components develop in a dependent and co-evolving manner. Genes involved in CAMs are likely to be active players in lesional fibrogenesis, and hyperestrogenism and oxidative stress are likely drivers of both CAMs and fibrogenesis. Finally, endometriotic lesions harbouring CAMs would conceivably be more refractory to medical treatment, due, in no small part, to their high fibrotic content and reduced vascularity and cellularity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The accumulating data on CAMs in endometriosis have shed new light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of endometriosis. They also suggest new challenges in management. The distinct yet co-evolving developmental trajectories of endometriotic stroma and epithelium underscore the importance of the lesional microenvironment and ever-changing cellular identity. Mutational profiling of normal endometrium from women of different ages and reproductive history is needed in order to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis. Moreover, one area that has conspicuously received scant attention is the epigenetic landscape of ectopic, eutopic and normal endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
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Xiong Y, Wang Y, Ma L, Zhang Y, Qu X, Huang L, Wen X, Liu H, Zhang M, Zhang Y. Mixed-lineage leukaemia 1 contributes to endometrial stromal cells progesterone responsiveness during decidualization. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 25:297-308. [PMID: 33201593 PMCID: PMC7810960 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have reported that non‐receptive endometrium or abnormal decidualization was closely related to recurrent implantation failure (RIF). MLL1 is a histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) transferase that regulates the transcriptional activation of target genes. The role of MLL1 has been underexplored during decidualization. In our research, we found the expression of MLL1 was closely related to endometrial receptivity, and it was responsible to hormone stimulation. Inhibiting the function of MLL1 by MM102 reduced the transformation of HESCs. Furthermore, down‐regulation of MLL1 by siRNA transfection significantly decreased PGR and its target genes expression. MLL1 act as a co‐activator of ERα, and both of them were recruited to PGR regulatory regions, thus promote PGR transcription. Our study showed that MLL1 plays a key role in promoting progesterone signalling transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Xiong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinlan Qu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue Wen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Huimin Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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21
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Chen H, Malentacchi F, Fambrini M, Harrath AH, Huang H, Petraglia F. Epigenetics of Estrogen and Progesterone Receptors in Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1967-1974. [PMID: 32700282 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00226-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory gynecological disease. Increased estrogen activity and progesterone resistance are the main hormonal substrate of this disease and are associated with inflammatory response and debilitating symptoms, including pain and infertility. Estrogens and progesterone act via their specific nuclear receptors. The regulation of receptor expression by epigenetics maybe a critical factor for endometriosis. The present review aims to discuss the epigenetic mechanisms related to the expression of estrogen receptors (ERs) and progesterone receptors (PRs) in patients with endometriosis, including two classic epigenetic mechanisms: DNA methylation and histone modification, and, other non-classic mechanisms: miRNAs and lncRNA. Several in vitro and in vivo studies support the key role of epigenetics in the regulation of the expression of ERs and PRs, which may provide new molecules and targets for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixi Chen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Francesca Malentacchi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Fambrini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Abdel Halim Harrath
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Said University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hefeng Huang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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22
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Inhibition of Histone Methyltransferase EZH2 Suppresses Endometriotic Vesicle Development in a Rat Model of Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1812-1820. [PMID: 32651901 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00257-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a painful gynecological disease with no cure and limited therapeutic options. It has been hypothesized that epigenetic drugs can be used as a nonhormonal treatment for endometriosis. This study was conducted to study the efficacy of an inhibitor of the histone methyltransferase EZH2 using an established rat model of endometriosis. We hypothesized that treatment will block or reduce the number of endometriotic vesicles in this model. We conducted a preclinical drug study in female rats with experimental endometriosis (uterine tissue transplanted next to the intestinal mesentery) or control sham (sutures only). Rats with endometriosis or sham surgery received either treatment with EZH2 inhibitor (5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg) or vehicle (0.1%, 67% DMSO) every other day during 4 weeks. After treatment completion, the number, area, volume, and weight of vesicles were evaluated. RT [2] Profiler Arrays for neuropathic and inflammation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, inflammatory response, and autoimmunity pathways were used to examine gene expression changes in the vesicles that developed. Treatment with EZH2 inhibitor (10 mg/kg) suppressed the development of vesicles, by significantly decreasing the total vesicle number, area, volume, and weight. In addition, EZH2 inhibition significantly increased the expression of CACNA1B and FKBP1A genes, involved in pain and proliferation, respectively. EZH2 inhibition suppresses the growth of vesicles without apparent detrimental effects to other organs. Treatment with this epigenetic inhibitor leads to upregulation of a limited number of genes related to endometriosis-relevant pathways. In conclusion, these data support follow-up studies to evaluate its potential as a therapeutic approach for endometriosis.
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23
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Yilmaz BD, Bulun SE. Endometriosis and nuclear receptors. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:473-485. [PMID: 30809650 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is recognized as a steroid-dependent disorder; however, the precise roles of nuclear receptors (NRs) in steroid responsiveness and other signaling pathways are not well understood. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Over the past several years, a number of paradigm-shifting breakthroughs have occurred in the area of NRs in endometriosis. We review and clarify new information regarding the mechanisms responsible for: (i) excessive estrogen biosynthesis, (ii) estrogen-dependent inflammation, (iii) defective differentiation due to progesterone resistance and (iv) enhanced survival due to deficient retinoid production and action in endometriosis. We emphasize the roles of the relevant NRs critical for these pathological processes in endometriosis. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a comprehensive search using PubMed for human, animal and cellular studies published until 2018 in the following areas: endometriosis; the steroid and orphan NRs, estrogen receptors alpha (ESR1) and beta (ESR2), progesterone receptor (PGR), steroidogenic factor-1 (NR5A1) and chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factor II (NR2F2); and retinoids. OUTCOMES Four distinct abnormalities in the intracavitary endometrium and extra-uterine endometriotic tissue underlie endometriosis progression: dysregulated differentiation of endometrial mesenchymal cells, abnormal epigenetic marks, inflammation activated by excess estrogen and the development of progesterone resistance. Endometriotic stromal cells compose the bulk of the lesions and demonstrate widespread epigenetic abnormalities. Endometriotic stromal cells also display a wide range of abnormal NR expression. The orphan NRs NR5A1 and NR2F2 compete to regulate steroid-synthesizing genes in endometriotic stromal cells; NR5A1 dominance gives rise to excessive estrogen formation. Endometriotic stromal cells show an abnormally low ESR1:ESR2 ratio due to excessive levels of ESR2, which mediates an estrogen-driven inflammatory process and prostaglandin formation. These cells are also deficient in PGR, leading to progesterone resistance and defective retinoid synthesis. The pattern of NR expression, involving low ESR1 and PGR and high ESR2, is reminiscent of uterine leiomyoma stem cells. This led us to speculate that endometriotic stromal cells may display stem cell characteristics found in other uterine tissues. The biologic consequences of these abnormalities in endometriotic tissue include intense inflammation, defective differentiation and enhanced survival. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Steroid- and other NR-related abnormalities exert genome-wide biologic effects via interaction with defective epigenetic programming and enhance inflammation in endometriotic stromal cells. New synthetic ligands, targeting PGR, retinoic acid receptors and ESR2, may offer novel treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahar D Yilmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 250 E. Superior Street, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Serdar E Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 250 E. Superior Street, Chicago, IL, USA
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24
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Zubrzycka A, Zubrzycki M, Perdas E, Zubrzycka M. Genetic, Epigenetic, and Steroidogenic Modulation Mechanisms in Endometriosis. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1309. [PMID: 32370117 PMCID: PMC7291215 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease, affecting up to 10% of reproductive-age women. The exact cause of the disease is unknown; however, it is a heritable condition affected by multiple genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Previous studies reported variations in the epigenetic patterns of numerous genes known to be involved in the aberrant modulation of cell cycle steroidogenesis, abnormal hormonal, immune and inflammatory status in endometriosis, apoptosis, adhesion, angiogenesis, proliferation, immune and inflammatory processes, response to hypoxia, steroidogenic pathway and hormone signaling are involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Accumulating evidence suggest that various epigenetic aberrations may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Among them, DNA methyltransferases, histone deacetylators, and non-coding microRNAs demonstrate differential expression within endometriotic lesions and in the endometrium of patients with endometriosis. It has been indicated that the identification of epigenetic differences within the DNA or histone proteins may contribute to the discovery of a useful prognostic biomarker, which could aid in the future earlier detection, timely diagnosis, and initiation of a new approach to the treatment of endometriosis, as well as inform us about the effectiveness of treatment and the stage of the disease. As the etiology of endometriosis is highly complex and still far from being fully elucidated, the presented review focuses on different approaches to identify the genetic and epigenetic links of endometriosis and its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zubrzycka
- Department of Biomedicine and Genetics, Medical University of Lodz, Pomorska 251, 92-213 Lodz, Poland; Poland;
- Department of Operative and Conservative Gynecology, K. Jonscher Memorial Hospital, Milionowa 14, 93-113 Lodz, Poland
| | - Marek Zubrzycki
- Department of Cardiac Surgery and Transplantology, The Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski Institute of Cardiology, Alpejska 42, 04-628 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Ewelina Perdas
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Maria Zubrzycka
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland;
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25
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Kong S, Zhou C, Bao H, Ni Z, Liu M, He B, Huang L, Sun Y, Wang H, Lu J. Epigenetic control of embryo-uterine crosstalk at peri-implantation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:4813-4828. [PMID: 31352535 PMCID: PMC11105790 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03245-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation is one of the pivotal steps during mammalian pregnancy, since the quality of embryo implantation determines the outcome of ongoing pregnancy and fetal development. A large number of factors, including transcription factors, signalling transduction components, and lipids, have been shown to be indispensable for embryo implantation. Increasing evidence also suggests the important roles of epigenetic factors in this critical event. This review focuses on recent findings about the involvement of epigenetic regulators during embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangbo Kong
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Chan Zhou
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haili Bao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangli Ni
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengying Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo He
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
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26
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The Pathogenesis of Endometriosis: Molecular and Cell Biology Insights. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225615. [PMID: 31717614 PMCID: PMC6888544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The etiopathogenesis of endometriosis is a multifactorial process resulting in a heterogeneous disease. Considering that endometriosis etiology and pathogenesis are still far from being fully elucidated, the current review aims to offer a comprehensive summary of the available evidence. We performed a narrative review synthesizing the findings of the English literature retrieved from computerized databases from inception to June 2019, using the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) unique ID term “Endometriosis” (ID:D004715) with “Etiology” (ID:Q000209), “Immunology” (ID:Q000276), “Genetics” (ID:D005823) and “Epigenesis, Genetic” (ID:D044127). Endometriosis may origin from Müllerian or non-Müllerian stem cells including those from the endometrial basal layer, Müllerian remnants, bone marrow, or the peritoneum. The innate ability of endometrial stem cells to regenerate cyclically seems to play a key role, as well as the dysregulated hormonal pathways. The presence of such cells in the peritoneal cavity and what leads to the development of endometriosis is a complex process with a large number of interconnected factors, potentially both inherited and acquired. Genetic predisposition is complex and related to the combined action of several genes with limited influence. The epigenetic mechanisms control many of the processes involved in the immunologic, immunohistochemical, histological, and biological aberrations that characterize the eutopic and ectopic endometrium in affected patients. However, what triggers such alterations is not clear and may be both genetically and epigenetically inherited, or it may be acquired by the particular combination of several elements such as the persistent peritoneal menstrual reflux as well as exogenous factors. The heterogeneity of endometriosis and the different contexts in which it develops suggest that a single etiopathogenetic model is not sufficient to explain its complex pathobiology.
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27
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Colón-Caraballo M, Torres-Reverón A, Soto-Vargas JL, Young SL, Lessey B, Mendoza A, Urrutia R, Flores I. Effects of histone methyltransferase inhibition in endometriosis. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:293-307. [PMID: 29408993 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the histone methyltransferase EZH2 and its product H3K27me3 are well studied in cancer, little is known about their role and potential as therapeutic targets in endometriosis. We have previously reported that endometriotic lesions are characterized by global enrichment of H3K27me3. Therefore, we aimed to (1) characterize the expression levels of EZH2 in endometriotic tissues; (2) assess H3K27me3 enrichment in candidate genes promoter regions; and (3) determine if pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 impacts migration, proliferation, and invasion of endometriotic cells. Immunohistochemistry of an endometriosis-focused tissue microarray was used to assess the EZH2 protein levels in tissues. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-qPCR was conducted to assess enrichment of H3K27me3 in candidate gene promoter regions in tissues. Immunofluorescence was performed to assess the effect of an EZH2-specific pharmacological inhibitor on H3K27me3 global enrichment in cell lines. To measure effects of the inhibitor in migration, proliferation, and invasion in vitro we used Scratch, BrdU, and Matrigel assays, respectively. Endometriotic lesions had significantly higher EZH2α nuclear immunostaining levels compared to eutopic endometrium from patients (glands, stroma) and controls (glands). H3K27me3 was enriched within promoter regions of candidate genes in some but not all of the endometriotic lesions. Inhibition of EZH2 reduced H3K27me3 levels in the endometriotic cells specifically, and also reduced migration, proliferation but not invasion of endometriotic epithelial cells (12Z). These findings support future preclinical studies to determine in vivo efficacy of EZH2 inhibitors as promising nonhormonal treatments for endometriosis, still an incurable gynecological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Colón-Caraballo
- Department of Basic Sciences-Microbiology Division, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Annelyn Torres-Reverón
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neurosciences, University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley-School of Medicine, Texas, USA
| | - John Lee Soto-Vargas
- Department of Basic Sciences-Microbiology Division, Step-Up Summer Program, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Ob/Gyn, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Bruce Lessey
- Department of Ob/Gyn, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Adalberto Mendoza
- Southern Pathology Inc., Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA.,Department of Basic Sciences-Pathology Division, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Raúl Urrutia
- Epigenetics and Chromatin Dynamics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Idhaliz Flores
- Department of Basic Sciences-Microbiology Division, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA.,Department of Ob/Gyn, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
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28
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Meinsohn MC, Smith OE, Bertolin K, Murphy BD. The Orphan Nuclear Receptors Steroidogenic Factor-1 and Liver Receptor Homolog-1: Structure, Regulation, and Essential Roles in Mammalian Reproduction. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:1249-1279. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00019.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptors are intracellular proteins that act as transcription factors. Proteins with classic nuclear receptor domain structure lacking identified signaling ligands are designated orphan nuclear receptors. Two of these, steroidogenic factor-1 (NR5A1, also known as SF-1) and liver receptor homolog-1 (NR5A2, also known as LRH-1), bind to the same DNA sequences, with different and nonoverlapping effects on targets. Endogenous regulation of both is achieved predominantly by cofactor interactions. SF-1 is expressed primarily in steroidogenic tissues, LRH-1 in tissues of endodermal origin and the gonads. Both receptors modulate cholesterol homeostasis, steroidogenesis, tissue-specific cell proliferation, and stem cell pluripotency. LRH-1 is essential for development beyond gastrulation and SF-1 for genesis of the adrenal, sexual differentiation, and Leydig cell function. Ovary-specific depletion of SF-1 disrupts follicle development, while LRH-1 depletion prevents ovulation, cumulus expansion, and luteinization. Uterine depletion of LRH-1 compromises decidualization and pregnancy. In humans, SF-1 is present in endometriotic tissue, where it regulates estrogen synthesis. SF-1 is underexpressed in ovarian cancer cells and overexpressed in Leydig cell tumors. In breast cancer cells, proliferation, migration and invasion, and chemotherapy resistance are regulated by LRH-1. In conclusion, the NR5A orphan nuclear receptors are nonredundant factors that are crucial regulators of a panoply of biological processes, across multiple reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Charlotte Meinsohn
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Olivia E. Smith
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Kalyne Bertolin
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Bruce D. Murphy
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
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29
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García-Gómez E, Vázquez-Martínez ER, Reyes-Mayoral C, Cruz-Orozco OP, Camacho-Arroyo I, Cerbón M. Regulation of Inflammation Pathways and Inflammasome by Sex Steroid Hormones in Endometriosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:935. [PMID: 32063886 PMCID: PMC7000463 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue (glands and stroma) outside the uterus, mainly in the peritoneal cavity, ovaries, and intestines. This condition shows estrogen dependency and progesterone resistance, and it has been associated with chronic inflammation, severe pain, and infertility, which negatively affect the quality of life in reproductive women. The molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis are not completely understood; however, inflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology of the disease, mainly by altering the function of immune cells (macrophages, natural killer, and T cells) and increasing levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in the peritoneal cavity, endometrium, and blood. These immune alterations inhibit apoptotic pathways and promote adhesion and proliferation of endometriotic cells, as well as angiogenesis and neurogenesis in endometriotic lesions. It has been demonstrated that hormonal alterations in endometriosis are related to the inflammatory unbalance in this disease. Particularly, steroid hormones (mainly estradiol) promote the expression and release of pro-inflammatory factors. Excessive inflammation in endometriosis contributes to changes of hormonal regulation by modulating sex steroid receptors expression and increasing aromatase activity. In addition, dysregulation of the inflammasome pathway, mediated by an alteration of cellular responses to steroid hormones, participates in disease progression through preventing cell death, promoting adhesion, invasion, and cell proliferation. Furthermore, inflammation is involved in endometriosis-associated infertility, which alters endometrium receptivity by impairing biochemical responses and decidualization. The purpose of this review is to present current research about the role of inflammasome in the pathogenesis of endometriosis as well as the molecular role of sex hormones in the inflammatory responses in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth García-Gómez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACyT)-Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Elizabeth García-Gómez
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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30
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Samadieh Y, Favaedi R, Ramezanali F, Afsharian P, Aflatoonian R, Shahhoseini M. Epigenetic Dynamics of HOXA10 Gene in Infertile Women With Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:88-96. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118766255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Samadieh
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raha Favaedi
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariba Ramezanali
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parvaneh Afsharian
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shahhoseini
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Epigenetic influences have been postulated to affect the course of endometriosis. DNA methyltransferases, estrogen and progesterone receptors, micro-RNAs, and histone deacetylators, have shown differential expression in endometriosis compared with normal endometrium. Others such as aromatase, Steroid Factor-1, COX-2, and Homeobox A10 also have epigenetic modifications in endometriosis. Limitations in this area of research include heterogeneity in study design, patient populations, and methods of analysis. Larger, controlled studies are needed. Future targeted uses of this work may include using methylomes to noninvasively diagnose endometriosis, or targeting histone-deacetylase inhibitors for treatment.
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Enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition in endometriosis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6804. [PMID: 28754964 PMCID: PMC5533797 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06920-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2, a subunit of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) catalyzing trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27), induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancers. However, whether EZH2 regulates EMT in endometriosis is unclear. Here, we show that EZH2 expression, along with its associated PRC2 proteins, is significantly elevated in ectopic and eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis as compared with control endometrium. EZH2 knockdown or inhibition restored the epithelial phenotypes of endometriotic epithelial cells, concomitant with the upregulation of E-cadherin and downregulation of vimentin and transcription factors (Snail and Slug) as well as reduced cellular migratory and invasive propensity. Conversely, overexpression of EZH2 induced the expression of Snail, Slug and vimentin and suppresses E-cadherin expression. In vivo administration of 3-Deazaneplanocin A (DZNep), an EZH2 inhibitor, significantly inhibited the growth of endometriotic lesions and improved generalized hyperalgesia, along with attenuated EMT and reduced fibrosis in endometriosis. Notably, platelets induced EZH2 upregulation and increased H3K27 and H3K9 trimethylation levels in endometriotic epithelial cells. These data identify EZH2 as a novel driver of EMT in endometriosis, implicates the link between wound healing and epigenetic changes in the context of endometriosis, and underscore the role of platelets in the development of endometriosis.
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Hsiao KY, Wu MH, Tsai SJ. Epigenetic regulation of the pathological process in endometriosis. Reprod Med Biol 2017; 16:314-319. [PMID: 29259483 PMCID: PMC5715896 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases that greatly compromises the quality of life in affected individuals. A growing body of evidence shows that the remodeling of retrograde endometrial tissues to the ectopic endometriotic lesions involves multiple epigenetic alterations, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA expression. Methods This article retrospectively reviewed the studies that were related to the epigenetic regulatory factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of endometriosis. A literature search was performed in order to collect scientific articles that were written in English by using the key words of "endometriosis," "epigenetics," "DNA methylation," "histone modification," and "microRNA." Results Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA expression, are involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. These epigenetic players are regulated or tuned by microenvironmental cues, such as locally produced estradiol, proinflammatory cytokines, and hypoxic stress, and reciprocally regulate the process or response to those stimuli. Conclusion Understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie these epigenetic regulatory processes would shed light on the etiology and/or progression of endometriosis and facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuei-Yang Hsiao
- Department of Physiology College of Medicine National Cheng Kung University Tainan Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology College of Medicine National Cheng Kung University Tainan Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Department of Physiology College of Medicine National Cheng Kung University Tainan Taiwan
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Abdel-Rasheed M, Nour Eldeen G, Mahmoud M, ElHefnawi M, Abu-Shahba N, Reda M, Elsetohy K, Nabil M, Elnoury A, Taha T, Azmy O. MicroRNA expression analysis in endometriotic serum treated mesenchymal stem cells. EXCLI JOURNAL 2017; 16:852-867. [PMID: 28828000 PMCID: PMC5547388 DOI: 10.17179/excli2017-101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined by presence of endometrial-like-tissue outside the uterus. Recently, ectopic endometriotic lesions have been suggested to originate by abnormal differentiation of endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in the pathophysiology of endometriosis. Through a PCR array approach, we aimed to assess the differential expression of microRNAs in human eMSC treated in culture with sera derived from women with severe endometriosis. Sera were collected from five patients with severe endometriosis and three control women and added individually in the culture medium to conduct experimental and control eMSC sets, respectively. Regular microscopic follow-up for cell morphology was performed. SYBR Green based real-time PCR array was used to assess the expression of 84 miRNAs. Bioinformatics analysis was done to predict the target genes of the significantly dysregulated miRNAs and their enriched biological processes and pathways. Thirty-two miRNAs were found significantly dysregulated in experimental cultures. Functional enrichment analysis revealed several endometriosis associated biological processes and pathways were enriched by target genes of these miRNAs. In conclusion, treatment of human eMSCs with sera of severe endometriosis cases affects the expression of certain miRNAs and their target genes. This may result in altering cell functions and consequently, endometriosis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazen Abdel-Rasheed
- Department of Reproductive Health Research, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
- Stem Cell Research group, Medical Research Centre of Excellence, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ghada Nour Eldeen
- Stem Cell Research group, Medical Research Centre of Excellence, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Enzymology, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Mahmoud
- Stem Cell Research group, Medical Research Centre of Excellence, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Medical Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud ElHefnawi
- Biomedical Informatics and Chemo-informatics group, Informatics and Systems Department, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nourhan Abu-Shahba
- Stem Cell Research group, Medical Research Centre of Excellence, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Medical Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Reda
- Department of Reproductive Health Research, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
- Stem Cell Research group, Medical Research Centre of Excellence, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Khaled Elsetohy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Michael Nabil
- Department of Molecular Genetics, CliniLab, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amr Elnoury
- Department of Medical Applications of Laser, National Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tamer Taha
- Department of Reproductive Health Research, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Osama Azmy
- Department of Reproductive Health Research, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
- Stem Cell Research group, Medical Research Centre of Excellence, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
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Logan PC, Yango P, Tran ND. Endometrial Stromal and Epithelial Cells Exhibit Unique Aberrant Molecular Defects in Patients With Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:140-159. [PMID: 28490276 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117704905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes pain and infertility in women of reproductive age. OBJECTIVE To investigate the pathologic pathways in endometrial stromal and epithelial cells that contribute to the manifestation of endometriosis. DESIGN In vitro cellular and molecular analyses of isolated eutopic endometrial stromal and epithelial cells. METHODS Eutopic stromal and epithelial cells from endometriotic and normal patients were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting for paired sibling RNA sequencing and microRNA microarray. Aberrant pathways were identified using ingenuity pathway analysis networks and confirmed with in vitro modulation of the affected pathways in stromal and epithelial cell cultures. RESULTS Both stromal versus epithelial cell types and paired endometriotic versus normal samples exhibited distinct hierarchical clustering. Compared to normal samples, there were 151 and 215 differentially expressed genes in the endometriotic stromal and epithelial populations, respectively, and concomitantly 9 and 16 differentially expressed microRNAs. Overall, endometriotic stromal and epithelial cells revealed distinct defects. In endometriotic stromal cells, key decidualization genes Zinc finger E-box Binding protein 1 (ZEB1), Heart And Neural crest Derivatives expressed 2 (HAND2), WNT4, and Interleukin 15 (IL-15) were found to be downregulated and Periostin (POSTN) and Matrix Metallopeptidase 7 (MMP7) were upregulated. Specifically, ZEB1 was downregulated in stromal cells by aberrant elevation in miR-200b. In contrast, ZEB1 was found to be upregulated in endometriotic epithelial cells through associated upregulation of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1), inducer of the TGFβ1-Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP2)-MMP2-Prostaglandin-endoperoxide Synthase 2 (COX2)-ZEB1 pathway, which activates epithelial-mesenchymal transition. CONCLUSION Manifestation of endometriosis involves dysregulation of unique molecular pathways within the diseased endometrial stromal and epithelial cells in the endometrium. Targeting the cell type-specific defects may offer a novel approach to treating endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Logan
- 1 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Pamela Yango
- 1 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nam D Tran
- 1 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Ito F, Yamada Y, Shigemitsu A, Akinishi M, Kaniwa H, Miyake R, Yamanaka S, Kobayashi H. Role of Oxidative Stress in Epigenetic Modification in Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:1493-1502. [PMID: 28443478 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117704909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant DNA methylation and histone modification are associated with an increased risk of reproductive disorders such as endometriosis. However, a cause-effect relationship between epigenetic mechanisms and endometriosis development has not been fully determined. This review provides current information based on oxidative stress in epigenetic modification in endometriosis. This article reviews the English-language literature on epigenetics, DNA methylation, histone modification, and oxidative stress associated with endometriosis in an effort to identify epigenetic modification that causes a predisposition to endometriosis. Oxidative stress, secondary to the influx of hemoglobin, heme, and iron during retrograde menstruation, is involved in the expression of CpG demethylases, ten-eleven translocation, and jumonji (JMJ). Ten-eleven translocation and JMJ recognize a wide range of endogenous DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). The increased expression levels of DNMTs may be involved in the subsequent downregulation of the decidualization-related genes. This review supports the hypothesis that there are at least 2 distinct phases of epigenetic modification in endometriosis: the initial wave of iron-induced oxidative stress would be followed by the second big wave of epigenetic modulation of endometriosis susceptibility genes. We summarize the recent advances in our understanding of the underlying epigenetic mechanisms focusing on oxidative stress in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuminori Ito
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamada
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Aiko Shigemitsu
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Mika Akinishi
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hiroko Kaniwa
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Ryuta Miyake
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Shoichiro Yamanaka
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kobayashi
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
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Rogers PAW, Adamson GD, Al-Jefout M, Becker CM, D’Hooghe TM, Dunselman GAJ, Fazleabas A, Giudice LC, Horne AW, Hull ML, Hummelshoj L, Missmer SA, Montgomery GW, Stratton P, Taylor RN, Rombauts L, Saunders PT, Vincent K, Zondervan KT. Research Priorities for Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:202-226. [PMID: 27368878 PMCID: PMC5933154 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116654991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The 3rd International Consensus Workshop on Research Priorities in Endometriosis was held in São Paulo on May 4, 2014, following the 12th World Congress on Endometriosis. The workshop was attended by 60 participants from 19 countries and was divided into 5 main sessions covering pathogenesis/pathophysiology, symptoms, diagnosis/classification/prognosis, disease/symptom management, and research policy. This research priorities consensus statement builds on earlier efforts to develop research directions for endometriosis. Of the 56 research recommendations from the 2011 meeting in Montpellier, a total of 41 remained unchanged, 13 were updated, and 2 were deemed to be completed. Fifty-three new research recommendations were made at the 2014 meeting in Sao Paulo, which in addition to the 13 updated recommendations resulted in a total of 66 new recommendations for research. The research recommendations published herein, as well as those from the 2 previous papers from international consensus workshops, are an attempt to promote high-quality research in endometriosis by identifying and agreeing on key issues that require investigation. New areas included in the 2014 recommendations include infertility, patient stratification, and research in emerging nations, in addition to an increased focus on translational research. A revised and updated set of research priorities that builds on this document will be developed at the 13th World Congress on Endometriosis to be held on May 17-20, 2017, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G. David Adamson
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Fertility Physicians of Northern California,
Palo Alto, CA, USA
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Christian M. Becker
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Endometriosis Care
Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Gerard A. J. Dunselman
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Research Institute GROW,
Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Linda C. Giudice
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- World Endometriosis Society (WES), Vancouver, Canada
| | - Andrew W. Horne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh,
United Kingdom
| | - M. Louise Hull
- The Robinson Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lone Hummelshoj
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
- World Endometriosis Society (WES), Vancouver, Canada
| | - Stacey A. Missmer
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
- Harvard Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Robert N. Taylor
- World Endometriosis Society (WES), Vancouver, Canada
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Luk Rombauts
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
- World Endometriosis Society (WES), Vancouver, Canada
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Philippa T. Saunders
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh,
United Kingdom
| | - Katy Vincent
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Endometriosis Care
Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Krina T. Zondervan
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Endometriosis Care
Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford,
United Kingdom
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38
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Lestari SW, Rizki MD. Epigenetic: A new approach to etiology of infertility. MEDICAL JOURNAL OF INDONESIA 2017. [DOI: 10.13181/mji.v25i4.1504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a complex disease which could be caused by male and female factors. The etiology from both factors needs further study. There are some approaches to understanding the etiology of infertility, one of them is epigenetic. Epigenetic modifications consist of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodelling. Male and female germinal cells undergo epigenetic modifications dynamically during differentiation into matured sperm and oocyte cells. In a male, the alteration of DNA methylation in spermatogenesis will cause oligo/asthenozoospermia. In addition, the histone methylation, acetylation, or other histone modification may lead sperm lose its ability to fertilize oocyte. Similarly, in a female, the alteration of DNA methylation and histone modification affects oogenesis, created aneuploidy in fertilized oocytes and resulted in embryonic death in the uterus. Alteration of these epigenetic modification patterns will cause infertility, both in male and female.
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Borghese B, Zondervan K, Abrao M, Chapron C, Vaiman D. Recent insights on the genetics and epigenetics of endometriosis. Clin Genet 2016; 91:254-264. [DOI: 10.1111/cge.12897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Revised: 09/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B. Borghese
- Cochin Institute, U1016 INSERM, CNRS 8104; Université Paris Descartes; Paris France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Faculté de Médecine, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Ouest; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Paris Centre; Paris France
| | - K.T. Zondervan
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Endometriosis Care Centre; University of Oxford; Oxford UK
| | - M.S. Abrao
- Endometriosis Division, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department; Sao Paulo University; Sao Paulo Brazil
- Reproductive Clinic; Sirio Libanes Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - C. Chapron
- Cochin Institute, U1016 INSERM, CNRS 8104; Université Paris Descartes; Paris France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Faculté de Médecine, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Ouest; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Paris Centre; Paris France
| | - D. Vaiman
- Cochin Institute, U1016 INSERM, CNRS 8104; Université Paris Descartes; Paris France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Faculté de Médecine, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Ouest; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Paris Centre; Paris France
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40
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Sun Q, Ding D, Liu X, Guo SW. Tranylcypromine, a lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) inhibitor, suppresses lesion growth and improves generalized hyperalgesia in mouse with induced endometriosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:17. [PMID: 27062244 PMCID: PMC4826530 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0154-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing evidence indicates that endometriosis is an epigenetic disease. Encouragingly, histone deacetylases (HDACs) and DNA methyltransferases have been shown to be promising targets by numerous in vitro studies. However, only a few studies have shown promising effects of HDAC inhibition in preclinical studies in endometriosis. While lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is recently found to be aberrantly expressed in endometriosis, and that the treatment of endometriotic stromal cells with tranylcypromine (TC), an LSD1 inhibitor, significantly reduced cellular proliferation, cell cycle progression, and invasiveness, the in vivo effect of TC treatment is currently lacking. This study sought to evaluate the effect of TC in a mouse model of endometriosis. METHODS Forty-seven female C57BL/6 mice were used in this experimentation. All mice, except those randomly selected to form Sham surgery (M) and specificity control (S) groups, received an endometriosis-inducing surgery. Group S was set up mainly to ensure that the reduced generalized hyperalgesia in mice treated with TC is not due to any possible analgesic effect of TC, but rather resulting from the treatment effect specific to endometriosis. Two weeks after the surgery, mice that received surgery were further divided randomly into 3 groups: 1) untreated group (U); 2) low-dose TC group (L); 3) high-dose TC group (H). Group S received the same treatment as in group H. Two weeks after treatment, all mice were sacrificed and their ectopic endometrial tissues were harvested and analyzed by immunohistochemistry analysis. Hotplate test was administrated to all mice before the induction, treatment and sacrifice. Lesion size, hotplate latency, immunoreactivity against markers of proliferation, angiogenesis, H3K4 methylation, and of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). RESULTS TC treatment significantly and substantially reduced the lesion size and improved generalized hyperalgesia in a dose-dependent fashion in mice with induced endometriosis. In addition, TC treatment resulted in reduced immunoreactivity to biomarkers of proliferation, angiogenesis, and H3K4 methylation, leading to arrested EMT and lesion growth. CONCLUSION In light of our previously reported reduced cellular proliferation, cell cycle progression and invasiveness resulting from the LSD1 inhibition in in vitro studies, our data strongly suggest that LSD1 is a promising therapeutic target for endometriosis. TRIAL REGISTRATION Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunyan Sun
- Cixi Child and Maternal Hospital, 1288 Er'Zhaotan Road, Baishalu, Cixi, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ding Ding
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Mostowska A, Szczepańska M, Wirstlein P, Skrzypczak J, Jagodziński PP. Association between DNMT3L polymorphic variants and the risk of endometriosis-associated infertility. Mol Med Rep 2015; 13:1040-6. [PMID: 26647998 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.4626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is considered to be an epigenetic disease. It has previously been reported that the DNA methyltransferase 3-like (DNMT3L) rs8129776 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) contributes to endometrioma. In the present study, high‑resolution melting curve analysis was used to investigate the risks associated with the DNMT3L c.910‑635A/G (rs8129776), c.832C/T (rs7354779), c.812C/T (rs113593938) and c.344+62C/T (rs2276248) SNPs on stage I‑II endometriosis‑associated infertility. Included in the present study were patients presenting with stage I‑II endometriosis‑associated infertility (n=154) and a control cohort of healthy patients with confirmed fertility (n=383). No significant association between the above‑listed DNMT3L SNPs and the development of endometriosis‑associated infertility was identified. The lowest P‑values generated from trend analysis were observed in the DNMT3L c.832C/T (rs7354779) SNP (Ptrend=0.114). Furthermore, haplotype analyses of the DNMT3L SNPs failed to reveal any risk association between the development of endometriosis‑associated infertility and the above‑listed polymorphisms, even when the SNPs were present in combinations. Finally, a meta‑analysis was performed to examine the association between the DNMT3L rs8129776 SNP and the development of endometrioma, from which no association between the two was identified. On the basis of these results, the present study has demonstrated that variations in the DNMT3L gene do not contribute to stage I-II endometriosis-associated infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna Mostowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań 60‑781, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Szczepańska
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Division of Reproduction, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań 60‑781, Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Wirstlein
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Division of Reproduction, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań 60‑781, Poland
| | - Jana Skrzypczak
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Division of Reproduction, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań 60‑781, Poland
| | - Paweł P Jagodziński
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznań 60‑781, Poland
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Hsiao KY, Wu MH, Chang N, Yang SH, Wu CW, Sun HS, Tsai SJ. Coordination of AUF1 and miR-148a destabilizes DNA methyltransferase 1 mRNA under hypoxia in endometriosis. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:894-904. [PMID: 26433194 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS DNA methylation is regulated by hypoxia in endometriosis. STUDY FINDING Hypoxia causes global hypomethylation through AU-rich element binding factor 1 (AUF1)/microRNA-148a (miR-148a)-mediated destabilization of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) mRNA. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Eutopic endometrial and ectopic endometriotic stromal cells have the same genetic background, but differ in several cellular and molecular responses. Both hypoxia and DNA methylation regulate several genes involved in the development of endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS This laboratory study included 15 patients of reproductive age with endometriosis or normal menstrual cycles. Paired endometrial and endometriotic tissues were collected for assaying the levels of DNMT1, 3a and 3b using quantitative RT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. Primary cultured endometrial stromal cells maintained in normoxia/hypoxia (1% O2) or treated with hypoxia-mimetic compounds were also assayed. The levels of DNA 5-methylcytosine were assayed by using IHC in clinical specimens and murine tissues, and by ELISA in cultured stromal cells. The 3'-untranslated region reporter assay was used to evaluate the effect of hypoxia, microRNAs (miRNAs) and human antigen R (HuR)/AUF1 on DNMT1 mRNA stability. RNA immunoprecipitation was used to assess the interaction of HuR/AUF1 and miR-148a/DNMT1 mRNA under hypoxia. Finally, a transplant-induced mouse model of endometriosis using 20 mice was used to elucidate the alteration of Dnmt1 levels and DNA methylation in the endometriotic tissues. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Levels of DNMT1 mRNA and protein and 5-methylcytosine were lower in the ectopic stromal cells (P < 0.05) than in the eutopic cells. Treatment with hypoxia and its mimetic compounds recapitulated the reduced levels of DNMT1 and 5-methylcytosine levels (P < 0.05 versus control). Hypoxia treatment destabilized DNMT1 mRNA through recruitment of miR-148a and AUF1. Mutations introduced to the miR-148a targeting site or AU-rich element (ARE) restored the hypoxia-suppressed DNMT1 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) reporter activity (P < 0.05 versus control). Levels of proteins of three hypermethylated genes in endometrial stroma cells, GATA6, HOXA3 and SLC16A5, were elevated after 72 h of hypoxia treatment (P < 0.05 versus control). Finally, a transplant-induced model of endometriosis demonstrated the down-regulation of DNMT1 and a decrease in 5-methylcytosine in the endometriotic tissues (P < 0.05, eutopic versus ectopic). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Primary human cell cultures and a murine model were used in this study, and thus the results may not fully represent the situation in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first study to elucidate how microenvironmental hypoxia links to the epigenetic effects of DNA methylation in the endometriosis, and to delineate the molecular mechanism of hypoxia-coordinated AUF1/miR-148a interaction and recruitment to DNMT1 mRNA during the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The development of future therapeutics in endometriosis may aim at disrupting this specific interaction and eventually restore the epigenetic regulation. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by the National Science Council of Taiwan (NSC101-2320-B-006-030-MY3). The author declares that there are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuei-Yang Hsiao
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Ning Chang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hsun Yang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Wei Wu
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - H Sunny Sun
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
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Baumann C, Olson M, Wang K, Fazleabas A, De La Fuente R. Arginine methyltransferases mediate an epigenetic ovarian response to endometriosis. Reproduction 2015. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is associated with infertility and debilitating chronic pain. Abnormal epigenetic modifications in the human endometrium have recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of this condition. However, whether an altered epigenetic landscape contributes to pathological changes in the ovary is unknown. Using an established baboon endometriosis model, early-, and late-stage epigenetic changes in the ovary were investigated. Transcript profiling of key chromatin-modifying enzymes using pathway-focused PCR arrays on ovarian tissue from healthy control animals and at 3 and 15 months of endometriosis revealed dramatic changes in gene expression in a disease duration-dependent manner. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis indicated that transcripts for chromatin-remodeling enzymes associated with reproductive system disease and cancer development were abnormally regulated, most prominently the arginine methyltransferases CARM1, PRMT2, and PRMT8. Downregulation of CARM1 protein expression was also detected in the ovary, fully-grown oocytes and eutopic endometrium following 15 months of endometriosis. Sodium bisulfite sequencing revealed DNA hypermethylation within the PRMT8 promoter, suggesting that deregulated CpG methylation may play a role in transcriptional repression of this gene. These results demonstrate that endometriosis is associated with changes of epigenetic profiles in the primate ovary and suggest that arginine methyltransferases play a prominent role in mediating the ovarian response to endometriosis. Owing to the critical role of CARM1 in nuclear receptor-mediated transcription and maintenance of pluripotency in the cleavage stage embryo, our results suggest that epigenetic alterations in the ovary may have functional consequences for oocyte quality and the etiology of infertility associated with endometriosis.
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Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms may play an important role in the etiology of endometriosis. The modification of histones by methylation of lysine residues has been shown to regulate gene expression by changing chromatin structure. We have previously shown that endometriotic lesions had aberrant levels of histone acetylation (lower) and methylation (higher) than control tissues. We aimed to determine the levels of trimethylated histone 3 at lysine residue 27 (H3K27me3), a well-known repressive mark, by immunoassay of fresh tissues and immunohistochemistry (IHC) of an endometriosis-focused tissue microarray. Also, we aimed to determine levels of expression of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the enzyme responsible for trimethylation of H3K27me3, in cell lines. Average levels of H3K27me3 measured by immunoassay were not significantly different in lesions compared to endometrium from patients and controls. However, there was a trend of higher levels of H3K27me3 in secretory versus proliferative endometrium. The results of IHC showed that lesions (ovarian, fallopian, and peritoneal) and secretory endometrium from controls have higher percentage of H3K27me3-positive nuclei than eutopic endometrium from patients. Endometriotic epithelial cells express high levels of EZH2, which is upregulated by progesterone. This study provides evidence in support of a role of H3K27me3 in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and for EZH2 as a potential therapeutic target for this disease, but more studies are necessary to understand the molecular mechanisms at play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Colón-Caraballo
- Department of Microbiology, Ponce Health Sciences University-School of Medicine and Ponce Research Institute, Ponce, PR, USA
| | - Janice B Monteiro
- Department of Biochemistry, Ponce Health Sciences University-School of Medicine and Ponce Research Institute, Ponce, PR, USA
| | - Idhaliz Flores
- Department of Microbiology, Ponce Health Sciences University-School of Medicine and Ponce Research Institute, Ponce, PR, USA Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ponce Health Sciences University-School of Medicine and Ponce Research Institute, Ponce, PR, USA
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Sofo V, Götte M, Laganà AS, Salmeri FM, Triolo O, Sturlese E, Retto G, Alfa M, Granese R, Abrão MS. Correlation between dioxin and endometriosis: an epigenetic route to unravel the pathogenesis of the disease. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2015; 292:973-86. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-015-3739-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Koike N, Higashiura Y, Akasaka J, Uekuri C, Ito F, Kobayashi H. Epigenetic dysregulation of endometriosis susceptibility genes (Review). Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:1611-6. [PMID: 25891066 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present review was to illustrate how dysregulation of hormonal signaling regulates expressional changes of spatially associated genes in endometriosis. From a multi‑platform endometriosis dataset, an integrated analysis was performed of epigenomic changes of several biologically relevant genes that have been validated in the literature. Estrogen receptor (ER) may act as a direct epigenetic driver for endometriosis establishment, maintenance and progression. A majority of endometriosis susceptibility genes may be present in functional downstream targets of ER and located near the known imprinting genes. Previous studies have shed light on the overlapping genetic signatures between endometriosis development and the defective decidualization process. The steroid hormone‑mediated decidualization signaling pathway was shown to be frequently dysregulated in endometriosis. DNA methylation is associated with various intragenic or intergenic epigenetic modifications of chromatin. Chromatin architecture may be established in temporal and spatial orchestration of the recruitment of genes specifically downregulated in endometriosis. In conclusion, defective chromatin architecture at the ER target locus may have a key role in endometriosis. Endometriosis represents an interesting model to explore the variation of expression of spatially associated genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuki Koike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634‑8522, Japan
| | - Yumi Higashiura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634‑8522, Japan
| | - Juria Akasaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634‑8522, Japan
| | - Chiharu Uekuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634‑8522, Japan
| | - Fuminori Ito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634‑8522, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634‑8522, Japan
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Saliminejad K, Edalatkhah H, Kamali K, Memariani T, Nasiri M, Saket M, Khorram Khorshid HR. Association of common variations of the E-cadherin with endometriosis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2015; 31:899-902. [PMID: 26484421 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2015.1101436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a polygenic and multifactorial disease. E-cadherin (CDH1) gene encodes an epithelial cell-cell adhesion glycoprotein that modulates a wide variety of processes, including cell polarization, migration and cancer metastasis. Decreased expression of CDH1 in epithelial cells in peritoneal endometriosis has been reported in advanced stages of endometriotic lesions. We investigated the CDH1 -160C/A and +54C/T variations with susceptibility to endometriosis in an Iranian population. In this case-control study, 149 patients with endometriosis (stages I-IV) and 151 healthy women as controls were included. Genotyping was performed using PCR-RFLP method. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The CDH1 + 54TT genotype was significantly lower (p = 0.012; OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.12-0.77) in the patients (11.6%) than the control group (26.7%). The CDH1 + 54T allele was significantly lower (p = 0.001; OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.38-0.77) in the cases (35.7%) compared with the control group (50.3%). No association was found between CDH1 - 160C/A polymorphism and endometriosis. The CDH1 +54C/T was associated with susceptibility to endometriosis in Iranian population, and +54T allele may have a protective role in progression of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kioomars Saliminejad
- a Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute , ACECR , Tehran , Iran
| | - Haleh Edalatkhah
- a Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute , ACECR , Tehran , Iran
| | - Koorosh Kamali
- a Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute , ACECR , Tehran , Iran
| | - Toktam Memariani
- b Central Research Lab, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences , Bojnurd , Iran , and
| | - Mahbobeh Nasiri
- a Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute , ACECR , Tehran , Iran
| | - Mitra Saket
- a Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute , ACECR , Tehran , Iran
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Kobayashi H. Imprinting genes associated with endometriosis. EXCLI JOURNAL 2014; 13:252-64. [PMID: 26417259 PMCID: PMC4464490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Much work has been carried out to investigate the genetic and epigenetic basis of endometriosis and proposed that endometriosis has been described as an epigenetic disease. The purpose of this study was to extract the imprinting genes that are associated with endometriosis development. METHODS The information on the imprinting genes can be accessed publicly from a web-based interface at http://www.geneimprint.com/site/genes-by-species. RESULTS In the current version, the database contains 150 human imprinted genes derived from the literature. We searched gene functions and their roles in particular biological processes or events, such as development and pathogenesis of endometriosis. From the genomic imprinting database, we picked 10 genes that were highly associated with female reproduction; prominent among them were paternally expressed genes (DIRAS3, BMP8B, CYP1B1, ZFAT, IGF2, MIMT1, or MIR296) and maternally expressed genes (DVL1, FGFRL1, or CDKN1C). These imprinted genes may be associated with reproductive biology such as endometriosis, pregnancy loss, decidualization process and preeclampsia. DISCUSSION This study supports the possibility that aberrant epigenetic dysregulation of specific imprinting genes may contribute to endometriosis predisposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
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Kobayashi H, Higashiura Y, Koike N, Akasaka J, Uekuri C, Iwai K, Niiro E, Morioka S, Yamada Y. Genes Downregulated in Endometriosis Are Located Near the Known Imprinting Genes. Reprod Sci 2014; 21:966-972. [PMID: 24615936 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114526473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
There is now accumulating evidence that endometriosis is a disease associated with an epigenetic disorder. Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic phenomenon known to regulate DNA methylation of either maternal or paternal alleles. We hypothesize that hypermethylated endometriosis-associated genes may be enriched at imprinted gene loci. We sought to determine whether downregulated genes associated with endometriosis susceptibility are associated with chromosomal location of the known paternally and maternally expressed imprinting genes. Gene information has been gathered from National Center for Biotechnology Information database geneimprint.com. Several researchers have identified specific loci with strong DNA methylation in eutopic endometrium and ectopic lesion with endometriosis. Of the 29 hypermethylated genes in endometriosis, 19 genes were located near 45 known imprinted foci. There may be an association of the genomic location between genes specifically downregulated in endometriosis and epigenetically imprinted genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Yumi Higashiura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Natsuki Koike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Juria Akasaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Chiharu Uekuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Kana Iwai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Emiko Niiro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Sachiko Morioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
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