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Mizuno Y, Tamaru S, Tochigi H, Sato T, Kishi M, Ohtake A, Ishihara O, Kajihara T. Decidualized Endometrial Stromal Cells Promote Mitochondrial Beta-Oxidation to Produce the Octanoic Acid Required for Implantation. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1014. [PMID: 39199401 PMCID: PMC11353187 DOI: 10.3390/biom14081014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Decidualization denotes the morphological and biological differentiating process of human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). Fatty acid pathways are critical for endometrial decidualization. However, the participation of fatty acids as an energy source and their role in endometrial decidualization have received little attention. To identify fatty acids and clarify their role in decidualization, we comprehensively evaluated free fatty acid profiles using liquid chromatography/Fourier transform mass spectrometry (LC/FT-MS). LC/FT-MS analysis detected 26 kinds of fatty acids in the culture medium of decidualized or un-decidualized HESCs. Only the production of octanoic acid, which is an essential energy source for embryonic development, was increased upon decidualization. The expressions of genes related to octanoic acid metabolism including ACADL, ACADM, and ACADS; genes encoding proteins catalyzing the first step of mitochondrial fatty acid beta-oxidation; and ACSL5 and ACSM5; genes encoding fatty acid synthesis proteins were significantly altered upon decidualization. These results suggest that decidualization promotes lipid metabolism, implying that decidualized HESCs require energy metabolism of the mitochondria in embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Mizuno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan; (Y.M.); (S.T.); (H.T.); (T.S.); (M.K.); (O.I.)
- Biomedical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Tamaru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan; (Y.M.); (S.T.); (H.T.); (T.S.); (M.K.); (O.I.)
| | - Hideno Tochigi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan; (Y.M.); (S.T.); (H.T.); (T.S.); (M.K.); (O.I.)
| | - Tomomi Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan; (Y.M.); (S.T.); (H.T.); (T.S.); (M.K.); (O.I.)
- Department of Anatomy, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan
| | - Miyuko Kishi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan; (Y.M.); (S.T.); (H.T.); (T.S.); (M.K.); (O.I.)
| | - Akira Ohtake
- Department of Clinical Genomics, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan;
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan; (Y.M.); (S.T.); (H.T.); (T.S.); (M.K.); (O.I.)
- Nutrition Clinic, Kagawa Nutrition University, Toshima 170-8481, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kajihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Moroyama 350-0495, Saitama, Japan; (Y.M.); (S.T.); (H.T.); (T.S.); (M.K.); (O.I.)
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2
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Li MY, Shen HH, Cao XY, Gao XX, Xu FY, Ha SY, Sun JS, Liu SP, Xie F, Li MQ. Targeting a mTOR/autophagy axis: a double-edged sword of rapamycin in spontaneous miscarriage. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:116976. [PMID: 38906022 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune dysfunction is a primary culprit behind spontaneous miscarriage (SM). To address this, immunosuppressive agents have emerged as a novel class of tocolytic drugs, modulating the maternal immune system's tolerance towards the embryo. Rapamycin (PubChem CID:5284616), a dual-purpose compound, functions as an immunosuppressive agent and triggers autophagy by targeting the mTOR pathway. Its efficacy in treating SM has garnered significant research interest in recent times. Autophagy, the cellular process of self-degradation and recycling, plays a pivotal role in numerous health conditions. Research indicates that autophagy is integral to endometrial decidualization, trophoblast invasion, and the proper functioning of decidual immune cells during a healthy pregnancy. Yet, in cases of SM, there is a dysregulation of the mTOR/autophagy axis in decidual stromal cells or immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have highlighted the potential benefits of low-dose rapamycin in managing SM. However, given mTOR's critical role in energy metabolism, inhibiting it could potentially harm the pregnancy. Moreover, while low-dose rapamycin has been deemed safe for treating recurrent implant failure, its potential teratogenic effects remain uncertain due to insufficient data. In summary, rapamycin represents a double-edged sword in the treatment of SM, balancing its impact on autophagy and immune regulation. Further investigation is warranted to fully understand its implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Ying Li
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Hui Shen
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Yan Cao
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng-Yuan Xu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, United States
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510235, China
| | - Jian-Song Sun
- School of Life Science and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Song-Ping Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, People's Republic of China.
| | - Feng Xie
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China; Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Immunology, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, People's Republic of China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, People's Republic of China.
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Tamura I, Miyamoto K, Hatanaka C, Shiroshita A, Fujimura T, Shirafuta Y, Mihara Y, Maekawa R, Taketani T, Sato S, Matsumoto K, Tamura H, Sugino N. Nuclear actin assembly is an integral part of decidualization in human endometrial stromal cells. Commun Biol 2024; 7:830. [PMID: 38992143 PMCID: PMC11239864 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06492-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Decidualization of the human endometrium is critical for establishing pregnancy and is entailed by differentiation of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) into decidual cells. During decidualization, the actin cytoskeleton is dynamically reorganized for the ESCs' morphological and functional changes. Although actin dynamically alters its polymerized state upon external stimuli not only in the cytoplasm, but also in the nucleus, nuclear actin dynamics during decidualization have not been elucidated. Here, we show that nuclear actin was specifically assembled during decidualization of human ESCs. This decidualization-specific formation of nuclear actin filaments was disassembled following the withdrawal of the decidualization stimulus, suggesting its reversible process. Mechanistically, RNA-seq analyses revealed that the forced disassembly of nuclear actin resulted in the suppression of decidualization, accompanied with the abnormal upregulation of cell proliferation genes, leading to incomplete cell cycle arrest. CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta (C/EBPβ), an important regulator for decidualization, was responsible for downregulation of the nuclear actin exporter, thus accelerating nuclear actin accumulation and its assembly for decidualization. Taken together, we demonstrate that decidualization-specific nuclear actin assembly induces cell cycle arrest for establishing the decidualized state of ESCs. We propose that not only the cytoplasmic actin, but also nuclear actin dynamics profoundly affect decidualization process in humans for ensuring pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isao Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan.
| | - Kei Miyamoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University, Wakayama, 649-6493, Japan.
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan.
| | - Chiharu Hatanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Amon Shiroshita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Taishi Fujimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Shirafuta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Yumiko Mihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Ryo Maekawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Taketani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Shun Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Kazuya Matsumoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University, Wakayama, 649-6493, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Norihiro Sugino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
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Passaponti S, Manzan Martins C, Cresti L, Romagnoli R, Paulesu L, Ietta F, Ermini L. Lysosome dynamics during human endometrial stromal cells decidualization: effect of para-nonylphenol. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C113-C121. [PMID: 38738312 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00604.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
During the process of decidualization, the stromal cells of the endometrium change dynamically to create a favorable environment for embryo implantation. Lysosome activity has often been associated with physiological changes in the endometrium during the preimplantation period and early pregnancy. In this study, the effect of para-nonylphenol (p-NP), an endocrine disruptor, on human immortalized endometrial stromal cells (tHESCs) was investigated. After exposure to p-NP (1 nM and 1 pM), the cells were examined for the decidualization markers connexin-43, insulin like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1), and prolactin. In addition, the effect of p-NP on lysosome biogenesis and exocytosis was investigated by examining the expression and localization of the transcription factor EB (TFEB) and that of the lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP-1). Finally, we evaluated the effect of p-NP on extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling using a fibronectin assay. Our results showed that p-NP reduced the expression of prolactin protein, increased the nuclear localization of TFEB, and induced the increase and translocation of the lysosomal protein LAMP-1 to the membrane of tHESCs. The data indicate an impairment of decidualization and suggest an increase in lysosomal biogenesis and exocytosis, which is supported by the higher release of active cathepsin D by tHESCs. Given the importance of cathepsins in the processing and degradation of the ECM during trophoblast invasiveness and migration into the decidua, our results appear to be clear evidence of the negative effects of p-NP on endometrial processes that are fundamental to reproductive success and the establishment of pregnancy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Endocrine disruptors, such as para-nonylphenol, affect the decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells with an impact on decidualization itself, lysosome biogenesis and exocytosis, and extracellular matrix remodeling. All these alterations may negatively impact embryo implantation with the success of reproduction and the establishment of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Passaponti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Laura Cresti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Luana Paulesu
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Ietta
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Leonardo Ermini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Goudarzi ST, Vousooghi N, Verdi J, Mehdizadeh A, Aslanian-Kalkhoran L, Yousefi M. Autophagy genes and signaling pathways in endometrial decidualization and pregnancy complications. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104223. [PMID: 38489930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy is a process that occurs in almost all eukaryotic cells and this process is controlled by several molecular processes. Its biological roles include the provision of energy, the maintenance of cell homeostasis, and the promotion of aberrant cell death. The importance of autophagy in pregnancy is gradually becoming recognized. In literature, it has been indicated that autophagy has three different effects on the onset and maintenance of pregnancy: embryo (embryonic development), feto-maternal immune crosstalk, and maternal (decidualization). In humans, proper decidualization is a major predictor of pregnancy accomplishment and it can be influenced by different factors. This review highlights the genes, pathways, regulation, and function of autophagy in endometrial decidualization and other involved factors in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeedeh Torabi Goudarzi
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasim Vousooghi
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Verdi
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Lida Aslanian-Kalkhoran
- Department of Immunology, school of medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Salamon D, Ujvari D, Hellberg A, Hirschberg AL. DHT and Insulin Upregulate Secretion of the Soluble Decoy Receptor of IL-33 From Decidualized Endometrial Stromal Cells. Endocrinology 2023; 165:bqad174. [PMID: 37972259 PMCID: PMC10681354 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad174] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin 33 (IL-33) signaling regulates most of the key processes of pregnancy, including decidualization, trophoblast proliferation and invasion, vascular remodeling, and placental growth. Accordingly, dysregulation of IL-33, its membrane-bound receptor (ST2L, transducer of IL-33 signaling), and its soluble decoy receptor (sST2, inhibitor of IL-33 signaling) has been linked to a wide range of adverse pregnancy outcomes that are common in women with obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome, that is, conditions associated with hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and compensatory hyperinsulinemia. To reveal if androgens and insulin might modulate uteroplacental IL-33 signaling, we investigated the effect of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and/or insulin on the expression of ST2L and sST2 (along with the activity of their promoter regions), IL-33 and sIL1RAP (heterodimerization partner of sST2), during in vitro decidualization of endometrial stromal cells from 9 healthy women. DHT and insulin markedly upregulated sST2 secretion, in addition to the upregulation of its messenger RNA (mRNA) expression, while the proximal ST2 promoter, from which the sST2 transcript originates, was upregulated by insulin, and in a synergistic manner by DHT and insulin combination treatment. On the other hand, sIL1RAP was slightly downregulated by insulin and IL-33 mRNA expression was not affected by any of the hormones, while ST2L mRNA expression and transcription from its promoter region (distal ST2 promoter) could not be detected or showed a negligibly low level. We hypothesize that high levels of androgens and insulin might lead to subfertility and pregnancy complications, at least partially, through the sST2-dependent downregulation of uteroplacental IL-33 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Salamon
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dorina Ujvari
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, National Pandemic Centre, Centre for Translational Microbiome Research, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anton Hellberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
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Platt F, Moyer J, Singer BB, Baston-Büst D, Wennemuth G, Bielfeld AP, Grümmer R. Forskolin versus cAMP-Induced Decidualization and Survival of Endometrial Stromal Cells of Endometriosis Patients. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2680-2691. [PMID: 37046153 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Impairment of decidualization of eutopic human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) may cause an increase in cell survival of endometrial tissue in the peritoneal cavity constituting a precondition for endometriosis development. Decidualization is a physiological process involving progesterone action and cAMP signaling. We here evaluated the effect of 8-Br-cAMP, the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin and of the progestin progesterone and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) alone and in combination on decidualization induction using prolactin ELISA, and on cell size, cell granularity, and cell survival via flow cytometry in hESCs of patients with and without endometriosis. While progestins alone did not induce functional decidualization in hESCs, 8-Br-cAMP and forskolin induced decidualization in hESCs from both cohorts, whereas the induction of FOXO1 transcription and prolactin secretion by forskolin was significantly lower than by 8-Br-cAMP. 8-Br-cAMP- and forskolin-induced prolactin secretion was significantly enhanced by MPA, but not by progesterone. Decidualization entailed a decrease in cell size and in cell granularity. In general, hESCs from women with mild (ASRM I/II) as well as severe (ASRM III/IV) endometriosis in trend displayed a higher granularity, whereas mainly hESCs from severe endometriosis showed a stronger resistance to the induction of cell death after decidualization induction. In both cohorts, the amount of the decidual marker protein prolactin rather exhibited an anti-proportional correlation to cell death induction during six day treatment. This study contributes to widen our understanding of the connection of decidualization and cell death in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farina Platt
- Department of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Janine Moyer
- Department of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Bernhard B Singer
- Department of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Dunja Baston-Büst
- Düsseldorf University Hospital, Department of OB/GYN and REI (UniKiD), 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gunther Wennemuth
- Department of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Alexandra P Bielfeld
- Düsseldorf University Hospital, Department of OB/GYN and REI (UniKiD), 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ruth Grümmer
- Department of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany.
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8
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Lissaman AC, Girling JE, Cree LM, Campbell RE, Ponnampalam AP. Androgen signalling in the ovaries and endometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad017. [PMID: 37171897 PMCID: PMC10663053 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, our understanding of hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system is largely based on our knowledge of estrogen and progesterone signalling. However, while the important functions of androgens in male physiology are well known, it is also recognized that androgens play critical roles in the female reproductive system. Further, androgen signalling is altered in a variety of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, indicative of regulatory roles in endometrial and ovarian function. Co-regulatory mechanisms exist between different androgens, estrogens, and progesterone, resulting in a complex network of steroid hormone interactions. Evidence from animal knockout studies, in vitro experiments, and human data indicate that androgen receptor expression is cell-specific and menstrual cycle stage-dependent, with important regulatory roles in the menstrual cycle, endometrial biology, and follicular development in the ovaries. This review will discuss the expression and co-regulatory interactions of androgen receptors, highlighting the complexity of the androgen signalling pathway in the endometrium and ovaries, and the synthesis of androgens from additional alternative pathways previously disregarded as male-specific. Moreover, it will illustrate the challenges faced when studying androgens in female biology, and the need for a more in-depth, integrative view of androgen metabolism and signalling in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey C Lissaman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lynsey M Cree
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna P Ponnampalam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Pūtahi Manawa-Healthy Hearts for Aotearoa New Zealand, Centre of Research Excellence, New Zealand
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9
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Liang Y, Lai S, Huang L, Li Y, Zeng S, Zhang S, Chen J, Deng W, Liu Y, Liang J, Xu P, Liu M, Xiong Z, Chen D, Tu Z, Du L. JAZF1 safeguards human endometrial stromal cells survival and decidualization by repressing the transcription of G0S2. Commun Biol 2023; 6:568. [PMID: 37244968 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04931-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) is essential for the maintenance of pregnancy, which depends on the fine-tuned regulation of hESCs survival, and its perturbation contributes to pregnancy loss. However, the underlying mechanisms responsible for functional deficits in decidua from recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) patients have not been elucidated. Here, we observed that JAZF1 was significantly downregulated in stromal cells from RSA decidua. JAZF1 depletion in hESCs resulted in defective decidualization and cell death through apoptosis. Further experiments uncovered G0S2 as a important driver of hESCs apoptosis and decidualization, whose transcription was repressed by JAZF1 via interaction with G0S2 activator Purβ. Moreover, the pattern of low JAZF1, high G0S2 and excessive apoptosis in decidua were consistently observed in RSA patients. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that JAZF1 governs hESCs survival and decidualization by repressing G0S2 transcription via restricting the activity of Purβ, and highlight the clinical implications of these mechanisms in the pathology of RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingyu Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Siying Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Lijun Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Yulian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Shanshan Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Jingsi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Wenbo Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Jingying Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Pei Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Mingxing Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Zhongtang Xiong
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Dunjin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
| | - Zhaowei Tu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
| | - Lili Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
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10
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Chen Y, Xiao L, Xu J, Wang J, Yu Z, Zhao K, Zhang H, Cheng S, Sharma S, Liao A, Liu C. Recent insight into autophagy and immunity at the maternal-fetal interface. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 155:103781. [PMID: 36463798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation pathway that supports metabolic adaptation and energy cycling. It is essential for cell homeostasis, differentiation, development, and survival. Recent studies have shown that autophagy could influence immune responses by regulating immune cell functions. Reciprocally, immune cells strongly influence autophagy. Immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface are thought to play essential roles in pregnancy. Here, we review the induction of autophagy at the maternal-fetal interface and its role in decidualization and placental development. Additionally, we emphasize the role of autophagy in the immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface, including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and immune tolerance molecules. It also suggests new research directions and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Lin Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Jia Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Jingming Wang
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Zhiquan Yu
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Shibin Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Surendra Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
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11
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Abruzzese GA, Arbocco FCV, Ferrer MJ, Silva AF, Motta AB. Role of Hormones During Gestation and Early Development: Pathways Involved in Developmental Programming. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1428:31-70. [PMID: 37466768 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-32554-0_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that an altered maternal milieu and environmental insults during the intrauterine and perinatal periods of life affect the developing organism, leading to detrimental long-term outcomes and often to adult pathologies through programming effects. Hormones, together with growth factors, play critical roles in the regulation of maternal-fetal and maternal-neonate interfaces, and alterations in any of them may lead to programming effects on the developing organism. In this chapter, we will review the role of sex steroids, thyroid hormones, and insulin-like growth factors, as crucial factors involved in physiological processes during pregnancy and lactation, and their role in developmental programming effects during fetal and early neonatal life. Also, we will consider epidemiological evidence and data from animal models of altered maternal hormonal environments and focus on the role of different tissues in the establishment of maternal and fetus/infant interaction. Finally, we will identify unresolved questions and discuss potential future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle Adriana Abruzzese
- Laboratorio de Fisio-patología ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fiorella Campo Verde Arbocco
- Laboratorio de Hormonas y Biología del Cáncer, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Reproducción y Lactancia, IMBECU, CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - María José Ferrer
- Laboratorio de Fisio-patología ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Aimé Florencia Silva
- Laboratorio de Fisio-patología ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alicia Beatriz Motta
- Laboratorio de Fisio-patología ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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12
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Liu G, Qi Y, Wu J, Lin F, Liu Z, Cui X. Follistatin is a crucial chemoattractant for mouse decidualized endometrial stromal cell migration by JNK signalling. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 27:127-140. [PMID: 36528873 PMCID: PMC9806297 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) and activin A as gonadal proteins exhibit opposite effects on follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) release from pituitary gland, and activin A-FST system is involved in regulation of decidualization in reproductive biology. However, the roles of FST and activin A in migration of decidualized endometrial stromal cells are not well characterized. In this study, transwell chambers and microfluidic devices were used to assess the effects of FST and activin A on migration of decidualized mouse endometrial stromal cells (d-MESCs). We found that compared with activin A, FST exerted more significant effects on adhesion, wound healing and migration of d-MESCs. Similar results were also seen in the primary cultured decidual stromal cells (DSCs) from uterus of pregnant mouse. Simultaneously, the results revealed that FST increased calcium influx and upregulated the expression levels of the migration-related proteins MMP9 and Ezrin in d-MESCs. In addition, FST increased the level of phosphorylation of JNK in d-MESCs, and JNK inhibitor AS601245 significantly attenuated FST action on inducing migration of d-MESCs. These data suggest that FST, not activin A in activin A-FST system, is a crucial chemoattractant for migration of d-MESCs by JNK signalling to facilitate the successful uterine decidualization and tissue remodelling during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guole Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Jiandong Wu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
| | - Francis Lin
- Department of Physics and AstronomyUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegManitobaCanada
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
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13
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Shi JW, Lai ZZ, Yang HL, Zhou WJ, Zhao XY, Xie F, Liu SP, Chen WD, Zhang T, Ye JF, Zhou XY, Li MQ. An IGF1-expressing endometrial stromal cell population is associated with human decidualization. BMC Biol 2022; 20:276. [PMID: 36482461 PMCID: PMC9733393 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01483-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decidualization refers to the process of transformation of endometrial stromal fibroblast cells into specialized decidual stromal cells that provide a nutritive and immunoprivileged matrix essential for blastocyst implantation and placental development. Deficiencies in decidualization are associated with a variety of pregnancy disorders, including female infertility, recurrent implantation failure (RIF), and miscarriages. Despite the increasing number of genes reportedly associated with endometrial receptivity and decidualization, the cellular and molecular mechanisms triggering and underlying decidualization remain largely unknown. Here, we analyze single-cell transcriptional profiles of endometrial cells during the window of implantation and decidual cells of early pregnancy, to gains insights on the process of decidualization. RESULTS We observed a unique IGF1+ stromal cell that may initiate decidualization by single-cell RNA sequencing. We found the IL1B+ stromal cells promote gland degeneration and decidua hemostasis. We defined a subset of NK cells for accelerating decidualization and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion by AREG-IGF1 and AREG-CSF1 regulatory axe. Further analysis indicates that EVT promote decidualization possibly by multiply pathways. Additionally, a systematic repository of cell-cell communication for decidualization was developed. An aberrant ratio conversion of IGF1+ stromal cells to IGF1R+ stromal cells is observed in unexplained RIF patients. CONCLUSIONS Overall, a unique subpopulation of IGF1+ stromal cell is involved in initiating decidualization. Our observations provide deeper insights into the molecular and cellular characterizations of decidualization, and a platform for further development of evaluation of decidualization degree and treatment for decidualization disorder-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wei Shi
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200080 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200080 China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Lai
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200080 China
| | - Hui-Li Yang
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200080 China
| | - Wen-Jie Zhou
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Center of Reproductive Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025 China
| | - Xiao-Ya Zhao
- grid.452587.9Department of Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030 China
| | - Feng Xie
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Cervical and Uterine Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011 China
| | - Song-Ping Liu
- grid.508387.10000 0005 0231 8677Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201508 China
| | - Wei-Dong Chen
- NovelBio Bio-Pharm Technology Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201112 China
| | - Tao Zhang
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Feng Ye
- grid.418812.60000 0004 0620 9243Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, 138632 Singapore
| | - Xiang-Yu Zhou
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200080 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433 People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200080 China ,grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200080 China ,grid.508387.10000 0005 0231 8677Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201508 China
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14
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Glucose and fatty acids catabolism during in vitro decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2689-2697. [PMID: 36308613 PMCID: PMC9790837 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02637-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of endometrial stromal cells, named decidualization, is essential for the proper formation of the materno-fetal interphase. One important feature of decidualization is the increased glucose consumption and its utilization by endometrial cells to produce energy. Besides glucose, fatty acids are another important energy source for living cells and it has been described that endometrial stromal cells rely on the proper function of the oxidation of fatty acids for the correct decidualization. It is, however, unknown whether the turn-over of fatty acid degradation is modified during decidualization. Furthermore, it is also unknown how the final products of glucose and fatty acid catabolism are related to the function of the tricarboxylic acid cycle for the efficient ATP production. In this study, we evaluated the content levels of different intermediate metabolites and the expression of the key enzymes related to the degradation of glucose and fatty acids during the in vitro decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. Our results suggest that human endometrial stromal cells undergo energetic metabolic changes during decidualization and that decidualizing and non-decidualizing cells differ in the level of activation of different metabolic pathways and, probably, in the use of intermediate metabolites.
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15
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Mei J, Sheng X, Yan Y, Cai X, Zhang C, Tian J, Zhang M, Zhou J, Shan H, Huang C. Decreased Krüppel-like factor 4 in adenomyosis impairs decidualization by repressing autophagy in human endometrial stromal cells. BMC Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:24. [PMID: 35761172 PMCID: PMC9238063 DOI: 10.1186/s12860-022-00425-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poor decidualization and abnormal autophagy conditions in the endometria of adenomyosis patients have been reported previously. However, the specific regulatory mechanism of decidualization in adenomyosis and its relationship with autophagy levels have not been clarified. Methods Endometrial tissues from adenomyosis patients and uteri from an adenomyosis mouse model were collected for the detection of different expression patterns of KLF4 and autophagy markers (LC3-B/LC3-A and Beclin-1) compared with control groups. Human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) isolated from adenomyosis and control endometrial tissues were employed to elucidate the biological functions of KLF4 in autophagy and decidualization. Gene expression regulation was examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blotting and luciferase reporter assays. In addition, DNA promoter-protein interactions were examined by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)/PCR assay and avidin–biotin conjugate DNA precipitation (ABCD) assay. Results KLF4 expression was decreased in endometrial tissues from adenomyosis patients compared with those from fertile controls, especially in stromal compartments. The opposite results were observed for autophagy marker (LC3-B/LC3-A and Beclin-1) expression. At the same time, KLF4 reversed the poor decidualization of hESCs from adenomyosis patients. In addition, KLF4 could induce hESC decidualization by promoting the autophagy level. Mechanistically, KLF4 bound to a conserved site in the autophagy-related 5 (ATG5) promoter region and promoted ATG5 expression. Similar expression patterns of KLF4 and autophagy markers were detected in adenomyotic mice. Conclusions KLF4 overexpression increases the autophagy level of hESCs by transcriptionally promoting ATG5 expression, and abnormally decreased KLF4 in adenomyosis impairs hESC decidualization by repressing autophagy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12860-022-00425-6.
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16
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The Regulators of Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091275. [PMID: 36139114 PMCID: PMC9496326 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several factors are important for implantation and subsequent placentation in the endometrium, including immunity, angiogenesis, extracellular matrix, glucose metabolism, reactive oxidative stress, and hormones. The involvement or abnormality of these factors can impair canonical decidualization. Unusual decidualization can lead to perinatal complications, such as disruption of trophoblast invasion. Drastic changes in the morphology and function of human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) are important for decidualization of the human endometrium; hESCs are used to induce optimal morphological and functional decidualization in vitro because they contain estrogen and progesterone receptors. In this review, we will focus on the studies that have been conducted on hESC decidualization, including the results from our laboratory.
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17
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Hosseinirad H, Paktinat S, Mohanazadeh Falahieh F, Mirani M, Karamian A, Karamian A, Shams Mofarahe Z. Effect of 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 on decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. Steroids 2022; 180:108978. [PMID: 35150696 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.108978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Decidualization is the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells (eSC) to rounded, epithelioid-like cells during menstrual cycle and pregnancy. The impairment of this process leads to infertility and a variety of pregnancy disorders, including recurrent miscarriages and uteroplacental disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 (VD) on transformation of primary eSC into decidual cells. After isolation of eSC from biopsy samples of healthy fertile women and their characterization, the cells were cultured and propagated, and confluent cultures were decidualized for 12 days with progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) in presence or absence of VD. Prolactin (PRL) concentration was measured every 48 h in culture medium of eSCs, and ultrastructural changes were evaluated at the end of treatment. The results showed that PRL concentration in culture medium of eSCs was significantly increased in VD-treated decidual cells compared to control groups in a time-dependent manner. Ultrastructural analysis demonstrated that VD enhances many of the ultrastructural changes of decidualized cells including expansion of rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER), increased lipid droplets and high number of euchromatin round nuclei. These results suggest that VD may play an important role during early pregnancy by promoting cellular transformation associated with decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Hosseinirad
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Paktinat
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Mirani
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Armin Karamian
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Amin Karamian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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18
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Zhou WJ, Yang HL, Mei J, Chang KK, Lu H, Lai ZZ, Shi JW, Wang XH, Wu K, Zhang T, Wang J, Sun JS, Ye JF, Li DJ, Zhao JY, Jin LP, Li MQ. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate prevents pregnancy loss by inducing decidual COX-2 + macrophage differentiation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabj2488. [PMID: 35196096 PMCID: PMC8865779 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj2488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is an intricate biological process in which extensive remodeling of the endometrium occurs to support the development of an implanting blastocyst. However, the immunometabolic mechanisms underlying this process are still largely unknown. We found that the decidualization process is accompanied by the accumulation of fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP). The combination of FBP with pyruvate kinase M stimulated IL-27 secretion by endometrial stromal cells in an ERK/c-FOS-dependent manner. IL-27 induced decidual COX-2+ M2-like macrophage differentiation, which promotes decidualization, trophoblast invasion, and maternal-fetal tolerance. Transfer of Ptgs2+/COX-2+ macrophages prevented fetal loss in Il27ra-deleted pregnant mice. FBP levels were low in plasma and decidual tissues of patients with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion. In therapeutic studies, FBP supplementation significantly improved embryo loss by up-regulation of IL-27-induced COX-2+ macrophage differentiation in a mouse model of spontaneous abortion. These findings collectively provide a scientific basis for a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jie Zhou
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui-Li Yang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Mei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medicine School, Nanjing 210000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kai-Kai Chang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han Lu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Lai
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia-Wei Shi
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Hui Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ke Wu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian-Song Sun
- National Research Centre for Carbohydrate Synthesis, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Feng Ye
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore 229899, Singapore
| | - Da-Jin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian-Yuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li-Ping Jin
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People’s Republic of China
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19
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Kuan KKW, Saunders PTK. Female Reproductive Systems: Hormone Dependence and Receptor Expression. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1390:21-39. [PMID: 36107311 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-11836-4_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The female reproductive system which consists of the ovaries, uterus (myometrium, endometrium), Fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina is exquisitely sensitive to the actions of steroid hormones. The ovaries play a key role in the synthesis of bioactive steroids (oestrogens, androgens, progestins) that act both within the tissue (intracrine/paracrine) as well as on other reproductive organs following release into the blood stream (endocrine action). Sex steroid receptors encoded by the oestrogen (ESR1, ESR2), progesterone (PR) and androgen (AR) receptor genes, which are members of the superfamily of ligand activated transcription factors are widely expressed within these tissues. These receptors play critical role(s) in regulation of cell proliferation, ovulation, endometrial receptivity, myometrial cell function and inflammatory cell infiltration. Our understanding of their importance has been informed by studies on human tissues and cells, which have employed immunohistochemistry as well as a wide range of molecular and genetic methods to identify which processes are dependent steroid ligand activation. The development of mice with targeted deletions of each of these receptors has provided complementary data that has extended our appreciation of cell-cell interactions in the fine tuning of reproductive tissue function. This large body of work has formed the basis of new and improved therapeutics to treat conditions such as infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin K W Kuan
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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20
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Shan D, Dong R, Hu Y. Current understanding of autophagy in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Placenta 2021; 115:53-59. [PMID: 34560328 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is the most common liver disease during pregnancy. Manifested with pruritus and elevation in bile acids, the etiology of ICP is still poorly understood. Although ICP is considered relatively benign for the mother, increased rates of adverse fetal outcomes including sudden fetal demise are possible devastating outcomes associated with ICP. Limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms restricted treatment options and managements of ICP. In recent decades, evolving evidence indicated the significance of autophagy in pregnancy and pregnancy complications. Autophagy is an ancient self-defense mechanism which is essential for cell survival, differentiation and development. Autophagy has pivotal roles in embryogenesis, implantation, and maintenance of pregnancy, and is involved in the orchestration of diverse physiological and pathological cellular responses in patients with pregnancy complications. Recent advances in these research fields provide tantalizing targets on autophagy to improve the care of pregnant women. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding autophagy in ICP and its possible roles in the causation and prevention of ICP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Shan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ruihong Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yayi Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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21
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Fraser R, Smith R, Lin CJ. A 3D endometrial organotypic model simulating the acute inflammatory decidualisation initiation phase with epithelial induction of the key endometrial receptivity marker, integrin αVβ3. Hum Reprod Open 2021; 2021:hoab034. [PMID: 34532597 PMCID: PMC8438487 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it possible to develop a simplified physiological in vitro system representing the key cell-types associated with a receptive endometrial phenotype? SUMMARY ANSWER We present a new concept to investigate endometrial receptivity, with a 3D organotypic co-culture model to simulate an early and transient acute autoinflammatory decidual status that resolves in the induction of a receptive endometrial phenotype. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryo implantation is dependent on a receptive uterine environment. Ovarian steroids drive post-ovulation structural and functional changes in the endometrium, which becomes transiently receptive for an implanting conceptus, termed the ‘window of implantation’, and dysregulation of endometrial receptivity is implicated in a range of reproductive, obstetric, and gynaecological disorders and malignancies. The interactions that take place within the uterine microenvironment during this time are not fully understood, and human studies are constrained by a lack of access to uterine tissue from specific time-points during the menstrual cycle. Physiologically relevant in vitro model systems are therefore fundamental for conducting investigations to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling endometrial receptivity. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We conducted an in vitro cell culture study using human cell lines and primary human cells isolated from endometrial biopsy tissue. The biopsy tissue samples were obtained from three women attending gynaecological outpatient departments in NHS Lothian. The work was carried out between December 2016 and April 2019, at the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS An endometrial stromal cell (ESC) line, and endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) isolated from endometrial biopsy tissue and expanded in vitro by conditional reprogramming, were used throughout the study. Immunocytochemical and flow cytometric analyses were used to confirm epithelial phenotype following conditional reprogramming of EECs. To construct an endometrial organotypic co-culture model, ESCs were embedded within a 3D growth factor-reduced Matrigel structure, with a single layer of conditionally reprogrammed EECs seeded on top. Cells were stimulated with increasing doses of medroxyprogesterone acetate, cAMP and oestradiol, in order to induce ESC decidual transformation and endometrial receptivity. Decidual response and the induction of a receptive epithelial phenotype were assessed by immunocytochemical detection and quantitative in-cell western analyses, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A transient up-regulation of the interleukin-33 receptor protein, ST2L, was observed in ESCs, indicating a transient autoinflammatory decidual response to the hormonal stimulation, known to induce receptivity gene expression in the overlying epithelium. Hormonal stimulation increased the EEC protein levels of the key marker of endometrial receptivity, integrin αVβ3 (n = 8; *P < 0.05; ***P < 0.0001). To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a dedicated endometrial organotypic model, which has been developed to investigate endometrial receptivity, via the recapitulation of an early decidual transitory acute autoinflammatory phase and induction of an epithelial phenotypic change, to represent a receptive endometrial status. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This simplified in vitro ESC-EEC co-culture system may be only partly representative of more complex in vivo conditions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The 3D endometrial organotypic model presented here may offer a valuable tool for investigating a range of reproductive, obstetric, and gynaecological disorders, to improve outcomes for assisted reproductive technologies, and for the development of advances in contraceptive methods. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported in part by a Medical Research Council Centre Grant (project reference MR/N022556/1). R.F. was the recipient of a Moray Endowment award and a Barbour Watson Trust award. C.-J.L. is a Royal Society of Edinburgh Personal Research Fellow, funded by the Scottish Government. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Fraser
- The University of Edinburgh, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - R Smith
- The University of Edinburgh, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - C-J Lin
- The University of Edinburgh, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
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22
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Hirschberg AL, Jakson I, Graells Brugalla C, Salamon D, Ujvari D. Interaction between insulin and androgen signalling in decidualization, cell migration and trophoblast invasion in vitro. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:9523-9532. [PMID: 34463022 PMCID: PMC8505820 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Finely tuned decidualization of endometrial stromal fibroblasts into decidual cells is crucial for successful implantation and a healthy pregnancy. Both insulin and androgens are known to modulate decidualization, however, their complex effect on this process has not been fully elucidated. As hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism are associated in clinical conditions, we aimed to investigate the interaction between insulin and androgens on decidualization. Primary human endometrial stromal cells were decidualized in vitro in the presence of insulin and/or androgens (dihydrotestosterone (DHT), testosterone). Gene or protein expressions of decidualization markers were measured, and cells size characteristics were determined. Migration of decidualizing endometrial stromal cells and invasion of HTR‐8/SVneo trophoblast spheroids were assessed. We found that insulin and androgens in combination enhanced the upregulation of several decidualization markers including prolactin, tissue factor, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 3 and connexin‐43, and also interacted in modulating cell size characteristics resulting in enlarged decidualizing cells. However, insulin and DHT together restricted the migration of decidualizing cells and invasion of trophoblast spheroids. Our findings suggest that insulin and androgens interact to potentiate the process of decidualization. On the other hand, inhibited cell migration and trophoblast invasion might negatively impact the function of decidualizing endometrial stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ivika Jakson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Daniel Salamon
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dorina Ujvari
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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23
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Khatun M, Meltsov A, Lavogina D, Loid M, Kask K, Arffman RK, Rossi HR, Lättekivi F, Jääger K, Krjutškov K, Rinken A, Salumets A, Piltonen TT. Decidualized endometrial stromal cells present with altered androgen response in PCOS. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16287. [PMID: 34381107 PMCID: PMC8357821 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95705-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperandrogenic women with PCOS show disrupted decidualization (DE) and placentation. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is reported to enhance DE in non-PCOS endometrial stromal cells (eSCCtrl); however, this has not been assessed in PCOS cells (eSCPCOS). Therefore, we studied the transcriptome profile of non-decidualized (non-DE) and DE eSCs from women with PCOS and Ctrl in response to short-term estradiol (E2) and/or progesterone (P4) exposure with/without (±) DHT. The non-DE eSCs were subjected to E2 ± DHT treatment, whereas the DE (0.5 mM 8-Br-cAMP, 96 h) eSCs were post-treated with E2 and P4 ± DHT, and RNA-sequenced. Validation was performed by immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that, regardless of treatment, the PCOS and Ctrl samples clustered separately. The comparison of DE vs. non-DE eSCPCOS without DHT revealed PCOS-specific differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in mitochondrial function and progesterone signaling. When further adding DHT, we detected altered responses for lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), inflammation, and androgen signaling. Overall, the results highlight an underlying defect in decidualized eSCPCOS, present with or without DHT exposure, and possibly linked to the altered pregnancy outcomes. We also report novel factors which elucidate the mechanisms of endometrial dysfunction in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masuma Khatun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Alvin Meltsov
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Computer Science, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Darja Lavogina
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marina Loid
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Keiu Kask
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Riikka K Arffman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Henna-Riikka Rossi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Freddy Lättekivi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kersti Jääger
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kaarel Krjutškov
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ago Rinken
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Terhi T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
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24
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Ticconi C, Di Simone N, Campagnolo L, Fazleabas A. Clinical consequences of defective decidualization. Tissue Cell 2021; 72:101586. [PMID: 34217128 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is characterized by a series of genetic, metabolic, morphological, biochemical, vascular and immune changes occurring in the endometrial stroma in response to the implanting embryo or even before conception and involves the stromal cells of the endometrium. It is a fundamental reproductive event occurring in mammalian species with hemochorial placentation. A growing body of experimental and clinical evidence strongly suggests that defective or disrupted decidualization contributes to the establishment of an inappropriate maternal-fetal interface. This has relevant clinical consequences, ranging from recurrent implantation failure and recurrent pregnancy loss in early pregnancy to several significant complications of advanced gestation. Moreover, recent evidence indicates that selected diseases of the endometrium, such as chronic endometritis and endometriosis, can have a detrimental impact on the decidualization response in the endometrium and may help explain some aspects of the reduced reproductive outcome associated with these conditions. Further research efforts are needed to fully understand the biomolecular mechanisms ans events underlying an abnormal decidualization response. This will permit the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies aimed to improve the likelihood of achieveing a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Ticconi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Nicoletta Di Simone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20072, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; IRCCS, Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Asgerally Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
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25
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Ma K, Li N, Yan X, Zhu Y, Zhang C. Energy deficiency caused by CTPS downregulation in decidua may contribute to pre-eclampsia by impairing decidualization. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:6520-6533. [PMID: 33576499 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related disorder that occurs after 20 weeks of gestation. It seriously affects the health of maternity and the fetus. However, the pathogenesis of PE is still unknown. Decidualization deficiency is considered a contributing factor to the development of PE. CTP synthetase (CTPS) which is the rate-limiting enzyme in the CTP de novo biosynthesis, is essential for nucleic acid synthesis and cellular energy metabolism, and often appears as cytoophidium in many cell types. Here, we found that the expression of CTPS was significantly downregulated in decidual tissues of patients with severe PE compared with healthy pregnant women. During in vitro decidualization, changes in CTPS were accompanied by opposite fluctuation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Moreover, the downregulation of CTPS by glutamine analogs or CTPS small interfering RNA inhibited the decidualization process and the AMPK signaling pathway. Investigating the underlying mechanism of action by co-immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry showed that CTPS interacted with ATP synthase (ATPS) and maintained the content of ATP on Day 3 of decidualization. However, when combined with mitochondrial stress protein STRESS-70 instead of ATPS, the concentration of ATP on Day 6 of induction was reduced. Corresponding to this, CTPS was mainly distributes in the cytoplasm on Day 3 of induction, while it appeared both in the cytoplasm and the nucleus on Day 6 in decidualized cells, which was similar to that in cells before induction. In summary, we believe that CTPS plays an important role in decidualization by participating in energy metabolism. Abnormal expression of CTPS in decidualization would lead to abnormal decidualization and consequently result in the occurrence of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ma
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Na Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Xingyu Yan
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yunqing Zhu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
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26
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Hosseinirad H, Novin MG, Hosseini S, Nazarian H, Safaei Z, Hashemi T, Paktinat S, Mofarahe ZS. Evaluation of Expression and Phosphorylation of Progesterone Receptor in Endometrial Stromal Cells of Patients with Recurrent Implantation Failure Compared to Healthy Fertile Women. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1457-1465. [PMID: 33449351 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00428-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is the repeated failure of good-quality embryos in implantation process following several assisted reproduction cycles. Disruption of the endometrial receptivity is one of the main causes of RIF. Progesterone plays a pivotal role in the endometrial receptivity through the regulation of gene expression pattern by binding to its receptors in the endometrial cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression level of progesterone receptor (PR) and its phosphorylated form in the endometrial stromal cells (eSC) of RIF patients and compare it to the eSC of healthy fertile women as control group. After isolation of the eSC from biopsy samples of RIF patients and healthy fertile women and their characterization, expression levels of PR mRNA, PR protein, and phospho-Ser294 PR protein were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in PR mRNA expression (P < 0.01.) and phospho-Ser294 PR protein (P < 0.05) level in RIF patients compared to the control group. These data for the first time suggest that the expression of PR and its phosphorylated form are impaired in RIF patients. Therefore, designing therapeutic methods for improving PR expression status and its regulation in the endometrium of RIF patients may help in improving the final reproductive outcomes of these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Hosseinirad
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedighe Hosseini
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center (PGRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Safaei
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Teibeh Hashemi
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center (PGRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Paktinat
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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27
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Ojosnegros S, Seriola A, Godeau AL, Veiga A. Embryo implantation in the laboratory: an update on current techniques. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:501-530. [PMID: 33410481 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The embryo implantation process is crucial for the correct establishment and progress of pregnancy. During implantation, the blastocyst trophectoderm cells attach to the epithelium of the endometrium, triggering intense cell-to-cell crosstalk that leads to trophoblast outgrowth, invasion of the endometrial tissue, and formation of the placenta. However, this process, which is vital for embryo and foetal development in utero, is still elusive to experimentation because of its inaccessibility. Experimental implantation is cumbersome and impractical in adult animal models and is inconceivable in humans. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A number of custom experimental solutions have been proposed to recreate different stages of the implantation process in vitro, by combining a human embryo (or a human embryo surrogate) and endometrial cells (or a surrogate for the endometrial tissue). In vitro models allow rapid high-throughput interrogation of embryos and cells, and efficient screening of molecules, such as cytokines, drugs, or transcription factors, that control embryo implantation and the receptivity of the endometrium. However, the broad selection of available in vitro systems makes it complicated to decide which system best fits the needs of a specific experiment or scientific question. To orient the reader, this review will explore the experimental options proposed in the literature, and classify them into amenable categories based on the embryo/cell pairs employed.The goal is to give an overview of the tools available to study the complex process of human embryo implantation, and explain the differences between them, including the advantages and disadvantages of each system. SEARCH METHODS We performed a comprehensive review of the literature to come up with different categories that mimic the different stages of embryo implantation in vitro, ranging from initial blastocyst apposition to later stages of trophoblast invasion or gastrulation. We will also review recent breakthrough advances on stem cells and organoids, assembling embryo-like structures and endometrial tissues. OUTCOMES We highlight the most relevant systems and describe the most significant experiments. We focus on in vitro systems that have contributed to the study of human reproduction by discovering molecules that control implantation, including hormones, signalling molecules, transcription factors and cytokines. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The momentum of this field is growing thanks to the use of stem cells to build embryo-like structures and endometrial tissues, and the use of bioengineering to extend the life of embryos in culture. We propose to merge bioengineering methods derived from the fields of stem cells and reproduction to develop new systems covering a wider window of the implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Ojosnegros
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Seriola
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amélie L Godeau
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Veiga
- B arcelona Stem Cell Bank, Regenerative Medicine Programme, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Hospital Duran i Reynals, Barcelona, Spain.,Reproductive Medicine Service, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
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Hyperandrogenic Milieu Dysregulates the Expression of Insulin Signaling Factors and Glucose Transporters in the Endometrium of Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1637-1647. [PMID: 32430710 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00194-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Subfertility associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) mainly originates from oligoovulation/anovulation. Although insulin resistance and androgen excess are known to cause PCOS-associated implantation failure, the consequences of PCOS on endometrial homeostasis and pathophysiology have not been comprehensively understood. In this study, we examined whether the pathophysiologic milieu of PCOS intrinsically affects expression profiles of genes related to insulin signaling and facilitative glucose transporters (GLUTs) in the human endometrium and/or during in vitro decidualization. STUDY DESIGN Seven healthy women with regular menstrual cycles and 13 patients with PCOS were recruited for this study. To mimic the hyperandrogenic or hyperinsulinemic milieu in the endometrium of patient with PCOS (PCOSE) in vitro, human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) were treated with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or insulin, respectively. RESULTS In PCOSE, messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of insulin receptor (IR), IR substrate (IRS) 1, and IRS2 were significantly increased. Furthermore, GLUT1 and GLUT12 were aberrantly increased. Chronic exposure to insulin or DHT aberrantly increased IRS1/IRS2 phosphorylation and protein levels of GLUT1 and GLUT12 in hESCs, suggesting that not only hyperinsulinemic but also hyperandrogenic conditions affect insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. The mRNA microarrays demonstrated that DHT dysregulates various gene sets, including cell cycle and glucose metabolism, in hESCs. Furthermore, DHT suppressed the expression of GLUT1 and GLUT12 as well as decidualization markers, IGFBP1 and prolactin, during in vitro decidualization. CONCLUSIONS The hyperandrogenic milieu affects gene expression profiles, including gene sets associated with insulin signaling, cell cycle, glucose metabolism, and/or glucose transport, in human endometrium and during in vitro decidualization.
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Lu H, Yang HL, Zhou WJ, Lai ZZ, Qiu XM, Fu Q, Zhao JY, Wang J, Li DJ, Li MQ. Rapamycin prevents spontaneous abortion by triggering decidual stromal cell autophagy-mediated NK cell residence. Autophagy 2020; 17:2511-2527. [PMID: 33030400 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2020.1833515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Deficiency in decidualization has been widely regarded as an important cause of spontaneous abortion. Generalized decidualization also includes massive infiltration and enrichment of NK cells. However, the underlying mechanism of decidual NK (dNK) cell residence remains largely unknown. Here, we observe that the increased macroautophagy/autophagy of decidual stromal cells (DSCs) during decidualization, facilitates the adhesion and retention of dNK cells during normal pregnancy. Mechanistically, this process is mediated through activation of the MITF-TNFRSF14/HVEM signaling, and further upregulation of multiple adhesion adhesions (e.g. Selectins and ICAMs) in a MMP9-dependent manner. Patients with unexplained spontaneous abortion display insufficient DSC autophagy and dNK cell residence. In addition, poor vascular remodeling of placenta, low implantation number and high ratio of embryo loss are observed in NK cell depletion mice. In therapeutic studies, low doses of rapamycin, a known autophagy inducer that significantly promotes endometrium autophagy and NK cell residence, and improves embryo absorption in spontaneous abortion mice models, which should be dependent on the activation of MITF-TNFRSF14/HVEM-MMP9-adhension molecules axis. This observation reveals novel molecular mechanisms underlying DSCs autophagy-driven dNK cell residence, and provides a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent spontaneous abortion.Abbreviations: ACTA2/αSMA: actin alpha 2, smooth muscle; ATG: autophagy-related; ATG5over ESC: ATG5-overexpressed ESCs; BTLA: B and T lymphocyte associated; CDH1: cadherin 1; CDH5: cadherin 5; CXCL12: C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12; dNK: decidual NK; DIC: decidual immune cell; DSC: decidual stromal cell; EOMES: eomesodermin; ESC: endometrial stromal cell; FCGR3A/CD16: Fc fragment of IgG receptor IIIa; HUVEC: human umbilical vein endothelial cell; ICAM: intercellular cell adhesion molecule; ILC: innate lymphoid cell; ITGB1: integrin subunit beta 1; ITGA2: integrin subunit alpha 2; IPA: Ingenuity Pathway Analysis; KIR2DL1: killer cell immunoglobulin like receptor, two Ig domains and long cytoplasmic tail 1; KLRD1/CD94: killer cell lectin like receptor D1; KLRK1/NKG2D: killer cell lectin like receptor K1; MAP1LC3B/LC3B: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; 3-MA: 3-methyladenine; MITF: melanocyte inducing transcription factor; MiT-TFE: microphthalmia family of bHLH-LZ transcription factors; MMP9: matrix metalloproteinase 9; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; NCAM1/CD56: neural cell adhesion molecule 1; NCR2/NKp44: natural cytotoxicity triggering receptor 2; NK: natural killer; KLRB1/NK1.1: killer cell lectin like receptor B1; NP: normal pregnancy; PBMC: peripheral blood mononuclear cell; PECAM1/CD31: platelet and endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1; pNK: peripheral blood NK; PRF1/Perforin: Perforin 1; PTPRC/CD45: protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type C; Rapa: rapamycin; rh-TNFSF14/LIGHT: recombinant human TNFSF14/LIGHT; SA: spontaneous abortion; SELE: selectin E; SELP: selectin P; SELL: selectin L; siATG5 DSCs: ATG5-silenced DSCs; siTNFRSF14/HVEM DSCs: TNFRSF14/HVEM-silenced DSCs; TBX21/T-bet: T-box transcription factor 21; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; TNFRSF14/HVEM: TNF receptor superfamily member 14; TNFSF14/LIGHT: TNF superfamily member 14; uNK: uterine NK; UIC: uterine immune cell; USC: uterine stromal cell; VCAM1: vascular cell adhesion molecule 1; VIM: vimentin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Lu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Li Yang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jie Zhou
- Center of Reproductive Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Lai
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Min Qiu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Fu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical College, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Yuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology (IMIB), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Zhao X, Jiang Y, Jiang T, Han X, Wang Y, Chen L, Feng X. Physiological and pathological regulation of autophagy in pregnancy. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 302:293-303. [PMID: 32556514 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05607-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy exists widely in eukaryotic cells and is regulated by a variety of molecular mechanisms. Its physiological functions include providing energy, maintaining cell homeostasis, and promoting apoptosis of abnormal cells. At present, the regulation of autophagy in tumor, degenerative disease, and cardiovascular disease has attracted much attention. Gradually, the role of autophagy in pregnancy tends to be valued. The previous literature has shown that autophagy can influence the occurrence and maintenance of pregnancy from three aspects: embryo (affecting the process of fertilization and embryonic development and the function of trophoblast cells), maternal (decidualization), and maternal-to-fetal immune crosstalk. Undoubtedly, abnormalities in autophagy levels are associated with a variety of pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and preterm delivery which have been proven by human, animal, and in vitro experiments. The regulation of autophagy is expected to be a target for the treatment of these pregnancy complications. This article reviews the research on autophagy, especially about its physiological and pathological regulation during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan Zhao
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Yuepeng Jiang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Tianyue Jiang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Xinyu Han
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Xiaoling Feng
- Department of First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China.
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Liu H, Huang X, Mor G, Liao A. Epigenetic modifications working in the decidualization and endometrial receptivity. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:2091-2101. [PMID: 31813015 PMCID: PMC11105058 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is a critical event for the blastocyst implantation, placental development and fetal growth and the normal term. In mice, the embryo implantation to the uterine epithelial would trigger the endometrial stromal cells to differentiate into decidual stromal cells. However, decidualization in women takes place from the secretory phase of each menstrual cycle and continues to early pregnancy if there is conceptus. Deficient decidualization is often associated with pregnancy specific complications and reproductive disorders. Dramatic changes occur in the gene expression profiles during decidualization, which is coordinately regulated by steroid hormones, growth factors, and molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. Recently, emerging evidences showed that epigenetic modifications, mainly including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs, play an important role in the decidualization process via affecting the target genes' expression. In this review, we will focus on the epigenetic modifications in decidualization and open novel avenues to predict and treat the pregnancy complications caused by abnormal decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Rd, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobo Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Rd, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Gil Mor
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Rd, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, USA
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Rd, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
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Novel nonclassic progesterone receptor PGRMC1 pulldown-precipitated proteins reveal a key role during human decidualization. Fertil Steril 2020; 113:1050-1066.e7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Tamura I, Takagi H, Doi-Tanaka Y, Shirafuta Y, Mihara Y, Shinagawa M, Maekawa R, Taketani T, Sato S, Tamura H, Sugino N. Wilms tumor 1 regulates lipid accumulation in human endometrial stromal cells during decidualization. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:4673-4683. [PMID: 32098869 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.012841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that the transcription factor Wilms tumor 1 (WT1) regulates the expression of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) and prolactin (PRL) during decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). However, other roles of WT1 in decidualization remain to be fully clarified. Here, we investigated how WT1 regulates the physiological functions of human ESCs during decidualization. We incubated ESCs isolated from proliferative-phase endometrium with cAMP to induce decidualization, knocked down WT1 with siRNA, and generated three types of treatments (nontreated cells, cAMP-treated cells, and cAMP-treated + WT1-knockdown cells). To identify WT1-regulated genes, we used gene microarrays and compared the transcriptome data obtained among these three treatments. We observed that WT1 up-regulates 121 genes during decidualization, including several genes involved in lipid transport. The WT1 knockdown inhibited lipid accumulation (LA) in the cAMP-induced ESCs. To examine the mechanisms by which WT1 regulates LA, we focused on very low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), which is involved in lipoprotein uptake. We found that cAMP up-regulates VLDLR and that the WT1 knockdown inhibits it. Results of ChIP assays revealed that cAMP increases the recruitment of WT1 to the promoter region of the VLDLR gene, indicating that WT1 regulates VLDLR expression. Moreover, VLDLR knockdown inhibited cAMP-induced LA, and VLDLR overexpression reverted the suppression of LA caused by the WT1 knockdown. Taken together, our results indicate that WT1 enhances lipid storage by up-regulating VLDLR expression in human ESCs during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isao Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Haruka Takagi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Yumiko Doi-Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Shirafuta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Yumiko Mihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shinagawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Ryo Maekawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Taketani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Shun Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Norihiro Sugino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube 755-8505, Japan
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Effect of 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 on expression and phosphorylation of progesterone receptor in cultured endometrial stromal cells of patients with repeated implantation failure. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151489. [PMID: 31879032 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2019.151489] [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: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Repeated implantation failure (RIF) occurs in a condition when good quality embryos fail to implant in the endometrium following several in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. Suboptimal endometrial receptivity is one of the main underlying factors that causes this failure. Progesterone is the key regulator of endometrial receptivity which regulates gene expression through binding to its receptors in the endometrial stromal cells (eSC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 on progesterone receptor (PR) expression level and its phosphorylation on Ser294 residues in eSC of RIF patients and healthy fertile women. After isolation of the eSC from biopsy samples of RIF patients and healthy fertile women and their characterization, the cells were incubated with vitamin D3 and the expression level of PR mRNA, PR protein and phospho-Ser294 PR protein were evaluated after treatment. The results showed that vitamin D3 treatment increases PR mRNA and protein level and phospho-Ser294 PR protein level in the isolated eSC of both RIF patients and the control group. These results suggest that vitamin D3 may possibly play a key role during the embryo implantation process by affecting the expression pattern and regulatory modifications of the PR in the eSC.
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Dulohery K, Trottmann M, Bour S, Liedl B, Alba-Alejandre I, Reese S, Hughes B, Stief CG, Kölle S. How do elevated levels of testosterone affect the function of the human fallopian tube and fertility?-New insights. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 87:30-44. [PMID: 31705839 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Excess testosterone levels affect up to 20% of the female population worldwide and are a key component in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome. However, little is known about how excess testosterone affects the function of the human fallopian tube-the site of gamete transport, fertilization, and early embryogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize alterations caused by long-term exposure to male testosterone levels. For this purpose, the Fallopian tubes of nine female-to-male transsexuals, who had been undergoing testosterone treatment for 1-3 years, were compared with the tubes of 19 cycling patients. In the ampulla, testosterone treatment resulted in extensive luminal accumulations of secretions and cell debris which caused ciliary clumping and luminal blockage. Additionally, the percentage of ciliated cells in the ampulla was significantly increased. Transsexual patients, who had had sexual intercourse before surgery, showed spermatozoa trapped in mucus. Finally, in the isthmus complete luminal collapse occurred. Our results imply that fertility in women with elevated levels of testosterone is altered by tubal luminal obstruction resulting in impaired gamete transport and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Dulohery
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Susanne Bour
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Liedl
- Department of Urogenital Surgery, Clinic for Surgery Munich-Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Sven Reese
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Barbara Hughes
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Histologic Features of Hysterectomy Specimens From Female-Male Transgender Individuals. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2019; 38:520-527. [DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Mestre Citrinovitz AC, Strowitzki T, Germeyer A. Decreased Autophagy Impairs Decidualization of Human Endometrial Stromal Cells: A Role for ATG Proteins in Endometrial Physiology. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20123066. [PMID: 31234569 PMCID: PMC6628477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20123066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
During the menstrual cycle, the endometrium undergoes cyclic changes of cellular proliferation, differentiation, and death, an essential preparation of the endometrium for its interaction with the implanting embryo. In particular, the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells, named decidualization, ensures the formation of a proper feto-maternal interface for a regulated trophoblast invasion and correct placental orientation and growth. Interestingly, autophagy, an intracellular degradation process of great importance for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, plays an important role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and growth. In the endometrium, increased detection of autophagy markers correlates with the progression of the menstrual cycle. However, until now, it was unknown whether autophagy contributes to the proper function of the endometrium. In this study, we show that autophagy is increased during in vitro decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the knockdowns of two important autophagy-related (ATG) proteins, ATG7 and ATG5, impaired decidualization, confirming a positive role of these proteins and of autophagy for the correct decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. In conclusion, in this work, we describe a previously unknown functional connection between autophagy and endometrial physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cecilia Mestre Citrinovitz
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, INF 440, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Strowitzki
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, INF 440, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Ariane Germeyer
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, INF 440, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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Lee MH, Yoon JA, Kim HR, Kim YS, Lyu SW, Lee BS, Song H, Choi DH. Hyperandrogenic Milieu Dysregulates the Expression of Insulin Signaling Factors and Glucose Transporters in the Endometrium of Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Reprod Sci 2019:1933719119833487. [PMID: 30832546 DOI: 10.1177/1933719119833487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE: Subfertility associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) mainly originates from oligoovulation/anovulation. Although insulin resistance and androgen excess are known to cause PCOS-associated implantation failure, the consequences of PCOS on endometrial homeostasis and pathophysiology have not been comprehensively understood. In this study, we examined whether the pathophysiologic milieu of PCOS intrinsically affects expression profiles of genes related to insulin signaling and facilitative glucose transporters (GLUTs) in the human endometrium and/or during in vitro decidualization. STUDY DESIGN: Seven healthy women with regular menstrual cycles and 13 patients with PCOS were recruited for this study. To mimic the hyperandrogenic or hyperinsulinemic milieu in the endometrium of patient with PCOS (PCOSE) in vitro, human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) were treated with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or insulin, respectively. RESULTS: In PCOSE, messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of insulin receptor (IR), IR substrate (IRS) 1, and IRS2 were significantly increased. Furthermore, GLUT1 and GLUT12 were aberrantly increased. Chronic exposure to insulin or DHT aberrantly increased IRS1/IRS2 phosphorylation and protein levels of GLUT1 and GLUT12 in hESCs, suggesting that not only hyperinsulinemic but also hyperandrogenic conditions affect insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. The mRNA microarrays demonstrated that DHT dysregulates various gene sets, including cell cycle and glucose metabolism, in hESCs. Furthermore, DHT suppressed the expression of GLUT1 and GLUT12 as well as decidualization markers, IGFBP1 and prolactin, during in vitro decidualization. CONCLUSIONS: The hyperandrogenic milieu affects gene expression profiles, including gene sets associated with insulin signaling, cell cycle, glucose metabolism, and/or glucose transport, in human endometrium and during in vitro decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mee-Hwa Lee
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
- 2 Department of Medicine, The Graduate School of Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
- Both the authors equally contributed to this work. Both authors should be considered as first authors
| | - Jung-Ah Yoon
- 3 Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
- Both the authors equally contributed to this work. Both authors should be considered as first authors
| | - Hye-Ryun Kim
- 4 Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Yeon Sun Kim
- 4 Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Sang Woo Lyu
- 3 Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung Seok Lee
- 2 Department of Medicine, The Graduate School of Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
- 5 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- 4 Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Dong Hee Choi
- 6 Fertility Center of CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
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Kimura M, Kajihara T, Mizuno Y, Sato T, Ishihara O. Loss of high-mobility group N5 contributes to the promotion of human endometrial stromal cell decidualization. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:493-499. [PMID: 30377405 PMCID: PMC6194248 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE High-mobility group N (HMGN) proteins are the only non-histone proteins that specifically bind within the nucleosome between core histones and DNA. Among them, HMGN5 is one of the candidates that could participate in mouse endometrial decidualization; however, the specific role of HMGN5 remains to be clarified in human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). METHODS Primary HESCs were isolated from hysterectomy specimens and incubated with or without 8-bromo-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (8-br-cAMP) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). RESULTS We demonstrated that HMGN5 expression in decidualized HESCs stimulated by 8-br-cAMP and MPA decreased significantly. The inhibition of HMGN5 expression by small interfering RNA (siRNA) induced the major decidual marker genes expression, including IGFBP1 (insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1) and PRL (prolactin). In addition, microRNA-542-3p (miR-542-3p), which was identified as a regulatory miRNA of IGFBP1 during decidualization, was significantly suppressed by HMGN5 siRNA. However, the expression of HMGN5 was not alternated by miR-542-3p overexpression. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the down-regulation of HMGN5 plays a role in the promotion of human endometrial stromal decidualization and acts upstream of miR-542-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Machiko Kimura
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySaitama Medical UniversitySaitamaJapan
| | - Takeshi Kajihara
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySaitama Medical UniversitySaitamaJapan
| | - Yumi Mizuno
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySaitama Medical UniversitySaitamaJapan
| | - Tomomi Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySaitama Medical UniversitySaitamaJapan
- Department of AnatomySaitama Medical UniversitySaitamaJapan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySaitama Medical UniversitySaitamaJapan
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Satué K, Marcilla M, Medica P, Ferlazzo A, Fazio E. Testosterone, androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations in pregnant Spanish Purebred mare. Theriogenology 2018; 123:62-67. [PMID: 30292857 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Androgens modulate maternal ovarian activity, embryo implantation and correct placental development. The objective of this study was to establish reference values for testosterone (T), androstenedione (A4) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) concentrations in pregnant mares. A total of 30 healthy Spanish Purebred mares with an age range of 9.33 ± 3.31 years, were studied during the 11 months of gestation. T, A4 and DHEA concentrations were determined using EIA validated specifically for equines. T increased in the 2nd and 3rd month (P < 0.05), showing a plateau between the 4th and 6th month, decreased from the 7th to the 9th month (P < 0.05) and increased in the 10th month (P < 0.05), reaching the maximum value in the last month of pregnancy (P < 0.05). A4 increased in the 2nd month (P < 0.05), reaching the maximum value in the 3rd month (P < 0.05), decreased in the 4th month, increasing in the 5th and 6th month (P < 0.05). From the 7th month the average values decreased until reaching the minimum at the end of gestation. DHEA progressively increased from the 1st to the 5th month, at which time the maximum mean value was reached (P < 0.05), after a decrease in the 6th and 7th month occurred (P < 0.05), reaching the minimum value in the last month of gestation. T, A4 and DHEA were positive and significantly correlated (P < 0.05). The androgens analyzed in this study can be used as predictive markers of pregnancy in the mare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katiuska Satué
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, CEU-Cardenal Herrera University, Valencia, Spain.
| | - María Marcilla
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, CEU-Cardenal Herrera University, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pietro Medica
- Departament of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology Unit, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina University, Italy
| | - Adriana Ferlazzo
- Departament of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology Unit, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina University, Italy
| | - Esterina Fazio
- Departament of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology Unit, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Messina University, Italy
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41
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Okada H, Tsuzuki T, Murata H. Decidualization of the human endometrium. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:220-227. [PMID: 30013421 PMCID: PMC6046526 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decidualization of the human endometrium, which involves a dramatic morphological and functional differentiation of human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), is essential for the establishment of a successful pregnancy. Decidualization results from a complex interplay of transcription factors, morphogens, cytokines, cell cycle regulators, and signaling pathways. METHODS Based on a literature review, the regulation of, and the molecular mechanisms involved in, the decidualization of the endometrium are described. MAIN FINDINGS Progesterone, together with proteins that are regulated by progesterone and/or cyclic adenosine monophosphate, including homeobox A10, forkhead box O1, signal transducers and activators of transcription, and heart and neural crest derivatives expressed transcript 2, forms a critical network for ESC decidualization and is a prerequisite to successful implantation. Decidualized ESCs contribute to the microenvironment at the feto-maternal interface and its direct or indirect influence on extracellular matrix remodeling, regulation of the local immune response, anti-oxidative stress, and angiogenesis (vascular maturation). Impairment of this process is associated with a variety of pregnancy disorders, including infertility, recurrent miscarriages, and uteroplacental disorders. CONCLUSION A deeper understanding of the process of decidualization is expected to provide new insights into the fields of reproductive biology and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Tomoko Tsuzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
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42
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Simitsidellis I, Saunders PTK, Gibson DA. Androgens and endometrium: New insights and new targets. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 465:48-60. [PMID: 28919297 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are synthesised in both the ovary and adrenals in women and play an important role in the regulation of female fertility, as well as in the aetiology of disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis and endometrial cancer. The endometrium is an androgen target tissue and the impact of AR-mediated effects has been studied using human endometrial tissue samples and rodent models. In this review we highlight recent evidence that endometrial androgen biosynthesis and intracrine action is important in preparation of a tissue microenvironment that can support implantation and establishment of pregnancy. The impact of androgens on endometrial cell proliferation, in repair of the endometrial wound at the time of menstruation and in endometrial disorders is discussed. Future directions for research focused on AR function as a therapeutic target are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Simitsidellis
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Douglas A Gibson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
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43
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Babayev SN, Kanchwala M, Xing C, Akgul Y, Carr BR, Word RA. Thrombin Alters Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Differentiation During Decidualization. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:278-288. [PMID: 29658436 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118768705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal bleeding and subchorionic hematomas are associated with increased risk of both early and late pregnancy loss. Thrombin generation may play a pivotal role in the development of these complications. To determine the effects of thrombin on human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs), cells were treated with thrombin at baseline or during decidualization with cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)+medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). Next-generation RNA sequencing revealed that markers of decidualization (IGF-1, IGFBP-1, and prolactin [PRL]) were induced after the initiation of decidualization, whereas thrombin suppressed insulin-like growth factor ( IGF)-1, Insulin-like growth factor binding protein ( IGFBP)-1, and PRL gene expression at baseline and during decidualization. These effects were mediated through protease activated receptor (PAR)-1- and PAR-1-independent pathways. Thrombin decreased the secretion of a key marker of decidualization (PRL), altered the morphological transformation of decidualizing hESCs, and activated genes involved in matrix degradation and proinflammatory chemokines ( Interleukin-8 and Interleukin-6). Genes encoding factors important for matrix stability ( Col1α1, LOX) were suppressed. We suggest that intrauterine bleeding and generation of thrombin accentuates leukocyte extravasation and endometrial inflammation, impairs decidualization, and endometrial support of early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir N Babayev
- 1 Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Mohammed Kanchwala
- 2 Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Chao Xing
- 2 Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,3 Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,4 Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Yucel Akgul
- 5 Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Bruce R Carr
- 1 Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ruth Ann Word
- 1 Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,6 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biological Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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44
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Wang Y, Wang Z, Yu W, Sheng X, Zhang H, Han Y, Yuan Z, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of androgen receptor, estrogen receptors and cytochrome P450 aromatase in the uteri of the wild Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus). Eur J Histochem 2018; 62:2889. [PMID: 29569876 PMCID: PMC5820527 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2018.2889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive tissues including the uterus undergo dramatic changes in seasonal breeders from the breeding to non-breeding seasons. Classically, sex steroid hormones play important roles in the uterine morphology and functions. To clarify the relationship between sex steroid hormones and seasonal changes in the uterine morphology and functions, the wild Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus) were used as seasonal breeder model. And the immunolocalizations and expression levels of androgen receptor (AR), estrogen receptors α and β (ERα and ERβ) and cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450arom) were investigated in the uteri of the wild Daurian ground squirrels in the breeding (April) and the non-breeding (June) seasons via immunohistochemistry, Western blot and RT-PCR. Histologically, the uterine weight, the thickness of endometrium and the glandular density were significantly higher in the uteri of the breeding season than those of the non-breeding season. In both seasons, the immunostaining of AR was only presented in stromal cells of the uteri; the positive staining of ERα and ERβ were localized in stromal cells and glandular cells; P450arom was merely immunolocalized in glandular cells. The protein and mRNA expression levels of ERα, ERβ and P450arom were higher in the uteri of the breeding season than those of the non-breeding season; conversely, the expressions of AR were higher in the uteri of the non-breeding season comparing with those of the breeding season in both protein and mRNA levels. The AR: ER ratio in the uteri of the non-breeding season exceeded the AR: ER ratio in the uteri of the breeding season in the wild Daurian ground squirrels. These results suggested that seasonal changes in the expression levels of AR, ERs and P450arom might be correlated with the uterine morphology and histology changes, and estrogen may play an important autocrine/paracrine role in regulating the uterine functions of the wild Daurian ground squirrels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Beijing Forestry University, College of Biological Science and Technology.
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45
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Kim YJ, Kim YY, Kim DW, Joo JK, Kim H, Ku SY. Profile of MicroRNA Expression in Endometrial Cell during In Vitro Culture According to Progesterone Concentration. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2017; 14:617-629. [PMID: 30603515 PMCID: PMC6171628 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-017-0080-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial uterus using endometrium implant can be a novel treatment strategy for infertile women with refractory endometrial dysfunction. At early pregnancy, the function of uterine endometrial cells for the communication between the conceptus of pre-implantation period and maternal reproductive system is essential. MicroRNA (miR) expression profile of endometrial cells according to progesterone, a crucial pregnancy-maintaining hormone, provides important data for in vitro endometrial cell culture strategy that is useful for engineering artificial uteri using endometrial implants. The present study aimed to evaluate the miR expression profile of in vitro cultured endometrial cells under hormonal milieu mimicking early pregnancy period in terms of progesterone concentration. We cultured murine uterine endometrial cells, human uterine endometrial carcinoma cells, and immortalized human uterine endometrial cells using different progesterone concentrations, and analyzed the expression of miRs critical for early pregnancy. The expression of miR-20a, -21, -196a, -199a, and -200a was differently regulated according to progesterone concentration in different endometrial cell lines. The analysis of candidate target genes showed that the expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog, mucin 1 (MUC1), progesterone receptor, transforming growth factor β receptor II, matrix metallopeptidase-9 was up-regulated by progesterone treatment in mouse and human endometrial cell lines. These results indicate that physiological concentration range (10-7 and 10-9 M) of progesterone affect the survival and target gene expression via modulating miR expression. Taken together, progesterone can be a crucial factor in regulating miR expression on in vitro cultured endometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jin Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, 148 Gurodong-ro, Guro-gu, Seoul, 08308 Korea
| | - Yoon Young Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Dong Won Kim
- Mirae-Heemang Clinic, 68 Jukbong-daero, Seo-gu, Gwangju, 61932 Korea
| | - Jong Kil Joo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pusan National University, 179 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Pusan, 49241 Korea
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
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46
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Shehab MA, Biggar K, Singal SS, Nygard K, Shun-Cheng Li S, Jansson T, Gupta MB. Exposure of decidualized HIESC to low oxygen tension and leucine deprivation results in increased IGFBP-1 phosphorylation and reduced IGF-I bioactivity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 452:1-14. [PMID: 28435049 PMCID: PMC5957756 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Phosphorylation of decidual IGFBP-1 enhances binding of IGF-I, limiting the bioavailability of this growth factor which may contribute to reduced placental and fetal growth. The mechanisms regulating decidual IGFBP-1 phosphorylation are incompletely understood. Using decidualized human immortalized endometrial stromal cells we tested the hypothesis that low oxygen tension or reduced leucine availability, believed to be common in placental insufficiency, increase the phosphorylation of decidual IGFBP-1. Multiple reaction monitoring-MS (MRM-MS) was used to quantify IGFBP-1 phosphorylation. MRM-MS validated the novel phosphorylation of IGFBP-1 at Ser58, however this site was unaffected by low oxygen tension/leucine deprivation. In contrast, significantly elevated phosphorylation was detected for pSer119, pSer98/pSer101 and pSer169/pSer174 sites. Immunoblotting and dual-immunofluorescence using phosphosite-specific IGFBP-1 antibodies further demonstrated increased IGFBP-1 phosphorylation in HIESC under both treatments which concomitantly reduced IGF-I bioactivity. These data support the hypothesis that down regulation of IGF-I signaling links decidual IGFBP-1 hyperphosphorylation to restricted fetal growth in placental insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majida Abu Shehab
- Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kyle Biggar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sahil Sagar Singal
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen Nygard
- Department of Biotron, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shawn Shun-Cheng Li
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Madhulika B Gupta
- Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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47
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Bisphenol A impairs decidualization of human uterine stromal fibroblasts. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 73:339-344. [PMID: 28729173 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the effect of bisphenol A (BPA) exposure on human uterine stromal fibroblast cells (HuF) undergoing decidualization. HuF cells were isolated and cultured for eight days in the presence of a decidualization-inducing cocktail, while concurrently exposed to physiological and supra-physiologic doses of BPA (1ng/mL, 10ng/mL, 0.5μg/mL, 10μg/mL and 20μg/mL). Decidualization markers, steroid hormone receptors and cell cycle gene expression were detected by qRT-PCR and cellular proliferation was assessed by KI-67 immunofluorescent staining and MTS assay. BPA impaired decidualization at 10μg/mL and 20μg/mL, but not at lower doses. Additionally, BPA at 20μg/mL decreased progesterone receptor and estrogen receptor-alpha compared to controls. The highest dose of BPA also reduced cellular proliferation and cyclin D2 expression compared to controls. These findings demonstrate that BPA disrupts in vitro decidualization of uterine stromal fibroblasts by altering steroid hormone receptor expression at higher concentrations but not at lower physiological doses.
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48
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Tochigi H, Kajihara T, Mizuno Y, Mizuno Y, Tamaru S, Kamei Y, Okazaki Y, Brosens JJ, Ishihara O. Loss of miR-542-3p enhances IGFBP-1 expression in decidualizing human endometrial stromal cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40001. [PMID: 28051155 PMCID: PMC5209665 DOI: 10.1038/srep40001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization represents an essential step for the successful implantation of the embryo; however, the molecular mechanism behind this differentiation process remains unclear. This study aimed to identify novel microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in the regulation of decidual gene expression in human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). An in vitro analysis of primary undifferentiated and decidualizing HESCs was conducted. HESCs were isolated from hysterectomy specimens from normally cycling premenopausal women with uterine fibroids, who were not on hormonal treatment at the time of surgery. Primary HESCs were expanded in culture and decidualized with 8-bromo-cyclic adenosine monophosphate and medroxyprogesterone acetate. Microarray analysis identified six miRNAs differentially expressed in response to decidualization of HESCs. All but one miRNA were downregulated upon decidualization, including miR-542-3p. We demonstrated that miR-542-3p overexpression inhibits the induction of major decidual marker genes, including IGFBP1, WNT4 and PRL. In addition, miR-542-3p overexpression inhibited the morphological transformation of HESCs in response to deciduogenic cues. A luciferase reporter assay confirmed that the 3′-untranslated region of IGFBP1 mRNA is targeted by miR-542-3p. The results suggest that miR-542-3p plays an important role in endometrial decidualization by regulating the expression of major decidual marker genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideno Tochigi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan.,Division of Functional Genomics and Systems Medicine, Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka city, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kajihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yosuke Mizuno
- Division of Functional Genomics and Systems Medicine, Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka city, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yumi Mizuno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Tamaru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan.,Division of Functional Genomics and Systems Medicine, Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka city, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Kamei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yasushi Okazaki
- Division of Functional Genomics and Systems Medicine, Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka city, Saitama, Japan.,Division of Translational Research, Research Center for Genomic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka city, Saitama, Japan
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Division of Reproductive Health, Warwick Medical School, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, University Hospital, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK.,Tommy's National Miscarriage Research Centre, University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
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49
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Wongwananuruk T, Sato T, Kajihara T, Matsumoto S, Akita M, Tamura K, Brosens JJ, Ishihara O. Endometrial androgen signaling and decidualization regulate trophoblast expansion and invasion in co-culture: A time-lapse study. Placenta 2016; 47:56-62. [PMID: 27780540 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Revised: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To elucidate whether trophoblast expansion and invasion are modulated by androgen signaling in an in vitro co-culture model system with decidualizing endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). METHODS We employed an in vitro co-culture model of early embryo implantation, consisting of human ESCs (EtsT499 cells) and spheroids generated by extravillous trophoblast (EVT) derived HTR8/Svneo. The ESCs were decidualized with 8-bromo-cAMP (8-br-cAMP) in the presence or absence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) at various concentrations for 5 days before co-culture with EVT spheroids. Trophoblast expansion was monitored by fluorescent time-lapse imaging microscopy. ESCs motility was visualized by using CellTracker™ Orange CMRA fluorescent probe. Apoptosis of ESCs was detected by CellEvent™ Caspase-3/7® green detection reagent. Invasion assays were performed to quantify EVT invasion through a chemotaxis cell membrane. RESULTS Expansion of EVT spheroids was significantly enhanced by decidualized compared to undifferentiated ESCs. This process was further stimulated if ESCs were first decidualized in the presence of DHT. In contrast to decidualized ESCs, undifferentiated cells actively migrated away from expanding EVT spheroids. Invasiveness of EVT toward decidualized ESCs was significantly attenuated in comparison to undifferentiated ESCs. DHT had no effect on EVT invasion. However, an inhibitor of intercellular gap junction communication significantly enhanced EVT invasion towards decidualized ESCs. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate distinct roles for androgen signaling and gap junction formation in decidual cells in regulating trophoblast expansion and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanyarat Wongwananuruk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tomomi Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan; Department of Anatomy, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kajihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan.
| | - Sachiko Matsumoto
- Biomedical Research Center, Division of Morphological Science, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masumi Akita
- Biomedical Research Center, Division of Morphological Science, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tamura
- Department of Endocrine and Neural Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy & Life Sciences, Horinouchi 1432-1, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0392, Japan
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, University Hospital, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Morohongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
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Gibson DA, Simitsidellis I, Saunders PTK. Regulation of androgen action during establishment of pregnancy. J Mol Endocrinol 2016; 57:R35-47. [PMID: 27067639 DOI: 10.1530/jme-16-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
During the establishment of pregnancy, the ovarian-derived hormones progesterone and oestradiol regulate remodelling of the endometrium to promote an environment that is able to support and maintain a successful pregnancy. Decidualisation is characterised by differentiation of endometrial stromal cells that secrete growth factors and cytokines that regulate vascular remodelling and immune cell influx. This differentiation process is critical for reproduction, and inadequate decidualisation is implicated in the aetiology of pregnancy disorders such as foetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. In contrast to progesterone and oestradiol, the role of androgens in regulating endometrial function is poorly understood. Androgen receptors are expressed in the endometrium, and androgens are reported to regulate both the transcriptome and the secretome of endometrial stromal cells. In androgen-target tissues, circulating precursors are activated to mediate local effects, and recent studies report that steroid concentrations detected in endometrial tissue are distinct to those detected in the peripheral circulation. New evidence suggests that decidualisation results in dynamic changes in the expression of androgen biosynthetic enzymes, highlighting a role for pre-receptor regulation of androgen action during the establishment of pregnancy. These results suggest that such enzymes could be future therapeutic targets for the treatment of infertility associated with endometrial dysfunction. In conclusion, these data support the hypothesis that androgens play a beneficial role in regulating the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Future studies should be focussed on investigating the safety and efficacy of androgen supplementation with the potential for utilisation of novel therapeutics, such as selective androgen receptor modulators, to improve reproductive outcomes in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Gibson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation ResearchQueen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ioannis Simitsidellis
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation ResearchQueen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation ResearchQueen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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