Differential expression of microRNAs in decidua-derived mesenchymal stem cells from patients with pre-eclampsia

The Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells and Their Niches

Endometrial stem/progenitor cells are a type of stem cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into multiple cell types. They exist in the endometrium and form niches with their neighbor cells and extracellular matrix. The interaction between endometrial stem/progenitor cells and niches plays an important role in maintaining, repairing, and regenerating the endometrial structure and function. This review will discuss the characteristics and functions of endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their niches, the mechanisms of their interaction, and their roles in endometrial regeneration and diseases. Finally, the prospects for their applications will also be explored.

PPP2R2A inhibition contributes to preeclampsia by regulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis modulation potential of mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

The precise mechanisms underlying preeclampsia (PE) pathogenesis remain unclear. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are involved in the pathology of PE. The aim of our study was to identify the effects of protein phosphatase 2 regulatory subunit B α (PPP2R2A) on MSCs and ascertain its latent role in the progression of PE.

METHODS

Reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression of PPP2R2A in decidual tissue and decidual (d)MSCs from healthy pregnant women and patients with PE as well as the expression levels of Bax and Bcl-2 in dMSCs. The levels of p-PI3K, PI3K, p-AKT, and AKT were determined using western blotting. Cell growth, apoptosis, and migration were analyzed using MTT, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays, respectively. Human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) tube formation ability was assayed using a HUVEC capillary-like tube formation assay.

RESULTS

PPP2R2A was downregulated in decidual tissues and dMSCs of patients with PE when compared with that in healthy pregnant women. Moreover, upregulation of PPP2R2A enhanced cell proliferation, reduced apoptotic dMSC, inhibited Bax expression, and increased Bcl-2 levels. Conditioned medium from PPP2R2A-overexpressing dMSCs promoted HTR-8/SVneo cell migration and angiogenesis of HUVEC. Furthermore, the PPP2R2A plasmid suppressed PI3K/AKT pathway activation in dMSCs. However, these effects were partially reversed by LY2940002 treatment.

CONCLUSION

PPP2R2A inhibition contributes to PE by regulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis of MSCs, providing a new therapeutic target for PE diagnosis and treatment.

Exploring the role of exosomal MicroRNAs as potential biomarkers in preeclampsia

The complex pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE), a significant contributor to maternal and neonatal mortality globally, is poorly understood despite substantial research. This review explores the involvement of exosomal microRNAs (exomiRs) in PE, focusing on their impact on the protein kinase B (AKT)/hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF1α)/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway as well as endothelial cell proliferation and migration. Specifically, this article amalgamates existing evidence to reveal the pivotal role of exomiRs in regulating mesenchymal stem cell and trophoblast function, placental angiogenesis, the renin-angiotensin system, and nitric oxide production, which may contribute to PE etiology. This review emphasizes the limited knowledge regarding the role of exomiRs in PE while underscoring the potential of exomiRs as non-invasive biomarkers for PE diagnosis, prediction, and treatment. Further, it provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of PE, highlighting exomiRs as key players with clinical implications, warranting further exploration to enhance the current understanding and the development of novel therapeutic interventions.

Identification and analysis of differentially expressed microRNAs in endometrium to explore the regulation of sheep fecundity

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important regulatory role in mammalian reproduction. Currently, most studies are primarily concentrated on ovarian miRNAs, ignoring the influence of endometrial miRNAs on the fecundity of female sheep. To uncover potential regulators of sheep fecundity, RNA-seq was used to comparatively analyze miRNA expression profiles of endometrium between high prolificacy sheep (HP, litter size = 3) and low prolificacy sheep (LP, litter size = 1) with FecB genotype.

RESULTS

Firstly, genomic features of miRNAs from endometrium were analyzed. Furthermore, 58 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were found in the endometrium of Hu sheep with different litter size. A co-expression network of DE miRNAs and target genes has been constructed, and hub genes related litter size are included, such as DE miRNA unconservative_NC_019472.2_1229533 and unconservative_NC_019481.2_1637827 target to estrogen receptor α (ESR1) and unconservative_NC_019481.2_1637827 targets to transcription factor 7 (TCF7). Moreover, functional annotation analysis showed that the target genes (NRCAM and NEGR1) of the DE miRNAs were significantly enriched in cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) signaling pathway, which was related to uterine receptivity.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, this study provides a new valuable resource for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying Hu sheep prolificacy.

Variation in placental microRNA expression associates with maternal family history of cardiovascular disease

In the United States, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and the rate of maternal mortality remains among the highest of any industrialized nation. Maternal cardiometabolic health throughout gestation and postpartum is representative of placental health and physiology. Both proper placental functionality and placental microRNA expression are essential to successful pregnancy outcomes, and both are highly sensitive to genetic and environmental sources of variation. Placental pathologies, such as preeclampsia, are associated with maternal cardiovascular health but may also contribute to the developmental programming of chronic disease in offspring. However, the role of more subtle alterations to placental function and microRNA expression in this developmental programming remains poorly understood. We performed small RNA sequencing to investigate microRNA in placentae from the Rhode Island Child Health Study (n = 230). MicroRNA counts were modeled on maternal family history of cardiovascular disease using negative binomial generalized linear models. MicroRNAs were considered to be differentially expressed at a false discovery rate (FDR) less than 0.10. Parallel mRNA sequencing data and bioinformatic target prediction software were then used to identify potential mRNA targets of differentially expressed microRNAs. Nine differentially expressed microRNAs were identified (FDR < 0.1). Bioinformatic target prediction revealed 66 potential mRNA targets of these microRNAs, many of which are implicated in TGFβ signaling pathway but also in pathways involving cellular metabolism and immunomodulation. A robust association exists between familial cardiovascular disease and placental microRNA expression which may be implicated in both placental insufficiencies and the developmental programming of chronic disease.

The role of miRNA-210 in pre-eclampsia development

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding, single-stranded RNAs (ribonucleic acids) that play important roles in many vital processes through their impact on gene expression. One such miRNA, miR210, represents a hypoxia-induced cellular miRNA group that hold a variety of functions. This review article highlights the importance of miR-210 in the development of pre-eclampsia.KEY MESSAGEmiR-210 is a promising biomarker for monitoring pregnancy with pre-eclampsia. Overexpression of miR-210 had a negative impact on the process of cell migration and trophoblast invasion.

miR-372-3p promotes preeclampsia progression by regulating twist1

Preeclampsia (PE) is a common pregnancy-related disorder worldwide. PE is mainly characterized by the defective migration and invasion of trophoblast cells. MicroRNAs (miRs) have been reported to serve an important role in PE. The purpose of the study was to explore the pathogenesis and therapeutic targets of preeclampsia. In the present study, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis revealed that the expression levels of miR-372-3p were upregulated in placental tissues from patients with PE. Notably, the expression levels of miR-372-3p were significantly upregulated in patients with early-onset PE compared with patients with late-onset PE. Moreover, in vitro analysis using wound healing, Transwell and western blotting assays demonstrated that miR-372-3p overexpression inhibited the migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis and a dual luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR-372-3p is sponged by twist family bHLH transcription factor 1 (twist1). Rescue experiments found that miR-372-3p overexpression suppressed trophoblast cell migration, invasion and EMT by downregulating the expression of twist1. In conclusion, the present study revealed that high level of miR-372-3p may act as a factor to cause PE and may also be a potential novel therapeutic target for PE.

The pathological and therapeutic roles of mesenchymal stem cells in preeclampsia

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have made progress in the treatment of ischemic and inflammatory diseases. Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by placenta ischemic and inflammatory injury. Our paper summarized the new role of MSCs in PE pathology and its potency in PE therapy and analyzed its current limitations. Intravenously administered MSCs dominantly distributed in perinatal tissues. There may be additional advantages to using MSCs-based therapies for reproductive disorders. It will provide new ideas for future research in this field.

Decidual mesenchymal stem/stromal cells from preeclamptic patients secrete endoglin, which at high levels inhibits endothelial cell attachment invitro

INTRODUCTION

In preeclampsia (PE), inadequate remodelling of spiral arterioles in the decidua basalis causes oxidative stress and subsequent increased release of antiangiogenic soluble endoglin (sENG) into the maternal circulation. Decidual mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (DMSCs) reside adjacent to endothelial cells in this vascular niche. Surprisingly, DMSCs express membrane-bound ENG (CD105). PE-affected DMSCs (PE-DMSCs) are abnormal and due to reduced extravillous invasion, more of them are present, but the significance of this is not known.

METHODS

DMSCs were isolated and characterised from normotensive control and severe-PE placentae. Extracellular vesicle (EV) types, shed microvesicles (sMV) and exosomes, were isolated from DMSC conditioned media (DMSC_CM), respectively. Secretion of ENG by DMSCs was assessed by ELISA of DMSC_CM, with and without EV depletion. The effects of reducing ENG concentration, by blocking antibody, on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) attachment were assessed by xCELLigence real-time functional assays.

RESULTS

ENG was detected in DMSC_CM and these levels significantly decreased when depleted of exosomes and sMV. There was no significant difference in the amount of ENG secreted by control DMSCs and PE-DMSCs. Blocking ENG in concentrated DMSC_CM, used to treat HUVECs, improved endothelial cell attachment.

DISCUSSION

In normotensive pregnancies, DMSC secretion of ENG likely has a beneficial effect on endothelial cells. However, in PE pregnancies, shallow invasion of the spiral arterioles exposes more PE-DMSC derived sources of ENG (soluble and EV). The presence of these PE-DMSCs in the vascular niche contributes to endothelial cell dysfunction.

Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Their Role in Oxidative Stress Associated with Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious medically important disorder of human pregnancy, which features de novo pregnancy-induced hypertension and proteinuria. The severe form of PE can progress to eclampsia, a convulsive, life-threatening condition. When placental growth and perfusion are abnormal, the placenta experiences oxidative stress and subsequently secretes abnormal amounts of certain pro-angiogenic factors (eg, PlGF) as well as anti-angiogenic factors (eg, sFlt-1) that enter the maternal circulation. The net effect is damage to the maternal vascular endothelium, which subsequently manifests as the clinical features of PE. Other than delivery of the fetus and placenta, curative treatments for PE have not yet been forthcoming, which reflects the complexity of the clinical syndrome. A major source of reactive oxygen species that contributes to the widespread maternal vascular endothelium damage is the PE-affected decidua. The role of decidua-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) in normotensive and pathological placenta development is poorly understood. The ability to respond to an environment of oxidative damage is a "universal property" of MSC but the biological mechanisms that MSC employ in response to oxidative stress are compromised in PE. In this review, we discuss how MSC respond to oxidative stress in normotensive and pathological conditions. We also consider the possibility of manipulating the oxidative stress response of abnormal MSC as a therapeutic strategy to treat preeclampsia.

Characteristics and regulation of mesenchymal stem cell plasticity by the microenvironment — specific factors involved in the regulation of MSC plasticity

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), multipotent stromal cells, have attracted extensive attention in the field of regenerative medicine and cell therapy due to the capacity of self-renewal, multilineage differentiation, and immune regulation. MSCs have different cellular effects in different diseases, and even have markedly different curative effects with different tissue sources, indicating the plasticity of MSCs. The phenotypes, secreted factors, and proliferative, migratory, differentiating, and immunomodulatory effects of MSCs depend on certain mediators present in their microenvironment. Understanding microenvironmental factors and their internal mechanisms in MSC responses may help in subsequent prediction and improvement of clinical benefits. This review highlighted the recent advances in MSC plasticity in the physiological and pathological microenvironment and multiple microenvironmental factors regulating MSC plasticity. It also highlighted some progress in the underlying molecular mechanisms of MSC remodeling in the microenvironment. It might provide references for the improvement in vitro culture of MSCs, clinical application, and in vivo induction.

Preeclamptic Women Have Disrupted Placental microRNA Expression at the Time of Preeclampsia Diagnosis: Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-associated, multi-organ, life-threatening disease that appears after the 20th week of gestation. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether women with PE have disrupted miRNA expression compared to women who do not have PE. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that reported miRNAs expression levels in placenta or peripheral blood of pregnant women with vs. without PE. Studies published before October 29, 2021 were identified through PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. Two reviewers used predefined forms and protocols to evaluate independently the eligibility of studies based on titles and abstracts and to perform full-text screening, data abstraction and quality assessment. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was used as a measure of effect size. Results: 229 publications were included in the systematic review and 53 in the meta-analysis. The expression levels in placenta were significantly higher in women with PE compared to women without PE for miRNA-16 (SMD = 1.51,95%CI = 0.55-2.46), miRNA-20b (SMD = 0.89, 95%CI = 0.33-1.45), miRNA-23a (SMD = 2.02, 95%CI = 1.25-2.78), miRNA-29b (SMD = 1.37, 95%CI = 0.36-2.37), miRNA-155 (SMD = 2.99, 95%CI = 0.83-5.14) and miRNA-210 (SMD = 1.63, 95%CI = 0.69-2.58), and significantly lower for miRNA-376c (SMD = -4.86, 95%CI = -9.51 to -0.20). An increased level of miRNK-155 expression was found in peripheral blood of women with PE (SMD = 2.06, 95%CI = 0.35-3.76), while the expression level of miRNA-16 was significantly lower in peripheral blood of PE women (SMD = -0.47, 95%CI = -0.91 to -0.03). The functional roles of the presented miRNAs include control of trophoblast proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, differentiation, cellular metabolism and angiogenesis. Conclusion: miRNAs play an important role in the pathophysiology of PE. The identification of differentially expressed miRNAs in maternal blood creates an opportunity to define an easily accessible biomarker of PE.

Circular RNA FOXP1 relieves trophoblastic cell dysfunction in recurrent pregnancy loss via the miR-143-3p/S100A11 cascade

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is closely associated with insufficient functions of trophoblastic cells. Circular RNA forkhead box P1 (circFOXP1) can regulate cell activities in different types of diseases. However, its effects on trophoblastic cells and its role in RPL development remain unknown. In this study, gene expressions were detected by RT-qPCR. Protein levels were detected by Western blotting. Trophoblastic cell viability, apoptosis, invasion, and migration were respectively analyzed via CCK-8, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assays. The association between miR–143–3p and circFOXP1 or S100A11 (S100 calcium binding protein A11) was explored and confirmed by bioinformatics prediction and luciferase reporter assay. Herein, miR–143–3p was upregulated in RPL. Furthermore, miR–143–3p upregulation induced apoptosis and suppressed proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and metastatic capabilities of trophoblastic cells; whereas, miR–143–3p inhibition exert opposite effects. MiR–143–3p targeted S100A11 and was adversely regulated by circFOXP1 expression. S100A11 inhibition partially offset the effect of miR–143–3p knockdown on trophoblastic cell viability, apoptosis, EMT, invasion, and migration. In addition, circFOXP1 competitively combined with miR–143–3p, thus regulating S100A11 expression. Moreover, circFOXP1 regulated trophoblastic cell functions through the miR–143–3p/S100A11 cascade. To sum up, our study, for the first time, demonstrated that circFOXP1 could improve dysfunction of trophoblastic cells through the miR–143–3p/S100A11 axis, providing novel biomarkers and diagnostic targets for RPL.

Epigenetic processes during preeclampsia and effects on fetal development and chronic health

Preeclampsia (PE), the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, is associated with poor fetal growth, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and low birth weight (LBW). Offspring of women who had PE are at increased risk for cardiovascular (CV) disease later in life. However, the exact etiology of PE is unknown. Moreover, there are no effective interventions to treat PE or alleviate IUGR and the developmental origins of chronic disease in the offspring. The placenta is critical to fetal growth and development. Epigenetic regulatory processes such as histone modifications, microRNAs and DNA methylation play an important role in placental development including contributions to the regulation of trophoblast invasion and remodeling of the spiral arteries. Epigenetic processes that lead to changes in placental gene expression in PE mediate downstream effects that contribute to the development of placenta dysfunction, a critical mediator in the onset of PE, impaired fetal growth and IUGR. Therefore, this review will focus on epigenetic processes that contribute to the pathogenesis of PE and IUGR. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms that contribute to normal placental development and the initiating events in PE may lead to novel therapeutic targets in PE that improve fetal growth and mitigate increased CV risk in the offspring.

miR-519d downregulates LEP expression to inhibit preeclampsia development

The purpose of the current study was to characterize role of microRNA (miR)-519d in trophoblast cells and preeclampsia (PE) development and its potential underlying mechanism. Regulation of leptin (LEP) by miR-519d was verified using a dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Loss- and gain-of-function assays were conducted to detect the roles of miR-519d and LEP in proliferation, migratory ability, and invasive capacity of HTR-8/SVneo cells by means of CCK-8 assay, scratch test, and Transwell invasion assay, respectively. The cell apoptosis rate and cycle distribution were analyzed by flow cytometry. LEP expression was elevated, whereas miR-519d level was suppressed in the PE placenta samples compared with those from normal pregnancy. Depletion of LEP promoted proliferation, migratory ability, and invasive capacity and repressed apoptosis. miR-519d could bind 3' untranslated regions (3'UTRs) of LEP, the extent of which correlated negatively with LEP expression. miR-519d suppressed the expression of LEP in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Moreover, overexpression of miR-519d promoted survival and migratory ability of HTR-8/SVneo cells. Taken together, we find that miR-519d targeted LEP and downregulated its expression, which could likely inhibit the development of PE.

Clinical consequences of defective decidualization

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.

MicroRNA Profiles of Maternal and Neonatal Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is associated with an increased cardiovascular morbidity of mother and offspring, thus contributing to a substantial burden in women and children’s health. It has been proven that endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) numbers and functional characteristics are impaired in cardiovascular disease and preeclampsia, although causative factors for the latter have remained elusive. MicroRNA (miRNA) modifications are a potential mechanism through which exposure to an altered environment translates into the development of chronic disease. In this study, we examined whether development of preeclampsia corresponds to alterations of miRNAs in maternal- and cord-blood-derived EPC. To test this end, we analyzed maternal and neonatal miRNAs via RNA sequencing from endothelial cells of preeclamptic and healthy controls in different cell culture passages. We were able to demonstrate differentially represented miRNAs in all groups. Hsa-miR-1270 showed significantly different levels in cord blood EPC from preeclampsia versus control and was negatively correlated with mRNA levels of its predicted targets ANGPTL7 and TFRC. Transfection with an hsa-miR-1270 inhibitor decreased the tube formation capacity and chemotactic motility but did not change proliferation in vitro. Target predictions and gene set enrichment analyses identified alternative splicing as a significantly enriched pathway for hsa-miR-1270. The top miRNAs in three other groups were predicted to target transcriptional and developmental pathways. Here, we showed for the first time significantly different levels of miRNAs and differently represented mRNA levels of predicted target genes in EPC derived from preeclampsia. Understanding the effects of preeclampsia on the epigenetic mechanisms of EPC will be crucial and may provide initial insights for further evaluation of the benefits of therapies targeting this cell population.

Fetal Membrane Epigenetics

The characteristics of fetal membrane cells and their phenotypic adaptations to support pregnancy or promote parturition are defined by global patterns of gene expression controlled by chromatin structure. Heritable epigenetic chromatin modifications that include DNA methylation and covalent histone modifications establish chromatin regions permissive or exclusive of regulatory interactions defining the cell-specific scope and potential of gene activity. Non-coding RNAs acting at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels complement the system by robustly stabilizing gene expression patterns and contributing to ordered phenotype transitions. Here we review currently available information about epigenetic gene regulation in the amnion and the chorion laeve. In addition, we provide an overview of epigenetic phenomena in the decidua, which is the maternal tissue fused to the chorion membrane forming the anatomical and functional unit called choriodecidua. The relationship of gene expression with DNA (CpG) methylation, histone acetylation and methylation, micro RNAs, long non-coding RNAs and chromatin accessibility is discussed in the context of normal pregnancy, parturition and pregnancy complications. Data generated using clinical samples and cell culture models strongly suggests that epigenetic events are associated with the phenotypic transitions of fetal membrane cells during the establishment, maintenance and termination of pregnancy potentially driving and consolidating the changes as pregnancy progresses. Disease conditions and environmental factors may produce epigenetic footprints that indicate exposures and mediate adverse pregnancy outcomes. Although knowledge is expanding rapidly, fetal membrane epigenetics is still in an early stage of development necessitating further research to realize its remarkable basic and translational potential.

Bioinformatics-based identification of miRNA-, lncRNA-, and mRNA-associated ceRNA networks and potential biomarkers for preeclampsia

This study aimed to identify significantly altered long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), mRNAs, pathways in preeclampsia (PE), and to investigate their targeted relationships and biological functions.GSE96985 from Gene Expression Omnibus database was extracted, involving 3 PE and 4 normal tissues. After the differential expression analysis of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs using the limma package, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and module analyses were performed for differentially expressed mRNAs (dif-mRNAs). Combined with the miRanda and miRWalk tools, a regulatory relationship between dif-miRNAs and dif-mRNAs/lncRNAs (dif-mRNAs/dif-lncRNAs) was predicted. Finally, mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA regulatory network construction was performed using Cytoscape software.A total of 511 dif-mRNAs were screened in PE. The top 5 nodes in the PPI networks included up-regulated complement component 3 (C3), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), and fibronectin 1 (FN1). Three significant network modules were identified for dif-mRNAs. C3 and CXCL8 were identified in module A, and FN1 was identified in module C. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 6 (ADAMTS6) was down-regulated by the miR-210-3p. Therefore, lnc-CTD-2383M3.1 functions as a competing endogenous RNA in ADAMTS6 expression regulation by competitively binding to miR-210-3p during the regulation process of PE.C3, CXCL8, FN1, and ADAMTS6 might be involved in the development of PE. The lnc-CTD-2383M3.1-miR-210-3p-ADAMTS6 axis might be a potential regulatory mechanism in PE.

Extracellular vesicles: Multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as novel cell-to-cell communication mediators in physiological and pathological scenarios. Their ability to transfer their molecular cargo (RNAs, proteins and lipids) from one cell to another, in the vicinity or far from the cell of origin, together with their capacity of exerting a functional impact on the target cell make them valuable diagnostic tools as well as therapeutic vectors in a variety of diseases. In the reproductive field, there is a growing interest in the role of EVs in gamete/embryo-maternal communication and their potential implications in the reproductive success. In this review, we provide current knowledge of EVs secreted by the oviduct (oEVs) and embryos (eEVs), since both have been proposed as key players in the crucial two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the embryo that ensures successful pregnancy. Both oEVs and eEVs molecular cargos and their potential role as multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk and in the embryo-to-embryo communication in different species are also addressed. Eventually, a comparative analysis between oEVs and eEVs has been performed to shed some light on common and specific cargos responsible for their functions supporting the early reproductive events and as prime candidate molecules for improving fertility and assisted reproductive technologies outcomes.

Down-regulation of EDN1 gene expression by circulating miR-206 is associated with risk of preeclampsia

To study the correlation between circulating microRNA-206 (miR-206) levels and endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels, and to explore its association with preeclampsia (PE) risk.Reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCT) was used to compare the plasma miR-206 levels in 200 PE patients and 200 healthy controls. The correlation between miR-206 and ET-1 levels in plasma of PE patients was analyzed by Pearson analysis. MiR-206 was transfected into human umbilical vein endothelial cells cells and ET-1 expression was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.RT-PCR results showed that plasma miR-206 levels in PE patients were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < .01). The results of receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under the curve of plasma miR-206 level in the diagnosis of PE was 0.94 (95% confidence interval: 0.92-0.96). Plasma ET-1 levels in PE patients were significantly lower than those in the control group by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (P < .01). The area under the curve of plasma ET-1 level in the diagnosis of PE was 0.92 (95% confidence interval: 0.90-0.95). The level of miR-206 in plasma was negative correlated with ET-1 level (r = -0.37, P < .01). The expression level of ET-1 was significantly decreased in human umbilical vein endothelial cells cells transfected with miR-206.miR-206 can down-regulate the expression of EDN1 gene, which may be related to the increased risk of preeclampsia.

From animal models to patients: the role of placental microRNAs, miR-210, miR-126, and miR-148a/152 in preeclampsia

Placental microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the placental transcriptome and play a pathological role in preeclampsia (PE), a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. Three PE rodent model studies explored the role of placental miRNAs, miR-210, miR-126, and miR-148/152 respectively, by examining expression of the miRNAs, their inducers, and potential gene targets. This review evaluates the role of miR-210, miR-126, and miR-148/152 in PE by comparing findings from the three rodent model studies with in vitro studies, other animal models, and preeclamptic patients to provide comprehensive insight into genetic components and pathological processes in the placenta contributing to PE. The majority of studies demonstrate miR-210 is upregulated in PE in part driven by HIF-1α and NF-κBp50, stimulated by hypoxia and/or immune-mediated processes. Elevated miR-210 may contribute to PE via inhibiting anti-inflammatory Th2-cytokines. Studies report an up- and downregulation of miR-126, arguably reflecting differences in expression between cell types and its multifunctional capacity. MiR-126 may play a pro-angiogenic role by mediating the PI3K-Akt pathway. Most studies report miR-148/152 family members are upregulated in PE. Evidence suggests they may inhibit DNA methylation of genes involved in metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Given the genetic heterogeneity of PE, it is unlikely that a single placental miRNA is a suitable therapeutic target for all patients. Investigating miRNAs in PE subtypes in patients and animal models may represent a more appropriate approach going forward. Developing methods for targeting placental miRNAs and specific placental cell types remains crucial for research seeking to target placental miRNAs as a novel treatment for PE.

Emerging Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells in Preeclampsia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy condition affecting both the mother and offspring. It is a multifactorial disease with poorly understood pathogenesis, lacking effective treatments. Maternal immune response, inflammation and oxidative stress leading to endothelial dysfunction are the most prominent pathogenic processes implicated in preeclampsia development. Here, we give a detailed overview of the therapeutic applications and mechanisms of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) as a potential new treatment for preeclampsia.

RECENT FINDINGS

MSCs have gained growing attention due to low immunogenicity, easy cultivation and expansion in vitro. Accumulating evidence now suggests that MSCs act primarily through their secretomes facilitating paracrine signalling that leads to potent immunomodulatory, pro-angiogenic and regenerative therapeutic effects. MSCs have been studied in different animal models of preeclampsia demonstrating promising result, which support further investigations into the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of MSC-based therapies in preeclampsia, steering these therapies into clinical trials.

Estrogen Promotes cAMP Production in Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Regulating ADCY2

Background and Objectives

The maternal-fetal interface is an important source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and it is influenced by high levels of estradiol (E2) during pregnancy. It is highly important to study the role of E2 in MSCs for both clinical application and understanding of the mechanisms underlying pregnancy related diseases.

Methods and Results

In this study, differently expressed genes (DEGs) were found in the MSCs after exposure to E2. Then, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of DEGs was performed and the integrated regulatory network of DEGs-miRNA was constructed. A total of 390 DEGs were found in the MSCs exposed to E2, including 164 upregulated DEGs (e.g. ADCY2, VEGFA and PPY) and 226 downregulated DEGs (e.g. KNG1, AGT and NPY). Additionally, 10 miRNAs (such as miR-148A/B, miR-152, miR-182) identified the integrated regulatory network of DEGs-miRNAs. Among them, the expression of ADCY2 was significantly upregulated, and this was associated with multiple changed genes. We confirmed that the expression of ADCY2 is significantly promoted by E2 and subsequently promoted the production of cAMP in MSCs. We also found that E2 promoted ADCY2 expression by inhibiting miR-152 and miR-148a.

Conclusions

E2 promotes the expression of cAMP through miR-148a/152-ADCY2 in MSCs. It is suggested that E2 plays a key role in the growth and function of MSCs.

MicroRNA-16 is involved in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia via regulation of Notch2

In recent years, the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in pre-eclampsia (PE) has been demonstrated, while the relevant mechanisms of miR-16 in PE await to be unearthed. Thus, the aim of this study is to explore whether miR-16 exerts its function in PE, and we assumed that miR-16 may be implicated in the occurrence of PE by adjusting the biological functions of trophoblast cells via modulating Notch2. Placental tissues of pregnant women with normal pregnancy and PE were collected to detect the expression of miR-16, Notch2, and Notch3. The effects of miR-16 and Notch2 on the biological functions of BeWo and JEG-3 cells were further determined. Expression of miR-16 and Notch2 in trophoblast cells was detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot assay. Downregulated Notch2 and upregulated miR-16 and Notch3 were found in placental tissues of PE. There was a negative correlation between Notch2 and miR-16 expression (r = -0.769), and a positive correlation between Notch3 and miR-16 expression (r = 0.676; p < .05). Overexpression of miR-16 inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion, and facilitated the apoptosis of BeWo and JEG-3 cells, but overexpression of Notch2 reversed this trend. Overexpression of miR-16 inhibited Notch2 expression in BeWo and JEG-3 cells, and Notch2 was the target gene of miR-16. Our study highlights that overexpression of miR-16 is involved in PE by regulating the biological functions of trophoblast cells via inhibition of Notch2. This paper provides a new idea for further study of the pathogenesis of PE.

Targeting senescence improves angiogenic potential of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in patients with preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder characterized by impaired angiogenesis. We postulate that senescence of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), multipotent cells with pro-angiogenic activities, is one of the mechanisms by which systemic inflammation exerts inhibitory effects on angiogenesis in preeclampsia.

METHODS

MSC were isolated from abdominal fat tissue explants removed during medically indicated C-sections from women with preeclampsia (PE-MSC, n = 10) and those with normotensive pregnancies (NP-MSC, n = 12). Sections of the frozen subcutaneous adipose tissue were assessed for inflammation by staining for tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1. Viability, proliferation, and migration were compared between PE-MSC vs. NP-MSC. Apoptosis and angiogenesis were assayed before and after treatment with a senolytic agent (1 μM dasatinib) using the IncuCyte S3 Live-Cell Analysis System. Similarly, staining for senescence-associated beta galactosidase (SABG) and qPCR for gene expression of senescence markers, p16 and p21, as well as senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) components, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and PAI-1, were studied before and after treatment with dasatinib and compared between PE and NP.

RESULTS

After in vitro exposure to TNF-alpha, MSC demonstrated upregulation of SASP components, including interleukins-6 and -8 and MCP-1. Staining of the subcutaneous adipose tissue sections revealed a greater inflammatory response in preeclampsia, based on the higher levels of both TNF-alpha and MCP-1 compared to normotensive pregnancies (p < 0.001 and 0.024, respectively). MSC isolated from PE demonstrated a lower percentage of live MSC cells (p = 0.012), lower proliferation (p = 0.005), and higher migration (p = 0.023). At baseline, PE-MSC demonstrated a senescent phenotype, reflected by more abundant staining for SABG (p < 0.001), upregulation of senescence markers and SASP components, as well as lower angiogenic potential (p < 0.001), compared to NP-MSC. Treatment with dasatinib increased significantly the number of apoptotic PE-MSC compared to NP-MSC (0.011 vs. 0.093) and decreased the gene expression of p16 and six SASP components. The mechanistic link between senescence and impaired angiogenesis in PE was confirmed by improved angiogenic potential of PE-MSC (p < 0.001) after dasatinib treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that MSC senescence exerts inhibitory effects on angiogenesis in preeclampsia. Senolytic agents may offer the opportunity for mechanism-based therapies.

Differential microRNA expression between decidual and peripheral blood natural killer cells in early pregnancy

STUDY QUESTION

Have decidual natural killer (dNK) cells a different microRNA (miRNA or miR) expression pattern compared to NK cells circulating in the peripheral blood (pb) of healthy pregnant women in the first trimester of gestation?

SUMMARY ANSWER

dNK cells have a unique miRNA profile, showing exclusive expression of a set of miRNAs and significant up- or down-regulation of most of the miRNAs shared with pbNK cells.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

dNK cells differ from pbNK cells both phenotypically and functionally, and their origin is still debated. Many studies have indicated that miRNAs regulate several important aspects of NK cell biology, such as development, activation and effector functions.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Decidua basalis and peripheral blood specimens were collected from women (n = 7) undergoing voluntary termination of gestation in the first trimester of pregnancy. dNK and pbNK cells were then highly purified by cell sorting.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

miRNAs expression was analysed by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR)-based arrays using RNA purified from freshly isolated and highly purified pbNK and dNK cells. Results from arrays were validated by qRT-PCR assays. The bioinformatics tool ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) was applied to determine the cellular network targeted by validated miRNAs and the correlated biological functions.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Herein, we identified the most differentially expressed miRNAs in NK cells isolated from peripheral blood and uterine decidua of pregnant women. We found that 36 miRNAs were expressed only in dNK cells and two miRNAs only in pbNK cells. Moreover, 48 miRNAs were commonly expressed by both NK cell preparations although at different levels: 28 were upregulated in dNK cells, while 15 were downregulated compared to pbNK cells. Validation of a selected set (n = 11) of these miRNAs confirmed the differential expression of nine miRNAs: miR-10b and miR-214 expressed only in dNK cells and miR-200a-3p expressed only in pbNK cells; miR-130b-3p, miR-125a-5p, miR-212-3p and miR-454 were upregulated while miR-210-3p and miR-132 were downregulated in dNK cells compared to pbNK cells. IPA network analysis identified a single network connecting all the miRNAs as well as their significant involvement in several classes of functions: 'Organismal injury, Reproductive system disease, Inflammatory disease' and 'Cellular development'. These miRNAs target molecules such as argonaute 2, tumour protein p53, insulin and other genes that belong to the same network and significantly influence cell differentiation and pregnancy.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

In the present study, the cellular network and biological functions modulated by miRNAs differentially expressed in dNK and pbNK cells were identified by IPA considering only molecules and relationships that were with confidence 'experimentally observed' in leucocytes. The decidual and pbNK cells that were analysed here are a heterogeneous population and further study will help to disentangle whether there are differences in miRNA production by the different subsets of NK cells.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

This is the first study describing a different miRNA expression profile in dNK cells compared to matched pbNK cells during the first trimester of pregnancy. Our findings improved the body of knowledge on dNK cell biology and strongly suggest further investigation into the roles of miRNAs that are differentially expressed in human dNK compared to pbNK cells. Our results suggest that specific miRNAs can modulate dNK cell origin and functions, highlighting a potential role of this miRNA signature in human development and diseases.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This work was supported by grants from the Istituto Pasteur, Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, the European NoE EMBIC within FP6 (Contract number LSHN-CT-2004-512040), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, and Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ricerche Universitarie), and from Università Politecnica delle Marche. There are no conflicts of interest to declare.

miR‑342‑3p suppresses cell migration and invasion in preeclampsia by targeting platelet‑derived growth factor receptor α

miR-342-3p expression was increased in the placentas of women with preeclampsia (PE) according to previous examinations; the mechanism underlying the development and progression of PE requires further investigation. The present study aimed to explore the mechanism and functionality of microRNA (miR)-342-3p in trophoblastic cells. The expression of miR-342-3p and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRA) in the placentas of 30 patients with PE and 30 normal controls was detected. In addition, HTR8/SVneo cells were transfected with miR-342-3p mimics, small interfering RNA (siR)-PDGFRA or their corresponding negative controls; then the proliferation, migration, invasion and the distribution of the cell cycle of these cells were analyzed. Additionally, a dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed. According to these analyses, the expression of miR-342-3p was significantly increased, while that of PDGFRA was significantly lower in the PE group compared with the normal group. Transfection with miR-342-3p mimics led to a significant decrease in cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and also affected the cell cycle. Furthermore, miR-342-3p mimics reduced the expression of PDGFRA; miR-342-3p overexpression also reduced the mRNA and protein levels of BCL-2 and Caspase-3. In addition, transfection of siR-PDGFRA exhibited similar effects to those of miR-342-3p mimics. Finally, PDGFRA was reported to be a direct target of miR-342-3p. In conclusion, miR-342-3p was proposed to inhibit the proliferation, migration, invasion and G1/S phase transition of HTR8/SVneo cells by suppressing PDGFRA. Our findings suggest that miR-342-3p may be a novel clinical indicator or prognostic marker for PE.

Identification of Key circRNAs/lncRNAs/miRNAs/mRNAs and Pathways in Preeclampsia Using Bioinformatics Analysis

BACKGROUND This study aimed to identify significantly altered circRNAs/lncRNAs/miRNAs/mRNAs pathways in preeclampsia (PE), investigate their target relationships, and determine their biological functions. MATERIAL AND METHODS Base on RNA-seq technique and the GEO database, expression profiles of circRNAs/lncRNAs/miRNAs/mRNAs related to PE were obtained. Differentially expressed RNAs were determined using the Limma package in R. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed using GSEA software (v. 3.0) and illustrated by ClusterProfiler and ggplot2 package in R. DAVID database (v. 6.8) was implemented to analyze functional categories and the association between genes and the corresponding Gene Ontology (GO) classification. The R visualization package GOPlot was used to get a better visualization of the relationships between genes and the selected functional categories. CeRNA networks which visualized the correlations between circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA were constructed using Cytoscape software (v. 3.6.0). Targetscan and miRanda database were used to predict target relationships between circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA. QRT-PCR and luciferase reporter assay were used to verify the expression and target relationship of has_circ_0088196/LINC01492/miR-100-5p/LIF (leukemia inhibitory factor). RESULTS The jak-stat signaling pathway was activated and miR-100-5p was downregulated in PE compared with normal tissues both in collected placental tissue samples and GEO database. Upregulated LIF, LINC01492, and hsa_circ_0088196 were negatively correlated with miR-100-5p expression and had a targeted relationship with miR-100-5p. CONCLUSIONS miR-100-5p may suppress PE development, while LIF, LINC01492, and hsa_circ_0088196 may promote it though inhibiting miR-100-5p. The jak-stat signaling pathway was activated and involved in PE progression.

New insight into the role of long non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia

OBJECTIVE

Dysregulation of lncRNAs and the absence of coordination between them could affect the normal placentation, uteroplacental circulation, and endothelial cell function. All these misfunctions can finally lead to preeclampsia.

METHODS

 In the present review, we discuss current literature (till May 2018) about lncRNAs expression and function in the placenta, trophoblast cells, and decidua.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

It is explained how altered expression of the lncRNAs and abnormal regulation of them affect the risk of preeclampsia. However, the interaction between various lncRNAs and coordinate regulation of them in health and failure of such coordinative mechanisms in diseases such as preeclampsia need to be elucidated.

Down-regulated miR-149-5p contributes to preeclampsia via modulating endoglin expression

OBJECTIVE

Endoglin is expressed in human placenta and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Dysregulation of microRNAs in placental tissues has been recently suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Until now, few studies have shed light on the correlation between endoglin and microRNAs, the latter of which may regulate the expression of ENG, a gene encoding endoglin, in placenta. In this study, we aim to investigate the regulation of ENG by microRNAs.

STUDY DESIGN

We located the microRNAs that might regulate the expression of ENG. Candidate microRNAs were tested if they had an impact on trophoblast function.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We compared endoglin expression between normotensive and preeclamptic placentas by using immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR. Downregulated microRNAs in preeclamptic placenta were revealed from a literature review. A bioinformatics assay was performed to predict those that might target ENG. Real-time PCR, Western blotting and dual luciferase assay were used to verify the targeting. The effects of the microRNAs on trophoblasts were evaluated by transwell invasion assay.

RESULTS

The endoglin level was significantly higher in preeclamptic placenta than in normotensive placenta. ENG was validated as the direct target of miR-149-5p and was inversely correlated with it. MiR-149-5p promoted the invasion of trophoblast cells, and this promotion was abrogated by the overexpression of ENG.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the importance of miR-149-5p in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and provide new insight into the development of the disease.

MiR-221-3p is down-regulated in preeclampsia and affects trophoblast growth, invasion and migration partly via targeting thrombospondin 2

Preeclampsia (PE) is a common obstetrical disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. The aberrant expression of miR-221-3p in placental tissues has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE. This study examined the role of miR-221-3p in trophoblast growth, invasion and migration, and explored the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that miR-221-3p was down-regulated in placental tissues from PE patients compared to heathy controls as measured by quantitative real-time PCR assay. CCK-8 assay, Transwell invasion assay and wound healing assay showed that miR-221-3p overexpression promoted trophoblast (HTR-8/SVneo cells) growth, invasion and migration, and knockdown of miR-221-3p exerted the opposite effects. Flow cytometry experiments further demonstrated that miR-221-3p overexpression inhibited apoptosis, increased cell population at S phase, and decreased cell population at G₀/G₁ phase of HTR-8/SVneo cells; while miR-221-3p knockdown exerted the opposite effects. Bioinformatics prediction and luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-221-3p targeted the 3' untranslated region of thrombospondin 2 (THBS2), and qRT-PCR and western blot assays revealed that miR-221-3p negatively regulated the expression of THBS2 in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Furthermore, overexpression of THBS2 attenuated the in vitro effects of miR-221-3p overexpression on cell growth, invasion and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells. The clinical sample analysis showed that the mRNA expression levels of THBS2 was significantly increased in placental tissues from PE patients and was negatively correlated with expression levels of miR-221-3p. In summary, our results demonstrated that miR-221-3p was down-regulated in PE, and the in vitro functional assays revealed that miR-221-3p promoted trophoblast growth, invasion and migration partly via targeting THBS2.

Long non-coding RNA HULC affects the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of mesenchymal stem cells

IMPACT STATEMENT

Exploring the molecular mechanisms of growth and function in MSCs is the key to improve their clinical therapeutic effects. Currently, more and more evidence show that the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) plays an important role in the growth, stemness and function of MSCs.Both HULC and MALAT1 are the earliest discovered LNCRNAs, which are closely related to tumor growth. All of them can promote the growth of liver cancer stem cells. Previously, we have studied the effects of MALAT1 on the growth and function of MSCs. In this study, we focused on the effects of HULC on MSCs. We elucidated the effects of HULC on the growth and differentiation of MSCs, and explored the relationship between inflammatory stimuli and HULC expression in MSCs. Our findings provide a new molecular target for the growth and clinical application of MSCs.

Role of mesenchymal stem cells exosomes derived microRNAs; miR-136, miR-494 and miR-495 in pre-eclampsia diagnosis and evaluation

BACKGROUND

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is one of the most threatening pregnancy complications. So far neither a secure, competent therapy for PE nor effective biomarkers for a premature discovery has been achieved. However, currently, the use of released microRNAs (miRNAs) as potential biomarkers and therapy targets for various diseases is the dominating area of research. The aim of our study was to identify miRNAs 136, 494 and 495 genes expression in exosomes of peripheral blood compared to umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) conditioned media released exososomes in patients with PE, as valuable markers for PE early prediction.

METHODS

Blood samples were collected from 100 patients with PE and 100 control with normal pregnancies. Thirty fresh umbilical cord samples of women with healthy pregnancies (n = 15) and PE patients (n = 15) were retrieved during caesarean deliveries and UCMSCs were isolated from Wharton jelly. The expression of miRNAs 136, 494 and 495 in exosomes of peripheral blood and UCMSCs conditioned media was measured using quantitative real-time PCR method. Unpaired t-test, Pearson correlation test and Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Our study revealed a significantly higher expression levels of miRNAs 136, 494 and 495 in exosomes of peripheral blood and matched with UCMSCs released exosomes from patients with PE compared to normal pregnancies (p = 0.000). In peripheral blood of PE, they were 6.4, 3.9 and 2.1 folds higher, respectively. ROC analysis revealed that the sensitivity and specificity values of miRNA-136 were 95% and 100%, respectively, with a cut-off value of 2.55. The sensitivity and specificity values of miRNA-494 were 86% and 95%, respectively, with a cut-off value of 0.47. The sensitivity and specificity values of miRNA-495 were 90% and 83%, respectively, with a cut-off value of 1.287.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that exosomes derived miRNA-136, miRNA-494 and miRNA-495 could be promising circulating biomarkers in early detection of PE. Furthermore, UCMSCs released exosomes miRNA-136, miRNA-494 and miRNA-495 genes expression confirmed peripheral blood results analysis.

Roles of microRNAs in preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex disorder that is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria after the 20th week of pregnancy, and it causes most neonatal morbidity and perinatal mortality. Most studies suggest that placental dysfunction is the main cause of PE. However, genetic factors, immune factors, and systemic inflammation are also related to the pathophysiology of this syndrome. Thus far, the exact pathogenesis of PE is not yet fully understood, and intense research efforts are focused on PE to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) refer to small single-stranded and noncoding molecules that can negatively regulate gene expression, and miRNA regulatory networks play an important role in diverse pathological processes. Many studies have confirmed deregulated miRNA in pregnant patients with PE, and the function and mechanism of these differentially expressed miRNA are gradually being revealed. In this review, we summarize the current research about miRNA involved in PE, including placenta-specific miRNA, their predictive value, and their function in the development of PE. This review will provide fundamental evidence of miRNA in PE, and further studies are necessary to explore the roles of miRNA in the early diagnosis and treatment of PE.

Cardiac remodeling and pre-eclampsia: an overview of microRNA expression patterns

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is strongly associated with heart failure (HF) later in life. During PE pregnancy, the left ventricle undergoes concentric remodeling which often persists after delivery. This aberrant remodeling can induce a molecular signature that can be evaluated in terms of microRNAs (miRNAs) and which may help to explain the associated increased risk of HF. For this review, we performed a literature search of PubMed (National Center for Biotechnology Information), identifying studies on miRNA expression in concentric remodeling and on miRNA expression in PE. The miRNA data were stratified based on origin (isolated from humans or animals and from tissue or the circulation) and both datasets compared in order to generate a list of miRNA expression patterns in concentric remodeling and in PE. The nine miRNAs identified in both concentric remodeling and PE-complicated pregnancy were: miR-1, miR-18, miR-21, miR-29b, miR-30, miR-125b, miR-181b, miR-195 and miR-499-5p. We found five of these miRNAs (miR-18, miR-21, miR-125b, miR-195 and miR-499-5p) to be upregulated in both PE pregnancy and cardiac remodeling and two (miR-1 and miR-30) to be downregulated in both; the remaining two miRNAs (miR-29b and miR-181b) showed upregulation during PE but downregulation in cardiac remodeling. This innovative approach may be a step towards finding relevant biomarkers for complicated pregnancy and elucidating their relationship with remote cardiovascular disease. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Correlation of miRNA and VEGF expression with the outcome of early-onset severe preeclampsia in patients receiving expectant treatment

The present study was planned to explore the relationship between miRNA and VEGF expression in serum as well as placenta tissue with the outcome of early-onset severe preeclampsia (EOSP) in patients receiving expectant treatment. Sixty EOSP patients who had expectant treatment indications were divided into the success group (n = 46) and the failure group (n = 14) according to the pregnancy outcomes. miR-210 and miR-155 expression levels were studied in serum, ante partum, and in placenta tissue. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and soluble VEGF receptor 1 (sFlt-1) expression levels were also explored. miR-210 and miR-155 expression levels in serum and placenta tissue before treatment, ante partum, and after accouchement of the success group were significantly lower than those of the failure group. Further, VEGF expression levels in serum and placenta tissue before treatment, ante partum, and after accouchement of the success group were significantly higher than those of the failure group. However, sFlt-1 expression levels in the success group showed a decrease in comparison to the failure group. The increase of miR-210, miR-155 levels, sFlt-1 levels, and the decrease of VEGF levels in EOSP patients might be correlated with the failure of expectant treatment.

Conditioned Medium from Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Promotes Proliferation, Migration, Invasion and Angiogenesis of Adipose Derived Stem Cells

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive complication, closely related to endothelial dysfunction. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) have the capacity to differentiate into endothelial cells for vascular repair. Therefore, we hypothesized that induced endothelial differentiation of ADSCs might hold great potential for the treatment of PE. In this study, the primary ADSCs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were isolated by the collagenase digestion method. The supernatant of HUVECs was collected from the first generation of cells. Then, ADSCs were divided into two groups: ADSCs alone group and induced ADSCs (iADSCs) group. In iADSCs group, ADSCs were induced by HUVECs conditioned medium and ADSCs special culture medium at a ratio of 1:1 over a two-week period. In order to identify the endothelial characteristics of iADSCs, CD31 and CD34 were examined by flow cytometry. The proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis assays were employed to compare the bioactivity of iADSCs and ADSCs. Furthermore, The levels of angiogenic related factors including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placenta growth factor (P1GF) were detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting. Results showed conditioned medium from HUVECs promoted ADSCs proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis. In addition, the levels of VEGF and P1GF were significantly enhanced in iADSCs group. This study uncovered the iADSCs application potential in the therapy and intervention of PE.

Upregulated miR-222 targets BCL2L11 and promotes apoptosis of mesenchymal stem cells in preeclampsia patients in response to severe hypoxia

Abnormal maternal trophoblast invasion is a common finding in preeclampsia pregnancy. A hypoxic environment develops in the placenta after the 10th week of pregnancy and exerts a major influence over trophoblast activity. In the present study, we investigated expression of miR-222 and apoptosis-related BCL2L11 in preeclampsia placenta and in primary placenta mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) under hypoxia. The results demonstrate that miR-222 is upregulated in the placenta of preeclampsia patients, along with the downregulation of BCL2L11 in both mRNA and protein levels. In vitro results demonstrate that miR-222 is upregulated either in preeclampsia placenta tissues or in the MSCs under hypoxia. Western blotting showed downregulation of BCL2L11 in the trophoblasts under hypoxia, along with an increased MSC apoptosis. miR-222 was also confirmed to downregulate BCL2L11 expression via targeting the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of the BCL2L11 gene. miR-222 inhibitor transfection markedly ameliorated expression and transcriptional activity of BCL2L11. Altogether, the present study found that upregulation of miR-222 promotes apoptosis of mesenchymal stem cells in preeclampsia patients in response to hypoxia, via targeting BCL2L11. This suggests that a key regulatory role of miR-222 is in preeclampsia progression.

Isolation and Characterization of Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells Derived from Human Third Trimester Placental Chorionic Villi and Decidua Basalis

The decidua basalis and placental chorionic villi are critical components of maternal-fetal interface, which plays a critical role in normal placental development. Failure to form a proper maternal-fetal interface is associated with clinically important placental pathologies including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Placental trophoblast cells are well known for their critical roles in establishing the maternal-fetal interface; however accumulating evidence also implicates mesenchymal stem/stromal cells that envelop the maternal and fetal blood vessels as playing an important role in the formation and efficient functioning of the interface. Moreover, recent studies associate abnormal mesenchymal stem/stromal cell function in the development of preeclampsia. Further research is needed to fully understand the role that these cells play in this clinically important placental pathology.The intimate relationship between maternal and fetal tissues at the interface poses significant problems in the enrichment of decidua basalis and chorionic villous mesenchymal stem/stromal cells without significant cross-contamination. The protocols described below for the enrichment and characterization of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells from the maternal-fetal interface produce highly enriched cells that conform to international standards and show minimal cross-contamination.

Small Molecule, Big Prospects: MicroRNA in Pregnancy and Its Complications

MicroRNAs are small, noncoding RNA molecules that regulate target gene expression in the posttranscriptional level. Unlike siRNA, microRNAs are "fine-tuners" rather than "switches" in the regulation of gene expression; thus they play key roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis. The aberrant microRNA expression is implicated in the disease process. To date, numerous studies have demonstrated the regulatory roles of microRNAs in various pathophysiological conditions. In contrast, the study of microRNA in pregnancy and its associated complications, such as preeclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and preterm labor, is a young field. Over the last decade, the knowledge of pregnancy-related microRNAs has increased and the molecular mechanisms by which microRNAs regulate pregnancy or its associated complications are emerging. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in the research of pregnancy-related microRNAs, especially their function in pregnancy-associated complications and the potential clinical applications. Here microRNAs that associate with pregnancy are classified as placenta-specific, placenta-associated, placenta-derived circulating, and uterine microRNA according to their localization and origin. MicroRNAs offer a great potential for developing diagnostic and therapeutic targets in pregnancy-related disorders.

Long Non-Coding RNA MALAT1 Promotes Proliferation, Angiogenesis, and Immunosuppressive Properties of Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Inducing VEGF and IDO

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play an important role in regulating angiogenesis and immune balance. The abnormal MSCs in proliferation and function were reported at maternal fetal interface in patients with pre-eclampsia (PE). Long non-coding RNA MALAT1 was known to regulate the function of trophoblast cells. However, it is not clear whether MALAT1 regulates MSCs to be related to PE. In the present study, we found that the expression of MALAT1 was significantly reduced in both umbilical cord tissues and MSCs in patients with severe PE. MALAT1 did not affect the phenotype and differentiation of MSCs. Of note, transfection with MALAT1 plasmid into MSCs drove the cell cycle into G2/M phase and inhibited cell apoptosis. The supernatants from MALAT1-overexpressed MSCs promoted the migration of MSCs, invasion of HTR-8/SVneo and tube formation of HUVEC, while si-MALAT1 had the opposite effects. Moreover, we found that MALAT1-induced VEGF mediated these effects of MALAT1 on MSCs. Furthermore, we found that MALAT1-overexpressed MSCs promoted M2 macrophage polarization and this effect was mediated by MALAT1-induced IDO expression, suggesting that MALAT1 may enhance the immunosuppressive properties of MSCs in vivo. In addition, we also investigated the factors that inhibit MALAT1 expression in PE and found that peroxide was a cause for MALAT1 downregulation. Taken together, our data demonstrate that MALAT1 is an important endogenous regulator in the proliferation, angiogenesis, and immunosuppressive properties of MSCs, suggesting it may be involved in the pathogenesis of PE. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 2780-2791, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Maternal plasma miRNAs as biomarkers during mid-pregnancy to predict later spontaneous preterm birth: a pilot study

More than 10% of babies are born too early resulting in over 15 million preterm births and more than one million new-born deaths globally. Although women with a previous spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) are considered at high risk for recurrence, the majority occur in women without prior history. Prediction of SPTB risk allows for improved care and potential for targeting novel and existing therapeutics to prevent SPTB, which may result in improved outcomes for infant and mother. In this pilot study, a miRNA array was used to analyse plasma from healthy women in their first pregnancy at 20 weeks of gestation who then went on to deliver either at term or experience SPTB at 28-32 weeks. We identified specific miRNA expression profiles that differentiated between those mothers who delivered at term or delivered following SPTB. miR302b, miR1253 and a clustering of miR548 miRNAs were underexpressed in SPTB cases compared to term controls. Conversely, miR223 was elevated in mothers that later experienced a SPTB. The circulating miRNAs identified in the present study may therefore be attractive candidates as non-invasive biomarkers for the early prediction of SPTB. Further larger studies are now warranted to investigate the potential clinical utility of these markers.

Systematic Review of Micro-RNA Expression in Pre-Eclampsia Identifies a Number of Common Pathways Associated with the Disease

Background

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a complex, multi-systemic condition of pregnancy which greatly impacts maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. MicroRNAs (miRs) are differentially expressed in PE and may be important in helping to understand the condition and its pathogenesis.

Methods

Case-control studies investigating expression of miRs in PE were collected through a systematic literature search. Data was extracted and compared from 58 studies to identify the most promising miRs associated with PE pathogenesis and identify areas of methodology which could account for often conflicting results.

Results

Some of the most frequently differentially expressed miRs in PE include miR-210, miR-223 and miR-126/126* which associate strongly with the etiological domains of hypoxia, immunology and angiogenesis. Members of the miR-515 family belonging to the imprinted chromosome 19 miR cluster with putative roles in trophoblast invasion were also found to be differentially expressed. Certain miRs appear to associate with more severe forms of PE such as miR-210 and the immune-related miR-181a and miR-15 families. Patterns of miR expression may help pinpoint key pathways (e.g. IL-6/miR-223/STAT3) and aid in untangling the heterogeneous nature of PE. The detectable presence of many PE-associated miRs in antenatal circulatory samples suggests their usefulness as predictive biomarkers. Further progress in ascertaining the clinical value of miRs and in understanding how they might contribute to pathogenesis is predicated upon resolving current methodological challenges in studies. These include differences in diagnostic criteria, cohort characteristics, sampling technique, RNA isolation and platform-dependent variation in miR profiling.

Conclusion

Reviewing studies of PE-associated miRs has revealed their potential as informants of underlying target genes and pathways relating to PE pathogenesis. However, the incongruity in results across current studies hampers their capacity to be useful biomarkers of the condition.

TGF-β3-induced miR-494 inhibits macrophage polarization via suppressing PGE2 secretion in mesenchymal stem cells

Abnormal macrophage polarization at the maternal-fetal interface may contribute to the development of Preeclampsia (PE). The reason why macrophage polarization changed in PE is still unclear. Decidual mesenchymal stem cells (dMSCs) could regulate macrophage polarization. However, miRNA in dMSCs of PE were maladjusted. Therefore, we speculated that miRNA may affect dMSC-regulated macrophage polarization. In this study, we found that miR-494-overexpressed dMSCs inhibit M2 macrophage polarization and this inhibitory effect is mediated by miR-494-reduced PGE2 secretion. Furthermore, we proved that miR-494 is induced by TGF-β3. In summary, our findings suggest that the high expression of TGF-β3 in PE decidua stimulates miR-494 in dMSCs and attenuates the regulation of MSC switching the macrophage toward M2 type, contributing to an immune imbalance at maternal-fetal interface.

High-throughput deep screening and identification of four peripheral leucocyte microRNAs as novel potential combination biomarkers for preeclampsia

OBJECTIVE

To identify the specific microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers of preeclampsia (PE), the miRNA profiles analysis were performed.

STUDY DESIGN

The blood samples were obtained from five PE patients and five normal healthy pregnant women. The small RNA profiles were analyzed to identify miRNA expression levels and find out miRNAs that may associate with PE. The quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR (qRT-PCR) assay was used to validate differentially expressed peripheral leucocyte miRNAs in a new cohort.

RESULT

The data analysis showed that 10 peripheral leucocyte miRNAs were significantly differently expressed in severe PE patients. Four differently expressed miRNAs were successfully validated using qRT-PCR method.

CONCLUSION

We successfully constructed a model with high accuracy to predict PE. A combination of four peripheral leucocyte miRNAs has great potential to serve as diagnostic biomarkers of PE.