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Fan Y, Pavani KC, Smits K, Van Soom A, Peelman L. tRNA Glu-derived fragments from embryonic extracellular vesicles modulate bovine embryo hatching. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:23. [PMID: 38424649 PMCID: PMC10905895 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-024-00997-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) have been shown to be involved in early embryo development and repression of endogenous retroelements in embryos and stem cells. However, it is unknown whether tsRNAs also regulate embryo hatching. In this study, we mined the sequencing data of a previous experiment in which we demonstrated that the microRNA (miRNA) cargo of preimplantation embryonic extracellular vesicles (EVs) influences embryo development. We thus profiled the tsRNA cargo of EVs secreted by blastocysts and non-blastocysts. The majority of tsRNAs was identified as tRNA halves originating from the 5´ ends of tRNAs. Among the 148 differentially expressed tsRNAs, the 19 nt tRNA fragment (tRF) tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 was found to be significantly up-regulated in EVs derived from non-blastocysts. RT-qPCR assays confirmed its significant up-regulation in non-blastocyst embryos and their conditioned medium compared to the blastocyst group (P < 0.05). Inhibition of tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 by supplementing antagomirs to the conditioned medium improved embryo hatching (P < 0.05). Transcriptomic analysis of embryos treated with tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 antagomirs further showed differential expression of genes that are associated with embryo hatching and implantation. In summary, tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 is up-regulated in non-blastocyst embryos and their secretions, and inhibition of tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 promotes embryo hatching, while influencing embryo implantation-related genes and pathways. These results indicate that embryonic EVs containing specific tRFs may regulate preimplantation embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Fan
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Krishna Chaitanya Pavani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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Alves AR, Dias MF, Silvestre M. Endometrial fluid biomarkers and their potential as predictors of successful embryo implantation. Biomedicine (Taipei) 2023; 13:1-8. [PMID: 37937060 PMCID: PMC10627212 DOI: 10.37796/2211-8039.1413] [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: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Embryo implantation is a complex biological process which requires synchronized dialogue between the receptive endometrium and the blastocyst. The endometrium, however, is only receptive to embryo implantation for a very short period. Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a major challenge in assisted reproductive techniques mainly due to impaired receptivity, but there is still a need for a reliable and valid clinical test to assess endometrial receptiveness, especially at embryo transfer time. The aim of this review is to investigate what is currently known about the contribution of endometrial fluid (EF) to endometrial receptivity by identifying its potential biomarkers. Methods This study involved an extensive search of the electronic databases PubMed and Cochrane, covering the period from 2011 to 2022. A combination of Medical Subject Headings with the terms 'endometrial fluid' and 'embryo implantation' was used. Results Several different proteins presented in the endometrial cavity fluid have been described but the most consistent as potential biomarkers were Proprotein Convertase 6 (PC6), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), PIGF (Placental growth factor), β3 integrin, Colony Stimulating Factor-3 (CSF-3), Leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), glycodelin and extracellular vesicles (EVs). Conclusions Strong indicators support the use of uterine fluid collection as a non-invasive tool for receptivity assessment. Therefore, it could improve outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R. Alves
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra,
Portugal
| | - Margarida F. Dias
- Gynecology Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Gynecology Department, Hospital and University Centre of Coimbra,
Portugal
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Incognito GG, Di Guardo F, Gulino FA, Genovese F, Benvenuto D, Lello C, Palumbo M. Interleukin-6 as A Useful Predictor of Endometriosis-Associated Infertility: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2023; 17:226-230. [PMID: 37577903 PMCID: PMC10439985 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2023.557683.1329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease defined by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterine cavity. Several authors have reported on the association between changes in inflammatory marker levels and the maintenance or progression of endometriosis and associated infertility. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is the most studied cytokine in endometriosis and has important functions in reproductive physiology. The aim of this study is to review systematically available evidence about altered IL-6 concentrations in endometriosis-related infertility. This is a systematic review including all studies until December 2022 in which IL-6 in serum, peritoneal fluid, follicular fluid, or endometrial biopsy specimens was measured and that correlated their findings with endometriosis- associated infertility. Fifteen studies were included in the systematic review. There seems to be a correlation between elevated serum and peritoneal fluid IL-6 concentrations and the occurrence of endometriosis-associated infertility. IL-6 may be a potential diagnostic or biomarker tool for the prediction of endometriosis-related infertility. However, the numerous biases affecting the available studies, and challenges in endometriosis research reproducibility must be considered. Future investigations should pay attention to factors that may affect the results, such as the choice of suitable control groups, and carefully consider other pathological conditions affecting the patients, endometriosis stage, and type of lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giosue Giordano Incognito
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Federica Di Guardo
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Antonio Gulino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e di Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS) Garibaldi Nesima, Catania, Italy
| | - Fortunato Genovese
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Domenico Benvenuto
- Unit of Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Lello
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Palumbo
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Bergsten TM, Li K, Lantvit DD, Murphy BT, Burdette JE. Kaempferol, a Phytoprogestin, Induces a Subset of Progesterone-Regulated Genes in the Uterus. Nutrients 2023; 15:1407. [PMID: 36986136 PMCID: PMC10051346 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone functions as a steroid hormone involved in female reproductive physiology. While some reproductive disorders manifest with symptoms that can be treated by progesterone or synthetic progestins, recent data suggest that women also seek botanical supplements to alleviate these symptoms. However, botanical supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and therefore it is important to characterize and quantify the inherent active compounds and biological targets of supplements within cellular and animal systems. In this study, we analyzed the effect of two natural products, the flavonoids, apigenin and kaempferol, to determine their relationship to progesterone treatment in vivo. According to immunohistochemical analysis of uterine tissue, kaempferol and apigenin have some progestogenic activity, but do not act in exactly the same manner as progesterone. More specifically, kaempferol treatment did not induce HAND2, did not change proliferation, and induced ZBTB16 expression. Additionally, while apigenin treatment did not appear to dramatically affect transcripts, kaempferol treatment altered some transcripts (44%) in a similar manner to progesterone treatment but had some unique effects as well. Kaempferol regulated primarily unfolded protein response, androgen response, and interferon-related transcripts in a similar manner to progesterone. However, the effects of progesterone were more significant in regulating thousands of transcripts making kaempferol a selective modifier of signaling in the mouse uterus. In summary, the phytoprogestins, apigenin and kaempferol, have progestogenic activity in vivo but also act uniquely.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Joanna E. Burdette
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
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5
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Shang J, Cheng YF, Li M, Wang H, Zhang JN, Guo XM, Cao DD, Yao YQ. Identification of Key Endometrial MicroRNAs and Their Target Genes Associated With Pathogenesis of Recurrent Implantation Failure by Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis. Front Genet 2022; 13:919301. [PMID: 35812749 PMCID: PMC9257071 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.919301] [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: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is an enormous challenge for in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinicians. An understanding of the molecular mechanisms of RIF helps to predict prognosis and develop new therapeutic strategies. The study is designed to identify diagnostic biomarkers for RIF as well as the potential mechanisms underlying RIF by utilizing public databases together with experimental validation. Methods: Two microarray datasets of RIF patients and the healthy control endometrium were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. First, differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) (DEMs) were identified and their target genes were predicted. Then, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and selected hub genes through protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses. Functional enrichment analyses of DEGs and DEMs were conducted. Furthermore, the key DEMs which targeted these hub genes were selected to obtain the key miRNA–target gene network. The key genes in the miRNA-target gene network were validated by a single-cell RNA-sequencing dataset of endometrium from GEO. Finally, we selected two miRNA–target gene pairs for further experimental validation using dual-luciferase assay and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results: We identified 49 DEMs between RIF patients and the fertile group and found 136,678 target genes. Then, 325 DEGs were totally used to construct the PPI network, and 33 hub genes were selected. Also, 25 DEMs targeted 16 key DEGs were obtained to establish a key miRNA–target gene network, and 16 key DEGs were validated by a single-cell RNA-sequencing dataset. Finally, the target relationship of hsa-miR-199a-5p-PDPN and hsa-miR-4306-PAX2 was verified by dual-luciferase assay, and there were significant differences in the expression of those genes between the RIF and fertile group by PCR (p < 0.05). Conclusion: We constructed miRNA–target gene regulatory networks associated with RIF which provide new insights regarding the underlying pathogenesis of RIF; hsa-miR-199a-5p-PDPN and hsa-miR-4306-PAX2 could be further explored as potential biomarkers for RIF, and their detection in the endometrium could be applied in clinics to estimate the probability of successful embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Shang
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Fei Cheng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Shenzhen, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Seventh Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Ning Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Meng Guo
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Dan-dan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Dan-dan Cao, ; Yuan-Qing Yao,
| | - Yuan-Qing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Seventh Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Dan-dan Cao, ; Yuan-Qing Yao,
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The Molecular Basis and Therapeutic Potential of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor in Cancer Cachexia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122955. [PMID: 35740622 PMCID: PMC9221449 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The mechanism of cancer cachexia is linked to a variety of factors, and inflammatory factors are thought to play a key role. We summarize the main roles of LIF in the development of cancer cachexia, including promoting fat loss, inducing skeletal muscle atrophy and causing anorexia nervosa. The main aim of this review is to increase the understanding of the effects of LIF in cachexia and to provide new insights into the treatment of cancer cachexia. Abstract Cachexia is a chronic metabolic syndrome that is characterized by sustained weight and muscle mass loss and anorexia. Cachexia can be secondary to a variety of diseases and affects the prognosis of patients significantly. The increase in inflammatory cytokines in plasma is deeply related to the occurrence of cachexia. As a member of the IL-6 cytokine family, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) exerts multiple biological functions. LIF is over-expressed in the cancer cells and stromal cells of various tumors, promoting the malignant development of tumors via the autocrine and paracrine systems. Intriguingly, increasing studies have confirmed that LIF contributes to the progression of cachexia, especially in patients with metastatic tumors. This review combines all of the evidence to summarize the mechanism of LIF-induced cachexia from the following four aspects: (i) LIF and cancer-associated cachexia, (ii) LIF and alterations of adipose tissue in cachexia, (iii) LIF and anorexia nervosa in cachexia, and (iv) LIF and muscle atrophy in cachexia. Considering the complex mechanisms in cachexia, we also focus on the interactions between LIF and other key cytokines in cachexia and existing therapeutics targeting LIF.
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Emerging in vitro platforms and omics technologies for studying the endometrium and early embryo-maternal interface in humans. Placenta 2022; 125:36-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Cheng X, Zhang Y, Ma J, Wang S, Ma R, Ge X, Zhao W, Xue T, Chen L, Yao B. NLRP3 promotes endometrial receptivity by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition of the endometrial epithelium. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaab056. [PMID: 34524457 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is crucial for successful embryo implantation. It is regulated by multiple factors which include ovarian steroid hormones and the immune microenvironment among others. Nod-Like Receptor Pyrins-3 (NLRP3) is a key intracellular pattern-recognition receptor and a critical component of the inflammasome, which plays an essential role in the development of inflammation and of immune responses. However, the physiological functions of NLRP3 in the endometrium remain largely unclear. This study investigated the physiological and pathological significance of NLRP3 in human endometrial epithelial cell during the implantation window. NLRP3 is highly expressed during the mid-proliferative and mid-secretory phases of the human endometrium and transcriptionally up-regulated by estradiol (E2) through estrogen receptor β (ERβ). In addition, NLRP3 promotes embryo implantation and enhances epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of Ishikawa (IK) cells via both inflammasome-dependent and inflammasome-independent pathways, which might provide a novel insight into endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Our findings suggest that NLRP3, which is transcriptionally regulated by E2, induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition of endometrial epithelial cells and promotes embryo adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Cheng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinzhao Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuxian Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rujun Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xie Ge
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tongmin Xue
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Chen
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bing Yao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Saito R, Satoh H, Aoba K, Hirasawa H, Miwa N. Dicalcin suppresses in vitro trophoblast attachment in human cell lines. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 570:206-213. [PMID: 34311201 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Implantation is a highly organized process that involves an interaction between a competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus. Despite significant research efforts, the molecular mechanisms governing this complex process remain elusive. Here, we investigated the effect of dicalcin, an S100-like Ca2+-binding protein, on the attachment of choriocarcinoma cells (BeWo cells) onto a monolayer of endometrial carcinoma cells (Ishikawa cells). Extracellularly administered dicalcin bound to both BeWo and Ishikawa cells. Pretreatment of BeWo spheroids with dicalcin reduced the attachment ratio of the spheroids onto the monolayer, whereas that of Ishikawa cells showed no apparent change. We identified the partial amino acid sequence of human dicalcin that exhibited maximum suppression for BeWo spheroid attachment. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the dicalcin-derived peptide caused a dilation of the intercellular junction between BeWo and ISK cells. Peptide treatment of BeWo spheroids downregulated the expression of integrinαvβ3 in BeWo cells, and induced alterations in their phalloidin-staining pattern, as measured by the length of each F-actin fiber and the thickness of the cortical stress fiber. Thus, dicalcin affects reorganization of the intracellular actin meshwork and subsequently the intensity of attachment, functioning as a novel suppressor of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryohei Saito
- Department of Obsetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Satoh
- Department of Physiology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Kayo Aoba
- Department of Physiology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Hajime Hirasawa
- Department of Physiology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Naofumi Miwa
- Department of Physiology, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan.
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Wang Z, Liu Y, Liu J, Kong N, Jiang Y, Jiang R, Zhen X, Zhou J, Li C, Sun H, Yan G. ATF3 deficiency impairs the proliferative-secretory phase transition and decidualization in RIF patients. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:387. [PMID: 33846304 PMCID: PMC8041902 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03679-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Decidualization is a complex process involving cellular proliferation and differentiation of the endometrial stroma and is required to establish and support pregnancy. Dysregulated decidualization has been reported to be a critical cause of recurrent implantation failure (RIF). In this study, we found that Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) expression was significantly downregulated in the endometrium of RIF patients. Knockdown of ATF3 in human endometrium stromal cells (hESCs) hampers decidualization, while overexpression could trigger the expression of decidual marker genes, and ameliorate the decidualization of hESCs from RIF patients. Mechanistically, ATF3 promotes decidualization by upregulating FOXO1 via suppressing miR-135b expression. In addition, the endometrium of RIF patients was hyperproliferative, while overexpression of ATF3 inhibited the proliferation of hESCs through CDKN1A. These data demonstrate the critical roles of endometrial ATF3 in regulating decidualization and proliferation, and dysregulation of ATF3 in the endometrium may be a novel cause of RIF and therefore represent a potential therapeutic target for RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyu Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Kong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruiwei Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jidong Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaojun Li
- Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Guijun Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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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: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [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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Hebeda CB, Sandri S, Benis CM, de Paula-Silva M, Loiola RA, Reutelingsperger C, Perretti M, Farsky SHP. Annexin A1/Formyl Peptide Receptor Pathway Controls Uterine Receptivity to the Blastocyst. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051188. [PMID: 32403233 PMCID: PMC7291299 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation into the uterine wall is a highly modulated, complex process. We previously demonstrated that Annexin A1 (AnxA1), which is a protein secreted by epithelial and inflammatory cells in the uterine microenvironment, controls embryo implantation in vivo. Here, we decipher the effects of recombinant AnxA1 in this phenomenon by using human trophoblast cell (BeWo) spheroids and uterine epithelial cells (Ishikawa; IK). AnxA1-treated IK cells demonstrated greater levels of spheroid adherence and upregulation of the tight junction molecules claudin-1 and zona occludens-1, as well as the glycoprotein mucin-1 (Muc-1). The latter effect of AnxA1 was not mediated through IL-6 secreted from IK cells, a known inducer of Muc-1 expression. Rather, these effects of AnxA1 involved activation of the formyl peptide receptors FPR1 and FPR2, as pharmacological blockade of FPR1 or FPR1/FPR2 abrogated such responses. The downstream actions of AnxA1 were mediated through the ERK1/2 phosphorylation pathway and F-actin polymerization in IK cells, as blockade of ERK1/2 phosphorylation reversed AnxA1-induced Muc-1 and claudin-1 expression. Moreover, FPR2 activation by AnxA1 induced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion by IK cells, and the supernatant of AnxA1-treated IK cells evoked angiogenesis in vitro. In conclusion, these data highlight the role of the AnxA1/FPR1/FPR2 pathway in uterine epithelial control of blastocyst implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina B. Hebeda
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil; (C.B.H.); (S.S.); (C.M.B.); (M.d.P.-S.); (R.A.L.)
| | - Silvana Sandri
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil; (C.B.H.); (S.S.); (C.M.B.); (M.d.P.-S.); (R.A.L.)
| | - Cláudia M. Benis
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil; (C.B.H.); (S.S.); (C.M.B.); (M.d.P.-S.); (R.A.L.)
| | - Marina de Paula-Silva
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil; (C.B.H.); (S.S.); (C.M.B.); (M.d.P.-S.); (R.A.L.)
| | - Rodrigo A. Loiola
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil; (C.B.H.); (S.S.); (C.M.B.); (M.d.P.-S.); (R.A.L.)
| | - Chris Reutelingsperger
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Part of Maastricht University Medical Center, Part of Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Mauro Perretti
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
| | - Sandra H. P. Farsky
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil; (C.B.H.); (S.S.); (C.M.B.); (M.d.P.-S.); (R.A.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-(11)-3091-2197
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Godini R, Fallahi H. Dynamics changes in the transcription factors during early human embryonic development. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:6489-6502. [PMID: 30246428 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Development of an embryo from a single cell, zygote, to multicellular morulae requires activation of hundreds of genes that were mostly inactivated before fertilization. Inevitably, transcription factors (TFs) would be involved in modulating the drastic changes in gene expression pattern observed at all preimplantation stages. Despite many ongoing efforts to uncover the role of TFs at the early stages of embryogenesis, still many unanswered questions remained that need to be explored. This could be done by studying the expression pattern of multiple genes obtained by high-throughput techniques. In the current study, we have identified a set of TFs that are involved in the progression of the zygote to blastocyst. Global gene expression patterns of consecutive stages were compared and differences documented. Expectedly, at the early stages of development, only a few sets of TFs differentially expressed while at the later stages hundreds of TFs appear to be upregulated. Interestingly, the expression levels of many TFs show an oscillation pattern during development indicating a need for their precise expression. A significant shift in gene expression was observed during the transition from four- to eight-cell stages, an indication of zygote genome activation. Additionally, we have found 11 TFs that were common in all stages including ATF3, EN1, IFI16, IKZF3, KLF3, NPAS3, NR2F2, RUNX1, SOX2, ZBTB20, and ZSCAN4. However, their expression patterns did not follow similar trends in the steps studied. Besides, our findings showed that both upregulation and active downregulation of the TFs expression is required for successful embryogenesis. Furthermore, our detailed network analysis identified the hub TFs for each transition. We found that HNF4A, FOXA2, and EP300 are the three most important elements for the first division of zygote.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasoul Godini
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hossein Fallahi
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
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Huang C, Sun H, Wang Z, Liu Y, Cheng X, Liu J, Jiang R, Zhang X, Zhen X, Zhou J, Chen L, Ding L, Yan G, Jiang Y. Increased Krüppel-like factor 12 impairs embryo attachment via downregulation of leukemia inhibitory factor in women with recurrent implantation failure. Cell Death Discov 2018; 4:23. [PMID: 30109142 PMCID: PMC6079092 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-018-0088-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) caused by various etiological factors remains a challenge for fertility clinicians using assisted reproductive technology (ART) worldwide. Dysregulation of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in the endometria of women with RIF is involved in impaired endometrial receptivity and embryo adhesion. However, the mechanism through which LIF expression is regulated in women with RIF is still poorly understood. Our previous study noted that the abnormally increased endometrial Krüppel-like factor 12 (KLF12) in RIF women led to impaired decidualization and embryo implantation. Here, we further found that KLF12 inhibited embryo adhesion in vivo and in vitro by repressing LIF expression. Mechanistically, KLF12 bound to conserved sites (CAGTGGG, −6771 to −6765 and −7115 to −7109) within the LIF promoter region and repressed LIF transcription directly. Exogenous LIF significantly reversed the KLF12-mediated repression of BeWo spheroid adhesion. KLF12 expression was reduced significantly in Ishikawa cells treated with progestogen, which was due to the activation of Akt signaling. These findings may provide novel potential therapeutic regimens for patients with RIF and disrupted endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Zhilong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Yang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Xi Cheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Jingyu Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Ruiwei Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Xindong Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Xin Zhen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Jidong Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Linjun Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Lijun Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Guijun Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008 China
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Zhang Y, Ding H, Wang X, Ye SD. Modulation of STAT3 phosphorylation by PTPN2 inhibits naïve pluripotency of embryonic stem cells. FEBS Lett 2018; 592:2227-2237. [PMID: 29797458 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
STAT3 phosphorylation at tyrosine 705 (STAT3pY705 ), triggered by the addition of the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), can maintain mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) self-renewal and reprogram mouse epiblast stem cells (EpiSCs) to enter a naïve pluripotent state. The activation of STAT3pY705 occurs mainly through Janus kinases. However, it remains unclear how STAT3pY705 levels are decreased in mESCs. Our study shows that upregulation of the protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPN2) inhibits STAT3 activity by reducing its phosphorylation level and promotes mESC differentiation, whereas PTPN2 knockout by CRISPR/CAS9 delays mESC differentiation. Consistently, PTPN2 knockdown facilitates the generation of mESC-like colonies in STAT3-overexpressing EpiSCs. PTPN2-mediated STAT3 activity, thus, contributes to the exit of ESCs from the pluripotent ground state. These findings expand the current understanding of the regulatory network of naïve pluripotency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Center for Stem Cell and Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
| | - Huiwen Ding
- Center for Stem Cell and Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- Center for Stem Cell and Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
| | - Shou-Dong Ye
- Center for Stem Cell and Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
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