1
|
Xiao S, Du J, Yuan G, Luo X, Song L. Granulosa Cells-Related MicroRNAs in Ovarian Diseases: Mechanism, Facts and Perspectives. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01523-w. [PMID: 38594585 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01523-w] [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: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short single-stranded, noncoding RNAs that affect the translation of mRNAs by imperfectly binding to homologous 3'UTRs. Research on miRNAs in ovarian diseases is constantly expanding because miRNAs are powerful regulators of gene expression and cellular processes and are promising biomarkers. miRNA mimics, miRNA inhibitors and molecules targeting miRNAs (antimiRs) have shown promise as novel therapeutic agents in preclinical development. Granulosa cells (GCs) are supporting cells for developing oocytes in the ovary. GCs regulate female reproductive health by producing sex hormones and LH receptors. Increasing research has reported the relevance of miRNAs in GC pathophysiology. With in-depth studies of disease mechanisms, there are an increasing number of studies on the biomolecular pathways of miRNAs in gynecology and endocrinology. In the present review, we summarize the different functions of GC-related microRNAs in various ovarian disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency, premature ovarian failure and ovarian granulosa cell tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengmin Xiao
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Du
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghui Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Hejiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Luzhou, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohong Luo
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, People's Republic of China.
| | - Linjiang Song
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang Y, Tang L, Liu H, Cheng Y. The Multiple Functions of HB-EGF in Female Reproduction and Related Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Targeting Strategies. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6. [PMID: 38424408 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Heparin-binding growth factor (HB-EGF) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) ligand family which has a crucial role in women's health. However, there is a lack of comprehensive review to summarize the significance of HB-EGF. Therefore, this work first described the expression patterns of HB-EGF in the endometrium and ovary of different species and gestational time. Then, the focus was on exploring how it promotes the successful implantation and regulates the process of decidualization and the function of ovarian granulosa cells as an intermediate molecule. Otherwise, we also focused on the clinical and prognostic significance of HB-EGF in female-related cancers (including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer) and breast cancer. Lastly, the article also summarizes the current drugs targeting HB-EGF in the treatment of ovarian cancer and breast cancer. Overall, these studies found that the expression of HB-EGF in the endometrium is spatiotemporal and species-specific. And it mediates the dialogue between the blastocyst and endometrium, promoting synchronous development of the blastocyst and endometrium as an intermediate molecule. HB-EGF may serve as a potentially valuable prognostic clinical indicator in tumors. And the specific inhibitor of HB-EGF (CRM197) has a certain anti-tumor ability, which can exert synergistic anti-tumor effects with conventional chemotherapy drugs. However, it also suggests that more research is needed in the future to elucidate its specific mechanisms and to accommodate clinical studies with a larger sample size to clarify its clinical value.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Lujia Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanxiang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dong Z, Zhang L, Wang W, Jiang F, Ai H. ZnSO 4 Protects against premature ovarian failure through PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Theriogenology 2023; 207:61-71. [PMID: 37269597 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system. We aimed to investigate the protective effect of ZnSO4 on premature ovarian failure (POF) in SD rats and granulosa cells (GCs) treated with cisplatin. We also explored the underlying mechanisms. In vivo experiments showed that ZnSO4 increased the serum levels of Zn2+, increased estrogen (E2) secretion, and decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion in rats. ZnSO4 increased ovarian index, protected ovarian tissues and blood vessels, reduced excessive follicular atresia, and maintained follicular development. At the same time, ZnSO4 inhibited apoptosis in the ovaries. In vitro experiments showed that ZnSO4 combination treatment restored the intracellular levels of Zn2+ and inhibited the apoptosis of GCs. ZnSO4 inhibited cisplatin-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and preserved mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We also found that ZnSO4 protected against POF by activating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway and reducing apoptosis of GCs. These data suggest that ZnSO4 may be a potential therapeutic agent for protecting the ovaries and preserving fertility during chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Dong
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Follicular Development and Reproductive Health of Liaoning Province, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Fan Jiang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Hao Ai
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Follicular Development and Reproductive Health of Liaoning Province, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tsai YR, Liao YN, Kang HY. Current Advances in Cellular Approaches for Pathophysiology and Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Cells 2023; 12:2189. [PMID: 37681921 PMCID: PMC10487183 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent gynecological and endocrine disorder that results in irregular menstruation, incomplete follicular development, disrupted ovulation, and reduced fertility rates among affected women of reproductive age. While these symptoms can be managed through appropriate medication and lifestyle interventions, both etiology and treatment options remain limited. Here we provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in cellular approaches utilized for investigating the pathophysiology of PCOS through in vitro cell models, to avoid the confounding systemic effects such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) therapy. The primary objective is to enhance the understanding of abnormalities in PCOS-associated folliculogenesis, particularly focusing on the aberrant roles of granulosa cells and other relevant cell types. Furthermore, this article encompasses analyses of the mechanisms and signaling pathways, microRNA expression and target genes altered in PCOS, and explores the pharmacological approaches considered as potential treatments. By summarizing the aforementioned key findings, this article not only allows us to appreciate the value of using in vitro cell models, but also provides guidance for selecting suitable research models to facilitate the identification of potential treatments and understand the pathophysiology of PCOS at the cellular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ru Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan
- An-Ten Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Kaohsiung City 802, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Nung Liao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yo Kang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan
- Center for Hormone and Reproductive Medicine Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cheng JC, Han X, Meng Q, Guo Y, Liu B, Song T, Jia Y, Fang L, Sun YP. HB-EGF upregulates StAR expression and stimulates progesterone production through ERK1/2 signaling in human granulosa-lutein cells. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:166. [PMID: 36284301 PMCID: PMC9598000 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00983-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) belongs to the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family of growth factors. HB-EGF and its receptors, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and HER4, are expressed in the human corpus luteum. HB-EGF has been shown to regulate luteal function by preventing cell apoptosis. Steroidogenesis is the primary function of the human corpus luteum. Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) plays a critical role in steroidogenesis. StAR expression and progesterone (P4) production in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells have been shown to be upregulated by a ligand of EGFR, amphiregulin. However, whether HB-EGF can achieve the same effects remains unknown. Methods A steroidogenic human ovarian granulosa-like tumor cell line, KGN, and primary culture of hGL cells obtained from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment were used as experimental models. The underlying molecular mechanisms mediating the effects of HB-EGF on StAR expression and P4 production were explored by a series of in vitro experiments. Results Western blot showed that EGFR, HER2, and HER4 were expressed in both KGN and hGL cells. Treatment with HB-EGF for 24 h induced StAR expression but did not affect the expression of steroidogenesis-related enzymes, P450 side chain cleavage enzyme, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and aromatase. Using pharmacological inhibitors and a siRNA-mediated knockdown approach, we showed that EGFR, HER4, but not HER2, were required for HB-EGF-stimulated StAR expression and P4 production. In addition, HB-EGF-induced upregulations of StAR expression and P4 production were mediated by the activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Conclusion This study increases the understanding of the physiological role of HB-EGF in human luteal functions. Video Abstract
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-022-00983-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Chien Cheng
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Xiaoyu Han
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Qingxue Meng
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Yanjie Guo
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Boqun Liu
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Tinglin Song
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Yuanyuan Jia
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wei H, Huo P, Liu S, Huang H, Zhang S. Posttranslational modifications in pathogenesis of PCOS. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1024320. [PMID: 36277727 PMCID: PMC9585718 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1024320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a lifelong reproductive, metabolic, and psychiatric disorder that affects 5-18% of women, which is associated with a significantly increased lifetime risk of concomitant diseases, including type 2 diabetes, psychiatric disorders, and gynecological cancers. Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) play an important role in changes in protein function and are necessary to maintain cellular viability and biological processes, thus their maladjustment can lead to disease. Growing evidence suggests the association between PCOS and posttranslational modifications. This article mainly reviews the research status of phosphorylation, methylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination, as well as their roles and molecular mechanisms in the development of PCOS. In addition, we briefly summarize research and clinical trials of PCOS therapy to advance our understanding of agents that can be used to target phosphorylated, methylated, acetylated, and ubiquitinated PTM types. It provides not only ideas for future research on the mechanism of PCOS but also ideas for PCOS treatments with therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Wei
- Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Peng Huo
- School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Shun Liu
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Department of Histology and Embryology, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Hua Huang
- Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Hua Huang, ; Shun Zhang,
| | - Shun Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
- *Correspondence: Hua Huang, ; Shun Zhang,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang JH, Zhan L, Zhao MY, Wang JJ, Xie FF, Xu ZY, Xu Q, Cao YX, Liu QW. Role of EGFR expressed on the granulosa cells in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:971564. [PMID: 36440230 PMCID: PMC9691951 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.971564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrinological disorders affecting between 6 to 20% of reproductive aged women. However, the etiology of PCOS is still unclear. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays a critical role in the growth and development of ovarian follicles. In our previous study, we showed that the expression level of EGFR was significantly higher in the cumulus granulosa cells from women with PCOS than that of normal women, suggesting that EGFR may play a potential role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. The present study further evaluated the association between EGFR and PCOS through both in clinical observation and animal experiments. We firstly validated the differential expression of EGFR in cumulus granulosa cells between PCOS patients and normal subjects by qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining. Then we generated a mouse model (n=20) of PCOS by injecting dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). The PCOS mice were then injected with an E corpus GFR inhibitor (AG1478) (n=10), which significantly improved the sex hormone levels in the estrous cycle stage, and the serum levels of LH, FSH and testosterone were compared with the PCOS mice without EGFR inhibitor treatment (n=10). Decreasing the expression level of EGFR in the PCOS mice also improved the ovulatory function of their ovaries which was indicated by the multifarious follicle stage in these mice as compared with the PCOS mice without EGFR inhibitor treatment. Also, the number of corpopa lutea were higher in the control group and the EGFR inhibitor treated group than in the PCOS group. The sex hormone levels and reproductive function were not significantly different between the control mice and the PCOS mice treated with the EGFR inhibitor. Our results demonstrated that EGF/EGFR signaling affected the proliferation of cumulus granulosa cells, oocyte maturation and meiosis, and played a potential role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Therefore, the selective inhibition of EGFR may serve as a novel strategy for the clinical management of PCOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Zhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ming-Ye Zhao
- Interventional Operating Room, Weihai Central Hospital, Weihai, Shandong, China
| | - Jin-Juan Wang
- Department of Gynecological Minimal Invasive Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fen-Fen Xie
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zu-Ying Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Gynecological Minimal Invasive Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yun-Xia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
- *Correspondence: Yun-Xia Cao, ; Qi-Wei Liu,
| | - Qi-Wei Liu
- Department of Gynecological Minimal Invasive Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yun-Xia Cao, ; Qi-Wei Liu,
| |
Collapse
|