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Horvat Mercnik M, Schliefsteiner C, Sanchez-Duffhues G, Wadsack C. TGFβ signalling: a nexus between inflammation, placental health and preeclampsia throughout pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:442-471. [PMID: 38519450 PMCID: PMC11215164 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae007] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is a unique and pivotal organ in reproduction, controlling crucial growth and cell differentiation processes that ensure a successful pregnancy. Placental development is a tightly regulated and dynamic process, in which the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily plays a central role. This family of pleiotropic growth factors is heavily involved in regulating various aspects of reproductive biology, particularly in trophoblast differentiation during the first trimester of pregnancy. TGFβ signalling precisely regulates trophoblast invasion and the cell transition from cytotrophoblasts to extravillous trophoblasts, which is an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-like process. Later in pregnancy, TGFβ signalling ensures proper vascularization and angiogenesis in placental endothelial cells. Beyond its role in trophoblasts and endothelial cells, TGFβ signalling contributes to the polarization and function of placental and decidual macrophages by promoting maternal tolerance of the semi-allogeneic foetus. Disturbances in early placental development have been associated with several pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE) which is one of the severe complications. Emerging evidence suggests that TGFβ is involved in the pathogenesis of PE, thereby offering a potential target for intervention in the human placenta. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This comprehensive review aims to explore and elucidate the roles of the major members of the TGFβ superfamily, including TGFβs, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), activins, inhibins, nodals, and growth differentiation factors (GDFs), in the context of placental development and function. The review focusses on their interactions within the major cell types of the placenta, namely trophoblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, in both normal pregnancies and pregnancies complicated by PE throughout pregnancy. SEARCH METHODS A literature search was carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar, searching terms: 'TGF signalling preeclampsia', 'pregnancy TGF signalling', 'preeclampsia tgfβ', 'preeclampsia bmp', 'preeclampsia gdf', 'preeclampsia activin', 'endoglin preeclampsia', 'endoglin pregnancy', 'tgfβ signalling pregnancy', 'bmp signalling pregnancy', 'gdf signalling pregnancy', 'activin signalling pregnancy', 'Hofbauer cell tgfβ signalling', 'placental macrophages tgfβ', 'endothelial cells tgfβ', 'endothelium tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion Smad', 'trophoblast invasion bmp', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ', 'tgfβ preeclampsia', 'tgfβ placental development', 'TGFβ placental function', 'endothelial dysfunction preeclampsia tgfβ signalling', 'vascular remodelling placenta TGFβ', 'inflammation pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune response pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune tolerance pregnancy tgfβ', 'TGFβ pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy tregs', 'tgfβ pregnancy tregs', 'TGFβ placenta NK cells', 'TGFβ placenta tregs', 'NK cells preeclampsia', 'Tregs preeclampsia'. Only articles published in English until 2023 were used. OUTCOMES A comprehensive understanding of TGFβ signalling and its role in regulating interconnected cell functions of the main placental cell types provides valuable insights into the processes essential for successful placental development and growth of the foetus during pregnancy. By orchestrating trophoblast invasion, vascularization, immune tolerance, and tissue remodelling, TGFβ ligands contribute to the proper functioning of a healthy maternal-foetal interface. However, dysregulation of TGFβ signalling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE, where the shallow trophoblast invasion, defective vascular remodelling, decreased uteroplacental perfusion, and endothelial cell and immune dysfunction observed in PE, are all affected by an altered TGFβ signalling. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The dysregulation of TGFβ signalling in PE has important implications for research and clinical practice. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying mechanisms, including the role of different ligands and their regulation under pathophysiological conditions, in order to discover new therapeutic targets. Distinguishing between clinically manifested subtypes of PE and studying TGFβ signalling in different placental cell types holistically is an important first step. To put this knowledge into practice, pre-clinical animal models combined with new technologies are needed. This may also lead to improved human research models and identify potential therapeutic targets, ultimately improving outcomes for affected pregnancies and reducing the burden of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gonzalo Sanchez-Duffhues
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC), Tissue-Specific BMP Signalling ISPA-HUCA, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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Sun L, Shi M, Wang J, Han X, Wei J, Huang Z, Yang X, Ding Y, Zhang P, He A, Liu M, Yan R, Yang X, Li R, Wang G. Overexpressed Trophoblast Glycoprotein Contributes to Preeclampsia Development by Inducing Abnormal Trophoblast Migration and Invasion Toward the Uterine Spiral Artery. Hypertension 2024; 81:1524-1536. [PMID: 38716674 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.124.22923] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is a significant pregnancy disorder with an unknown cause, mainly attributed to impaired spiral arterial remodeling. METHODS Using RNA sequencing, we identified key genes in placental tissues from healthy individuals and preeclampsia patients. Placenta and plasma samples from pregnant women were collected to detect the expression of TPBG (trophoblast glycoprotein). Pregnant rats were injected with TPBG-carrying adenovirus to detect preeclamptic features. HTR-8/SVneo cells transfected with a TPBG overexpression lentiviral vector were used in cell function experiments. The downstream molecular mechanisms of TPBG were explored using RNA sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing data. TPBG expression was knocked down in the lipopolysaccharide-induced preeclampsia-like rat model to rescue the preeclampsia features. We also assessed TPBG's potential as an early preeclampsia predictor using clinical plasma samples. RESULTS TPBG emerged as a crucial differentially expressed gene, expressed specifically in syncytiotrophoblasts and extravillous trophoblasts. Subsequently, we established a rat model with preeclampsia-like phenotypes by intravenously injecting TPBG-expressing adenoviruses, observing impaired spiral arterial remodeling, thus indicating a causal correlation between TPBG overexpression and preeclampsia. Studies with HTR-8/SVneo cells, chorionic villous explants, and transwell assays showed TPBG overexpression disrupts trophoblast/extravillous trophoblast migration/invasion and chemotaxis. Notably, TPBG knockdown alleviated the lipopolysaccharide-induced preeclampsia-like rat model. We enhanced preeclampsia risk prediction in early gestation by combining TPBG expression with established clinical predictors. CONCLUSIONS These findings are the first to show that TPBG overexpression contributes to preeclampsia development by affecting uterine spiral artery remodeling. We propose TPBG levels in maternal blood as a predictor of preeclampsia risk. The proposed mechanism by which TPBG overexpression contributes to the occurrence of preeclampsia via its disruptive effect on trophoblast and extravillous trophoblast migration/invasion on uterine spiral artery remodeling, thereby increasing the risk of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meiting Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxue Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiachun Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengrui Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine (P.Z., X.Y., G.W.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuzhen Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine (P.Z., X.Y., G.W.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Andong He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengyuan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruiling Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuesong Yang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of the Ministry of Education (X.Y., G.W.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center, Clifford Hospital, Guangzhou, China (X.Y.)
| | - Ruiman Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (L.S., M.S., J.W., X.H., J.W., Z.H., X.Y., Y.D., P.Z., A.H., M.L., R.Y., R.L.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guang Wang
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine (P.Z., X.Y., G.W.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of the Ministry of Education (X.Y., G.W.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, School of Medicine (G.W.), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Tseng YH, Chou WR, Liu WL, Dung ZX, Lin CH, Hsieh CH, Wang CC. Effects of methylation and transcription factor YY1 on ID2 expression in non-small cell lung carcinoma cells. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:2424-2438. [PMID: 38859862 PMCID: PMC11162666 DOI: 10.62347/kxkl1421] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The inhibitor of DNA-binding 2 (ID2) plays a major role in tumor dedifferentiation in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Studies have indicated an inverse correlation between ID2 expression and NSCLC cell invasiveness. However, the mechanisms through which ID2 activation is regulated are currently unclear. We overexpressed ID2 in H1299 cells and extensively characterized their cellular behaviors. By employing a serial deletion approach combined with a reporter assay, we pinpointed the basal promoter region of ID2. We also examined the DNA methylation status of the ID2 promoter to elucidate the epigenetic mechanisms driving ID2 regulation. Our results revealed that ID2 overexpression effectively inhibited the migration, invasion, proliferation, and colony formation abilities of H1299 cells. The region from -243 to +202 played a major role in driving the transcriptional activity of ID2. Sequence analysis results indicated that the transcription factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1) might be crucial in the regulation of ID2 expression. The ectopically expressed YY1 activated both the expression levels of ID2 and the transcriptional activity of the ID2 promoter, potentially contributing to its repressive activity on cancer cell growth. Furthermore, site-directed mutagenesis and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that YY1 may target the -120 and -76 sites of the ID2 promoter, thereby activating its transcriptional activity. The ID2 promoter regions were also fully methylated in CL1-5 cells, and the methylation level was correlated with the expression levels of the ID2 promoter. Moreover, the YY1-induced suppression of colony formation was counteracted by ID2 knockdown, which suggests that YY1 represses cell colony growth through the regulation of ID2. Our results indicate that YY1 plays a role in transactivating ID2 expression and might also contribute to the repression of colony growth through the regulation of ID2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsin Tseng
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ru Chou
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Business Administration, College of Management, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Lun Liu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
- Data Science Center, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Zhong-Xuan Dung
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hao Lin
- Department of Nephrology, Sijhih Cathay General HospitalNew Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Hsieh
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical UniversityTaichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University HospitalTaichung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chung Wang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Fu Jen Catholic UniversityNew Taipei, Taiwan
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Ma J, Liu M, Chen Z, Liu S, Yang H, Duan M. NANOG regulate the JAK/STAT3 pathway to promote trophoblast cell migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) through protein interaction with CDK1. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13863. [PMID: 38796740 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13863] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a common pregnancy disease. NANOG and Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) are essential for regulating the function of cell proliferation and apoptosis. However, the mechanism of action in HDP is yet unclear. METHOD The microarray dataset GSE6573 was downloaded from the GEO database. Emt-related gene set was downloaded from Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition gene database 2.0 were screened differentially expressed genes by bioinformatics analysis. Pathway Commons and Scansite 4.0 databases were used to predict the interaction between proteins. Placental tissue samples were collected from HDP patients and patients with uneventful pregnancies. RT-qPCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of NANOG, CDK1, MMP-2, MMP-9, EMT markers and the JAK/STAT3 pathway proteins. Transfection NANOG overexpression/knockdown, and CDK1 knockdown into the human chorionic trophoblast cells (HTR-8/Svneo). CCK-8, Transwell and Wound-healing assay were used to evaluate cell proliferation, invasion and migration. CO-IP and GST pull-down assays were used to confirm the protein interaction. RESULTS A total obtained seven EMT-related differentially expressed genes, wherein NANOG, NODAL and LIN28A had protein interaction. In the HDP patients' tissue found that NANOG and CDK1 had lower expression. NANOG overexpression promoted HTR-8/Svneo proliferation, migration and EMT, while NANOG knockdown had the opposite effect. Further a protein interaction between STAT3 and CDK1 with NANOG. NANOG overexpression downregulated the JAK/STAT3 pathway to promote HTR-8/Svneo proliferation, migration and EMT, which was reversed by CDK1 knockdown. CONCLUSIONS NANOG downregulated the JAK/STAT3 pathway to promote trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and EMT through protein interaction with CDK1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Mingchang Liu
- Yunnan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Shiyang Liu
- Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Huijuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Mengjia Duan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Wu Z, Zhang Q, Wang H, Zhou S, Fu B, Fang L, Cheng JC, Sun YP. Growth differentiation factor-11 upregulates matrix metalloproteinase 2 expression by inducing Snail in human extravillous trophoblast cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 585:112190. [PMID: 38369181 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112190] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The human extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell invasion is an important process during placentation. Although the placenta is normal tissue, the EVT cells exhibit some features common to cancer cells, including high migratory and invasive properties. Snail and Slug are transcription factors that mediate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a crucial event for cancer cell migration and invasion. It has been shown that GDF-11-induced matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) expression is required for EVT cell invasion. Whether GDF-11 can regulate Snail and Slug expression in human EVT cells remains unknown. If it does, the involvement of Snail and Slug in GDF-11-induced MMP2 expression and EVT cell invasion must also be defined. In the present study, using the immortalized human EVT cell line, HTR-8/SVneo, and primary cultures of human EVT cells as experimental models, our results show that GDF-11 upregulates Snail and Slug expression. ALK4 and ALK5 mediate the stimulatory effects of GDF-11 on Snail and Slug expression. In addition, we demonstrate that SMAD2 and SMAD3 are required for the GDF-11-upregulated Snail expression, while only SMAD3 is involved in GDF-11-induced Slug expression. Moreover, our results reveal that Snail mediates GDF-11-induced MMP2 expression and cell invasion but not Slug. This study increases our understanding of the biological function of GDF-11 in human EVT cells and provides a novel mechanism for regulating MMP2 and EVT cell invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shenghui Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Bingxin Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Hua R, Mo Y, Lin X, Zhang B, He M, Huang C, Huang Y, Li J, Wan J, Qin H, Xie Q, Zeng D, Sun Y. EGR1 modulates EPHB4-induced trophoblast dysfunction in recurrent spontaneous abortion†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:476-489. [PMID: 38091979 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad169] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion, defined as at least three unexplained abortions occurring before the 20-24 week of pregnancy, has a great impact on women's quality of life. Ephrin receptor B4 has been associated with trophoblast function in preeclampsia. The present study aimed to verify the hypothesis that ephrin receptor B4 regulates the biological functions of trophoblasts in recurrent spontaneous abortion and to explore the upstream mechanism. Ephrin receptor B4 was overexpressed in mice with recurrent spontaneous abortion. Moreover, ephrin receptor B4 inhibited trophoblast proliferation, migration, and invasion while promoting apoptosis. Downregulation of early growth response protein 1 expression in mice with recurrent spontaneous abortion led to ephrin receptor B4 overexpression. Poor expression of WT1-associated protein in mice with recurrent spontaneous abortion reduced the modification of early growth response protein 1 mRNA methylation, resulting in decreased early growth response protein 1 mRNA stability and expression. Overexpression of WT1-associated protein reduced the incidence of recurrent spontaneous abortion in mice by controlling the phenotype of trophoblasts, which was reversed by early growth response protein 1 knockdown. All in all, our findings demonstrate that dysregulation of WT1-associated protein contributes to the instability of early growth response protein 1, thereby activating ephrin receptor B4-induced trophoblast dysfunction in recurrent spontaneous abortion. Our study provides novel insights into understanding the molecular pathogenesis of recurrent spontaneous abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Hua
- Department of Science and Education, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Yi Mo
- Department of Science and Education, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Xiu Lin
- Department of Gynecology, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Min He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Chun Huang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Yujie Huang
- Department of Gynecology, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Jiangfan Wan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Huamei Qin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Qinshan Xie
- Graduate School, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Donggui Zeng
- Graduate School, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
| | - Yan Sun
- Administrative Office, The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P.R. China
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Lin Z, Wu S, Jiang Y, Chen Z, Huang X, Wen Z, Yuan Y. Unraveling the molecular mechanisms driving enhanced invasion capability of extravillous trophoblast cells: a comprehensive review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:591-608. [PMID: 38315418 PMCID: PMC10957806 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03036-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Precise extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion is crucial for successful placentation and pregnancy. This review focuses on elucidating the mechanisms that promote heightened EVT invasion. We comprehensively summarize the pivotal roles of hormones, angiogenesis, hypoxia, stress, the extracellular matrix microenvironment, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immunity, inflammation, programmed cell death, epigenetic modifications, and microbiota in facilitating EVT invasion. The molecular mechanisms underlying enhanced EVT invasion may provide valuable insights into potential pathogenic mechanisms associated with diseases characterized by excessive invasion, such as the placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), thereby offering novel perspectives for managing pregnancy complications related to deficient EVT invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Lin
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinghui Jiang
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziqi Chen
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoye Huang
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuofeng Wen
- The Sixth Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Yuan
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Zeng YT, Liu WF, Zheng PS, Li S. GDF15 deficiency hinders human trophoblast invasion to mediate pregnancy loss through downregulating Smad1/5 phosphorylation. iScience 2023; 26:107902. [PMID: 37766993 PMCID: PMC10520888 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107902] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) belongs to the Transforming growth factor β(TGF-β) superfamily. The decrease of GDF15 in the serum of pregnant women was associated with miscarriage. Both IHC and ELISA assays showed that GDF15 in trophoblast tissue and serum of pregnant women who miscarried was significantly lower than in those who had a live birth. GDF15 deficiency was associated with embryo resorption in GDF15 knockout mice through CRIPSR editing. In addition, the migration and invasion ability of HTR-8/SVneo and JEG-3 cells were promoted by GDF15. Mechanistically, GDF15 increased Smad1/5 phosphorylation, resulting in upregulating SNAI1/2, VIMENTIN and downregulating E-CADHERIN. A dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that Smad-binding elements (SBE) and/or GC-rich motifs were activated and target genes such as SNAI1/2, SERPINE1, and TIMP3 were transcriptionally regulated by GDF15/Smad5 signaling. Therefore, our data revealed a crucial role of GDF15 on invasion of trophoblast by upregulating the activity of TGF-β/Smad1/5 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ting Zeng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wen-Fang Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Peng-Sheng Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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Cheng JC, Meng Q, Zhang Q, Zhang L, Chen J, Song T, Fang L, Sun YP. WNK1 mediates amphiregulin-induced MMP9 expression and cell invasion in human extravillous trophoblast cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 576:112038. [PMID: 37544354 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112038] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
The invasion of human extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells is a critical event required for a successful pregnancy. Amphiregulin, a ligand of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), has been shown to stimulate cell invasion in an immortalized human EVT cell line, HTR-8/SVneo. The with-no-lysine kinase 1 (WNK1) is involved in regulating cell invasion. It is known that WNK1 is expressed in the human placenta, but its role in human EVT cells remains unknown. In the present study, we show that AREG treatment phosphorylated WNK1 at Thr60 in both HTR-8/SVneo and primary human EVT cells. The stimulatory effect of AREG on WNK1 phosphorylation was mediated by the activation of PI3K/AKT, but not the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. AREG upregulated matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) but not MMP2. In addition, cell invasiveness was increased in response to the treatment of AREG. Using the siRNA-mediated knockdown approach, our results showed that the knockdown of WNK1 attenuated the AREG-induced upregulation of MMP9 expression and cell invasion. Moreover, the expression of WNK1 was downregulated in the placentas with preeclampsia, a disease resulting from insufficiency of EVT cell invasion during pregnancy. This study discovers the physiological function of WNK1 in human EVT cells and provides important insights into the regulation of MMP9 and cell invasion in human EVT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Qingxue Meng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jiaye Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Tinglin Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Wu Z, Zhang L, Jia Y, Bi B, Fang L, Cheng JC. GDF-11 downregulates placental human chorionic gonadotropin expression by activating SMAD2/3 signaling. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:179. [PMID: 37480123 PMCID: PMC10362589 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01201-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The production of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) by the placental trophoblast cells is essential for maintaining a normal pregnancy. Aberrant hCG levels are associated with reproductive disorders. The protein of hCG is a dimer consisting of an α subunit and a β subunit. The β subunit is encoded by the CGB gene and is unique to hCG. Growth differentiation factor-11 (GDF-11), a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, is expressed in the human placenta and can stimulate trophoblast cell invasion. However, whether the expression of CGB and the production of hCG are regulated by GDF-11 remains undetermined. METHODS Two human choriocarcinoma cell lines, BeWo and JEG-3, and primary cultures of human cytotrophoblast (CTB) cells were used as experimental models. The effects of GDF-11 on CGB expression and hCG production, as well as the underlying mechanisms, were explored by a series of in vitro experiments. RESULTS Our results show that treatment of GDF-11 downregulates the expression of CGB and the production of hCG in both BeWo and JEG-3 cells as well as in primary CTB cells. Using a pharmacological inhibitor and siRNA-mediated approach, we reveal that both ALK4 and ALK5 are required for the GDF-11-induced downregulation of CGB expression. In addition, treatment of GDF-11 activates SMAD2/3 but not SMAD1/5/8 signaling pathways. Moreover, both SMAD2 and SMAD3 are involved in the GDF-11-downregulated CGB expression. ELISA results show that the GDF-11-suppressed hCG production requires the ALK4/5-mediated activation of SMAD2/3 signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS This study not only discovers the biological function of GDF-11 in the human placenta but also provides important insights into the regulation of the expression of hCG. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Jia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Beibei Bi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
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Han M, Guo Y, Li Y, Zeng Q, Zhu W, Jiang J. SMURF2 facilitates ubiquitin-mediated degradation of ID2 to attenuate lung cancer cell proliferation. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:3324-3340. [PMID: 37497010 PMCID: PMC10367561 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.80979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
SMAD-specific E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 2 (SMURF2) functions as either a tumor promoter or tumor suppressor in several tumors. However, the detailed effect of SMURF2 on non-small cell lung cancer has not been fully understood. In this study, SMURF2 expression and its diagnostic value were analyzed. Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), proximity ligation assay (PLA), chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and nude mice tumor-bearing model were applied to further clarify the role of SMURF2 in lung cancer. SMURF2 expression was reduced in the tumor tissues of patients with NSCLC and high SMURF2 expression was significantly correlated with favorable outcomes. Furthermore, the overexpression of SMURF2 significantly inhibited lung cancer cell progression. Mechanistically, SMURF2 interacted with inhibitor of DNA binding 2 (ID2), subsequently promoting the poly-ubiquitination and degradation of ID2 through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Downregulated ID2 in lung cells dissociates endogenous transcription factor E2A, a positive regulator of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21, and finally induces G1/S arrest in lung cancer cells. This study revealed that the manipulation of ID2 via SMURF2 may control tumor progression and contribute to the development of novel targeted antitumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jianli Jiang
- ✉ Corresponding author: Jianli Jiang, National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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Chen J, Song T, Yang S, Meng Q, Han X, Wu Z, Cheng JC, Fang L. Snail mediates GDF-8-stimulated human extravillous trophoblast cell invasion by upregulating MMP2 expression. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:93. [PMID: 37143106 PMCID: PMC10158255 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01107-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell invasion is a tightly regulated process that requires for a normal pregnancy. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been implicated in EVT cell invasion. Growth differentiation factor-8 (GDF-8), a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily, is expressed in the human placenta and promotes EVT cell invasion by upregulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2). However, the underlying molecular mechanism of GDF-8-induced MMP2 expression remains undetermined. Therefore, the present study aims to examine the role of Snail and Slug, the EMT-related transcriptional regulators, in GDF-8-stimulated MMP2 expression and cell invasion in HTR-8/SVneo human EVT cell line and primary cultures of human EVT cells. METHODS HTR-8/SVneo and primary cultures of human EVT cells were used to examine the effect of GDF-8 on MMP2 expression and explore the underlying mechanism. For gene silencing and overexpression, the HTR-8/SVneo cell line was used to make the experiments more technically feasible. The cell invasiveness was measured by Matrigel-coated transwell invasion assay. RESULTS GDF-8 stimulated MMP2 expression in both HTR-8/SVneo and primary EVT cells. The stimulatory effect of GDF-8 on MMP2 expression was blocked by the inhibitor of TGF-β type-I receptors, SB431542. Treatment with GDF-8 upregulated Snail and Slug expression in both HTR-8/SVneo and primary EVT cells. The stimulatory effects of GDF-8 on Snail and Slug expression were blocked by pretreatment of SB431542 and siRNA-mediated knockdown of SMAD4. Interestingly, using the siRNA knockdown approach, our results showed that Snail but not Slug was required for the GDF-8-induced MMP2 expression and cell invasion in HTR-8/SVneo cells. The reduction of MMP2 expression in the placentas with preeclampsia (PE) was also observed. CONCLUSIONS These findings discover the physiological function of GDF-8 in the human placenta and provide important insights into the regulation of MMP2 expression in human EVT cells. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaye Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Tinglin Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Sizhu Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Qingxue Meng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Xiaoyu Han
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Ze Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
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