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Li F, Guo L, Zhou M, Han L, Wu S, Wu L, Yang J. Cryptochrome 2 Suppresses Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Promoting Trophoblastic Ferroptosis in Unexplained Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:1197-1217. [PMID: 38537935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) is a serious reproductive issue that affects women of childbearing age. Studies have shown a close association between disrupted circadian rhythm and impaired epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in trophoblasts during URSA, although the underlying mechanism is not known. The current study investigated the regulatory relationship between circadian rhythm gene cryptochrome 2 (CRY2) and ferroptosis on the migratory ability of trophoblast cells. Cell proliferation experiments, wound-healing assays, and expression of related markers were conducted to study EMT. Trophoblastic ferroptosis was confirmed by the expressions of malondialdehyde, glutathione, mitochondrial membrane potential, divalent iron ions, and related genes. The results showed significant increased expression of CRY2 and decreased expression of brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1 (BMAL1) in the URSA villous tissues, accompanied by iron-dependent oxidative changes and abnormal expression of ferroptosis-related proteins. CRY2 and BMAL1 were co-localized and functioned as a feedback loop, which regulated the dynamic changes of EMT-related markers in trophoblast cells. CRY2 promoted trophoblastic ferroptosis, whereas BMAL1 had the opposite effect. Particularly, the ferroptosis inhibitor (ferrostatin-1) effectively reversed the trophoblastic ferroptosis and EMT inhibition caused by CRY2 overexpression. Collectively, these results suggest that CRY2 regulates trophoblastic ferroptosis and hinders cellular EMT and migratory ability by suppressing BMAL1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faminzi Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Liantao Guo
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengqi Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Han
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Shujuan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Lianzhi Wu
- Department of Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China.
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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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3
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Perna A, Hay E, Lucariello A, Scala B, De Blasiis P, Komici K, Sgambati E, Guerra G, Baldi A, De Luca A. GATA3 and TGF-β in normal placenta and pre-eclampsia. Tissue Cell 2024; 88:102402. [PMID: 38759523 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102402] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
GATA3 plays critical roles in the development and function of various tissues and organs throughout the body. Likewise, TGF-β signaling is critical for placental development and can interact with GATA3. We aimed to investigate the involvement of the multifunctional cytokine and transcription factor in trophoblast development. By using immunohistochemistry, we evaluated the localization and expression level of GATA3 and TGF-β in placentas at term of normal pregnancy and with pre-eclampsia. Up-regulation of both GATA3 and TGF-β was observed in pathological placentas, with localization in the villus epithelium (syncytiotrophoblast) stroma and decidua. Our data show altered expression of TGF-β and GATA3, which downstream could lead to a cascade of events that negatively influence trophoblast development and contribute to the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Perna
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso 86100, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Hay
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Angela Lucariello
- Department of Sport Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples 80133, Italy
| | - Beatrice Scala
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Paolo De Blasiis
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Klara Komici
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso 86100, Italy
| | - Eleonora Sgambati
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, Pesche, Isernia 86090, Italy
| | - Germano Guerra
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso 86100, Italy
| | - Alfonso Baldi
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta 81100, Italy
| | - Antonio De Luca
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
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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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Kang SM, Idrees M, Perera CD, Lee SH, Zhang M, Yu X, Jin Y, Kong IK. GDF-8 improves in vitro implantation and cryo-tolerance by stimulating the ALK5-SMAD2/3 signaling in bovine IVF embryo development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1345669. [PMID: 38577502 PMCID: PMC10991729 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1345669] [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: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) plays a critical role in regulating trophoblast invasion and proliferation. Growth differentiation factor-8 (GDF-8) is a member of the TGF-β superfamily and is categorized as a myostatin subtype. It is primarily a secreted protein synthesized in skeletal muscle cells. It is expressed in the placenta, reproductive tissues, and cells. In this study, we investigated the role of GDF-8 in the development and hatching rate of bovine embryos. We noted a notable elevation (p < 0.05) in the development and hatching rates compared to the control embryos. Furthermore, the GDF-8 group showed a significantly improved total cell number (p < 0.05) and an increase in trophectoderm ratio inner cell mass (trophectoderm: inner cell mass) cells (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Additionally, blastocysts treated with GDF-8 exhibited significantly higher mRNA levels of caudal-type homeobox 2 (CDX2) (p < 0.05). The trophoblast invasion area was significantly larger in the GDF-8 group than in the control group (p < 0.01). Furthermore, qRT-PCR analysis revealed significantly higher mRNA levels (p < 0.05) of matrix metalloproteinases 9 (MMP9) and follistatin-like 3(FSTL3), both of which are associated with the ALK5-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway, in the GDF-8 group than those in the control group. The mRNA expression levels of genes related to tight junctions (TJ) and adherent junctions were higher in the GDF-8 group than those in the control group (p < 0.05). After 24 h of thawing, blastocysts were analyzed using 4-kDa FITC-dextran, which revealed a higher TJ integrity in the GDF-8 group (p < 0.01). Thus, GDF-8 plays a crucial role in bovine embryonic development, in vitro implantation, and cryotolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seon-Min Kang
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
- Division of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Chalani Dilshani Perera
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Hyun Lee
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Mingjun Zhang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xianfeng Yu
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yongxun Jin
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Il-Keun Kong
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
- Division of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
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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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8
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Liu B, Fu B, Zhou S, Wang H, Bi B, Guo M, Cheng JC, Fang L. Bone morphogenetic protein-9 downregulates StAR expression by inducing snail expression via SMAD1/5/8 signaling in human granulosa-lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 582:112126. [PMID: 38109991 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112126] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian steroidogenesis mediated by granulosa cells is pivotal in maintaining normal female reproductive function. The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) regulates the rate-limiting step in steroidogenesis. Bone morphogenetic protein-9 (BMP-9), also known as growth differentiation factor-2 (GDF-2), is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily. BMP-9 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that contributes to cancer progression. However, the function of BMP-9 in the female reproductive system remains largely unknown. It has been recently shown that BMP-9 is expressed in human follicular fluid and can downregulate StAR expression in human ovarian granulosa cells. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms warrant investigation. Our results show that treatment of primary granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells with BMP-9 downregulates StAR expression. In addition, two EMT-related transcription factors, Snail and Slug, are upregulated by the treatment of BMP-9. Using pharmacological inhibitors and a siRNA-mediated knockdown approach, we show that BMP-9 upregulates Snail and Slug expression by activating SMAD1/5/8 signaling. We also examine the effects of BMP-9 on SMAD-independent signaling pathways, including ERK1/2, p38, JNK, AKT, and CREB. However, none of them is affected by the BMP-9. Moreover, we use gain- and loss-of-function approaches to reveal that only Snail, not Slug, is required for the BMP-9-induced downregulation of StAR expression in hGL cells. This study increases the understanding of the physiology function of BMP-9 in hGL cells and provides important insights into the regulation of StAR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boqun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Bingxin Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Shenghui Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Beibei Bi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Manman Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, 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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AbdelHafez FF, Klausen C, Zhu H, Yi Y, Leung PCK. Growth differentiation factor myostatin regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition genes and enhances invasion by increasing serine protease inhibitors E1 and E2 in human trophoblast cells. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23204. [PMID: 37738042 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300740r] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Placental insufficiency disorders, including preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction, are major obstetric complications that can have devastating effects on both the mother and the fetus. These syndromes have underlying poor placental trophoblast cell invasion into uterine tissues. Placental invasion is controlled by many hormones and growth factors. Myostatin (MSTN) is a transforming growth factor-β superfamily member recognized for its important role in muscle growth control. MSTN has also been shown to be secreted and functioning in the placenta, and its serum and/or placental levels were found to be upregulated in preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. Considering that the mechanistic role of MSTN in placentation remains poorly understood, we hypothesized that MSTN uses ALK4/5-SMAD2/3/4 signaling to increase human trophoblast invasion through a group of epithelial-mesenchymal transition genes including SERPINE2, PAI-1, and SOX4. mRNA sequencing of control and MSTN-treated primary human trophoblast cells (n = 5) yielded a total of 610 differentially expressed genes (false discovery rate <0.05) of which 380 genes were upregulated and 230 were downregulated. These differentially expressed genes were highly enriched in epithelial-mesenchymal transition genes, and a subset including SERPINE2, PAI-1, and SOX4 was investigated for its role in MSTN-induced trophoblast cell invasion. We found that MSTN induced upregulation of SERPINE2 via ALK4/5-SMAD2/3/4 signaling; however, SMAD2 was not involved in MSTN-induced PAI-1 upregulation. SOX4 was involved in MSTN-induced upregulation of SERPINE2, but not PAI-1. Collectively, this study discovers novel molecular mechanisms of MSTN-induced human trophoblast cell invasion and provides insight into the functional consequences of its dysregulation in placental insufficiency disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faten F AbdelHafez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assiut School of Medicine, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Christian Klausen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuyin Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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