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Liu Y, Sun Y, Cheng S. Advances in the use of organoids in endometrial diseases. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 166:502-511. [PMID: 38391201 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The endometrium undergoes cyclical changes in response to hormones and there is a certain degree of heterogeneity among individuals. In vivo identification of the physiologic changes of the endometrium and the pathologic process of related diseases is challenging. There have been recent advances in the use of organoids that mimic the characteristics of the corresponding organs and the morphologic, functional, and personalized characteristics involved in different stages of diseases. In this paper, we discuss the process of creating endometrial organoids, cell sources, types of extracellular matrices, and their application in the study of physiologic endometrial states and various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaofang Liu
- Department of Reproductive Technology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yue Sun
- Department of Reproductive Technology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Shaolong Cheng
- Department of Reproductive Technology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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Zhao H, Yu M, Li Q, Chen G, Liu X, Bao H. Excessive proliferating cell nuclear antigen attenuates endometrial adhesive capacity and decidualization in patients with recurrent implantation failure. Hum Reprod 2024:deae111. [PMID: 38783610 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae111] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the endometrium regulate endometrial receptivity in patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF)? SUMMARY ANSWER A high abundance of PCNA attenuates endometrial adhesive capacity and decidualization in patients with RIF. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Aberrant expression of PCNA has been discovered in multiple infertility-related disorders. However, the expression pattern and role of PCNA in the establishment of endometrial receptivity and endometrial decidualization in patients with RIF remain unclear. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We analysed the expression of PCNA in mid-secretory endometrial tissues from 24 patients with RIF and 24 healthy women. Additionally, PCNA expression levels were measured in proliferative and mid-secretory phase endometrial tissue samples from women with regular menstrual cycles and in decidual tissue samples taken from ten women during normal early pregnancy (n = 10 per phase for each group). The function and regulatory mechanisms of PCNA in endometrial adhesive capacity and endometrial decidualization were investigated using BeWo spheroids, Ishikawa cells, and human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The expression of PCNA in mid-secretory endometrial tissues of patients with RIF and women with normal endometrium and in endometrial tissue at different stages of the menstrual cycle and in decidualized tissues was analysed by RT-qPCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry staining (IHC). Furthermore, the number of BeWo spheroids directly attached to the Ishikawa cell monolayers, and the potential molecular mechanisms involved, were compared between cells overexpressing PCNA and a control group. Additionally, the effect and regulatory mechanisms of PCNA on the decidualization of HESCs in vitro were investigated. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Our findings indicated that the abundance of PCNA was dramatically greater in mid-secretory endometrial tissues from patients with RIF than in those from women with healthy endometrium. The expression of PCNA increased in the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle but decreased gradually in the mid-secretory phase and in decidual tissues. Interestingly, PCNA was expressed in both human endometrial epithelial cells (HEECs) and HESCs. In Ishikawa cells, PCNA overexpression dramatically reduced the endometrial adhesive capacity by inhibiting the expression of adhesion molecules (E-cadherin and integrin β3) and activating the FAK/paxillin signalling pathway. Furthermore, in HESCs, PCNA overexpression attenuated endometrial decidualization by activating the AKT/β-catenin signalling pathway and increasing tight junctions between cells by upregulating ZO-1 and occludin expression. In addition, PCNA-ELAVL1 interactions were confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation in decidualized HESCs. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The functional analysis of PCNA was limited by the number of human endometrial tissues. A larger sample size is required to further explore the potential roles of PCNA during embryo implantation. Moreover, the present results should be taken with caution, as only a few of the embryos that were transferred in RIF patients population underwent preimplantation genetic testing for embryonic chromosome aneuploidies (PGT-A), despite embryo ploidy testing being significant in the diagnosis of unexplained RIF. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THESE FINDINGS High PCNA expression attenuates endometrial adhesive capacity and decidualization in patients with RIF. These findings provide new insights into the potential mechanisms underlying the occurrence of implantation failure. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82101698), Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation (ZR2021MH012), and the Science and Technology Plan of Yantai (2023YD021 and 2022YD031). The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huishan Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Medical and Health Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics (Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital), Yantai, China
| | - Mingwei Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Scientific Research, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Medical and Health Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics (Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital), Yantai, China
| | - Hongchu Bao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Medical and Health Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics (Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital), Yantai, China
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Parambath S, Selvraj NR, Venugopal P, Aradhya R. Notch Signaling: An Emerging Paradigm in the Pathogenesis of Reproductive Disorders and Diverse Pathological Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5423. [PMID: 38791461 PMCID: PMC11121885 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105423] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The highly conserved Notch pathway, a pillar of juxtacrine signaling, orchestrates intricate intercellular communication, governing diverse developmental and homeostatic processes through a tightly regulated cascade of proteolytic cleavages. This pathway, culminating in the migration of the Notch intracellular domain (NICD) to the nucleus and the subsequent activation of downstream target genes, exerts a profound influence on a plethora of molecular processes, including cell cycle progression, lineage specification, cell-cell adhesion, and fate determination. Accumulating evidence underscores the pivotal role of Notch dysregulation, encompassing both gain and loss-of-function mutations, in the pathogenesis of numerous human diseases. This review delves deep into the multifaceted roles of Notch signaling in cellular dynamics, encompassing proliferation, differentiation, polarity maintenance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), tissue regeneration/remodeling, and its intricate interplay with other signaling pathways. We then focus on the emerging landscape of Notch aberrations in gynecological pathologies predisposing individuals to infertility. By highlighting the exquisite conservation of Notch signaling in Drosophila and its power as a model organism, we pave the way for further dissection of disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions through targeted modulation of this master regulatory pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rajaguru Aradhya
- School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kollam 690525, Kerala, India; (S.P.); (N.R.S.); (P.V.)
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4
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Wei S, Tang W, Chen D, Xiong J, Xue L, Dai Y, Guo Y, Wu C, Dai J, Wu M, Wang S. Multiomics insights into the female reproductive aging. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 95:102245. [PMID: 38401570 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102245] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
The human female reproductive lifespan significantly diminishes with age, leading to decreased fertility, reduced fertility quality and endocrine function disorders. While many aspects of aging in general have been extensively documented, the precise mechanisms governing programmed aging in the female reproductive system remain elusive. Recent advancements in omics technologies and computational capabilities have facilitated the emergence of multiomics deep phenotyping. Through the application and refinement of various high-throughput omics methods, a substantial volume of omics data has been generated, deepening our comprehension of the pathogenesis and molecular underpinnings of reproductive aging. This review highlights current and emerging multiomics approaches for investigating female reproductive aging, encompassing genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics. We elucidate their influence on fundamental cell biology and translational research in the context of reproductive aging, address the limitations and current challenges associated with multiomics studies, and offer a glimpse into future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yican Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Chuqing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China.
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China; Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China.
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Włodarczyk M, Ciebiera M, Nowicka G, Łoziński T, Ali M, Al-Hendy A. Epigallocatechin Gallate for the Treatment of Benign and Malignant Gynecological Diseases-Focus on Epigenetic Mechanisms. Nutrients 2024; 16:559. [PMID: 38398883 PMCID: PMC10893337 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040559] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The most common malignant gynecologic diseases are cervical, uterine, ovarian, vaginal, and vulvar cancer. Among them, ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. A great number of women suffer from endometriosis, uterine fibroids (UFs), adenomyosis, dysmenorrhea, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which are widespread benign health problems causing troublesome and painful symptoms and significantly impairing the quality of life of affected women, and they are some of the main causes of infertility. In addition to the available surgical and pharmacological options, the effects of supporting standard treatment with naturally occurring compounds, mainly polyphenols, are being studied. Catechins are responsible for the majority of potential health benefits attributed to green tea consumption. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is considered a non-toxic, natural compound with potential anticancer properties. Antioxidant action is its most common function, but attention is also drawn to its participation in cell division inhibition, apoptosis stimulation and epigenetic regulation. In this narrative review, we describe the role of EGCG consumption in preventing the development of benign reproductive disorders such as UF, endometriosis, and PCOS, as well as malignant gynecologic conditions. We discuss possible epigenetic mechanisms that may be related to the action of EGCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 00-189 Warsaw, Poland;
- Warsaw Institute of Women’s Health, 00-189 Warsaw, Poland
- Development and Research Center of Non-Invasive Therapies, Pro-Familia Hospital, 35-302 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Grażyna Nowicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Łoziński
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pro-Familia Hospital, 35-302 Rzeszow, Poland;
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave., Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (M.A.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave., Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (M.A.); (A.A.-H.)
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Wu J, Qin C, Tian F, Liu X, Hu J, Wu F, Chen C, Lin Y. Epigenetic drug screening for trophoblast syncytialization reveals a novel role for MLL1 in regulating fetoplacental growth. BMC Med 2024; 22:57. [PMID: 38317232 PMCID: PMC10845764 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03264-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal placental development is a significant factor contributing to perinatal morbidity and mortality, affecting approximately 5-7% of pregnant women. Trophoblast syncytialization plays a pivotal role in the establishment and maturation of the placenta, and its dysregulation is closely associated with several pregnancy-related disorders, including preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. However, the underlying mechanisms and genetic determinants of syncytialization are largely unknown. METHODS We conducted a systematic drug screen using an epigenetic compound library to systematically investigate the epigenetic mechanism essential for syncytialization, and identified mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1), a histone 3 lysine 4 methyltransferase, as a crucial regulator of trophoblast syncytialization. BeWo cells were utilized to investigate the role of MLL1 during trophoblast syncytialization. RNA sequencing and CUT&Tag were further performed to search for potential target genes and the molecular pathways involved. Human placenta tissue was used to investigate the role of MLL1 in TEA domain transcription factor 4 (TEAD4) expression and the upstream signaling during syncytialization. A mouse model was used to examine whether inhibition of MLL1-mediated H3K4me3 regulated placental TEAD4 expression and fetoplacental growth. RESULTS Genetic knockdown of MLL1 or pharmacological inhibition of the MLL1 methyltransferase complex (by MI-3454) markedly enhanced syncytialization, while overexpression of MLL1 inhibited forskolin (FSK)-induced syncytiotrophoblast formation. In human placental villous tissue, MLL1 was predominantly localized in the nuclei of cytotrophoblasts. Moreover, a notable upregulation in MLL1 expression was observed in the villus tissue of patients with preeclampsia compared with that in the control group. Based on RNA sequencing and CUT&Tag analyses, depletion of MLL1 inhibited the Hippo signaling pathway by suppressing TEAD4 expression by modulating H3K4me3 levels on the TEAD4 promoter region. TEAD4 overexpression significantly reversed the FSK-induced or MLL1 silencing-mediated trophoblast syncytialization. Additionally, decreased hypoxia-inducible factor 1A (HIF1A) enrichment at the MLL1 promoter was observed during syncytialization. Under hypoxic conditions, HIF1A could bind to and upregulate MLL1, leading to the activation of the MLL1/TEAD4 axis. In vivo studies demonstrated that the administration of MI-3454 significantly enhanced fetal vessel development and increased the thickness of the syncytial layer, thereby supporting fetoplacental growth. CONCLUSIONS These results revealed a novel epigenetic mechanism underlying the progression of syncytialization with MLL1, and suggest potential avenues for identifying new therapeutic targets for pregnancy-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Wu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuanmei Qin
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuju Tian
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueqing Liu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianing Hu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fan Wu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cailian Chen
- Department of Automation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education of China, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Lin
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China.
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Tsikouras P, Oikonomou E, Bothou A, Chaitidou P, Kyriakou D, Nikolettos K, Andreou S, Gaitatzi F, Nalbanti T, Peitsidis P, Michalopoulos S, Zervoudis S, Iatrakis G, Nikolettos N. The Impact of Endometriosis on Pregnancy. J Pers Med 2024; 14:126. [PMID: 38276248 PMCID: PMC10820275 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010126] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the increased frequency of endometriosis, it remains one of the most enigmatic disorders regarding its effects on pregnancy. Endometriosis adversely affects both natural and assisted conception. Impaired folliculogenesis, which causes follicular dysfunction and low egg quality, as well as luteal phase problems, reduced fertilization, and abnormal embryogenesis, are some of the mechanisms advocated to explain reproductive dysfunction. There is a rising need for a comprehensive study of the potential negative consequences of this condition on pregnancy outcomes, including the postpartum period, as more women with a medical history of endometriosis become pregnant. Obstetrical complications (small for gestational age [SGA], cesarean section [CS], miscarriage, hemorrhage, low placental adhesion, and preterm delivery) are statistically elevated in women with endometriosis. Furthermore, ruptured ovarian endometrioma, appendicitis, intestinal perforation, and hemoperitoneum have been described in pregnancy. Obstetricians are largely unfamiliar with these complications, as they have not been thoroughly investigated. The development and pathogenesis of endometriosis is an important field of study and has not yet been fully elucidated. Finding these mechanisms is crucial for the development of new and more effective strategies to treat this condition. Endometriosis can have an impact on obstetric and neonatal outcomes of pregnancy, in addition to its potential effects on conception. To date, no additional monitoring is recommended for pregnancies with a history of endometriosis. However, more studies are urgently needed to assess the need for the tailored pregnancy monitoring of women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Tsikouras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (E.O.); (A.B.); (P.C.); (D.K.); (K.N.); (S.A.); (F.G.); (T.N.); (P.P.); (S.Z.); (G.I.); (N.N.)
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sanei M, Amirheidari B, Satarzadeh N. Mutuality of epigenetic and nanoparticles: two sides of a coin. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23679. [PMID: 38187314 PMCID: PMC10767507 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23679] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Nowadays nanoparticles (NPs) due to their multidimensional applications in enormous different fields, has become an exciting research topic. In particular, they could attract a noticeable interest as drug deliver with increased bioavailability, therapeutic efficacy and drug specificity. Epigenetic can be considered as a complex network of molecular mechanism which are engaged in gene expression and have a vital role in regulation of environmental effects on ethology of different disorders like neurological disorders, cancers and cardiovascular diseases. For many of them epigenetic therapy was proposed although its application accompanied with limitations, due to drug toxicity. In this review we evaluate two aspects to epigenetic in the field of NPs: firstly, the role of epigenetic in regulation of nanotoxicity and secondly application of NPs as potential carriers for epidrugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam sanei
- Islamic Azad University, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad branch, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bagher Amirheidari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Extremophile and Productive Microorganisms Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Naghmeh Satarzadeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Extremophile and Productive Microorganisms Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Deng K, Li X, Liu Z, Su Y, Sun X, Wei W, Fan Y, Zhang Y, Wang F. IGF2BP2 regulates the proliferation and migration of endometrial stromal cells through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in Hu sheep. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae129. [PMID: 38727196 PMCID: PMC11151927 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae129] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2), a significant member of the conserved RNA-binding protein family, plays various roles in numerous physiological and pathological processes. However, the specific function of IGF2BP2 in regulating endometrial function in sheep remains largely unknown. In this study, we observed a significant upregulation in IGF2BP2 mRNA abundance in the endometrium during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase in Hu sheep. The knockdown of IGF2BP2 resulted in accelerated cell proliferation and migration of Hu sheep endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Moreover, RNA sequencing analysis revealed that genes with significantly altered expression in IGF2BP2 knockdown cells were predominantly enriched in endometrial receptivity-related signaling pathways, such as cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, NOD-like receptor, PI3K-AKT, and JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Additionally, the knockdown of IGF2BP2 significantly increased the expression of matrix metalloprotein 9 (MMP9), vascular endothelial growth factor, and prolactin (PRL) in ESCs. The knockdown of IGF2BP2 was also observed to stimulate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway by upregulating integrin β4 (ITGB4) expression. Notably, the downregulation of ITGB4 attenuates IGF2BP2 knockdown-induced facilitation of proliferation and migration of Hu sheep ESCs by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Collectively, these findings highlight the important role of IGF2BP2 in regulating endometrial function, particularly through the modulation of ESC proliferation and migration via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiping Deng
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zhipeng Liu
- Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yalong Su
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xuan Sun
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Wurilege Wei
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Inner Mongolia Academy of Agricultural & Animal Husbandry Sciences, Hohhot, 010000, China
| | - Yixuan Fan
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
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Lee JW, Lee HY. Exploring distinct properties of endometrial stem cells through advanced single-cell analysis platforms. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:379. [PMID: 38124100 PMCID: PMC10734114 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03616-w] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a dynamic tissue that undergoes cyclic changes in response to ovarian hormones during the menstrual cycle. These changes are crucial for pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Endometrial stem cells play a pivotal role in endometrial regeneration and repair by differentiating into various cell types within the endometrium. However, their involvement in endometrial disorders such as endometriosis, infertility, and endometrial cancer is still not fully understood yet. Traditional bulk sequencing methods have limitations in capturing heterogeneity and complexity of endometrial stem cell populations. To overcome these limitations, recent single-cell analysis techniques, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq), single-cell ATAC sequencing (scATAC-Seq), and spatial transcriptomics, have emerged as valuable tools for studying endometrial stem cells. In this review, although there are still many technical limitations that require improvement, we will summarize the current state-of-the-art single-cell analysis techniques for endometrial stem cells and explore their relevance to related diseases. We will discuss studies utilizing various single-cell analysis platforms to identify and characterize distinct endometrial stem cell populations and investigate their dynamic changes in gene expression and epigenetic patterns during menstrual cycle and differentiation processes. These techniques enable the identification of rare cell populations, capture heterogeneity of cell populations within the endometrium, and provide potential targets for more effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Woo Lee
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 406-840, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwa-Yong Lee
- Division of Science Education, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Wang W, Du X, Chu M, He X. Photoperiod Induces the Epigenetic Change of the GNAQ Gene in OVX+E 2 Ewes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16442. [PMID: 38003630 PMCID: PMC10671395 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216442] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
GNAQ, a member of the alpha subunit encoding the q-like G protein, is a critical gene in cell signaling, and multiple studies have shown that upregulation of GNAQ gene expression ultimately inhibits the proliferation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons and GnRH secretion, and ultimately affects mammalian reproduction. Photoperiod is a key inducer which plays an important role in gene expression regulation by affecting epigenetic modification. However, fewer studies have confirmed how photoperiod induces epigenetic modifications of the GNAQ gene. In this study, we examined the expression and epigenetic changes of GNAQ in the hypothalamus in ovariectomized and estradiol-treated (OVX+E2) sheep under three photoperiod treatments (short photoperiod treatment for 42 days, SP42; long photoperiod treatment for 42 days, LP42; 42 days of short photoperiod followed by 42 days of long photoperiod, SP-LP42). The results showed that the expression of GNAQ was significantly higher in SP-LP42 than in SP42 and LP42 (p < 0.05). Whole genome methylation sequencing (WGBS) results showed that there are multiple differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and loci between different groups of GNAQ. Among them, the DNA methylation level of DMRs at the CpG1 locus in SP42 was significantly higher than that of SP-LP42 (p < 0.01). Subsequently, we confirmed that the core promoter region of the GNAQ gene was located with 1100 to 1500 bp upstream, and the DNA methylation level of all eight CpG sites in SP42 was significantly higher than those in LP42 (p < 0.01), and significantly higher than those in SP-LP42 (p < 0.01), except site 2 and site 4 in the first sequencing fragment (p < 0.05) in the core promoter region. The expression of acetylated GNAQ histone H3 was significantly higher than that of the control group under three different photoperiods (p < 0.01); the acetylation level of sheep hypothalamic GNAQ genomic protein H3 was significantly lower under SP42 than under SP-LP42 (p < 0.05). This suggests that acetylated histone H3 binds to the core promoter region of the GNAQ gene, implying that GNAQ is epigenetically regulated by photoperiod through histone acetylation. In summary, the results suggest that photoperiod can induce DNA methylation in the core promoter region and histone acetylation in the promoter region of the GNAQ gene, and hypothesize that the two may be key factors in regulating the differential expression of GNAQ under different photoperiods, thus regulating the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPGA) through the seasonal estrus in sheep. The results of this study will provide some new information to understand the function of epigenetic modifications in reproduction in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mingxing Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (W.W.); (X.D.)
| | - Xiaoyun He
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (W.W.); (X.D.)
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12
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Pathare ADS, Loid M, Saare M, Gidlöf SB, Zamani Esteki M, Acharya G, Peters M, Salumets A. Endometrial receptivity in women of advanced age: an underrated factor in infertility. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:773-793. [PMID: 37468438 PMCID: PMC10628506 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modern lifestyle has led to an increase in the age at conception. Advanced age is one of the critical risk factors for female-related infertility. It is well known that maternal age positively correlates with the deterioration of oocyte quality and chromosomal abnormalities in oocytes and embryos. The effect of age on endometrial function may be an equally important factor influencing implantation rate, pregnancy rate, and overall female fertility. However, there are only a few published studies on this topic, suggesting that this area has been under-explored. Improving our knowledge of endometrial aging from the biological (cellular, molecular, histological) and clinical perspectives would broaden our understanding of the risks of age-related female infertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this narrative review is to critically evaluate the existing literature on endometrial aging with a focus on synthesizing the evidence for the impact of endometrial aging on conception and pregnancy success. This would provide insights into existing gaps in the clinical application of research findings and promote the development of treatment options in this field. SEARCH METHODS The review was prepared using PubMed (Medline) until February 2023 with the keywords such as 'endometrial aging', 'receptivity', 'decidualization', 'hormone', 'senescence', 'cellular', 'molecular', 'methylation', 'biological age', 'epigenetic', 'oocyte recipient', 'oocyte donation', 'embryo transfer', and 'pregnancy rate'. Articles in a language other than English were excluded. OUTCOMES In the aging endometrium, alterations occur at the molecular, cellular, and histological levels suggesting that aging has a negative effect on endometrial biology and may impair endometrial receptivity. Additionally, advanced age influences cellular senescence, which plays an important role during the initial phase of implantation and is a major obstacle in the development of suitable senolytic agents for endometrial aging. Aging is also accountable for chronic conditions associated with inflammaging, which eventually can lead to increased pro-inflammation and tissue fibrosis. Furthermore, advanced age influences epigenetic regulation in the endometrium, thus altering the relation between its epigenetic and chronological age. The studies in oocyte donation cycles to determine the effect of age on endometrial receptivity with respect to the rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth have revealed contradictory inferences indicating the need for future research on the mechanisms and corresponding causal effects of women's age on endometrial receptivity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Increasing age can be accountable for female infertility and IVF failures. Based on the complied observations and synthesized conclusions in this review, advanced age has been shown to have a negative impact on endometrial functioning. This information can provide recommendations for future research focusing on molecular mechanisms of age-related cellular senescence, cellular composition, and transcriptomic changes in relation to endometrial aging. Additionally, further prospective research is needed to explore newly emerging therapeutic options, such as the senolytic agents that can target endometrial aging without affecting decidualization. Moreover, clinical trial protocols, focusing on oocyte donation cycles, would be beneficial in understanding the direct clinical implications of endometrial aging on pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amruta D S Pathare
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marina Loid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Merli Saare
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sebastian Brusell Gidlöf
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Masoud Zamani Esteki
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ganesh Acharya
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Women’s Health and Perinatology Research Group, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Maire Peters
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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13
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Zhao H, Lv N, Cong J, Chen G, Bao H, Liu X. Upregulated RPA2 in endometrial tissues of repeated implantation failure patients impairs the endometrial decidualization. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2739-2750. [PMID: 37831348 PMCID: PMC10643753 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02946-1] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the expression and underlying mechanism of RPA2 in endometrium of patients with repeated implantation failure (RIF). METHODS In this study, we retrieved the expression profiles from GEO databases and filtered the differentially expressed genes between RIF and the fertile control group. Ultimately, RPA2 was confirmed as a target gene. RPA2 expression in endometrial tissues of RIF patients, the control group, and different phases was detected by RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. The role of RPA2 in endometrial decidualization was performed by in vitro decidualization inducing by 8-Br-cAMP and MPA. Furthermore, RT-qPCR was used to detect changes in the decidual biomarkers after transfection of RPA2 overexpression vector in human endometrium stromal cell (HESC). RESULTS RPA2 was significantly upregulated in the mid-secretory endometrium of patients with RIF. As a proliferation-related gene, RPA2 was obviously higher expressed at proliferative phase during the normal menstrual cycles. Moreover, the downregulation of RPA2 was discovered during decidualization of HESC. Furthermore, RPA2 overexpression impaired decidualization by inhibiting the expression of prolactin (PRL) and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 1 (IGFBP1). CONCLUSIONS Our finding indicated that aberrant upregulation of RPA2 attenuated decidualization of HESC in RIF women and provided new potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huishan Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Na Lv
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Jianxiang Cong
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Hongchu Bao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China.
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China.
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14
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Androutsopoulos G, Styliara I, Zarogianni E, Lazurko N, Valasoulis G, Michail G, Adonakis G. The ErbB Signaling Network and Its Potential Role in Endometrial Cancer. EPIGENOMES 2023; 7:24. [PMID: 37873809 PMCID: PMC10594534 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes7040024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is the second most common malignancy of the female reproductive system worldwide. The updated EC classification emphasizes the significant role of various signaling pathways such as PIK3CA-PIK3R1-PTEN and RTK/RAS/β-catenin in EC pathogenesis. Some of these pathways are part of the EGF system signaling network, which becomes hyperactivated by various mechanisms and participates in cancer pathogenesis. In EC, the expression of ErbB receptors is significantly different, compared with the premenopausal and postmenopausal endometrium, mainly because of the increased transcriptional activity of ErbB encoding genes in EC cells. Moreover, there are some differences in ErbB-2 receptor profile among EC subgroups that could be explained by the alterations in pathophysiology and clinical behavior of various EC histologic subtypes. The fact that ErbB-2 receptor expression is more common in aggressive EC histologic subtypes (papillary serous and clear cell) could indicate a future role of ErbB-targeted therapies in well-defined EC subgroups with overexpression of ErbB receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Androutsopoulos
- Gynaecological Oncology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (I.S.); (E.Z.); (N.L.); (G.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Ioanna Styliara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (I.S.); (E.Z.); (N.L.); (G.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Evgenia Zarogianni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (I.S.); (E.Z.); (N.L.); (G.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Nadia Lazurko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (I.S.); (E.Z.); (N.L.); (G.M.); (G.A.)
| | - George Valasoulis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, 41334 Larisa, Greece;
- Hellenic National Public Health Organization—ECDC, 15123 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Michail
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (I.S.); (E.Z.); (N.L.); (G.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Georgios Adonakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (I.S.); (E.Z.); (N.L.); (G.M.); (G.A.)
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15
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Wild MA, Taylor KR, Nilsson EE, Beck D, Skinner MK. Systemic epigenome-wide association study of elk treponeme-associated hoof disease. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15378. [PMID: 37717058 PMCID: PMC10505176 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42546-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Treponeme-associated hoof disease (TAHD) is an emerging disease of elk (Cervus canadensis) in the U.S. Pacific West. Because environmental epigenetics is the primary molecular process that mediates environmental factor impacts on a host organism and disease, the role of epigenetics in TAHD etiology was examined. The current study was designed to examine potential effects of TAHD on systemic epigenetic modifications in infected elk over a range of TAHD lesion severity. Leg tendons that contain predominantly fibroblast connective tissue cells were used to isolate fibroblast cells for epigenetic analysis in unaffected and TAHD-positive male and female Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk. Differential DNA methylation regions (DMRs) between the unaffected and TAHD-positive elk were identified for both female and male elk. The presence of TAHD was associated with alteration of the connective tissue cell epigenetics, and DMR associated genes identified. Therefore, the infected elk were found to have a systemic epigenetic alteration that was associated with the disease, despite pathology being generally limited to feet. If the elk germline epigenetics is altered then generational transmission of susceptibility to TAHD may impact subsequent generations through epigenetic inheritance. This first study of epigenetic changes associated with disease in elk suggests that TAHD promotes a systemic effect on the elk epigenetics which could exert health impacts on the elk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret A Wild
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Kyle R Taylor
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
- Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Eric E Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA
| | - Daniel Beck
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA.
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16
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Mortlock S, Houshdaran S, Kosti I, Rahmioglu N, Nezhat C, Vitonis AF, Andrews SV, Grosjean P, Paranjpe M, Horne AW, Jacoby A, Lager J, Opoku-Anane J, Vo KC, Manvelyan E, Sen S, Ghukasyan Z, Collins F, Santamaria X, Saunders P, Kober K, McRae AF, Terry KL, Vallvé-Juanico J, Becker C, Rogers PAW, Irwin JC, Zondervan K, Montgomery GW, Missmer S, Sirota M, Giudice L. Global endometrial DNA methylation analysis reveals insights into mQTL regulation and associated endometriosis disease risk and endometrial function. Commun Biol 2023; 6:780. [PMID: 37587191 PMCID: PMC10432557 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05070-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a leading cause of pain and infertility affecting millions of women globally. Herein, we characterize variation in DNA methylation (DNAm) and its association with menstrual cycle phase, endometriosis, and genetic variants through analysis of genotype data and methylation in endometrial samples from 984 deeply-phenotyped participants. We estimate that 15.4% of the variation in endometriosis is captured by DNAm and identify significant differences in DNAm profiles associated with stage III/IV endometriosis, endometriosis sub-phenotypes and menstrual cycle phase, including opening of the window for embryo implantation. Menstrual cycle phase was a major source of DNAm variation suggesting cellular and hormonally-driven changes across the cycle can regulate genes and pathways responsible for endometrial physiology and function. DNAm quantitative trait locus (mQTL) analysis identified 118,185 independent cis-mQTLs including 51 associated with risk of endometriosis, highlighting candidate genes contributing to disease risk. Our work provides functional evidence for epigenetic targets contributing to endometriosis risk and pathogenesis. Data generated serve as a valuable resource for understanding tissue-specific effects of methylation on endometrial biology in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Mortlock
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Sahar Houshdaran
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Idit Kosti
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nilufer Rahmioglu
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Camran Nezhat
- Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Camran Nezhat Institute, Center for Special Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery, Woodside, CA, USA
| | - Allison F Vitonis
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Epidemiology Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shan V Andrews
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Parker Grosjean
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Manish Paranjpe
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrew W Horne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, QMRI, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alison Jacoby
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jeannette Lager
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Opoku-Anane
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kim Chi Vo
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Evelina Manvelyan
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sushmita Sen
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Zhanna Ghukasyan
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Frances Collins
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, QMRI, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Xavier Santamaria
- Carlos Simon Foundation, Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
- Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Philippa Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute for Regeneration and Repair University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kord Kober
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Physiological Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Allan F McRae
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Terry
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Epidemiology Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Júlia Vallvé-Juanico
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Becker
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter A W Rogers
- University of Melbourne Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Juan C Irwin
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Krina Zondervan
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Grant W Montgomery
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Stacey Missmer
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Marina Sirota
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Linda Giudice
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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17
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Szukiewicz D. Insight into the Potential Mechanisms of Endocrine Disruption by Dietary Phytoestrogens in the Context of the Etiopathogenesis of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12195. [PMID: 37569571 PMCID: PMC10418522 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Phytoestrogens (PEs) are estrogen-like nonsteroidal compounds derived from plants (e.g., nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables) and fungi that are structurally similar to 17β-estradiol. PEs bind to all types of estrogen receptors, including ERα and ERβ receptors, nuclear receptors, and a membrane-bound estrogen receptor known as the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). As endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) with pro- or antiestrogenic properties, PEs can potentially disrupt the hormonal regulation of homeostasis, resulting in developmental and reproductive abnormalities. However, a lack of PEs in the diet does not result in the development of deficiency symptoms. To properly assess the benefits and risks associated with the use of a PE-rich diet, it is necessary to distinguish between endocrine disruption (endocrine-mediated adverse effects) and nonspecific effects on the endocrine system. Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease of unknown etiopathogenesis, in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of the uterus with subsequent complications being manifested as a result of local inflammatory reactions. Endometriosis affects 10-15% of women of reproductive age and is associated with chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility. In this review, the endocrine-disruptive actions of PEs are reviewed in the context of endometriosis to determine whether a PE-rich diet has a positive or negative effect on the risk and course of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Szukiewicz
- Department of Biophysics, Physiology & Pathophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
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18
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Tassinari V, Smeriglio A, Stillittano V, Trombetta D, Zilli R, Tassinari R, Maranghi F, Frank G, Marcoccia D, Di Renzo L. Endometriosis Treatment: Role of Natural Polyphenols as Anti-Inflammatory Agents. Nutrients 2023; 15:2967. [PMID: 37447296 DOI: 10.3390/nu15132967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent common chronic inflammatory disease defined by the presence of extrauterine endometrial tissue that promotes pelvic pain and fertility impairment. Its etiology is complex and multifactorial, and several not completely understood theories have been proposed to describe its pathogenesis. Indeed, this disease affects women's quality of life and their reproductive system. Conventional therapies for endometriosis treatment primarily focus on surgical resection, lowering systemic levels of estrogen, and treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to counteract the inflammatory response. However, although these strategies have shown to be effective, they also show considerable side effects. Therefore, there is a growing interest in the use of herbal medicine for the treatment of endometriosis; however, to date, only very limited literature is present on this topic. Polyphenols display important anti-endometriotic properties; in particular, they are potent phytoestrogens that in parallel modulates estrogen activity and exerts anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this review is to provide an overview on anti-inflammatory activity of polyphenols in the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Tassinari
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Smeriglio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Virgilio Stillittano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Trombetta
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Romano Zilli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Tassinari
- Center for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Maranghi
- Center for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Frank
- Ph.D. School of Applied Medical-Surgical Sciences, University of Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Marcoccia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Rome, Italy
- School of Specialization in Food Science, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Di Renzo
- School of Specialization in Food Science, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Section of Clinical Nutrition and Nutrigenomic, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Yang SC, Park M, Hong KH, La H, Park C, Wang P, Li G, Chen Q, Choi Y, DeMayo FJ, Lydon JP, Skalnik DG, Lim HJ, Hong SH, Park SH, Kim YS, Kim HR, Song H. CFP1 governs uterine epigenetic landscapes to intervene in progesterone responses for uterine physiology and suppression of endometriosis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3220. [PMID: 37270588 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39008-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) is required for the preparation of the endometrium for a successful pregnancy. P4 resistance is a leading cause of the pathogenesis of endometrial disorders like endometriosis, often leading to infertility; however, the underlying epigenetic cause remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that CFP1, a regulator of H3K4me3, is required for maintaining epigenetic landscapes of P4-progesterone receptor (PGR) signaling networks in the mouse uterus. Cfp1f/f;Pgr-Cre (Cfp1d/d) mice showed impaired P4 responses, leading to complete failure of embryo implantation. mRNA and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing analyses showed that CFP1 regulates uterine mRNA profiles not only in H3K4me3-dependent but also in H3K4me3-independent manners. CFP1 directly regulates important P4 response genes, including Gata2, Sox17, and Ihh, which activate smoothened signaling pathway in the uterus. In a mouse model of endometriosis, Cfp1d/d ectopic lesions showed P4 resistance, which was rescued by a smoothened agonist. In human endometriosis, CFP1 was significantly downregulated, and expression levels between CFP1 and these P4 targets are positively related regardless of PGR levels. In brief, our study provides that CFP1 intervenes in the P4-epigenome-transcriptome networks for uterine receptivity for embryo implantation and the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Chel Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Kwon-Ho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Hyeonwoo La
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Chanhyeok Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Peike Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Gaizhen Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Qionghua Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Youngsok Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, 12233, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - David G Skalnik
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Hyunjung J Lim
- Department of Veterinary Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Seok-Ho Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 24431, Korea
- KW-Bio Co., Ltd, Wonju, 26493, Korea
| | - So Hee Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Yeon Sun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Hye-Ryun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea.
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20
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Kirschen GW, Hessami K, AlAshqar A, Afrin S, Lulseged B, Borahay M. Uterine Transcriptome: Understanding Physiology and Disease Processes. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:634. [PMID: 37106834 PMCID: PMC10136129 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, transcriptomics has enabled us to gain a deeper understanding of fundamental reproductive physiology, including the menstrual cycle, through a more precise molecular analysis. The endometrial mRNA transcript levels fluctuate during the normal menstrual cycle, indicating changes in the relative recruitment and abundance of inflammatory cells, as well as changes in the receptivity and remodeling of the endometrium. In addition to providing a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular underpinnings of pathological gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, leiomyomas, and adenomyosis through RNA sequencing, this has allowed researchers to create transcriptome profiles during both normal menstrual cycles and pathological gynecological conditions. Such insights could potentially lead to more targeted and personalized therapies for benign gynecological conditions. Here, we provide an overview of recent advances in transcriptome analysis of normal and pathological endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory W. Kirschen
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Kamran Hessami
- Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Abdelrahman AlAshqar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | | | - Mostafa Borahay
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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21
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DNA Methylation of Window of Implantation Genes in Cervical Secretions Predicts Ongoing Pregnancy in Infertility Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065598. [PMID: 36982674 PMCID: PMC10051225 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Window of implantation (WOI) genes have been comprehensively identified at the single cell level. DNA methylation changes in cervical secretions are associated with in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) outcomes. Using a machine learning (ML) approach, we aimed to determine which methylation changes in WOI genes from cervical secretions best predict ongoing pregnancy during embryo transfer. A total of 2708 promoter probes were extracted from mid-secretory phase cervical secretion methylomic profiles for 158 WOI genes, and 152 differentially methylated probes (DMPs) were selected. Fifteen DMPs in 14 genes (BMP2, CTSA, DEFB1, GRN, MTF1, SERPINE1, SERPINE2, SFRP1, STAT3, TAGLN2, TCF4, THBS1, ZBTB20, ZNF292) were identified as the most relevant to ongoing pregnancy status. These 15 DMPs yielded accuracy rates of 83.53%, 85.26%, 85.78%, and 76.44%, and areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of 0.90, 0.91, 0.89, and 0.86 for prediction by random forest (RF), naïve Bayes (NB), support vector machine (SVM), and k-nearest neighbors (KNN), respectively. SERPINE1, SERPINE2, and TAGLN2 maintained their methylation difference trends in an independent set of cervical secretion samples, resulting in accuracy rates of 71.46%, 80.06%, 80.72%, and 80.68%, and AUCs of 0.79, 0.84, 0.83, and 0.82 for prediction by RF, NB, SVM, and KNN, respectively. Our findings demonstrate that methylation changes in WOI genes detected noninvasively from cervical secretions are potential markers for predicting IVF-ET outcomes. Further studies of cervical secretion of DNA methylation markers may provide a novel approach for precision embryo transfer.
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22
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Žukauskaitė D, Vitkevičienė A, Žlibinaitė A, Baušytė R, Ramašauskaitė D, Navakauskienė R. Histone H4 hyperacetylation but not DNA methylation regulates the expression of decidualization-associated genes during induced human endometrial stromal cells decidualization. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2023; 156:106362. [PMID: 36621666 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2023.106362] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The efficiency of endometrial stromal cells (ESC) decidualization is a critical player in successful embryo implantation and further pregnancy development. Epigenetic mechanisms strictly regulate massive changes that affect endometrium in each cycle, so investigating epigenetic patterns could help identify endometrial targets for infertility treatment solutions. The aim of our study was to analyze the changes in epigenetic modulators, histone modifications, and DNA methylation during induced human ESC in vitro decidualization. Decidualization markers and epigenetic factors' gene and protein expression levels were assessed during ESC cells in vitro decidualization, performing RT-qPCR and immunoblot tests. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) analysis by the following qPCR were conducted to evaluate the level of H4hyperAc and 5-methylcytosine in the decidualization-associated gene promoter and exon regions accordingly. Our results revealed that ESC decidualization caused the down-regulation of HDAC2 and subunits of PRC2. We observed the increased global level of H4hyperAc and H3K27me3. We also demonstrated that H4hyperAc was specifically enriched in the decidualization-associated genes (WNT4, HAND2, STAT5A) promoter regions during ESC decidualization. In contrast, the DNA methylation level in these promoter regions was relatively low before ESC induction and did not vary through ESC decidualization. Our findings demonstrate that specific gene promoters' histone acetylation increases during the induced ESC decidualization, which indicates the importance of epigenetic regulation in endometrial decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deimantė Žukauskaitė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Aida Vitkevičienė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Akvilė Žlibinaitė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Raminta Baušytė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; Centre of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Santariškių St, LT-08661 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Diana Ramašauskaitė
- Centre of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Santariškių St, LT-08661 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Rūta Navakauskienė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
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23
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Cross-Talk between N6-Methyladenosine and Their Related RNAs Defined a Signature and Confirmed m6A Regulators for Diagnosis of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021665. [PMID: 36675186 PMCID: PMC9862014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021665] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
An RNA modification known as N6-methyladenosine (m6A) interacts with a range of coding and non-coding RNAs. The majority of the research has focused on identifying m6A regulators that are differentially expressed in endometriosis, but it has ignored their mechanisms that are derived from the alterations of modifications among RNAs, affecting the disease progression primarily. Here, we aimed to investigate the potential roles of m6A regulators in the diagnostic potency, immune microenvironment, and clinicopathological features of endometriosis through interacting genes. A GEO cohort was incorporated into this study. Variance expression profiling was executed via the "limma" R package. Pearson analysis was performed to investigate the correlations among 767 interacting lncRNAs, 374 interacting mRNAs, and 23 m6A regulators. K-means clustering analysis, based on patterns of mRNA modifications, was applied to perform clinical feature analysis. Infiltrating immune cells and stromal cells were calculated using the Cibersort method. An m6A-related risk model was created and supported by an independent risk assay. LASSO regression analysis and Cox analyses were implemented to determine the diagnostic genes. The diagnostic targets of endometriosis were verified using PCR and the WB method. Results: A thorough investigation of the m6A modification patterns in the GEO database was carried out, based on mRNAs and lncRNAs related to these m6A regulators. Two molecular subtypes were identified using unsupervised clustering analysis, resulting in further complex infiltration levels of immune microenvironment cells in diversified endometriosis pathology types. We identified two m6A regulators, namely METTL3 and YTHDF2, as diagnostic targets of endometriosis following the usage of overlapping genes to construct a diagnostic m6A signature of endometriosis through multivariate logistic regression, and we validated it using independent GSE86534 and GSE105764 cohorts. Finally, we found that m6A alterations might be one of the important reasons for the progression of endometriosis, especially with significant downregulation of the expressions of METTL3 and YTHDF2. Finally, m6A modification patterns have significant effects on the diversity and complexity of the progression and immune microenvironment, and might be key diagnostic markers for endometriosis.
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Jin M, Ji J, Chen X, Zhou Y, Wang D, Liu A. The emerging role of TET enzymes in the immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface during decidualization and early pregnancy. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1066599. [PMID: 36685517 PMCID: PMC9850229 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1066599] [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: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A dysregulated immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface in early pregnancy may lead to early pregnancy loss, fetal growth restriction, and preeclampsia. However, major questions about how epigenetic modifications regulate the immune microenvironment during the decidualization process and embryo implantation remain unanswered. DNA methylation, the main epigenetic mechanism involved in the endometrial cycle, is crucial for specific transcriptional networks associated with endometrial stromal cell (ESC) proliferation, hormone response, decidualization, and embryo implantation. Ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes, responsible for catalyzing the conversion of 5-methylcytosine to 5-hydroxymethylcyosine, 5-formylytosine, and 5-carboxylcyosine to achieve the DNA demethylation process, appear to play a critical role in decidualization and embryo implantation. Here, we provide a comprehensive view of their structural similarities and the common mechanism of regulation in the microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface during decidualization and early pregnancy. We also discuss their physiological role in the decidual immune microenvironment. Finally, we propose a key hypothesis regarding TET enzymes at the maternal-fetal interface between decidual immune cells and ESCs. Future work is needed to elucidate their functional role and examine therapeutic strategies targeting these enzymes in pregnancy-related disease preclinical models, which would be of great value for future implications in disease diagnosis or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Jin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianxiong Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dimin Wang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Aixia Liu, ; Dimin Wang,
| | - Aixia Liu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China,Department of Reproductive Medicine, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China,*Correspondence: Aixia Liu, ; Dimin Wang,
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25
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Li Piani L, Vigano' P, Somigliana E. Epigenetic clocks and female fertility timeline: A new approach to an old issue? Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1121231. [PMID: 37025178 PMCID: PMC10070683 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1121231] [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: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide increase in life expectancy has boosted research on aging. Overcoming the concept of chronological age, higher attention has been addressed to biological age, which reflects a person's real health state, and which may be the resulting combination of both intrinsic and environmental factors. As epigenetics may exert a pivotal role in the biological aging, epigenetic clocks were developed. They are based on mathematical models aimed at identifying DNA methylation patterns that can define the biological age and that can be adopted for different clinical scopes (i.e., estimation of the risks of developing age-related disorders or predicting lifespan). Recently, epigenetic clocks have gained a peculiar attention in the fertility research field, in particular in the female counterpart. The insight into the possible relations between epigenetic aging and women's infertility might glean additional information about certain conditions that are still not completely understood. Moreover, they could disclose significant implications for health promotion programs in infertile women. Of relevance here is that the impact of biological age and epigenetics may not be limited to fertility status but could translate into pregnancy issues. Indeed, epigenetic alterations of the mother may transfer into the offspring, and pregnancy itself as well as related complications could contribute to epigenetic modifications in both the mother and newborn. However, even if the growing interest has culminated in the conspicuous production of studies on these topics, a global overview and the availability of validated instruments for diagnosis is still missing. The present narrative review aims to explore the possible bonds between epigenetic aging and fertility timeline. In the "infertility" section, we will discuss the advances on epigenetic clocks focusing on the different tissues examined (endometrium, peripheral blood, ovaries). In the "pregnancy" section, we will discuss the results obtained from placenta, umbilical cord and peripheral blood. The possible role of epigenetic aging on infertility mechanisms and pregnancy outcomes represents a question that may configure epigenetic clock as a bond between two apparently opposite worlds: infertility and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Li Piani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Letizia Li Piani,
| | - Paola Vigano'
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Deryabin PI, Borodkina AV. Epigenetic clocks provide clues to the mystery of uterine ageing. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 29:259-271. [PMID: 36515535 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac042] [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: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rising maternal ages and age-related fertility decline are a global challenge for modern reproductive medicine. Clinicians and researchers pay specific attention to ovarian ageing and hormonal insufficiency in this regard. However, uterine ageing is often left out of the picture, with the majority of reproductive clinicians being close to unanimous on the absence of age-related functional decline in the uterine tissues. Therefore, most existing techniques to treat an age-related decline in implantation rates are based primarily on hormonal supplementation and oocyte donation. Solving the issue of uterine ageing might lead to an adjustment to these methods. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A focus on uterine ageing and the possibility of slowing it emerged with the development of the information theory of ageing, which identifies genomic instability and erosion of the epigenetic landscape as important drivers of age-related decline in the functionality of most cells and tissues. Age-related smoothing of this landscape and a decline in tissue function can be assessed by measuring the ticking of epigenetic clocks. Within this review, we explore whether the uterus experiences age-related alterations using this elegant approach. We analyse existing data on epigenetic clocks in the endometrium, highlight approaches to improve the accuracy of the clocks in this cycling tissue, speculate on the endometrial pathologies whose progression might be predicted by the altered speed of epigenetic clocks and discuss the possibilities of slowing down the ticking of these clocks. SEARCH METHODS Data for this review were identified by searches of Medline, PubMed and Google Scholar. References from relevant articles using the search terms 'ageing', 'maternal age', 'female reproduction', 'uterus', 'endometrium', 'implantation', 'decidualization', 'epigenetic clock', 'biological age', 'DNA methylation', 'fertility' and 'infertility' were selected. A total of 95 articles published in English between 1985 and 2022 were included, six of which describe the use of the epigenetic clock to evaluate uterine/endometrium ageing. OUTCOMES Application of the Horvath and DNAm PhenoAge epigenetic clocks demonstrated a poor correlation with chronological age in the endometrium. Several approaches were suggested to enhance the predictive power of epigenetic clocks for the endometrium. The first was to increase the number of samples in the training dataset, as for the Zang clock, or to use more sophisticated clock-building algorithms, as for the AltumAge clock. The second method is to adjust the clocks according to the dynamic nature of the endometrium. Using either approach revealed a strong correlation with chronological age in the endometrium, providing solid evidence for age-related functional decline in this tissue. Furthermore, age acceleration/deceleration, as estimated by epigenetic clocks, might be a promising tool to predict or to gain insights into the origin of various endometrial pathologies, including recurrent implantation failure, cancer and endometriosis. Finally, there are several strategies to slow down or even reverse epigenetic clocks that might be applied to reduce the risk of age-related uterine impairments. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The uterine factor should be considered, along with ovarian issues, to correct for the decline in female fertility with age. Epigenetic clocks can be tested to gain a deeper understanding of various endometrial disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel I Deryabin
- Mechanisms of Cellular Senescence Group, Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Aleksandra V Borodkina
- Mechanisms of Cellular Senescence Group, Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
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27
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Erickson EN, Knight AK, Smith AK, Myatt L. Advancing understanding of maternal age: correlating epigenetic clocks in blood and myometrium. EPIGENETICS COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2. [PMID: 36052275 PMCID: PMC9432845 DOI: 10.1186/s43682-022-00010-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background: Advanced maternal age is currently a term defined by chronological age. However, a group of biomarkers known as epigenetic clocks, which can predict morbidity and mortality, has been used to estimate measures of biological aging. Uterine myometrial function during the process of parturition may be influenced by aging, as labor dystocia, unplanned intrapartum cesarean birth, and postpartum hemorrhage are more common in older individuals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of epigenetic clocks in maternal myometrium and blood for predicting age and to evaluate the correlation of epigenetic age between the tissues. Results: We compared epigenetic age in blood and myometrial samples provided by women undergoing planned cesarean birth at term gestation. Chronological age ranged from 20 to 50 with a median (IQR) age of 35.5(8) years. The MethylationEPIC BeadChip was used to obtain DNA methylation data, and then epigenetic age was calculated using the Horvath, Hannum, GrimAge, and PhenoAge clocks. Spearman correlations of epigenetic age with chronological age were calculated. We tested the relationship of epigenetic age in maternal blood to epigenetic age in myometrium. Age acceleration, for each clock, was also correlated between tissues. Twenty-seven participants provided samples, and 21 matched specimens were included in the final analysis after quality control. Spearman correlation between maternal chronological age and epigenetic age were significant in three of the four clocks (pan-tissue Horvath, Hannum, and GrimAge), for both myometrium and blood samples. Correlations between blood epigenetic age and maternal age ranged from 0.72 to 0.87 (all p < 0.001). Correlations between myometrial epigenetic age and maternal age were also significant (0.62–0.70, p = 0.002), though lower than correlations seen in blood. Maternal blood epigenetic age also correlated with epigenetic age in myometrium with each of these three clocks 0.60 (p = 0.004, Horvath), 0.63 (p = 0.003, Hannum), and 0.80 (p < 0.001, GrimAge). GrimAge age acceleration had the highest correlation between tissues among the clocks (0.49, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Given the limited sample, this study provides insight into the potential use of epigenetic age derived from blood as a proxy for myometrial epigenetic age, which may be a useful biomarker in estimating myometrial biological age in relationship to myometrial dysfunction. GrimAge outperformed the other tested clocks in terms of concordance of epigenetic age and age acceleration between tissues; however, the Horvath and Hannum clocks may be useful depending on the outcome of interest in pregnancy.
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Kowalczyk A, Wrzecińska M, Czerniawska-Piątkowska E, Araújo JP, Cwynar P. Molecular consequences of the exposure to toxic substances for the endocrine system of females. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113730. [PMID: 36152416 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are common in the environment and in everyday products such as cosmetics, plastic food packaging, and medicines. These substances are toxic in small doses (even in the order of micrograms) and enter the body through the skin, digestive or respiratory system. Numerous studies confirm the negative impact of EDCs on living organisms. They disrupt endocrine functions, contributing to the development of neoplastic and neurological diseases, as well as problems with the circulatory system and reproduction. EDCs affect humans and animals by modulating epigenetic processes that can lead to disturbances in gene expression or failure and even death. They also affect steroid hormones by binding to their receptors as well as interfering with synthesis and secretion of hormones. Prenatal exposure may be related to the impact of EDCs on offspring, resulting in effects of these substances on the ovaries and leading to the reduction of fertility through disturbances in the function of steroid receptors or problems with steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. Current literature indicates the need to continue research on the effects of EDCs on the female reproductive system. The aim of this review was to identify the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on the female reproductive system and their genetic effects based on recent literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Kowalczyk
- Department of Environmental Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 38C, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Marcjanna Wrzecińska
- Department of Ruminant Science, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Ewa Czerniawska-Piątkowska
- Department of Ruminant Science, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - José Pedro Araújo
- Mountain Research Centre (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Rua D. Mendo Afonso, 147, Refóios do Lima, 4990-706 Ponte de Lima, Portugal.
| | - Przemysław Cwynar
- Department of Environmental Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 38C, Wrocław, Poland.
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Tan Y, Liu Q, Li Z, Yang S, Cui L. Epigenetics-mediated pathological alternations and their potential in antiphospholipid syndrome diagnosis and therapy. Autoimmun Rev 2022; 21:103130. [PMID: 35690246 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
APS (antiphospholipid syndrome) is a systematic autoimmune disease accompanied with venous or arterial thrombosis and poor pregnant manifestations, partly attributing to the successive elevated aPL (antiphospholipid antibodies) and provoked prothrombotic and proinflammatory molecules production. Nowadays, most researches focus on the laboratory detection and clinic features of APS, but its precise etiology remains to be deeply explored. As we all know, the dysfunction of ECs (endothelial cells), monocytes, platelets, trophoblasts and neutrophils are key contributors to APS progression. Especially, their epigenetic variations, mainly including the promoter CpGs methylation, histone PTMs (post-translational modifications) and ncRNAs (noncoding RNAs), result in genes expression or silence engaged in inflammation initiation, thrombosis formation, autoimmune activation and APOs (adverse pregnancy outcomes) in APS. Given the potential of epigenetic markers serving as diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets of APS, and the encouraging advancements in epigenetic drugs are being made. In this review, we would systematically introduce the epigenetic underlying mechanisms for APS progression, comprehensively elucidate the functional mechanisms of epigenetics in boosting ECs, monocytes, platelets, trophoblasts and neutrophils. Lastly, the application of epigenetic alterations for probing novel diagnostic, specific therapeutic and prognostic strategies would be proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Tan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China; Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China; Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhongxin Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China; Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China; Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liyan Cui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China; Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
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Skliutė G, Baušytė R, Ramašauskaitė D, Navakauskienė R. Characterization of Epigenetic and Molecular Factors in Endometrium of Females with Infertility. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061324. [PMID: 35740346 PMCID: PMC9219839 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is one of the most rapidly increasing global health concerns of the 21st century. Embryo quality and endometrial thickness and receptivity are the main factors for successful embryo implantation and pregnancy development. Nevertheless, until now, there has been a lack of understanding about the regulation of human endometrium function and its structure. This raises the demand for more research of the human endometrium in these fields. In our study, we analyzed the genetic and epigenetic changes of endometrial tissue’s samples isolated from females admitted for treatment due to male infertility and females diagnosed with reproductive pathologies, who are preparing for assisted reproductive technologies procedures. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction method, we demonstrated that endometrium of females with reproductive pathology has significantly upregulated decidualization related genes HAND2, MUC1, CSF2, increased expression of angiogenesis related gene PDGFA, and increases of overall immune response and inflammation-related genes expression with significant changes of RELA and CXCL10 genes expression. Females with reproductive pathology have altered endometrium epigenetic regulation since expression of miRNAs—specifically, miRNA-34a, miRNA-223, and miRNA-125b—is lower in endometrium of females with reproductive pathology. Our findings suggest that the potential changes in genetic and epigenetic profile of endometrium from females with reproductive pathology could enrich the knowledge in the field of core biological knowledge and treatment of reproductive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giedrė Skliutė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (G.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Raminta Baušytė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (G.S.); (R.B.)
- Centre of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Santariškiu˛ St., LT-08661 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Diana Ramašauskaitė
- Centre of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Santariškiu˛ St., LT-08661 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Rūta Navakauskienė
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (G.S.); (R.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Zuccarello D, Sorrentino U, Brasson V, Marin L, Piccolo C, Capalbo A, Andrisani A, Cassina M. Epigenetics of pregnancy: looking beyond the DNA code. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:801-816. [PMID: 35301622 PMCID: PMC9050975 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02451-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is the branch of genetics that studies the different mechanisms that influence gene expression without direct modification of the DNA sequence. An ever-increasing amount of evidence suggests that such regulatory processes may play a pivotal role both in the initiation of pregnancy and in the later processes of embryonic and fetal development, thus determining long-term effects even in adult life. In this narrative review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of epigenetics in pregnancy, from its most studied and well-known mechanisms to the new frontiers of epigenetic regulation, such as the role of ncRNAs and the effects of the gestational environment on fetal brain development. Epigenetic mechanisms in pregnancy are a dynamic phenomenon that responds both to maternal-fetal and environmental factors, which can influence and modify the embryo-fetal development during the various gestational phases. Therefore, we also recapitulate the effects of the most notable environmental factors that can affect pregnancy and prenatal development, such as maternal nutrition, stress hormones, microbiome, and teratogens, focusing on their ability to cause epigenetic modifications in the gestational environment and ultimately in the fetus. Despite the promising advancements in the knowledge of epigenetics in pregnancy, more experience and data on this topic are still needed. A better understanding of epigenetic regulation in pregnancy could in fact prove valuable towards a better management of both physiological pregnancies and assisted reproduction treatments, other than allowing to better comprehend the origin of multifactorial pathological conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Zuccarello
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - Ugo Sorrentino
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Valeria Brasson
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Loris Marin
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Piccolo
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Andrisani
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Cassina
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
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Włodarczyk M, Nowicka G, Ciebiera M, Ali M, Yang Q, Al-Hendy A. Epigenetic Regulation in Uterine Fibroids-The Role of Ten-Eleven Translocation Enzymes and Their Potential Therapeutic Application. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2720. [PMID: 35269864 PMCID: PMC8910916 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are monoclonal, benign tumors that contain abnormal smooth muscle cells and the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Although benign, UFs are a major source of gynecologic and reproductive dysfunction, ranging from menorrhagia and pelvic pain to infertility, recurrent miscarriage, and preterm labor. Many risk factors are involved in the pathogenesis of UFs via genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. The latter involving DNA methylation and demethylation reactions provide specific DNA methylation patterns that regulate gene expression. Active DNA demethylation reactions mediated by ten-eleven translocation proteins (TETs) and elevated levels of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine have been suggested to be involved in UF formation. This review paper summarizes the main findings regarding the function of TET enzymes and their activity dysregulation that may trigger the development of UFs. Understanding the role that epigenetics plays in the pathogenesis of UFs may possibly lead to a new type of pharmacological fertility-sparing treatment method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grażyna Nowicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Q.Y.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Q.Y.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Q.Y.); (A.A.-H.)
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