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Liu Y, Jia D, Li L, Wang M. Advances in Nanomedicine and Biomaterials for Endometrial Regeneration: A Comprehensive Review. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:8285-8308. [PMID: 39161362 PMCID: PMC11330863 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s473259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is an extremely important component of the uterus and is crucial for individual health and human reproduction. However, traditional methods still struggle to ideally repair the structure and function of damaged endometrium and restore fertility. Therefore, seeking and developing innovative technologies and materials has the potential to repair and regenerate damaged or diseased endometrium. The emergence and functionalization of various nanomedicine and biomaterials, as well as the proposal and development of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering techniques, have brought great hope for solving these problems. In this review, we will summarize various nanomedicine, biomaterials, and innovative technologies that contribute to endometrial regeneration, including nanoscale exosomes, nanomaterials, stem cell-based materials, naturally sourced biomaterials, chemically synthesized biomaterials, approaches and methods for functionalizing biomaterials, as well as the application of revolutionary new technologies such as organoids, organ-on-chips, artificial intelligence, etc. The diverse design and modification of new biomaterials endow them with new functionalities, such as microstructure or nanostructure, mechanical properties, biological functions, and cellular microenvironment regulation. It will provide new options for the regeneration of endometrium, bring new hope for the reconstruction and recovery of patients' reproductive abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Liu
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, Center for Reproductive Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongyun Jia
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, Center for Reproductive Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Li
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, Center for Reproductive Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meiyan Wang
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, Center for Reproductive Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
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Wang Z, Xia L, Cheng J, Liu J, Zhu Q, Cui C, Li J, Huang Y, Shen J, Xia Y. Combination Therapy of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation and Electroacupuncture for the Repair of Intrauterine Adhesions in Rats: Mechanisms and Functional Recovery. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2318-2330. [PMID: 38499950 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01465-3] [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: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) has demonstrated promising clinical utility in the treatment of endometrial injury and the restoration of fertility. However, since the efficacy of BMSCs after transplantation is not stable, it is very important to find effective ways to enhance the utilisation of BMSCs. Electroacupuncture (EA) has some positive effects on the chemotaxis of stem cells and diseases related to uterine injury. In this study, we established the intrauterine adhesion (IUA) model of the Sprague-Dawley rat using lipopolysaccharide infection and mechanical scratching. Phosphate-buffered saline, BMSCs alone, and BMSCs combined with EA were randomly administered to the rats. Fluorescent cell labelling showed the migration of transplanted BMSCs. H&E staining, Masson staining, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and qRT-PCR were utilised to detect changes in endometrial morphology and expressions of endometrial receptivity-related factors, endometrial pro-inflammatory factors, and fibrosis factors. Finally, we conducted a fertility test to measure the recovery of uterine function. The results showed that EA promoted transplanted BMSCs to migrate into the injured uterus by activating the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis. Endometrial morphology showed the most significant improvement in the BMSC + EA group. The expressions of endometrial pro-inflammatory factors and fibrosis indexes in the BMSC + EA group were lower than those in the model and BMSC groups. Further studies revealed that the expression of endometrial receptivity-related factors and the number of embryos implanted on day 8 of gestation increased in the BMSC + EA group compared with the model group and the BMSC group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxian Wang
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Liangjun Xia
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jingyu Liu
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Chuting Cui
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Junwei Li
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yueying Huang
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jie Shen
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Youbing Xia
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
- Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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Xiao B, Zhu Y, Liu M, Chen M, Huang C, Xu D, Wang F, Sun S, Huang J, Sun N, Yang F. miR-340-3p-modified bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes inhibit ferroptosis through METTL3-mediated m 6A modification of HMOX1 to promote recovery of injured rat uterus. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:224. [PMID: 39075530 PMCID: PMC11287883 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03846-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ferroptosis is associated with the pathological progression of hemorrhagic injury and ischemia-reperfusion injury. According to our previous study, exosomes formed through bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells modified with miR-340-3p (MB-exos) can restore damaged endometrium. However, the involvement of ferroptosis in endometrial injury and the effect of MB-exos on ferroptosis remain elusive. METHODS The endometrial injury rat model was developed. Exosomes were obtained from the supernatants of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) and miR-340/BMSCs through differential centrifugation. We conducted RNA-seq analysis on endometrial tissues obtained from the PBS and MB-exos groups. Ferroptosis was induced in endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) by treating them with erastin or RSL3, followed by treatment with B-exos or MB-exos. We assessed the endometrial total m6A modification level after injury and subsequent treatment with B-exos or MB-exos by methylation quantification assay. We performed meRIP-qPCR to analyze m6A modification-regulated endogenous mRNAs. RESULTS We reveal that MB-exos facilitate the injured endometrium to recover by suppressing ferroptosis in endometrial stromal cells. The injured endometrium showed significantly upregulated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification levels; these levels were attenuated by MB-exos through downregulation of the methylase METTL3. Intriguingly, METTL3 downregulation appears to repress ferroptosis by stabilizing HMOX1 mRNA, thereby potentially elucidating the mechanism through which MB-exos inhibit ferroptosis in ESCs. We identified YTHDF2 as a critical m6A reader protein that contributes to HMOX1 mRNA degradation. YTHDF2 facilitates HMOX1 mRNA degradation by identifying the m6A binding site in the 3'-untranslated regions of HMOX1. In a rat model, treatment with MB-exos ameliorated endometrial injury-induced fibrosis by inhibiting ferroptosis in ESCs. Moreover, METTL3 short hairpin RNA-mediated inhibition of m6A modification enhanced the inhibitory effect of MB-exos on ferroptosis in endometrial injury. CONCLUSIONS Thus, these observations provide new insights regarding the molecular mechanisms responsible for endometrial recovery promotion by MB-exos and highlight m6A modification-dependent ferroptosis inhibition as a prospective therapeutic target to attenuate endometrial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bang Xiao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yiqing Zhu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Meng Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Meiting Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Chao Huang
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Dabing Xu
- The Center of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Shuhan Sun
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jinfeng Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Ningxia Sun
- The Center of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China.
| | - Fu Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- The Center of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China.
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Farasati
Far B, Safaei M, Nahavandi R, Gholami A, Naimi-Jamal MR, Tamang S, Ahn JE, Ramezani Farani M, Huh YS. Hydrogel Encapsulation Techniques and Its Clinical Applications in Drug Delivery and Regenerative Medicine: A Systematic Review. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:29139-29158. [PMID: 39005800 PMCID: PMC11238230 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c10102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogel encapsulation is a promising carrier for cell and drug delivery due to its ability to protect the encapsulated entities from harsh physiological conditions and enhance their therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability. However, there is not yet consensus on the optimal hydrogel type, encapsulation method, and clinical application. Therefore, a systematic review of hydrogel encapsulation techniques and their potential for clinical application is needed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview. In this systematic review, we searched electronic databases for articles published between 2008 and 2023 that described the encapsulation of cells or drug molecules within hydrogels. Herein, we identified 9 relevant studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of our study. Our analysis revealed that the physicochemical properties of the hydrogel, such as its porosity, swelling behavior, and degradation rate, play a critical role in the encapsulation of cells or drug molecules. Furthermore, the encapsulation method, including physical, chemical, or biological methods, can affect the encapsulated entities' stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy. Challenges of hydrogel encapsulation include poor control over the release of encapsulated entities, limited shelf life, and potential immune responses. Future directions of hydrogel encapsulation include the development of novel hydrogel and encapsulation methods and the integration of hydrogel encapsulation with other technologies, such as 3D printing and gene editing. In conclusion, this review is useful for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers who are interested in this field of drug delivery and regenerative medicine that can serve as a guide for the future development of novel technologies that can be applied into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Farasati
Far
- Department
of Chemistry, Iran University of Science
and Technology, Tehran 13114-16846, Iran
| | - Maryam Safaei
- Department
of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Eastern
Mediterranean University, via Mersin 10, Famagusta, TR. North Cyprus 99628, Turkey
| | - Reza Nahavandi
- School
of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417935840, Iran
| | - Amir Gholami
- Faculty
of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical
Science, Sanandaj 6618634683, Iran
| | | | - Sujina Tamang
- NanoBio
High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences
and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 402-751, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Eun Ahn
- NanoBio
High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences
and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 402-751, Republic of Korea
| | - Marzieh Ramezani Farani
- NanoBio
High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences
and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 402-751, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Suk Huh
- NanoBio
High-Tech Materials Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences
and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 402-751, Republic of Korea
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Dai W, Liang J, Guo R, Zhao Z, Na Z, Xu D, Li D. Bioengineering approaches for the endometrial research and application. Mater Today Bio 2024; 26:101045. [PMID: 38600921 PMCID: PMC11004221 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium undergoes a series of precise monthly changes under the regulation of dynamic levels of ovarian hormones that are characterized by repeated shedding and subsequent regeneration without scarring. This provides the potential for wound healing during endometrial injuries. Bioengineering materials highlight the faithful replication of constitutive cells and the extracellular matrix that simulates the physical and biomechanical properties of the endometrium to a larger extent. Significant progress has been made in this field, and functional endometrial tissue bioengineering allows an in-depth investigation of regulatory factors for endometrial and myometrial defects in vitro and provides highly therapeutic methods to alleviate obstetric and gynecological complications. However, much remains to be learned about the latest progress in the application of bioengineering technologies to the human endometrium. Here, we summarize the existing developments in biomaterials and bioengineering models for endometrial regeneration and improving the female reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanlin Dai
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Junzhi Liang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Renhao Guo
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Advanced Reproductive Medicine and Fertility (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhongyu Zhao
- Innovation Institute, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhijing Na
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Advanced Reproductive Medicine and Fertility (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Dake Xu
- Shenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Da Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Advanced Reproductive Medicine and Fertility (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
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6
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Huang QY, Zheng HD, Shi QY, Xu JH. Validity of stem cell-loaded scaffolds to facilitate endometrial regeneration and restore fertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1397783. [PMID: 38846497 PMCID: PMC11153789 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1397783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Various stem cell-loaded scaffolds have demonstrated promising endometrial regeneration and fertility restoration. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of stem cell-loaded scaffolds in treating uterine injury in animal models. Methods The PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched. Data were extracted and analyzed using Review Manager version 5.4. Improvements in endometrial thickness, endometrial glands, fibrotic area, and number of gestational sacs/implanted embryos were compared after transplantation in the stem cell-loaded scaffolds and scaffold-only group. The standardized mean difference (SMD) and confidence interval (CI) were calculated using forest plots. Results Thirteen studies qualified for meta-analysis. Overall, compared to the scaffold groups, stem cell-loaded scaffolds significantly increased endometrial thickness (SMD = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.54 to 2.44, P < 0.00001; I² = 16%) and the number of endometrial glands (SMD = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.45 to 2.41, P < 0.00001; I² = 0). Moreover, stem cell-loaded scaffolds present a prominent effect on improving fibrosis area (SMD = -2.50, 95% CI: -3.07 to -1.93, P < 0.00001; I² = 36%) and fertility (SMD = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.58 to 5.09, P = 0.0002; I² = 83%). Significant heterogeneity among studies was observed, and further subgroup and sensitivity analyses identified the source of heterogeneity. Moreover, stem cell-loaded scaffolds exhibited lower inflammation levels and higher angiogenesis, and cell proliferation after transplantation. Conclusion The evidence indicates that stem cell-loaded scaffolds were more effective in promoting endometrial repair and restoring fertility than the scaffold-only groups. The limitations of the small sample sizes should be considered when interpreting the results. Thus, larger animal studies and clinical trials are needed for further investigation. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024493132.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-yi Huang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Hui-da Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Qi-yang Shi
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Jian-hua Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
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7
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Zhang Q, Su P, Zhao F, Ren H, He C, Wu Q, Wang Z, Ma J, Huang X, Wang Z. Enhancing Skin Injury Repair: Combined Application of PF-127 Hydrogel and hADSC-Exos Containing miR-148a-3p. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:2235-2250. [PMID: 38445959 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01567] [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] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The use of exosomes to relieve skin injuries has received considerable attention. The PluronicF-127 hydrogel (PF-127 hydrogel) is a novel biomaterial that can be used to carry biomolecules. This study sought to investigate the impact of exosomes originating from human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) developed from adipose tissue (hADSC-Exos) combined with a PF-127 hydrogel on tissue repair and explore the underlying mechanism using in vitro and in vivo experiments. miR-148a-3p is the most expressed microRNA (miRNA) in hADSC-Exos. We found that exosomes combined with the PF-127 hydrogel had a better efficacy than exosomes alone; moreover, miR-148a-3p knockdown lowered its efficacy. In vitro, we observed a significant increase in the tumor-like ability of HUVECs after exosome treatment, which was attenuated after miR-148a-3p knockdown. Furthermore, the effects of miR-148a-3p on hADSC-Exos were achieved through the prevention of PTEN and the triggering of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that hADSC-Exos can promote angiogenesis and skin wound healing by delivering miR-148a-3p and have a better effect when combined with the PF-127 hydrogel, which may be an alternative strategy to promote wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
- Department of Pathology, Chengdu Third People's Hospital, Chengdu 610000, Sichuan, China
| | - Peng Su
- Medical Research Center, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110013, Liaoning, China
| | - Haiyue Ren
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Cai He
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Quan Wu
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Zitong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Jiajie Ma
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
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Chen X, Song H, Song K, Zhang Y, Wang J, Hong J, Xie Q, Zhao J, Liu M, Wang X. Temperature-sensitive hydrogel releasing pectolinarin facilitate scarless wound healing. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18130. [PMID: 38332511 PMCID: PMC10853586 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The dressing that promotes scarless healing is essential for both normal function and aesthetics after a wound. With a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in scar formation during the wound healing process, the ideal dressing becomes clearer and more promising. For instance, the yes-associated transcriptional regulator (YAP) has been extensively studied as a key gene involved in regulating scar formation. However, there has been limited attention given to pectolinarin, a natural flavonoid that may exhibit strong binding affinity to YAP, in the context of scarless healing. In this study, we successfully developed a temperature-sensitive Pluronic@F-127 hydrogel as a platform for delivering pectolinarin to promote scarless wound healing. The bioactive pectolinarin was released from the hydrogel, effectively enhancing endothelial cell migration, proliferation and the expression of angiogenesis-related genes. Additionally, a concentration of 20 μg/mL of pectolinarin demonstrated remarkable antioxidant ability, capable of counteracting the detrimental effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our results from rat wound healing models demonstrated that the hydrogel accelerated wound healing, promoting re-epithelialization and facilitating skin appendage regeneration. Furthermore, we discovered that a concentration of 50 μg/mL of pectolinarin incorporated to the hydrogel exhibited the most favourable outcomes in terms of promoting wound healing and minimizing scar formation. Overall, our study highlights that the significant potential of locally released pectolinarin might substantially inhibit YAP and promoting scarless wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohang Chen
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Haoyue Song
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Kun Song
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Laboratory of Facial Plastic and ReconstructionFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Jia Wang
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Jinjia Hong
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Qingpeng Xie
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Jing Zhao
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Meixian Liu
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
| | - Xing Wang
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of StomatologyTaiyuanChina
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New MaterialsTaiyuanChina
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Shuai Q, Liang Y, Xu X, Halbiyat Z, Wang X, Cheng J, Liu J, Huang T, Peng Z, Wang L, He S, Zhao H, Liu Z, Xu J, Xie J. Sodium alginate hydrogel integrated with type III collagen and mesenchymal stem cell to promote endometrium regeneration and fertility restoration. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127314. [PMID: 37827397 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
A thinner endometrium has been linked to implantation failure, and various therapeutic strategies have been attempted to improve endometrial regeneration, including the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). However, low survival and retention rates of transplanted stem cells are main obstacles to efficient stem cell therapy in thin endometrium. Collagen type III is a key component of the extracellular matrix, plays a crucial role in promoting cell proliferation and differentiation, and has been identified as the major collagen expressed at the implantation site. Herein, composite alginate hydrogel containing recombinant type III collagen (rCo III) and umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells are developed. rCo III serves as favorable bioactive molecule, displaying that rCo III administration promotes MSCs proliferation, stemness maintenance and migration. Moreover, rCo III administration enhances cell viability and migration of mouse endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). In a mouse model of thin endometrium, the Alg-rCo III hydrogel loaded with MSCs (MSC/Alg-rCo III) significantly induces endometrial regeneration and fertility enhancement in vivo. Further studies demonstrate that the MSC/Alg-rCo III hydrogel promoted endometrial function recovery partly by regulating mesenchymal-epithelial transition of ESCs. Taken together, the combination of Alg-rCo III hydrogel and MSCs has shown promising results in promoting endometrium regeneration and fertility restoration, and may provide new therapeutic options for endometrial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qizhi Shuai
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuxiang Liang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China; Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xinrui Xu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China; Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-Orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zulala Halbiyat
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaowan Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Jingwen Cheng
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Jialing Liu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Tingjuan Huang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhiwei Peng
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Sheng He
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhizhen Liu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
| | - Jun Xie
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Ministry of Education), Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China.
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10
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Hu X, Wu H, Yong X, Wang Y, Yang S, Fan D, Xiao Y, Che L, Shi K, Li K, Xiong C, Zhu H, Qian Z. Cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration: Molecular mechanisms, diseases, and therapeutic interventions. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e425. [PMID: 38045828 PMCID: PMC10691302 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a unique human tissue with an extraordinary ability to undergo a hormone-regulated cycle encompassing shedding, bleeding, scarless repair, and regeneration throughout the female reproductive cycle. The cyclical repair and regeneration of the endometrium manifest as changes in endometrial epithelialization, glandular regeneration, and vascularization. The mechanisms encompass inflammation, coagulation, and fibrinolytic system balance. However, specific conditions such as endometriosis or TCRA treatment can disrupt the process of cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration. There is uncertainty about traditional clinical treatments' efficacy and side effects, and finding new therapeutic interventions is essential. Researchers have made substantial progress in the perspective of regenerative medicine toward maintaining cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration in recent years. Such progress encompasses the integration of biomaterials, tissue-engineered scaffolds, stem cell therapies, and 3D printing. This review analyzes the mechanisms, diseases, and interventions associated with cyclical endometrial repair and regeneration. The review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the regenerative interventions currently employed in clinical practice. Additionally, it highlights the significant advantages of regenerative medicine in this domain. Finally, we review stem cells and biologics among the available interventions in regenerative medicine, providing insights into future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xulin Hu
- Clinical Medical College and Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu UniversityChengdu UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of BiotherapyCancer Center and State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Haoming Wu
- Clinical Medical College and Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu UniversityChengdu UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Xin Yong
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Department of Paediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of BiotherapySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yao Wang
- Clinical Medical College and Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu UniversityChengdu UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Shuhao Yang
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Diyi Fan
- Clinical Medical College and Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu UniversityChengdu UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yibo Xiao
- Clinical Medical College and Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu UniversityChengdu UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Lanyu Che
- Clinical Medical College and Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu UniversityChengdu UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Kun Shi
- Department of BiotherapyCancer Center and State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Kainan Li
- Clinical Medical College and Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu UniversityChengdu UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | | | - Huili Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of EducationWest China Second University Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Zhiyong Qian
- Department of BiotherapyCancer Center and State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
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11
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Leonel ECR, Dadashzadeh A, Moghassemi S, Vlieghe H, Wyns C, Orellana R, Amorim CA. New Solutions for Old Problems: How Reproductive Tissue Engineering Has Been Revolutionizing Reproductive Medicine. Ann Biomed Eng 2023; 51:2143-2171. [PMID: 37468688 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03321-y] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Acquired disorders and congenital defects of the male and female reproductive systems can have profound impacts on patients, causing sexual and endocrine dysfunction and infertility, as well as psychosocial consequences that affect their self-esteem, identity, sexuality, and relationships. Reproductive tissue engineering (REPROTEN) is a promising approach to restore fertility and improve the quality of life of patients with reproductive disorders by developing, replacing, or regenerating cells, tissues, and organs from the reproductive and urinary systems. In this review, we explore the latest advancements in REPROTEN techniques and their applications for addressing degenerative conditions in male and female reproductive organs. We discuss current research and clinical outcomes and highlight the potential of 3D constructs utilizing biomaterials such as scaffolds, cells, and biologically active molecules. Our review offers a comprehensive guide for researchers and clinicians, providing insights into how to reestablish reproductive tissue structure and function using innovative surgical approaches and biomaterials. We highlight the benefits of REPROTEN for patients, including preservation of fertility and hormonal production, reconstruction of uterine and cervical structures, and restoration of sexual and urinary functions. Despite significant progress, REPROTEN still faces ethical and technical challenges that need to be addressed. Our review underscores the importance of continued research in this field to advance the development of effective and safe REPROTEN approaches for patients with reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen C R Leonel
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Saeid Moghassemi
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hanne Vlieghe
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Renan Orellana
- Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
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12
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Wu F, Lei N, Yang S, Zhou J, Chen M, Chen C, Qiu L, Guo R, Li Y, Chang L. Treatment strategies for intrauterine adhesion: focus on the exosomes and hydrogels. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1264006. [PMID: 37720318 PMCID: PMC10501405 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1264006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), also referred to as Asherman Syndrome (AS), results from uterine trauma in both pregnant and nonpregnant women. The IUA damages the endometrial bottom layer, causing partial or complete occlusion of the uterine cavity. This leads to irregular menstruation, infertility, or repeated abortions. Transcervical adhesion electroreception (TCRA) is frequently used to treat IUA, which greatly lowers the prevalence of adhesions and increases pregnancy rates. Although surgery aims to disentangle the adhesive tissue, it can exacerbate the development of IUA when the degree of adhesion is severer. Therefore, it is critical to develop innovative therapeutic approaches for the prevention of IUA. Endometrial fibrosis is the essence of IUA, and studies have found that the use of different types of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can reduce the risk of endometrial fibrosis and increase the possibility of pregnancy. Recent research has suggested that exosomes derived from MSCs can overcome the limitations of MSCs, such as immunogenicity and tumorigenicity risks, thereby providing new directions for IUA treatment. Moreover, the hydrogel drug delivery system can significantly ameliorate the recurrence rate of adhesions and the intrauterine pregnancy rate of patients, and its potential mechanism in the treatment of IUA has also been studied. It has been shown that the combination of two or more therapeutic schemes has broader application prospects; therefore, this article reviews the pathophysiology of IUA and current treatment strategies, focusing on exosomes combined with hydrogels in the treatment of IUA. Although the use of exosomes and hydrogels has certain challenges in treating IUA, they still provide new promising directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengling Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ningjing Lei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shenyu Yang
- Medical 3D Printing Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Junying Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Mengyu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Luojie Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ruixia Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yong Li
- St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Lei Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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13
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Parashar S, Pajai S, Tarang T. Recent Advancement in the Management of Intrauterine Adhesions Using Stem Cell Therapy: A Review Article. Cureus 2023; 15:e43553. [PMID: 37719487 PMCID: PMC10502444 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) are the formation of scar tissues in the endometrial cavity. The fibrous tissue in the uterus decreases the space inside the uterine cavity. It includes both endometrium and myometrium. It may lead to hypomenorrhea or amenorrhea, pain, difficulty in conceiving, and recurrent abortion. IUA is caused by uterine tissue damage mostly during surgical procedures such as dilatation and curettage. Other causes may include pregnancy-related complications, miscarriage, abnormal bleeding, infections, fibroid removal, and cesarean section (C-section). Patients generally do not have any symptoms and hence are unaware of the condition. The main therapeutic procedure presently used is hysteroscopic transcervical resection of adhesion (TCRA) with hormonal therapy and nondegradable stent as postoperative adjuvant therapy. It has some major limitations such as failure to prevent recurrence and preserve fertility along with difficulty in endometrial tissue repair due to its anatomical site. These limitations have forced the researchers to think about a better treatment modality. In recent times, a better treatment modality has evolved with stem cell therapy. Therefore, this review presents the recent and advanced therapeutic modalities for the treatment of IUAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Parashar
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND
| | - Sandhya Pajai
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND
| | - Tanmay Tarang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND
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14
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Liu L, Yao S, Mao X, Fang Z, Yang C, Zhang Y. Thermosensitive hydrogel coupled with sodium ascorbyl phosphate promotes human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell-mediated skin wound healing in mice. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11909. [PMID: 37488143 PMCID: PMC10366115 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38666-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor survival and restricted function of transplanted stem cells are regarded as limiting their efficacy in wound recovery greatly. Consequently, it is necessary to identify innovative therapeutic strategies to solve these issues. Firstly, the biological effect of PF-127 hydrogel alone and in combination with SAP on the survival, and migration of cultured HUCMSCs was assessed by cell viability, apoptosis, and scratch wound assays. S. aureus and E. coli were used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of PF-127 plus SAP combination. Further, the ability of HUCMSCs-conditioned medium (HUCMSCs-CM) to promote the angiogenesis and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro was evaluated using tube formation and transwell migration assays. Finally, the HUCMSCs embedded in PF-127 plus SAP scaffold were administered onto mice's excisional cutaneous wound bed. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were employed to investigate the wound healing capacity as well as cellular responses of PF-127/HUCMSCs/SAP hydrogel. PF-127 showed cytotoxicity on HUCMSCs, whereas the addition of SAP significantly promoted cell viability and alleviated apoptosis of HUCMSCs encapsulated in PF-127 hydrogel in vitro. SAP supplementation substantially abrogated the inhibiting effect of PF-127 on the migration of HUCMSCs in vitro. The combination of PF-127 and SAP exerted an obvious bacteriostatic function on S. aureus and E. coli. Moreover, the co-treatment with SAP could remarkably enhance the stimulative effect of HUCMSCs-CM on the angiogenesis and migration of HUVECs in vitro. PF-127 combined SAP-embedded HUCMSCs transplantation resulted in a potently accelerated wound healing process, promoted the number of proliferating cells and newly formed blood vessels, as well as enhanced expression of vascular endothelial growth factor. PF-127 coupled with SAP contributes to HUCMSCs-mediated traumatic wound closure in mice by promoting cell survival, antibacterial action, and angiogenesis. Our results offered a theoretical foundation for the clinical treatment of traumatic skin defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liji Liu
- Department of Bone and Joint, The Central Hospital of Yueyang, Yueyang, 414020, China
| | - Sheng Yao
- Huarong County People's Hospital, Yueyang, 414207, China
| | - Xianhua Mao
- Yueyang Vocational and Technical College, Yueyang, 414000, China
| | - Zheng Fang
- Department of Bone and Joint, The Central Hospital of Yueyang, Yueyang, 414020, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Department of Bone and Joint, The Central Hospital of Yueyang, Yueyang, 414020, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Bone and Joint, The Central Hospital of Yueyang, Yueyang, 414020, China.
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15
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Yoshimasa Y, Takao T, Katakura S, Tomisato S, Masuda H, Tanaka M, Maruyama T. A Decellularized Uterine Endometrial Scaffold Enhances Regeneration of the Endometrium in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7605. [PMID: 37108764 PMCID: PMC10145056 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087605] [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: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Partial or whole regeneration of the uterine endometrium using extracellular matrix (ECM)-based scaffolds is a therapeutic strategy for uterine infertility due to functional and/or structural endometrial defects. Here, we examined whether the entire endometrium can be regenerated circumferentially using an acellular ECM scaffold (decellularized endometrial scaffold, DES) prepared from rat endometrium. We placed a silicone tube alone to prevent adhesions or a DES loaded with a silicone tube into a recipient uterus in which the endometrium had been surgically removed circumferentially. Histological and immunofluorescent analyses of the uteri one month after tube placement revealed more abundant regenerated endometrial stroma in the uterine horns treated with tube-loaded DES compared to those treated with a tube alone. Luminal and glandular epithelia, however, were not fully recapitulated. These results suggest that DES can enhance the regeneration of endometrial stroma but additional intervention(s) are needed to induce epithelization. Furthermore, the prevention of adhesions alone allowed the endometrial stroma to regenerate circumferentially even without a DES, but to a lesser degree than that with a DES. The use of a DES together with the prevention of adhesions may be beneficial for efficient endometrial regeneration in the uterus that is largely deficient of endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushi Yoshimasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Tomoka Takao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Regenerative Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 2-5-1 Shikatacho, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Satomi Katakura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital, 1-4-17 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0073, Japan
| | - Shoko Tomisato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Masuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- HM Ladies Clinic Ginza, 3-4-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
| | - Mamoru Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Maruyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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Wu F, Kong Y, Chen W, Liang D, Xiao Q, Hu L, Tan X, Wei J, Liu Y, Deng X, Liu Z, Chen T. Improvement of vaginal probiotics Lactobacillus crispatus on intrauterine adhesion in mice model and in clinical practice. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:78. [PMID: 36949381 PMCID: PMC10032012 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02823-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a frequent acquired endometrial condition, for which there is no effective preventive or treatment. Previous studies have found that vaginal microbiota dysregulation is closely related to endometrial fibrosis and IUA. Therefore, we wondered whether restoration of vaginal microbiota by vaginal administration of L. crispatus could prevent endometrial fibrosis and ameliorate IUA. RESULTS First, we created a mechanically injured mouse model of IUA and restored the mice's vaginal microbiota by the addition of L. crispatus convolvulus. The observations suggested that intrauterine injections of L. crispatus significantly decreased the degree of uterine fibrosis, the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in blood, and downregulated the TGF-β1/SMADs signaling pathway in IUA mice. A therapy with L. crispatus considerably raised the abundance of the helpful bacteria Lactobacillus and Oscillospira and restored the balance of the vaginal microbiota in IUA mice, according to high-throughput sequencing. Then we conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare the therapeutic effect of L. crispatus with estrogen after transcervical resection of adhesion (TCRA). And the results showed that vaginal probiotics had a better potential to prevent intrauterine adhesion than estrogen. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed that L. crispatus could restore vaginal microbiota after intrauterine surgery, inhibit endometrial fibrosis, and finally play a preventive and therapeutic role in IUA. At the same time, it is a new exploration for the treatment of gynecological diseases with vaginal probiotics. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION http://www.chictr.org.cn/ , identifier (ChiCTR1900022522), registration time: 15/04/2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yao Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wenjie Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and The Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Dingfa Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and The Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qin Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lijuan Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiao Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jing Wei
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and The Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yujuan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaorong Deng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
| | - Tingtao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and The Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
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17
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3D bio-printed endometrial construct restores the full-thickness morphology and fertility of injured uterine endometrium. Acta Biomater 2023; 157:187-199. [PMID: 36521675 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Severe damage to the uterine endometrium, which results in scar formation and endometrial dysfunction, eventually leads to infertility or pregnancy-related complications. No effective therapeutic treatment is currently available for such injuries owing to the structural complexity, internal environment, and function of the uterus. Three-dimensional (3D) bio-printing to engineer biomimetic structural constructs provides a unique opportunity for tissue regeneration. Herein, using 3D extrusion-based bioprinting (EBB), we constructed a bilayer endometrial construct (EC) based on a sodium alginate-hyaluronic acid (Alg-HA) hydrogel for functional regeneration of the endometrium. The upper layer of the 3D bio-printed EC is a monolayer of endometrial epithelial cells (EECs), while the lower layer has a grid-like microstructure loaded with endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). In a partial full-thickness uterine excision rat model, our bilayer EC not only restored the morphology and structure of the endometrial wall (including organized luminal/ glandular epithelium, stroma, vasculature and the smooth muscle layer), but also significantly improved the reproductive outcome in the surgical area after implantation (75%, 12/16, p < 0.01). Therefore, repair of the uterine endometrium using the developed 3D bio-printed bilayer EC may represent an effective regenerative treatment for severe endometrial injury. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Achieving structural and functional recovery of the endometrium following severe injury is still a challenge. Here, we designed a 3D bio-printed endometrial construct (EC) to mimic the native bilayer structure and cellular components of the endometrium. The bio-printed EC consists of a dense upper layer with endometrial epithelial cells and a lower layer with endometrial stromal cells. In particular, the 3D bio-printed EC significantly improved the reproductive outcome in the surgical area (75%, 12/16) compared to that of the cell-loaded non-printed group (12.5%, 2/16). This study demonstrates that a biomimetic bilayer construct can facilitate endometrial repair and regeneration. Therefore, an endometrial cells-loaded 3D-bioprinted EC is a promising therapeutic option for patients suffering from severe endometrial damage.
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Luo W, Geng Y, Gao M, Cao M, Wang J, Yang J, Sun C, Yan X. Isolation and Identification of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Forest Musk Deer. Animals (Basel) 2022; 13:ani13010017. [PMID: 36611625 PMCID: PMC9817501 DOI: 10.3390/ani13010017] [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: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii) is an endangered animal that produces musk that is utilized for medical applications worldwide, and this species primarily lives in China. Animal-derived musk can be employed as an important ingredient in Chinese medicine. To investigate the properties of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) obtained from the bone marrow of forest deer for future application, MSCs were isolated and cultivated in vitro. The properties and differentiation of these cells were assessed at the cellular and gene levels. The results show that 81,533 expressed genes were detected by RNA sequencing, and marker genes of MSCs were expressed in the cells. Karyotype analysis of the cells determined the karyotype to be normal, and marker proteins of MSCs were observed to be expressed in the cell membranes. Cells were differentiated into osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondroblasts. The expression of genes related to osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondroblasts was observed to be increased. The results of this study demonstrate that the properties of the cells isolated from bone marrow were in keeping with the characteristics of MSCs, providing a possible basis for future research.
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Research progress of stem cell therapy for endometrial injury. Mater Today Bio 2022; 16:100389. [PMID: 36033375 PMCID: PMC9403503 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial damage is an important factor leading to infertility and traditional conventional treatments have limited efficacy. As an emerging technology in recent years, stem cell therapy has provided new hope for the treatment of this disease. By comparing the advantages of stem cells from different sources, it is believed that menstrual blood endometrial stem cells have a good application prospect as a new source of stem cells. However, the clinical utility of stem cells is still limited by issues such as colonization rates, long-term efficacy, tumor formation, and storage and transportation. This paper summarizes the mechanism by which stem cells repair endometrial damage and clarifies the material basis of their effects from four aspects: replacement of damaged sites, paracrine effects, interaction with growth factors, and other new targets. According to the pathological characteristics and treatment requirements of intrauterine adhesion (IUA), the research work to solve the above problems from the aspects of functional bioscaffold preparation and multi-functional platform construction is also summarized. From the perspective of scaffold materials and component functions, this review will provide a reference for comprehensively optimizing the clinical application of stem cells.
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Bi-potential hPSC-derived Müllerian duct-like cells for full-thickness and functional endometrium regeneration. NPJ Regen Med 2022; 7:68. [DOI: 10.1038/s41536-022-00263-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractStem cell-based tissue regeneration strategies are promising treatments for severe endometrial injuries. However, there are few appropriate seed cells for regenerating a full-thickness endometrium, which mainly consists of epithelia and stroma. Müllerian ducts in female embryonic development develop into endometrial epithelia and stroma. Hence, we first generated human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC)-derived Müllerian duct-like cells (MDLCs) using a defined and effective protocol. The MDLCs are bi-potent, can gradually differentiate into endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, and reconstitute full-thickness endometrium in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, MDLCs showed the in situ repair capabilities of reconstructing endometrial structure and recovering pregnancy function in full-thickness endometrial injury rats, and their differentiation fate was revealed by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Our study provides a strategy for hPSC differentiation into endometrial lineages and an alternative seed cell for injured endometrial regeneration.
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21
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Liang S, Huang Y, Xia Y, Liang S, Wu Q, Zhi Z. Animal models in intrauterine adhesion research. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:3409-3415. [PMID: 36129458 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2124854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a gynaecological disease caused by uterine cavity surgeries and infections that leads to partial or total occlusion of the uterine cavity. However, the underlying mechanism(s) and progression of the disease have not yet been identified. IUA has a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis, and effective drugs to prevent adhesion are lacking. Therefore, establishing an effective animal model of IUA is of great significance for revealing the pathogenesis of IUA and the mechanism(s) governing drug effects. Rats, mice, rabbits, and other animals are currently used to establish intrauterine adhesion models. The IUA induction methods include chemical, thermal, or mechanical damage and mechanical damage combined with an infective method. We analysed the advantages and disadvantages of various models and their clinical simulations in order to provide a precise animal model for exploring the pathogenesis, treatment strategies, and prevention of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanlan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanfen Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Qiaoling Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Zhifu Zhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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Chen F, Gong Y, Jiang N, Xiao J, Wang Y, Chen L, Sui L. Transplantation of bFGF-transfected bone mesenchymal stem cells on collagen scaffolds promotes the regeneration of injured rat endometrium. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6712-6725. [PMID: 36247308 PMCID: PMC9556468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to verify the role of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) loaded on collagen scaffolds for the repair of injured endometrium. METHODS We established an intrauterine adhesion (IUA) model in rats by endometrial resection and implanted BMSCs and bFGF-BMSCs loaded on collagen scaffolds into uteri. A total of 100 IUA model rats were divided into five groups: the control group, scaffold group, BMSC+scaffold group, vector-BMSC group, and bFGF-BMSC+scaffold group. The rats were sacrificed on the 3rd, 7th, 15th, and 45th days. The endometrium thickness, number of glands, and microvascular density were measured by hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry staining of CD31. The expression of bFGF, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vimentin, and Ki67 was assayed by immunohistochemistry staining. RESULTS The bFGF-BMSCs loaded on the collagen scaffold significantly increased the endometrial thickness, gland number, and microvascular density, which greatly promoted the regeneration of the injured endometrium (P<0.0001). In addition, the expression levels of bFGF, VEGF, vimentin, and Ki67 were significantly higher in the bFGF-BMSC+scaffold group than in the BMSC+scaffold group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicated that bFGF-BMSCs loaded on collagen scaffolds have the ability to prompt the regeneration of the endometrium after injury, contributing to a better understanding of stem cell treatment for intrauterine adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Yingxin Gong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghai, China
| | - Ninghong Jiang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Jingjing Xiao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghai, China
| | - Limei Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Long Sui
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
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Li R, Yu S, Liang X, Li Y, Lai KP. Vitamin C exerts anti-cadmium induced fracture functions/targets: bioinformatic and biostructural findings. FOOD SCIENCE AND HUMAN WELLNESS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fshw.2022.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Liu X, Wu K, Gao L, Wang L, Shi X. Biomaterial strategies for the application of reproductive tissue engineering. Bioact Mater 2022; 14:86-96. [PMID: 35310354 PMCID: PMC8892081 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human reproductive organs are of vital importance to the life of an individual and the reproduction of human populations. So far, traditional methods have a limited effect in recovering the function and fertility of reproductive organs and tissues. Thus, aim to replace and facilitate the regrowth of damaged or diseased tissue, various biomaterials are developed to offer hope to overcome these difficulties and help gain further research progress in reproductive tissue engineering. In this review, we focus on the biomaterials and their four main applications in reproductive tissue engineering: in vitro generation and culture of reproductive cells; development of reproductive organoids and models; in vivo transplantation of reproductive cells or tissues; and regeneration of reproductive tissue. In reproductive tissue engineering, designing biomaterials for different applications with different mechanical properties, structure, function, and microenvironment is challenging and important, and deserves more attention. Various biomaterials have been developed and used in reproductive tissue engineering. 3D culture systems can lead to better cell-cell interactions for in vitro production of reproductive cells. Reproductive organoids and models are formed by biomaterials to simulate the environment of natural reproductive organs. Biomaterials should promote vascular regeneration and resist inflammation for in-situ reproductive tissue regeneration.
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25
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Cai G, Hou Z, Sun W, Li P, Zhang J, Yang L, Chen J. Recent Developments in Biomaterial-Based Hydrogel as the Delivery System for Repairing Endometrial Injury. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:894252. [PMID: 35795167 PMCID: PMC9251415 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.894252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial injury caused by intrauterine surgery often leads to pathophysiological changes in the intrauterine environment, resulting in infertility in women of childbearing age. However, clinical treatment strategies, especially for moderate to severe injuries, often fail to provide satisfactory therapeutic effects and pregnancy outcomes. With the development of reproductive medicine and materials engineering, researchers have developed bioactive hydrogel materials, which can be used as a physical anti-adhesion barrier alone or as functional delivery systems for intrauterine injury treatment by loading stem cells or various active substances. Studies have demonstrated that the biomaterial-based hydrogel delivery system can provide sufficient mechanical support and improve the intrauterine microenvironment, enhance the delivery efficiency of therapeutic agents, prolong intrauterine retention time, and perform efficiently targeted repair compared with ordinary drug therapy or stem cell therapy. It shows the promising application prospects of the hydrogel delivery system in reproductive medicine. Herein, we review the recent advances in endometrial repair methods, focusing on the current application status of biomaterial-based hydrogel delivery systems in intrauterine injury repair, including preparation principles, therapeutic efficacy, repair mechanisms, and current limitations and development perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiyang Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhipeng Hou
- Center for Molecular Science and Engineering, College of Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics (China Medical University), Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning (The Reproductive Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Peng Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics (China Medical University), Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning (The Reproductive Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Jinzhe Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics (China Medical University), Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning (The Reproductive Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Liqun Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics (China Medical University), Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning (The Reproductive Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Liqun Yang, ; Jing Chen,
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Liqun Yang, ; Jing Chen,
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Zhou S, Lei Y, Wang P, Chen J, Zeng L, Qu T, Maldonado M, Huang J, Han T, Wen Z, Tian E, Meng X, Zhong Y, Gu J. Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Encapsulated with Pluronic F-127 Enhance the Regeneration and Angiogenesis of Thin Endometrium in Rat via Local IL-1 β Stimulation. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:7819234. [PMID: 35761831 PMCID: PMC9233600 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7819234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Thin endometrium (< 7 mm) could cause low clinical pregnancy, reduced live birth, increased spontaneous abortion, and decreased birth weight. However, the treatments for thin endometrium have not been well developed. In this study, we aim to determine the role of Pluronic F-127 (PF-127) encapsulation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) in the regeneration of thin endometrium and its underlying mechanism. Thin endometrium rat model was created by infusion of 95% ethanol. Thin endometrium modeled rat uterus were treated with saline, hUC-MSCs, PF-127, or hUC-MSCs plus PF-127 separately. Regenerated rat uterus was measured for gene expression levels of angiogenesis factors and histological morphology. Angiogenesis capacity of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-primed hUC-MSCs was monitored via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR), Luminex assay, and tube formation assay. Decreased endometrium thickness and gland number and increased inflammatory factor IL-1β were achieved in the thin endometrium rat model. Embedding of hUC-MSCs with PF-127 could prolong the hUC-MSCs retaining, which could further enhance endometrium thickness and gland number in the thin endometrium rat model via increasing angiogenesis capacity. Conditional medium derived from IL-1β-primed hUC-MSCs increased the concentration of angiogenesis factors (basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)). Improvement in the thickness, number of glands, and newly generated blood vessels could be achieved by uterus endometrium treatment with PF-127 and hUC-MSCs transplantation. Local IL-1β stimulation-primed hUC-MSCs promoted the release of angiogenesis factors and may play a vital role on thin endometrium regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Zhou
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
- Department of Pathology and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Immunopathology, Collaborative and Creative Center, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Lei
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
- Department of Pathology and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Immunopathology, Collaborative and Creative Center, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Jianying Chen
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Liting Zeng
- Department of Pathology and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Immunopathology, Collaborative and Creative Center, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
| | - Ting Qu
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Martin Maldonado
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Jihua Huang
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Tingting Han
- Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Zina Wen
- Department of Andrology, Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Erpo Tian
- Department of Andrology, Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, 66 Bisheng Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Xiangqian Meng
- Department of Embryology, Chengdu Jinjiang Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, 3 San-guantang Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Ying Zhong
- Department of Embryology, Chengdu Jinjiang Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, 3 San-guantang Road, Chengdu, 610066 Sichuan, China
| | - Jiang Gu
- Department of Pathology and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Immunopathology, Collaborative and Creative Center, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong, China
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27
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Therapeutic Effects and Repair Mechanism of HGF Gene-Transfected Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Injured Endometrium. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:5744538. [PMID: 35422866 PMCID: PMC9005300 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5744538] [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: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many studies on the advantages of using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that secrete various paracrine factors for repairing endometrial injury. However, the stability and effectiveness of MSCs require improvement to become a viable therapy. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), one of the cytokines secreted by MSCs, promotes vascular repair and mesenchymal to epithelial transformation (MET). Therefore, HGF likely promotes the repair process of the endometrium. We prepared MSCs transfected with the HGF gene to explore its repair effects and mechanism using a damaged endometrium mouse model. HGF gene-transfected MSCs were prepared by electroporation. The transfected MSCs retained their cellular characteristics and significantly increased the expression of HGF (
). HGF gene-transfected MSCs helped damaged endometrium to recover its morphological characteristics, improved proliferation and decreased apoptosis of endometrial cells, increased the expression of endometrial vascular growth-related factors, and activated phosphorylated c-Met and AKT in the mouse endometrial damage model (
). Compared with normal MSCs, HGF gene-transfected MSCs produced a more significant effect on damaged endometrial epithelium repair by activating the HGF/c-Met and downstream signaling pathways. Our results indicate that HGF gene-transfected MSCs provide an effective and promising tool for injured endometrium therapy.
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Dong C, Yang C, Younis MR, Zhang J, He G, Qiu X, Fu L, Zhang D, Wang H, Hong W, Lin J, Wu X, Huang P. Bioactive NIR-II Light-Responsive Shape Memory Composite Based on Cuprorivaite Nanosheets for Endometrial Regeneration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2102220. [PMID: 35218328 PMCID: PMC9036008 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202102220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) caused by mechanical damage or infection increase the risk of infertility in women. Although numerous physical barriers such as balloon or hydrogel are developed for the prevention of IUAs, the therapeutic efficacy is barely satisfactory due to limited endometrial healing, which may lead to recurrence. Herein, a second near-infrared (NIR-II) light-responsive shape memory composite based on the combination of cuprorivaite (CaCuSi4 O10 ) nanosheets (CUP NSs) as photothermal conversion agents and polymer poly(d,l-lactide-co-trimethylene carbonate) (PT) as shape memory building blocks is developed. The as-prepared CUP/PT composite possesses excellent shape memory performance under NIR-II light, and the improved operational feasibility as an antiadhesion barrier for the treatment of IUAs. Moreover, the released ions (Cu, Si) can stimulate the endometrial regeneration due to the angiogenic bioactivity. This study provides a new strategy to prevent IUA and restore the injured endometrium relied on shape memory composite with enhanced tissues reconstruction ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenle Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyShenzhen University General HospitalClinical Medical AcademyShenzhen UniversityShenzhen518060China
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
| | - Chen Yang
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
- Wenzhou InstituteUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- Oujiang LaboratoryWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Muhammad Rizwan Younis
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
| | - Gang He
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
| | - Xingdi Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyShenzhen University General HospitalClinical Medical AcademyShenzhen UniversityShenzhen518060China
| | - Lian‐Hua Fu
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
| | - Dong‐Yang Zhang
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyShenzhen University General HospitalClinical Medical AcademyShenzhen UniversityShenzhen518060China
| | - Wenli Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyShenzhen University General HospitalClinical Medical AcademyShenzhen UniversityShenzhen518060China
| | - Jing Lin
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyShenzhen University General HospitalClinical Medical AcademyShenzhen UniversityShenzhen518060China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringInternational Cancer CenterLaboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET)School of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen University Health Science CenterShenzhen518060China
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Lin Y, Dong S, Ye X, Liu J, Li J, Zhang Y, Tu M, Wang S, Ying Y, Chen R, Wang F, Ni F, Chen J, Du B, Zhang D. Synergistic regenerative therapy of thin endometrium by human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells encapsulated within hyaluronic acid hydrogels. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:66. [PMID: 35135594 PMCID: PMC8822809 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02717-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Thin endometrium is a primary cause of defective endometrial receptivity, resulting in infertility or recurrent miscarriage. Much effort has been devoted toward regenerating thin endometrium by stem cell-based therapies. The human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HP-MSCs) are emerging alternative sources of MSCs with various advantages. To maximize their retention inside the uterus, we loaded HP-MSCs with cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogel (HA hydrogel) to investigate their therapeutic efficacy and possible underlying mechanisms.
Methods Ethanol was injected into the mice uterus to establish the endometrium-injured model. The retention time of HP-MSCs and HA hydrogel was detected by in vivo imaging, while the distribution of HP-MSCs was detected by immunofluorescence staining. Functional restoration of the uterus was assessed by testing embryo implantation rates. The endometrial morphological alteration was observed by H&E staining, Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry. In vitro studies were further conducted using EdU, transwell, tube formation, and western blot assays. Results Instilled HP-MSCs with HA hydrogel (HP-MSCs-HA) exhibited a prolonged retention time in mouse uteri than normal HP-MSCs. In vivo studies showed that the HP-MSCs-HA could significantly increase the gland number and endometrial thickness (P < 0.001, P < 0.05), decrease fibrous area (P < 0.0001), and promote the proliferation and angiogenesis of endometrial cells (as indicated by Ki67 and VEGF, P < 0.05, P < 0.05, respectively) in mice injured endometrium. HP-MSCs-HA could also significantly improve the embryo implantation rate (P < 0.01) compared with the ethanol group. Further mechanistic study showed the paracrine effects of HP-MSCs. They could not only promote the proliferation and migration of human endometrial stromal cells via the JNK/Erk1/2-Stat3-VEGF pathway but also facilitate the proliferation of glandular cells via Jak2-Stat5 and c-Fos-VEGF pathway. In turn, the increased VEGF in the endometrium promoted the angiogenesis of endothelial cells. Conclusion Our study suggested the potential therapeutic effects and the underlying mechanisms of HP-MSCs-HA on treating thin endometrium. HA hydrogel could be a preferable delivery method for HP-MSCs, and the strategy represents a promising therapeutic approach against endometrial injury in clinical settings. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02717-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Lin
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shunni Dong
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Xiaohang Ye
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiaqun Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanye Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mixue Tu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Siwen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanyun Ying
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ruixue Chen
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Feixia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Feida Ni
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianpeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Binyang Du
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China.
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Zheng S, Gao Y, Chen K, Liu Y, Xia N, Fang F. A Robust and Highly Efficient Approach for Isolation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells From Wharton's Jelly for Tissue Repair. Cell Transplant 2022; 31:9636897221084354. [PMID: 35313748 PMCID: PMC8943591 DOI: 10.1177/09636897221084354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord Wharton's Jelly (WJ-MSCs) are emerging as promising therapeutics for a variety of diseases due to their ability of regeneration and immunomodulation, and their non-tumorigenic and non-immunogenic properties. Although multiple protocols have been developed for WJ-MSC isolation, insufficient cell numbers, heterogeneous cell population, and variations in procedures between different laboratories impede further clinical applications. Here, we compared six widely used WJ-MSC isolation methods regarding cell morphology, yield, purity, proliferation rate, and differentiation potential. Based on these analyses, we identified that the inefficiency of the extracellular matrix digestion results in low cell yield. Thus, we developed a new method called "Mince-Soak-Digest (MSD)" to isolate MSCs from WJ by incorporating a soaking step to facilitate the digestion of the extracellular matrix and release of the cells. Our newly developed method generates significantly higher cell yield (4- to 10-fold higher) than six widely used methods that we tested with high purity and consistency. Importantly, by transplantation of WJ-MSCs to the rat uterus, we repair the endometrial injury and restore the fertility of the rats. In conclusion, our results provide a robust and highly efficient approach for the isolation of WJ-MSCs to restore injured tissue. The higher efficiency of MSD assures the abundance of WJ-MSCs for clinical applications. Furthermore, the reliability of MSD contributes to the standardization of WJ-MSC isolation, which eliminates the discrepancies due to isolation procedures, thus facilitating the evaluation of the efficacy of WJ-MSCs across various human clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengxia Zheng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yanyan Gao
- Anhui Tianlun Infertility Specialist Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Yusheng Liu
- Anhui Tianlun Infertility Specialist Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Ninuo Xia
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Francés-Herrero E, Lopez R, Hellström M, de Miguel-Gómez L, Herraiz S, Brännström M, Pellicer A, Cervelló I. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:798-837. [PMID: 35652272 PMCID: PMC9629485 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To provide the optimal milieu for implantation and fetal development, the female reproductive system must orchestrate uterine dynamics with the appropriate hormones produced by the ovaries. Mature oocytes may be fertilized in the fallopian tubes, and the resulting zygote is transported toward the uterus, where it can implant and continue developing. The cervix acts as a physical barrier to protect the fetus throughout pregnancy, and the vagina acts as a birth canal (involving uterine and cervix mechanisms) and facilitates copulation. Fertility can be compromised by pathologies that affect any of these organs or processes, and therefore, being able to accurately model them or restore their function is of paramount importance in applied and translational research. However, innate differences in human and animal model reproductive tracts, and the static nature of 2D cell/tissue culture techniques, necessitate continued research and development of dynamic and more complex in vitro platforms, ex vivo approaches and in vivo therapies to study and support reproductive biology. To meet this need, bioengineering is propelling the research on female reproduction into a new dimension through a wide range of potential applications and preclinical models, and the burgeoning number and variety of studies makes for a rapidly changing state of the field. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize the mounting evidence on bioengineering strategies, platforms and therapies currently available and under development in the context of female reproductive medicine, in order to further understand female reproductive biology and provide new options for fertility restoration. Specifically, techniques used in, or for, the uterus (endometrium and myometrium), ovary, fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina will be discussed. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search of full-text articles available in PubMed and Embase databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published between January 2000 and September 2021. The search terms included: bioengineering, reproduction, artificial, biomaterial, microfluidic, bioprinting, organoid, hydrogel, scaffold, uterus, endometrium, ovary, fallopian tubes, oviduct, cervix, vagina, endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, chlamydia, Asherman’s syndrome, intrauterine adhesions, uterine polyps, polycystic ovary syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency. Additional studies were identified by manually searching the references of the selected articles and of complementary reviews. Eligibility criteria included original, rigorous and accessible peer-reviewed work, published in English, on female reproductive bioengineering techniques in preclinical (in vitro/in vivo/ex vivo) and/or clinical testing phases. OUTCOMES Out of the 10 390 records identified, 312 studies were included for systematic review. Owing to inconsistencies in the study measurements and designs, the findings were assessed qualitatively rather than by meta-analysis. Hydrogels and scaffolds were commonly applied in various bioengineering-related studies of the female reproductive tract. Emerging technologies, such as organoids and bioprinting, offered personalized diagnoses and alternative treatment options, respectively. Promising microfluidic systems combining various bioengineering approaches have also shown translational value. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The complexity of the molecular, endocrine and tissue-level interactions regulating female reproduction present challenges for bioengineering approaches to replace female reproductive organs. However, interdisciplinary work is providing valuable insight into the physicochemical properties necessary for reproductive biological processes to occur. Defining the landscape of reproductive bioengineering technologies currently available and under development for women can provide alternative models for toxicology/drug testing, ex vivo fertility options, clinical therapies and a basis for future organ regeneration studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mats Hellström
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lucía de Miguel-Gómez
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Fundación IVI, IVI-RMA Global, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- Fundación IVI, IVI-RMA Global, Valencia, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, IIS La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mats Brännström
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Stockholm IVF-EUGIN, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVI Roma Parioli, IVI-RMA Global, Rome, Italy
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Ma J, Zhan H, Li W, Zhang L, Yun F, Wu R, Lin J, Li Y. Recent trends in therapeutic strategies for repairing endometrial tissue in intrauterine adhesion. Biomater Res 2021; 25:40. [PMID: 34819167 PMCID: PMC8611984 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-021-00242-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a common gynaecological disease that develops from infection or trauma. IUA disease may seriously affect the physical and mental health of women of childbearing age, which may lead to symptoms such as hypomenorrhea or infertility. Presently, hysteroscopic transcervical resection of adhesion (TCRA) is the principal therapy for IUAs, although its function in preventing the recurrence of adhesion and preserving fertility is limited. Pharmaceuticals such as hormones and vasoactive agents and the placement of nondegradable stents are the most common postoperative adjuvant therapy methods. However, the repair of injured endometrium is relatively restricted due to the different anatomical structures of the endometrium. Recently, the treatment outcome of IUAs has improved with the advancement of hysteroscopic techniques. In particular, the application of bioactive scaffolds combined with tissue engineering technology has proven to have high therapeutic potential or endometrial repair in IUA treatment. Herein, this review has summarized past therapeutic strategies, including postoperative adjuvant therapy, cell or therapeutic molecular delivery therapy methods and bioactive scaffold-based tissue engineering methods. Therefore, this review presented the recent therapeutic strategies for repairing endometrium treatment and pointed out the issues of clinical concern to provide alternative methods for the management of IUAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyan Ma
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Precision Diagnosis & Treatment of Major Gynecological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hong Zhan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Wen Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Liqi Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Feng Yun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ruijin Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Yangyang Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Precision Diagnosis & Treatment of Major Gynecological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Gao M, Yu Z, Yao D, Qian Y, Wang Q, Jia R. Mesenchymal stem cells therapy: A promising method for the treatment of uterine scars and premature ovarian failure. Tissue Cell 2021; 74:101676. [PMID: 34798583 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Both intrauterine adhesions (IUA) and premature ovarian failure (POF) have plagued women all over the world for a long time. It is well known that all invasive operations involving the uterus can disrupt its structural and functional integrity to a varying degree, which inevitably lead to abnormal scar formation, such as IUA, also known as Asherman's syndrome with symptoms like hypomenorrhea or infertility. Another reproductive disorder that causes infertility is primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) or POF, which is a degenerative phenomenon in the ovary among women under the age of 40. In recent years, various types of stem cells, especially mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely used in reproductive medicine due to their properties, such as immunoregulation, anti-inflammation, angiogenesis, anti-apoptosis, and trophicity. However, the extensive clinical application of cell therapy is impeded by their safety, cost, and manufacturing. In this review, we sought to summarize the recent advances in using different types of MSCs in treating uterine scars and POF. We also describe several biological pathways and molecules involved in animal studies and clinical application; extracellular vesicles secreted by MSCs may be a promising attractive tool to ensure the treatment of infertility by restoring normal reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Gao
- Fourth Clinical Medicine College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhaoer Yu
- Fourth Clinical Medicine College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Dan Yao
- Fourth Clinical Medicine College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yating Qian
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ruizhe Jia
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
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López-Martínez S, Rodríguez-Eguren A, de Miguel-Gómez L, Francés-Herrero E, Faus A, Díaz A, Pellicer A, Ferrero H, Cervelló I. Bioengineered endometrial hydrogels with growth factors promote tissue regeneration and restore fertility in murine models. Acta Biomater 2021; 135:113-125. [PMID: 34428563 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels obtained from decellularized tissues are promising biocompatible materials for tissue regeneration. These biomaterials may provide important options for endometrial pathologies such as Asherman's syndrome and endometrial atrophy, which lack effective therapies thus far. First, we performed a proteomic analysis of a decellularized endometrial porcine hydrogel (EndoECM) to describe the specific role of ECM proteins related to regenerative processes. Furthermore, we investigated the ability of a bioengineered system-EndoECM alone or supplemented with growth factors (GFs)-to repair the endometrium in a murine model of endometrial damage. For this model, the uterine horns of female C57BL/6 mice were first injected with 70% ethanol, then four days later, they were treated with: saline (negative control); biotin-labeled EndoECM; or biotin-labeled EndoECM plus platelet-derived GF, basic fibroblast GF, and insulin-like GF 1 (EndoECM+GF). Endometrial regeneration and fertility restoration were evaluated by assessing the number of glands, endometrial area, cell proliferation, neaoangiogenesis, reduction of collagen deposition, and fertility restoration. Interestingly, regenerative effects such as an increased number of endometrial glands, increased area, high cell proliferative index, development of new blood vessels, reduction of collagen deposition, and higher pregnancy rate occurred in mice treated with EndoECM+GF. Thus, a bioengineered system based on EndoECM hydrogel supplemented with GFs may be promising for the clinical treatment of endometrial conditions such as Asherman's syndrome and endometrial atrophy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In the last years, the bioengineering field has developed new and promising approaches to regenerate tissues or replace damaged and diseased tissues. Bioengineered hydrogels offer an ideal option because these materials can be used not only as treatments but also as carriers of drugs and other therapeutics. The present work demonstrates for the first time how hydrogels derived from pig endometrium loaded with growth factors could treat uterine pathologies in a mouse model of endometrial damage. These findings provide scientific evidence about bioengineered hydrogels based on tissue-specific extracellular matrix offering new options to treat human infertility from endometrial causes such as Asherman's syndrome or endometrial atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara López-Martínez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, Hospital La Fe, Torre A, Planta 1ª, Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Adolfo Rodríguez-Eguren
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, Hospital La Fe, Torre A, Planta 1ª, Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Lucía de Miguel-Gómez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, Hospital La Fe, Torre A, Planta 1ª, Valencia 46026, Spain; University of Valencia, Avenida de Blasco Ibáñez, 13, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Emilio Francés-Herrero
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, Hospital La Fe, Torre A, Planta 1ª, Valencia 46026, Spain; University of Valencia, Avenida de Blasco Ibáñez, 13, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Amparo Faus
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, Hospital La Fe, Torre A, Planta 1ª, Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Ana Díaz
- University of Valencia, Avenida de Blasco Ibáñez, 13, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- University of Valencia, Avenida de Blasco Ibáñez, 13, Valencia 46010, Spain; IVIRMA Roma, Largo Ildebrando Pizzetti, 1, Roma 00197, Italy
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, Hospital La Fe, Torre A, Planta 1ª, Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Irene Cervelló
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, Hospital La Fe, Torre A, Planta 1ª, Valencia 46026, Spain.
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Jiao Y, Chen X, Niu Y, Huang S, Wang J, Luo M, Shi G, Huang J. Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells embedded in PF-127 hydrogel plus sodium ascorbyl phosphate combination promote diabetic wound healing in type 2 diabetic rat. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:559. [PMID: 34717751 PMCID: PMC8557497 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02626-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diabetic cutaneous ulcers (DCU) are a complication of diabetes with diabetic foot ulcers being the most common, and the wounds are difficult to heal, increasing the risk of bacterial infection. Cell-based therapy utilizing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is currently being investigated as a therapeutic avenue for both chronic diabetic ulcers and severe burns. Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cell (WJMSC) with PF-127 hydrogel and sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) improved skin wound healing in mice. Whether this combination strategy is helpful to diabetic ulcers wound healing remains to be explored. Methods Firstly, the WJMSCs embedded in PF-127 and SAP combination were transplanted onto excisional cutaneous wound bed in type 2 diabetic Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. Two weeks after transplantation, the skin tissue was collected for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Further, overexpressing-EGFP WJMSCs were performed to investigate cell engraftment in the diabetic cutaneous ulcer. The apoptosis of WJMSCs which encapsulated with combination of PF-127 and SAP was detected by TUNEL fluorescence assay and RT-PCR in vitro. And the mitochondrial damage induced by oxidative stress assessed by MitoTracker and CMH2DCFDA fluorescence assay. Results In diabetic cutaneous wound rat model, PF-127 plus SAP-encapsulated WJMSCs transplantation promoted diabetic wound healing, indicating improving dermis regeneration and collagen deposition. In diabetic wound healing, less pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages, more anti-inflammatory M2 tissue-healing macrophages, and neovascularization were observed in PF-127 + SAP + WJMSCs group compared with other groups. SAP supplementation alleviated the apoptosis ratio of WJMSCs embedded in the PF-127 in vitro and promoted cell survival in vivo. Conclusion PF-127 plus SAP combination facilitates WJMSCs-mediated diabetic wound healing in rat through promoting cell survival, the macrophage transformation, and angiogenesis. Our findings may potentially provide a helpful therapeutic strategy for patients with diabetic cutaneous ulcer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02626-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiren Jiao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Xiaolin Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Yongxia Niu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Sunxing Huang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Jingwen Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Mingxun Luo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Guang Shi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
| | - Junjiu Huang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
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Wang J, Yang C, Xie Y, Chen X, Jiang T, Tian J, Hu S, Lu Y. Application of Bioactive Hydrogels for Functional Treatment of Intrauterine Adhesion. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:760943. [PMID: 34621732 PMCID: PMC8490821 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.760943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a common endometrial disease and one of the main causes of infertility in women of childbearing age. Current treatment strategies, such as hysteroscopic adhesion resection, hysteroscopic transcervical resection of adhesion (TCRA), the use of local hormone drugs, and anti-adhesion scaffold implantation, do not provide a satisfactory pregnancy outcome for moderate-severe IUA, which presents a great challenge in reproductive medicine. With the development of material engineering, various bioactive and functional hydrogels have been developed using natural and synthetic biomaterials. These hydrogels are not only used as barely physical barriers but are also designed as vectors of hormone drugs, growth factors, and stem cells. These characteristics give bioactive hydrogels potentially important roles in the prevention and treatment of IUA. However, there is still no systematic review or consensus on the current advances and future research direction in this field. Herein, we review recent advances in bioactive hydrogels as physical anti-adhesion barriers, in situ drug delivery systems, and 3D cell delivery and culture systems for seeded cells in IUA treatment. In addition, current limitations and future perspectives are presented for further research guidance, which may provide a comprehensive understanding of the application of bioactive hydrogels in intrauterine adhesion treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuxin Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaoxu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ting Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jing Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Sihui Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yingli Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Almeida GHDR, Iglesia RP, Araújo MS, Carreira ACO, Dos Santos EX, Calomeno CVAQ, Miglino MA. Uterine Tissue Engineering: Where We Stand and the Challenges Ahead. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2021; 28:861-890. [PMID: 34476997 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2021.0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Tissue engineering is an innovative approach to develop allogeneic tissues and organs. The uterus is a very sensitive and complex organ, which requires refined techniques to properly regenerate and even, to rebuild itself. Many therapies were developed in 20th century to solve reproductive issues related to uterus failure and, more recently, tissue engineering techniques provided a significant evolution in this issue. Herein we aim to provide a broad overview and highlights of the general concepts involved in bioengineering to reconstruct the uterus and its tissues, focusing on strategies for tissue repair, production of uterine scaffolds, biomaterials and reproductive animal models, highlighting the most recent and effective tissue engineering protocols in literature and their application in regenerative medicine. In addition, we provide a discussion about what was achieved in uterine tissue engineering, the main limitations, the challenges to overcome and future perspectives in this research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Henrique Doná Rodrigues Almeida
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Professor Orlando Marques de Paiva Avenue, 87, Butantã, SP, Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil, 05508-900.,University of São Paulo Institute of Biomedical Sciences, 54544, Cell and Developmental Biology, Professor Lineu Prestes Avenue, 1374, Butantã, SP, Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil, 05508-900;
| | - Rebeca Piatniczka Iglesia
- University of São Paulo Institute of Biomedical Sciences, 54544, Cell and Developmental Biology, Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Michelle Silva Araújo
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil., São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, SP, Brazil, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Erika Xavier Dos Santos
- State University of Maringá, 42487, Department of Morphological Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil, Maringa, PR, Brazil;
| | - Celso Vitor Alves Queiroz Calomeno
- State University of Maringá, 42487, Department of Morphological Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil, Maringa, PR, Brazil;
| | - Maria Angélica Miglino
- University of São Paulo, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science Professor Orlando Marques de Paiva Avenue, 87 Butantã SP Sao Paulo, São Paulo, BR 05508-900, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil;
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Lv H, Wu B, Song J, Wu W, Cai W, Xu J. Hydrogel, a novel therapeutic and delivery strategy, in the treatment of intrauterine adhesions. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:6536-6552. [PMID: 34324619 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb01005k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) are caused by damage to the underlying lining of the endometrium. They' re related to disorder of endometrial repair. In recent years, hydrogels with controllable biological activity have been widely used for treating IUAs. They encapsulate estrogen, cytokines, cells, or exosomes, forming a delivery system to release therapeutic components for the treatment of IUAs. In addition, the hydrogel acting as a barrier can be degraded in the body automatically, reducing the risk of infection caused by secondary surgeries. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of hydrogels and their application in IUAs as both a novel alternative therapeutic and an artificial delivery strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houyi Lv
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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de Miguel-Gómez L, Romeu M, Pellicer A, Cervelló I. Strategies for managing asherman's syndrome and endometrial atrophy: Since the classical experimental models to the new bioengineering approach. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:527-543. [PMID: 34293229 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial function is essential for embryo implantation and pregnancy, but managing endometrial thickness that is too thin to support pregnancy or an endometrium of compromised functionality due to intrauterine adhesions is an ongoing challenge in reproductive medicine. Here, we review current and emerging therapeutic and experimental options for endometrial regeneration with a focus on animal models used to study solutions for Asherman's syndrome and endometrial atrophy, which both involve a damaged endometrium. A review of existing literature was performed that confirmed the lack of consensus on endometrial therapeutic options, though promising new alternatives have emerged in recent years (platelet-rich plasma, exosomes derived from stem cells, bioengineering-based techniques, endometrial organoids, among others). In the future, basic research using established experimental models of endometrial pathologies (combined with new high-tech solutions) and human clinical trials with large population sizes are needed to evaluate these emerging and new endometrial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía de Miguel-Gómez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
- University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mónica Romeu
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, La Fe Health Research Institute, La Fe University Hospital, Valencia, Spain
- Women's Health Area, Human Reproduction Unit, La Fe University Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Irene Cervelló
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
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Song M, Zhao G, Sun H, Yao S, Zhou Z, Jiang P, Wu Q, Zhu H, Wang H, Dai C, Wang J, Li R, Cao Y, Lv H, Liu D, Dai J, Zhou Y, Hu Y. circPTPN12/miR-21-5 p/∆Np63α pathway contributes to human endometrial fibrosis. eLife 2021; 10:65735. [PMID: 34132637 PMCID: PMC8208816 DOI: 10.7554/elife.65735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence demonstrates the important role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in regulating pathological processes in various diseases including organ fibrosis. Endometrium fibrosis is the leading cause of uterine infertility, but the role of circRNAs in its pathogenesis is largely unknown. Here, we provide the evidence that upregulation of circPTPN12 in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) of fibrotic endometrium functions as endogenous sponge of miR-21-5 p to inhibit miR-21-5 p expression and activity, which in turn results in upregulation of ΔNp63α to induce the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of EECs (EEC-EMT). In a mouse model of endometrium fibrosis, circPTPN12 appears to be a cofactor of driving EEC-EMT and administration of miR-21-5 p could reverse this process and improve endometrial fibrosis. Our findings revealed that the dysfunction of circPTPN12/miR-21-5 p/∆Np63α pathway contributed to the pathogenesis of endometrial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minmin Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangfeng Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Simin Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenhua Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Peipei Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Qianwen Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Chenyan Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingmei Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruotian Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Haining Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Yali Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
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Abstract
Impairment of uterine structure and function causes infertility, pregnancy loss, and perinatal complications in humans. Some types of uterine impairments such as Asherman’s syndrome, also known as uterine synechiae, can be treated medically and surgically in a standard clinical setting, but absolute defects of uterine function or structure cannot be cured by conventional approaches. To overcome such hurdles, partial or whole regeneration and reconstruction of the uterus have recently emerged as new therapeutic strategies. Transplantation of the whole uterus into patients with uterine agenesis results in the successful birth of children. However, it remains an experimental treatment with numerous difficulties such as the need for continuous and long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs until a live birth is achieved. Thus, the generation of the uterus by tissue engineering technologies has become an alternative but indispensable therapeutic strategy to treat patients without a functional or well-structured uterus. For the past 20 years, the bioengineering of the uterus has been studied intensively in animal models, providing the basis for clinical applications. A variety of templates and scaffolds made from natural biomaterials, synthetic materials, or decellularized matrices have been characterized to efficiently generate the uterus in a manner similar to the bioengineering of other organs and tissues. The goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview and perspectives of uterine bioengineering focusing on the type, preparation, and characteristics of the currently available scaffolds.
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de Miguel-Gómez L, López-Martínez S, Francés-Herrero E, Rodríguez-Eguren A, Pellicer A, Cervelló I. Stem Cells and the Endometrium: From the Discovery of Adult Stem Cells to Pre-Clinical Models. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030595. [PMID: 33800355 PMCID: PMC7998473 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult stem cells (ASCs) were long suspected to exist in the endometrium. Indeed, several types of endometrial ASCs were identified in rodents and humans through diverse isolation and characterization techniques. Putative stromal and epithelial stem cell niches were identified in murine models using label-retention techniques. In humans, functional methods (clonogenicity, long-term culture, and multi-lineage differentiation assays) and stem cell markers (CD146, SUSD2/W5C5, LGR5, NTPDase2, SSEA-1, or N-cadherin) facilitated the identification of three main types of endogenous endometrial ASCs: stromal, epithelial progenitor, and endothelial stem cells. Further, exogenous populations of stem cells derived from bone marrow may act as key effectors of the endometrial ASC niche. These findings are promoting the development of stem cell therapies for endometrial pathologies, with an evolution towards paracrine approaches. At the same time, promising therapeutic alternatives based on bioengineering have been proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía de Miguel-Gómez
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Sara López-Martínez
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
| | - Emilio Francés-Herrero
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Adolfo Rodríguez-Eguren
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- IVIRMA Rome Parioli, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Cervelló
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-963-903-305
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Li X, Lv HF, Zhao R, Ying MF, Samuriwo A, Zhao YZ. Recent developments in bio-scaffold materials as delivery strategies for therapeutics for endometrium regeneration. Mater Today Bio 2021; 11:100101. [PMID: 34036261 PMCID: PMC8138682 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2021.100101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) refer to the repair disorder after endometrial injury and may lead to uterine infertility, recurrent miscarriage, abnormal menstrual bleeding, and other obstetric complications. It is a pressing public health issue among women of childbearing age. Presently, there are limited clinical treatments for IUA, and there is no sufficient evidence that these treatment modalities can effectively promote regeneration after severe endometrial injury or improve pregnancy outcome. The inhibitory pathological micro-environment is the main factor hindering the repair of endometrial damaged tissues. To address this, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have been achieving promising developments. Particularly, biomaterials have been used to load stem cells or therapeutic factors or construct an in situ delivery system as a treatment strategy for endometrial injury repair. This article comprehensively discusses the characteristics of various bio-scaffold materials and their application as stem cell or therapeutic factor delivery systems constructed for uterine tissue regeneration.
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Key Words
- Asherman's syndrome/endometrium regeneration
- BMNCs, autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells
- BMSCs, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
- Biological scaffold material
- D&C, Dilatation and curettage
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- En-PSC, endometrial perivascular cells
- IUA, Intrauterine adhesions
- KGF, Keratinocyte growth factor
- MSC-Sec, Mesenchymal stem cell-secretome
- SDF-1α, stromal cell-derived factor-1α
- Scaffold-based therapeutics delivery systems
- Stem cell
- Therapeutic factor
- UCMSCs, umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cells
- VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor
- bFGF, basic fibroblast growth factors
- dEMSCs, endometrial stromal cells
- hESCs, human embryonic stem cells
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Affiliation(s)
- X. Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiasha Campus, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University (Hangzhou Xiasha Hospital), Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - H.-F. Lv
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Corresponding author.
| | - R. Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiasha Campus, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University (Hangzhou Xiasha Hospital), Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - M.-f. Ying
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiasha Campus, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University (Hangzhou Xiasha Hospital), Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - A.T. Samuriwo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Y.-Z. Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
- Corresponding author.
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Structural and chemical role of mesenchymal stem cells and resveratrol in regulation of apoptotic -induced genes in Bisphenol-A induced uterine damage in adult female albino rats. Tissue Cell 2021; 70:101502. [PMID: 33582552 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The probable beneficial effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and resveratrol were assessed in an experimental model of Bisphenol-A (BPA)-evident uterine damage in rats. Thirty-five albino rats were involved and equally divided into five groups: Group I: negative control rats received usual diet, Group II: positive control rats received BPA by oral gavage for 15 days, Group III: BPA-treated rats received single oral gavage of resveratrol daily for two weeks, Group IV: BPA-treated rats received a single intravenous dose of MSCs and Group V: BPA-treated rats received combined treatment of resveratrol and MSCs. Oxidative stress markers, apoptosis-related genes, and gonadal hormones were assessed. Histological and immunohistochemical examination of uterine tissue was conducted for TGF-β 1. Caspases-3, 8, and 9 (Casp3, Casp8, Casp9) genes were assessed in uterine tissues by quantitative real-time PCR. Results revealed that BPA induced significant changes in the endometrial tissue, inflammatory cell infiltration, focal blood extravasation, increase in collagen fibers, decrease in PAS staining, and increase in TGF-β 1 immunoreactivity. BPA also induced a significant increase in oxidative stress markers; malondialdehyde (MDA), SOD, CAT, and apoptosis-related genes. BPA induced a significant change in blood levels of gonadal hormones; a significant increase in FSH and a significant decrease in estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P). Treatment with either resveratrol, MSCs, or a combination of them resulted in significant enhancement of histological findings, restoration of gonadal hormones to near-normal levels, and a significant decrease in oxidative stress markers and apoptosis genes. Combined treatment with resveratrol and MSCs demonstrated more significant therapeutic effects as regard to the studied parameters in association with rat groups treated with either MSCs or resveratrol separately.
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Development of Decellularized Oviductal Hydrogels as a Support for Rabbit Embryo Culture. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1644-1658. [PMID: 33511539 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00446-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The oviducts (fallopian tubes in mammals) function as the site of fertilization and provide necessary support for early embryonic development, mainly via embryonic exposure to the tubal microenvironment. The main objective of this study was to create an oviduct-specific extracellular matrix (oviECM) hydrogel rich in bioactive components that mimics the native environment, thus optimizing the developmental trajectories of cultured embryos. Rabbit oviducts were decellularized through SDS treatment and enzymatic digestion, and the acellular tissue was converted into oviductal pre-gel extracellular matrix (ECM) solutions. Incubation of these solutions at 37 °C resulted in stable hydrogels with a fibrous structure based on scanning electron microscopy. Histological staining, DNA quantification and colorimetric assays confirmed that the decellularized tissue and hydrogels contained no cellular or nuclear components but retained important components of the ECM, e.g. hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins and collagens. To evaluate the ability of oviECM hydrogels to maintain early embryonic development, two-cell rabbit embryos were cultured on oviECM-coated surfaces and compared to those cultured with standard techniques. Embryo development was similar in both conditions, with 95.9% and 98% of the embryos reaching the late morula/early blastocyst stage by 48 h under standard culture and oviECM conditions, respectively. Metabolomic analysis of culture media in the presence or absence of embryos, however, revealed that the oviECM coating may include signalling molecules and release compounds beneficial to embryo metabolism.
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Lin Y, Dong S, Zhao W, Hu KL, Liu J, Wang S, Tu M, Du B, Zhang D. Application of Hydrogel-Based Delivery System in Endometrial Repair. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:7278-7290. [PMID: 35019471 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A receptive endometrium with proper thickness is essential for successful embryo implantation. However, endometrial injury caused by intrauterine procedures often leads to pathophysiological changes in its environment, resulting in subsequent female infertility. Among diverse treatment methods of endometrial injury, hydrogels are a class of hydrophilic three-dimensional polymeric network with biocompatibility as well as the capability of absorbing water and encapsulation, which have potential applications as a promising intrauterine controlled-release delivery system. This review summarizes recent advances in the approaches of endometrial repair and further focuses on the application of a hydrogel-based delivery system in endometrial repair, including its preparation, therapeutic loading considerations, clinical applications, as well as working mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Lin
- Key Laboratory of Re/productive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China
| | - Shunni Dong
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, PR China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Women Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China
| | - Kai-Lun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Re/productive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China
| | - Juan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Re/productive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China
| | - Siwen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Re/productive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China
| | - Mixue Tu
- Key Laboratory of Re/productive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China
| | - Binyang Du
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, PR China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Re/productive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Women Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, PR China
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Deng Q, Huang S, Wen J, Jiao Y, Su X, Shi G, Huang J. PF-127 hydrogel plus sodium ascorbyl phosphate improves Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cell-mediated skin wound healing in mice. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:143. [PMID: 32245517 PMCID: PMC7119174 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01638-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Factors such as poor engraftment, retention, and survival of the transplanted stem cells are deemed to limit their therapeutic efficacy for wound regeneration. Hence, it is necessary to explore these issues in order to resolve them. In this study, we aim to investigate the role of Pluronic F-127 (PF-127) hydrogel plus antioxidant sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) in enhancing Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cell (WJMSC)-mediated effectiveness on full-thickness skin wound healing in mice. Methods First, the cytotoxicity of PF-127 and the biological effect of SAP on the survival of WJMSCs were tested in vitro using cell viability and proliferation assays. Next, a cell suspension containing WJMSCs, PF-127, and SAP was topically administered onto an 8-mm diameter excisional full-thickness wound bed. Eight days after transplantation, the mice were sacrificed and the skin tissue was excised for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Finally, in vivo distribution of transplanted WJMSCs was traced to investigate cell engraftment and the potential therapeutic mechanism. Results PF-127 was found to be cytotoxic to WJMSCs while SAP significantly improved the survival of PF-127-embedded WJMSCs. When this combination was topically transplanted onto the wound bed, wound healing was facilitated and dermis regeneration was achieved on the 8th day after surgery, as evidenced by an increase in dermal thickness, newly developed hair follicles, and collagen fiber deposition accompanied by a reduction in scar width. Further, immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated a higher number of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, proliferating cells, and newly formed blood vessels in the WJMSCs/PF-127/SAP group relative to all other groups. In addition, in vivo tracking results revealed a highly enhanced engraftment of WJMSCs accumulated in the dermis in the WJMSCs/PF-127/SAP group. Conclusions SAP significantly improves the survival of WJMSCs in PF-127 encapsulation. Further, PF-127 plus SAP is an effective combination that enhances WJMSC engraftment in the dermis, which then promotes full-thickness wound healing through potential M2 macrophage formation and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingzha Deng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.,MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Sunxing Huang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Jinkun Wen
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.,Jiangmen Central Hospital, Affiliated Jiangmen Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Yiren Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.,MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Xiaohu Su
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.,MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Guang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China. .,MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
| | - Junjiu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China. .,MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
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48
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Han Q, Du Y. Advances in the Application of Biomimetic Endometrium Interfaces for Uterine Bioengineering in Female Infertility. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:153. [PMID: 32181248 PMCID: PMC7059418 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Asherman’s syndrome, also known as intrauterine adhesion, often follows endometrium injuries resulting from dilation and curettage, hysteroscopic resection, and myomectomy as well as infection. It often leads to scarring formation and female infertility. Pathological changes mainly include gland atrophy, lack of vascular stromal tissues and hypoxia and anemia microenvironment in the adhesion areas. Surgical intervention, hormone therapy and intrauterine device implantation are the present clinical treatments for Asherman’s syndrome. However, they do not result in functional endometrium recovery or pregnancy rate improvement. Instead, an increasing number of researches have paid attention to the reconstruction of biomimetic endometrium interfaces with advanced tissue engineering technology in recent decades. From micro-scale cell sheet engineering and cell-seeded biological scaffolds to nano-scale extracellular vesicles and bioactive molecule delivery, biomimetic endometrium interfaces not only recreate physiological multi-layered structures but also restore an appropriate nutritional microenvironment by increasing vascularization and reducing immune responses. This review comprehensively discusses the advances in the application of novel biocompatible functionalized endometrium interface scaffolds for uterine tissue regeneration in female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixin Han
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanzhi Du
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
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49
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Kou L, Jiang X, Xiao S, Zhao YZ, Yao Q, Chen R. Therapeutic options and drug delivery strategies for the prevention of intrauterine adhesions. J Control Release 2019; 318:25-37. [PMID: 31830539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) are bands of fibrous tissue that form in the endometrial cavity and associated with the increased risk of abnormal menstruation, recurrent pregnancy loss, secondary infertility, and pregnancy complications. Physical barriers, including intrauterine device and hydrogel, were clinical available to prevent the post-operational IUAs. But physically separation of the injured endometrium relies on the own limited healing power and often ends with recurrence. In recent years, the mechanisms driving IUAs treatment has validated the application of hormones, and further stem cell therapy has also led to the development of novel therapeutic agents with promising efficacy in pre-clinical and initial clinical studies. Still, it is challenging to delivery the therpaeutic factors to the injured uterus. Herein, in this review, we discuss the traditional intervention methods for the prevention of IUAs, as well as novel therapeutics and delivery strategies that will most likely change the treatment paradigms for better clinical outcomes. The combination strategy that using physical barriers as the delivery carriers for therapeutics might provide new alternatives for the prevention of IUAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longfa Kou
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xue Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Shuyi Xiao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ying-Zheng Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Qing Yao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
| | - Ruijie Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.
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Xia L, Meng Q, Xi J, Han Q, Cheng J, Shen J, Xia Y, Shi L. The synergistic effect of electroacupuncture and bone mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on repairing thin endometrial injury in rats. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:244. [PMID: 31391117 PMCID: PMC6686409 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1326-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue regeneration disorder after endometrial injury is an important cause of intrauterine adhesions, amenorrhea, and infertility in women. Both bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation and electroacupuncture (EA) are promising therapeutic applications for endometrial injury. This study examined their combined effects on thin endometrium in rats and the possible mechanisms underlying these effects. METHODS A thin endometrial model was established in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats by perfusing 95% ethanol into the right side of the uterus. The wounds were randomly treated with PBS (model group), BMSCs only (BMSC group), EA only (EA group), and BMSCs combined with EA (BMSC + EA group). Endometrial morphological alterations were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Changes in markers of epithelial and stromal endometrium cells, endometrial receptivity-related chemokines, and paracrine factors were detected using immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Finally, the functional recovery of the uterus was evaluated by determining the rate of embryo implantation. RESULTS As shown by endometrial morphology, the damaged uteri in all the treatment groups recovered to some extent, with the best effects observed in the BMSC + EA group. Further studies showed that EA promoted the migration of transplanted BMSCs to damaged uteri by activating the stromal cell-derived factor-1/C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (SDF-1/CXCR4) axis. As compared with the other groups, upregulated expression of endometrial cytokeratin and vimentin, increased secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in endometrial lesions, and improved embryo implantation rates on the 8th day of pregnancy were found in the BMSC + EA group. CONCLUSIONS EA plays an important role in supporting BMSCs in the repair of thin endometrium, most likely by promoting the migration of BMSCs and enhancing the paracrine effect of BMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangjun Xia
- School of Medicine and Life Science, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Qingyu Meng
- The Second Clinical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Jin Xi
- The Second Clinical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Qin Han
- School of Medicine and Life Science, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- The Second Clinical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Jie Shen
- The Second Clinical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Youbing Xia
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
- The Second Clinical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China.
| | - Liyun Shi
- School of Medicine and Life Science, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China.
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