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Yang Y, Wang Y, Huang Y, Song J, Ma X. Interceed combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells improves endometrial receptivity of intrauterine adhesion. Regen Ther 2024; 27:445-454. [PMID: 38706569 PMCID: PMC11066143 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2024.04.007] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate the impact of intrauterine adhesions (IUA) therapy and endometrial receptivity by implanting autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) into the Interceed and subsequently placing them in the uterine cavity of rats. Methods Fifty rats were divided into 5 groups according to the random number table method (10 rats in each group). Following the development of the IUA model through mechanical injury, the animals were categorized into different treatment groups: the IUA model (intrauterine perfusion of saline), Interceed therapy (intrauterine placement of Interceed), BMSCs therapy (intrauterine perfusion of BMSCs), BMSCs + Interceed therapy (intrauterine placement of BMSCs + Interceed), and a control group (intrauterine perfusion of saline). The Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining technique was employed to identify and assess the pathological alterations in the endometrium. Additionally, it facilitated the quantification of endometrial glands and the determination of endometrial thickness. Masson staining was used to detect fibrosis in rat uterus. The number of microvascular density (MVD) was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were used to detect the levels of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), integrin ανβ3, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in uterine tissue. Male and female rats were combined in cages for reproductive and conception evaluation. Results In comparison to the control, the number of endometrial glands in the IUA model was significantly reduced, and the degree of endometrial thinning and fibrosis was significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared with the IUA model, the number of endometrial glands did not exhibit any significant alterations in endometrial thickness and MVD number. The expressions of LIF, integrin ανβ3, and VEGF in the uterine tissue were not significantly improved with Interceed therapy, resulting in no significant improvement in the pregnancy rate (p > 0.05). The number of endometrial glands, endometrial thickness, and MVD in the BMSCs therapy group were significantly increased. Moreover, the expressions of LIF, integrin ανβ3, and VEGF in uterine tissue exhibited a significant increase, leading to a comparatively higher pregnancy rate (p < 0.05). In the BMSCs + Interceed therapy group, the number of endometrial glands, endometrial thickness, and MVD were significantly increased, and the expressions of LIF, integrin ανβ3, and VEGF in uterine tissue were significantly increased as well, along with a corresponding rise in the pregnancy rate (p < 0.05). Conclusion The intrauterine placement of Interceed combined with BMSCs in IUA rats can thicken the damaged endometrium, increase the number of glands, promote endometrial angiogenesis, improve endometrial receptivity, and increase the rate of pregnancy in IUA rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yidan Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yi Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ji Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiaoling Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Chen TY, Dai NT, Wen TK, Hsu SH. An Acellular, Self-Healed Trilayer Cryogel for Osteochondral Regeneration in Rabbits. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2400462. [PMID: 38948966 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400462] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Osteochondral regeneration remains formidable challenges despite significant advances in microsurgery. Herein, an acellular trilayer cryogel (TC) with injectability, tunable pore sizes (80-200 µm), and appropriate compressive modulus (10.8 kPa) is manufactured from self-healable hydrogel under different gelling times through Schiff reaction between chitosan and difunctionalized polyurethane (DFPU). Bioactive molecules (Y27632 and dexamethasone) are respectively loaded in the top and bottom layers to form the Y27632/dexamethasone-loaded trilayer cryogel (Y/DEX-TC). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seeded in Y/DEX-TC proliferated ≈350% in vitro and underwent chondrogenesis or osteogenesis in response to the respective release of Y or DEX in 14 days. Acupuncture is administered to animals in an attempt to modulate the innate regulatory system and mobilize endogenous MSCs for osteochondral defect regeneration. In vivo rabbit experiments using Y/DEX-TC combined with acupuncture successfully regulate SDF-1 and TGF-β1 levels, which possibly cause MSC migration toward Y/DEX-TC. The synergistic effect of cryogel and acupuncture on immunomodulation is verified with a ≈7.3-fold enhancement of the M2-/M1-macrophage population ratio by treatment of Y/DEX-TC combining acupuncture, significantly greater than ≈1.5-fold increase by acupuncture or ≈2.2-fold increase by Y/DEX-TC alone. This novel strategy using acellular drug-loaded cryogel and accessible acupuncture shows promise in treating osteochondral defects of joint damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Yu Chen
- Institute of Polymer Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, 106319, R.O.C
| | - Niann-Tzyy Dai
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, 114202, R.O.C
| | - Tsung-Kai Wen
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan, 970374, R.O.C
| | - Shan-Hui Hsu
- Institute of Polymer Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, 106319, R.O.C
- Institute of Cellular and System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan, 350401, R.O.C
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Chen K, Wang H, Zhao X, Wang J, Jin Q, Tong X, Zheng S. A Novel Method to Repair Thin Endometrium and Restore Fertility Based on Menstruation-Derived Stem Cell. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1662-1673. [PMID: 38294669 PMCID: PMC11111544 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01458-2] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Thin endometrium (TE), which mainly occurs as a result of severe damage to the endometrial basalis, is one of the prominent etiologies of menstrual abnormalities, infertility, and recurrent miscarriage in women. Previous studies have demonstrated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered ideal cells with multipotency for regenerative medicine and exhibit therapeutic effects on TE through their cellular secretions. However, there is limited research on strategies to enhance MSC secretion to improve their therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we isolated menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MenSCs) from menstruation and transformed them into decidualized stromal cells (DSCs), which are specialized cells with enhanced secretory functions. To assess the therapeutic potential of DSCs compared to MenSCs, we conducted a series of experiments in cells and animals. The results demonstrated that DSCs exhibited changes in morphology compared to MenSCs, with a decrease in cell proliferation but a significant improvement in secretion function. Furthermore, DSCs facilitated the restoration of endometrial thickness and increased the number of glands and blood vessel formation. Most importantly, the pregnancy rates in rats were effectively restored, bringing them closer to normal levels. These findings greatly contribute to our understanding of stem cell therapy for TE and strongly suggest that DSCs could hold significant promise as a potential treatment option for TE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Huiru Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Jingxin Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Qi Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Xianhong Tong
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
| | - Shengxia Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
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Wang Y, Dong H, Dong T, Zhao L, Fan W, Zhang Y, Yao W. Treatment of cytokine release syndrome-induced vascular endothelial injury using mesenchymal stem cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:1149-1164. [PMID: 37392343 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04785-1] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is an acute systemic inflammatory reaction in which hyperactivated immune cells suddenly release a large amount of cytokines, leading to exaggerated inflammatory responses, multiple organ dysfunction, and even death. Although palliative treatment strategies have significantly reduced the overall mortality, novel targeted treatment regimens with superior therapy efficacy are urgently needed. Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) are important target cells of systemic inflammation, and their destruction is considered to be the initiating event underlying many serious complications of CRS. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells with self-renewing differentiation capacity and immunomodulatory properties. MSC transplantation can effectively suppress the activation of immune cells, reduce the bulk release of cytokines, and repair damaged tissues and organs. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms underlying CRS-induced vascular endothelial injury and discuss potential treatments using MSCs. Preclinical studies demonstrate that MSC therapy can effectively repair endothelium damage and thus reduce the incidence and severity of ensuing CRS-induced complications. This review highlights the therapeutic role of MSCs in fighting against CRS-induced EC damage, and summarizes the possible therapeutic formulations of MSCs for improved efficacy in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyan Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Haibo Dong
- Wuhan Optics Valley Vcanbiopharma Co., Ltd, Wuhan, China
- Key Industrial Base for Stem Cell Engineering Products, Tianjin, China
| | - Tengyun Dong
- Wuhan Optics Valley Vcanbiopharma Co., Ltd, Wuhan, China
- Key Industrial Base for Stem Cell Engineering Products, Tianjin, China
| | - Lulu Zhao
- Wuhan Optics Valley Vcanbiopharma Co., Ltd, Wuhan, China
- Key Industrial Base for Stem Cell Engineering Products, Tianjin, China
| | - Wen Fan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China.
| | - Yu Zhang
- Wuhan Optics Valley Vcanbiopharma Co., Ltd, Wuhan, China.
- Key Industrial Base for Stem Cell Engineering Products, Tianjin, China.
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin, China.
| | - Weiqi Yao
- Wuhan Optics Valley Vcanbiopharma Co., Ltd, Wuhan, China.
- Key Industrial Base for Stem Cell Engineering Products, Tianjin, China.
- Department of Biology and Medicine, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Lu G, Li HX, Song ZW, Luo J, Fan YL, Yin YL, Shen J, Shen MH. Combination of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and moxibustion restores cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian insufficiency by improving mitochondrial function and regulating mitophagy. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:102. [PMID: 38589967 PMCID: PMC11003045 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03709-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a major cause of infertility. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the combination of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and moxibustion (BMSCs-MOX) on POI and evaluate the underlying mechanisms. METHODS A POI rat model was established by injecting different doses of cyclophosphamide (Cy). The modeling of POI and the effects of the treatments were assessed by evaluating estrous cycle, serum hormone levels, ovarian weight, ovarian index, and ovarian histopathological analysis. The effects of moxibustion on BMSCs migration were evaluated by tracking DiR-labeled BMSCs and analyzing the expression of chemokines stromal cell-derived factor 1 (Sdf1) and chemokine receptor type 4 (Cxcr4). Mitochondrial function and mitophagy were assessed by measuring the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), ATP, and the mitophagy markers (Drp1, Pink1, and Parkin). Furthermore, the mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1 and the mitophagy activator CCCP were used to confirm the role of mitophagy in Cy-induced ovarian injury and the underlying mechanism of combination therapy. RESULTS A suitable rat model of POI was established using Cy injection. Compared to moxibustion or BMSCs transplantation alone, BMSCs-MOX showed improved outcomes, such as reduced estrous cycle disorders, improved ovarian weight and index, normalized serum hormone levels, increased ovarian reserve, and reduced follicle atresia. Moxibustion enhanced Sdf1 and Cxcr4 expression, promoting BMSCs migration. BMSCs-MOX reduced ROS levels; upregulated MMP and ATP levels in ovarian granulosa cells (GCs); and downregulated Drp1, Pink1, and Parkin expression in ovarian tissues. Mdivi-1 significantly mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian GCs and improved ovarian function. CCCP inhibited the ability of BMSCs-MOX treatment to regulate mitophagy and ameliorate Cy-induced ovarian injury. CONCLUSIONS Moxibustion enhanced the migration and homing of BMSCs following transplantation and improves their ability to repair ovarian damage. The combination of BMSCs and moxibustion effectively reduced the excessive activation of mitophagy, which helped prevent mitochondrial damage, ultimately improving ovarian function. These findings provide a novel approach for the treatment of pathological ovarian aging and offer new insights into enhancing the efficacy of stem cell therapy for POI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Lu
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong-Xiao Li
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zi-Wei Song
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jia Luo
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan-Liang Fan
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yao-Li Yin
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Jie Shen
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Mei-Hong Shen
- College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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Liu PC, Song YT, Zhao LM, Jiang YL, Hu JG, Dong L, Zhou XL, Zhou L, Li Y, Li-Ling J, Xie HQ. Establishment and comparison of different procedures for modeling intrauterine adhesion in rats: A preliminary study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25365. [PMID: 38322868 PMCID: PMC10844578 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25365] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The establishment of a stable animal model for intrauterine adhesion (IUA) can significantly enhance research on the pathogenesis and pathological changes of this disease, as well as on the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. In this study, three different modeling methods, including phenol mucilage combined mechanical scraping, ethanol combined mechanical scraping and ethanol modeling alone were designed. The morphological characteristics of the models were evaluated. The underlying mechanisms and fertility capacity of the ethanol modeling group were analyzed and compared to those of the sham surgery group. All three methods resulted in severe intrauterine adhesions, with ethanol being identified as a reliable modeling agent and was subsequently subjected to further evaluation. Immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR results indicated that the ethanol modeling group exhibited an increase in the degree of fibrosis and inflammation, as well as a significant reduction in endometrial thickness, gland number, vascularization, and endometrial receptivity, ultimately resulting in the loss of fertility capacity. The aforementioned findings indicate that the intrauterine perfusion of 95 % ethanol is efficacious in inducing the development of intrauterine adhesions in rats. Given its cost-effectiveness, efficacy, and stability in IUA formation, the use of 95 % ethanol intrauterine perfusion may serve as a novel platform for evaluating innovative anti-adhesion materials and bioengineered therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Cheng Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu-Ting Song
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Long-Mei Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yan-Ling Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jun-Gen Hu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Dong
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of Topregmed, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xing-li Zhou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Research Core Facility of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaxing Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jesse Li-Ling
- Department of Medical Genetics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hui-Qi Xie
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Saad-Naguib MH, Kenfack Y, Sherman LS, Chafitz OB, Morelli SS. Impaired receptivity of thin endometrium: therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1268990. [PMID: 38344687 PMCID: PMC10854221 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1268990] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a resilient and highly dynamic tissue, undergoing cyclic renewal in preparation for embryo implantation. Cyclic endometrial regeneration depends on the intact function of several cell types, including parenchymal, endothelial, and immune cells, as well as adult stem cells that can arise from endometrial or extrauterine sources. The ability of the endometrium to undergo rapid, repeated regeneration without scarring is unique to this tissue. However, if this tissue renewal process is disrupted or dysfunctional, women may present clinically with infertility due to endometrial scarring or persistent atrophic/thin endometrium. Such disorders are rate-limiting in the treatment of female infertility and in the success of in vitro fertilization because of a dearth of treatment options specifically targeting the endometrium. A growing number of studies have explored the potential of adult stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), to treat women with disorders of endometrial regeneration. MSCs are multipotent adult stem cells with capacity to differentiate into cells such as adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. In addition to their differentiation capacity, MSCs migrate toward injured sites where they secrete bioactive factors (e.g. cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, proteins and extracellular vesicles) to aid in tissue repair. These factors modulate biological processes critical for tissue regeneration, such as angiogenesis, cell migration and immunomodulation. The MSC secretome has therefore attracted significant attention for its therapeutic potential. In the uterus, studies utilizing rodent models and limited human trials have shown a potential benefit of MSCs and the MSC secretome in treatment of endometrial infertility. This review will explore the potential of MSCs to treat women with impaired endometrial receptivity due to a thin endometrium or endometrial scarring. We will provide context supporting leveraging MSCs for this purpose by including a review of mechanisms by which the MSC secretome promotes regeneration and repair of nonreproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Saad-Naguib
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Yannick Kenfack
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Lauren S. Sherman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Olivia B. Chafitz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States
| | - Sara S. Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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Wang J, Qin W, Zhong Y, Hu H, Yang J, Huang H, Huang N, Liu S, Li J, Zheng L, Qin A, Lu Z. Injectable collagen hydrogel combines human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells to promote endometrial regeneration in rats with thin endometrium. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127591. [PMID: 37884246 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127591] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The regeneration of thin endometrium still remains as a great challenge in the field of reproductive medicine. Stem cells-based therapy has been considered as a promising strategy for the restoration of thin endometrium. However, the low transplantation and retention rate of stem cells and loss of stemness due to in vitro expansion limits the therapeutic efficacy. In our study, we combined collagen hydrogel and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (uMSCs) for improving the regeneration of thin endometrium, by using the potent pluripotency and low immunogenicity of uMSCs and collagen hydrogel that promotes the anchorage and proliferation of stem cells. Results showed that collagen hydrogel has favorable biocompatibility and the capacity to enhance the cell viability and expression of stemness-associated genes (including organic cation/carnitine transporter4 (Oct-4), Nanog homeobox (Nanog) and SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2)) of uMSCs. The combination of collagen hydrogel and uMSCs prolonged the retention time of the constructs in the uterine cavity and improved endometrial thickness compared with uMSCs alone, leading to increase the fertility of the rats with thin endometrium. These highlighted therapeutic prospects of collagen hydrogel combined with uMSCs for the minimally invasive therapy of thin endometrium in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Wang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Weili Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Yanping Zhong
- Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Junxu Yang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Hanji Huang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Nanchang Huang
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Shuhan Liu
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Jiaxu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Aiping Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Zhenhui Lu
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Institute of Life Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, The First Afliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
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9
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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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Du M, Zhang J, Wang T, Fang J, Su H, Xiao Z, Peng Y, Liang X, Gong X, Chen Z. Imaging biomarker for quantitative analysis of endometrial injury based on optical coherence tomography/ultrasound integrated imaging mode. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2023; 16:e202300113. [PMID: 37483072 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202300113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Precise evaluation of endometrial injury is significant to clinical decision-making in gynecological disease and assisted reproductive technology. However, there is a lack of assessment methods for endometrium in vivo. In this research, we intend to develop quantitative imaging markers with optical coherence tomography (OCT)/ultrasound (US) integrated imaging system through intrauterine endoscopic imaging. OCT/US integrated imaging system was established as our previous research reported. The endometrial injury model was established and after treatment, OCT/US integrated imaging and uterus biopsy was performed to evaluate the endometrial thickness, number of superficial fold, and intrauterine area. According to the results, three quantitative indexes acquired from OCT/US image and HE staining have the same trend and have a strong relationship with the severity of the endometrial injury. Accordingly, we developed three imaging markers for quantitative analysis of endometrial injury in vivo, which provided a precise mode for endometrium evaluation in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Du
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Jinke Zhang
- The Research Center for Biomedical Optics and Molecular Imaging, Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Imaging, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Optical Imaging Technology, CAS Key Laboratory of Health Informatics, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ting Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Jinghui Fang
- Laboratory of Ultrasound Molecular Imaging, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanyinghong Su
- Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Zhang Xiao
- College of Mechanical Engineering, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yingao Peng
- Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaowen Liang
- Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaojing Gong
- The Research Center for Biomedical Optics and Molecular Imaging, Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Imaging, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Optical Imaging Technology, CAS Key Laboratory of Health Informatics, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiyi Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital University of South China/ Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China
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11
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Liu J, Zhu Q, Pan Y, Hao S, Wang Z, Cui C, Li J, Huang Y, Xia L, Xu T, Cheng J, Shen J, Xia Y. Electroacupuncture alleviates intrauterine adhesion through regulating autophagy in rats. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad037. [PMID: 37935442 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad037] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a well-conserved metabolic system that maintains homeostasis by relying on lysosomal breakdown. The endometrium of patients with intrauterine adhesion (IUA) and an animal model exhibits impaired autophagy. Autophagy is negatively correlated with inflammation. Activation of autophagy can inhibit the inflammatory response, while defects in autophagy will activate the inflammatory response. Here, we studied whether electroacupuncture (EA) inhibits inflammation and promotes endometrial injury repair by activating endometrial autophagy. The IUA animal model was established by mechanical injury plus lipopolysaccharide infection. EA stimulation was applied to the acupoints Guanyuan (CV4), bilateral Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Zusanli (ST36). The results indicated that EA could improve endometrial morphology, attenuate endometrial fibers, and enhance endometrial receptivity in the rat. EA could increase the autophagosomes of endometrial epithelial cells, increase the levels of LC3 and Beclin1, and decrease the level of p62. Additionally, EA may also suppress the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and reduce the release of inflammatory factors. Additionally, the effect of EA was comparable to that of the autophagy agonist rapamycin, and the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine reversed the therapeutic effect of EA. Therefore, we assume that EA may facilitate endometrial healing by activating autophagy and reducing NF-κB signal pathway-mediated inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Liu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Pan
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Sainan Hao
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhaoxian Wang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuting Cui
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Junwei Li
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yueying Huang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Liangjun Xia
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tiancheng Xu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Youbing Xia
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Massage College, Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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12
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Gao H, Ding W. Effect and mechanism of acupuncture on endogenous and exogenous stem cells in disease treatment: A therapeutic review. Life Sci 2023; 331:122031. [PMID: 37598978 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122031] [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: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Acupuncture is effective intervention, particularly in nerve, endocrine diseases and immune diseases. The potential mechanisms mediating the effects of acupuncture include anti-inflammatory and oxidative stress, inhibition of cell apoptosis, and stimulation of the proliferation and differentiation of endogenous stem cells. Traditional Chinese medicine combined with stem cell transplantation have a synergistic effect in the treatment of diseases. Increasing studies have found that acupuncture can promote the proliferation, differentiation, homing and survival of exogenous stem cells. This article reviews the mechanism of acupuncture and Chinese herbs on endogenous stem cells and exogenous stem cells in the combined intervention of diverse disorders and the major problems in past 15 years, which will provide a reference for future clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Weijun Ding
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
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13
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Zhu A, Yao F, Shen M. Oxycodone alleviates mifepristone-stimulated human endometrial stromal cell injury by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e1008. [PMID: 37773689 PMCID: PMC10510466 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1008] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometrial injury is a common disease in women caused by intrauterine inflammation, infections, and endocrine disorders. Human endometrial stromal cells (hEndoSCs) can maintain endometrial homeostasis and play an important role in repairing endometrial injury. Mifepristone, a steroidal anti-progesterone drug, is widely used in the field of reproductive medicine worldwide. Mifepristone-induced hEndoSC injury has been used to study endometrial injury in vitro. At present, the pathogenesis and potential regulatory mechanisms of oxycodone in endometrial injury remain unknown. AIMS We aimed to evaluate the functions of oxycodone in mifepristone-stimulated hEndoSC injury and analyze its potential molecular mechanism. MATERIALS & METHODS hEndoSC viability, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis were analyzed using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay, the lactate dehydrogenase assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. Furthermore, the levels of cleaved-Caspase3, Keap1, Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 were assessed using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis, and the release of inflammatory cytokines was determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS We observed that oxycodone had no adverse effects on hEndoSCs; rather, it protected hEndoSCs against mifepristone-induced endometrial damage, as confirmed by the enhanced cell viability, reduced number of apoptotic cells, decreased Caspase3 activity and inflammatory cytokine secretion, and increased Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway-related protein expression. In addition, we found that the protective effects of oxycodone on mifepristone-induced hEndoSC injury were inhibited by ML385 (a Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 inhibitor). CONCLUSION In summary, we confirmed that oxycodone alleviates mifepristone-induced hEndoSC injury by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aibing Zhu
- Department of AnesthesiologyWuxi Maternity and Child Health Care HospitalWuxiChina
| | - Fei Yao
- Department of AnesthesiologyWuxi Maternity and Child Health Care HospitalWuxiChina
| | - Mingkun Shen
- Department of AnesthesiologyWuxi Maternity and Child Health Care HospitalWuxiChina
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14
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Xia L, Meng Q, Xi J, Han Q, Cheng J, Shen J, Xia Y, Shi L. Correction: The synergistic effect of electroacupuncture and bone mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on repairing thin endometrial injury in rats. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:196. [PMID: 37553710 PMCID: PMC10408231 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03421-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
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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15
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Zhang L, Li H, Zhang L, Zu Z, Xu D, Zhang J. Network Pharmacology Analysis of the Mechanisms Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of Yangjing Zhongyu Tang on Thin Endometrium. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:1805-1818. [PMID: 37350984 PMCID: PMC10284302 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s409659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Yangjing Zhongyu Tang (YJZYT) is a classic Chinese prescription for infertility treatment and exerts therapeutic effects via activity on the thin endometrium (TE). However, the major components and underlying mechanisms of YJZYT actions remain to be established. The main objectives of this study were to clarify the effects of YJZYT on the TE and provide insights into the related mechanisms based on network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses. Methods Network pharmacology was employed to explore the main bioactive components and targets of YJZYT. TE-related genes were obtained from the Genecards database and screened for intersections with YJZYT. The Cytoscape 3.8.2 was used to build a "compounds-disease-targets" network and molecular docking analysis performed on key targets. The mechanism of action of YJZYT was further validated in vivo using a rat model. Results A total of 98 YJZYT active ingredients, 2409 thin endometrium-associated genes, and 186 common targets were obtained. Through topological analysis, 10 core objectives were screened. Data from the PPI network suggest that AKT1, TNF, VEGFA, IL-6, TP53, INS, ESR1, MMP9, ALB, and ACTB serve as key targets in the action of YJZYT on TE. PI3K-Akt, TNF, apoptosis, IL-17 and MAPK were established as the main functional pathways. Molecular docking analysis revealed high affinity of the active ingredients of YJZYT, specifically, ursolic acid, palbinone, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol, for TNF, VEGFA, IL-6, AKT, and MMP9. YJZYT improved endometrial recovery, promoted endometrial angiogenesis, and upregulated protein expression of VEGF, PI3K, AKT, and p-AKT in the TE rat model. Conclusion Network pharmacological and animal studies facilitated the prediction and validation of the active components and key targets of YJZYT potentially contributing to TE. Preliminary evidence from in vivo experiments showed that YJZYT promotes angiogenesis and thin endometrial repair via regulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, providing a reference for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Honglin Li
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Center, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhihui Zu
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dinglin Xu
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianwei Zhang
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
- Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Center, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
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16
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Zhang D, Du Q, Li C, Ding C, Chen J, He Y, Duan T, Feng Q, Yu Y, Zhou Q. Functionalized Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Injectable HA/Gel Hydrogel Synergy in Endometrial Repair and Fertility Recovery. Acta Biomater 2023:S1742-7061(23)00339-2. [PMID: 37331615 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) caused by endometrial injury are one of the main causes of female infertility. The current treatments for endometrial injury offer limited clinical benefits and cannot improve endometrial receptivity and pregnancy outcomes. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine are considered potential solutions to address this concern and may offer effective treatment methods for the regeneration of injured human endometrium. Herein, we prepared an injectable hydrogel based on oxidized hyaluronic acid (HA-CHO) and hydrazide-grafted gelatin (Gel-ADH). The injectable hydrogel showed satisfactory biocompatibility when mixed with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs). In an endometrial injury rat model, the treatment with hUCMSCs-loaded injectable hydrogel significantly enhanced the thickness of the endometrium and increased the abundance of blood vessels and glands in the injured endometrium compared to the control group. The hUCMSCs-loaded injectable hydrogel treatment significantly reduced endometrial fibrosis, decreased the expression of the pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β and IL-6) and increased the expression of the anti-inflammatory factor (IL-10). This treatment induced endometrial VEGF expression by activating the MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Moreover, this treatment improved endometrial receptivity to the embryo and restored the embryo implantation rate similar to the sham group (48% in the sham group vs 46% in the treatment group), and this treatment achieved pregnancy and live birth in rats with endometrial injury. In addition, we also preliminarily validated the safety of this treatment in the maternal rats and fetuses. Collectively, our study showed that the hUCMSCs-loaded injectable hydrogel hold potential as an effective treatment strategy promoting rapid recovery of endometrial injury, and this hydrogel is a promising biomaterial for regenerative medicine applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : 1. Oxidized hyaluronic acid (HA-CHO)/hydrazide-grafted gelatin (Gel-ADH) hydrogel combined with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) are effective in improving the regeneration of endometrium in the endometrial injury rat model. 2. The hUCMSCs-loaded hydrogel treatment promotes the expression of endometrial VEGF through MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway and regulates the balance of inflammatory factors. 3. The embryo implantation and live birth rates restore to normal level in the endometrial injury rat model, and the hydrogel has no adverse effects on maternal rats, fetuses, and offspring development after the treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghai Zhang
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Qianqian Du
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Department of Biomaterial, College of Life Sciences, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang 157011, China
| | - Cong Li
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Department of Biomaterial, College of Life Sciences, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang 157011, China
| | - Chuanfeng Ding
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Junfeng Chen
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China
| | - Yun He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Tao Duan
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qian Feng
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Yongsheng Yu
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China.
| | - Qian Zhou
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092 China; Department of Reproductive Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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17
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Deng M, He J, Hao C, Guo Y, Si H, Deng X, Zhang C, Li S, Yao S, Ren W, Yao W. EFFECT OF EXOSOMES DERIVED FROM BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS ON PROGRAMMED CELL DEATH IN BLAST-INDUCED LUNG INJURY IN RATS. Shock 2023; 59:955-965. [PMID: 37119808 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000002128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Blast lung injuries (BLIs) are frequent because of industrial accidents and terrorist groups. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and exosomes derived from BMSCs (BMSCs-Exo) have become a hot topic in modern biology because of their significance in damage healing, immune regulation, and gene therapy. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of BMSCs and BMSCs-Exo on BLI in rats caused by gas explosion. Here, BMSCs and BMSCs-Exo were transplanted into BLI rats via tail vein and then evaluated pathological alterations, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and pyroptosis in the lung tissue. Through histopathology and changes in malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) contents, we discovered that oxidative stress and inflammatory infiltration in the lungs were significantly reduced by BMSCs and BMSCs-Exo. After treatment with BMSCs and BMSCs-Exo, apoptosis-related proteins, such as cleaved caspase-3 and Bax, were significantly decreased, and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax was significantly increased; the level of pyroptosis-associated proteins, including NLRP3, GSDMD-N, cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18, were decreased; autophagy-related proteins, beclin-1 and LC3, were downregulated while P62 was upregulated; the number of autophagosomes was decreased. In summary, BMSCs and BMSCs-Exo attenuate BLI caused by gas explosion, which may be associated with apoptosis, aberrant autophagy, and pyroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Deng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing He
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Changfu Hao
- Department of Child and Adolescence Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yonghua Guo
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huifang Si
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xuedan Deng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chengpeng Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shiyu Li
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sanqiao Yao
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Wenjie Ren
- Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Wu Yao
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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18
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Liu S, Huang Q, Huang Q, Wang Y, Li S, Wang J, Wu Q. The protective effects of electroacupuncture on intestinal barrier lesions in IBS and UC model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7276. [PMID: 37142764 PMCID: PMC10160055 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34182-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are two intestinal diseases with different pathological changes. Electroacupuncture (EA) at Zusanli (ST36) on both IBS and UC is widely used in clinic practice. But it is unclear whether acupuncture at one acupoint can treat two different intestinal diseases at different layers of intestinal barrier. To address this question, we explored three intestinal barrier lesions in IBS and UC mice with the aid of transcriptome data analysis and studied the efficacy of EA at ST36 on them. The transcriptome data analysis showed that both UC and IBS had disrupted intestinal barrier in various layers. And both UC and IBS had epithelial barrier lesions with reduction of ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin-1, while UC rather than IBS had the destruction of the mucus barrier with less MUC2 expression. As to the vascular barrier, UC showed a higher CD31 level and mesenteric blood flow reduction, while IBS showed a lower PV-1 level. EA at ST36 can significantly improve the above lesions of intestinal barrier of IBS and UC. Our results gave more details about the comprehensive protective effect of EA for UC and IBS. We guess the effect of acupuncture may be a kind of homeostasis regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqing Liu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Huang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianhui Huang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuemei Wang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Sihui Li
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Junmeng Wang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaofeng Wu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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19
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Ding Y, Tan R, Gu J, Gong P. Herpetin Promotes Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Alleviate Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28093842. [PMID: 37175256 PMCID: PMC10180416 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28093842] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpetin, an active compound derived from the seeds of Herpetospermum caudigerum Wall., is a traditional Tibetan herbal medicine that is used for the treatment of hepatobiliary diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stimulant effect of herpetin on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to improve acute liver injury (ALI). In vitro results showed that herpetin treatment enhanced expression of the liver-specific proteins alpha-fetoprotein, albumin, and cytokeratin 18; increased cytochrome P450 family 3 subfamily a member 4 activity; and increased the glycogen-storage capacity of BMSCs. Mice with ALI induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) were treated with a combination of BMSCs by tail-vein injection and herpetin by intraperitoneal injection. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and serum biochemical index detection showed that the liver function of ALI mice improved after administration of herpetin combined with BMSCs. Western blotting results suggested that the stromal cell-derived factor-1/C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 axis and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the liver tissue were activated after treatment with herpetin and BMSCs. Therefore, herpetin is a promising BMSC induction agent, and coadministration of herpetin and BMSCs may affect the treatment of ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ding
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, No. 16, South 4th Section, First Ring Road, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Rui Tan
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Jian Gu
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, No. 16, South 4th Section, First Ring Road, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Puyang Gong
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, No. 16, South 4th Section, First Ring Road, Chengdu 610041, China
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Lin Y, Li Y, Chen P, Zhang Y, Sun J, Sun X, Li J, Jin J, Xue J, Zheng J, Jiang XC, Chen C, Li X, Wu Y, Zhao W, Liu J, Ye X, Zhang R, Gao J, Zhang D. Exosome-Based Regimen Rescues Endometrial Fibrosis in Intrauterine Adhesions Via Targeting Clinical Fibrosis Biomarkers. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:154-168. [PMID: 36893290 PMCID: PMC10021501 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUA), which is characterized by endometrial fibrosis, continue to be the most common cause of uterine infertility globally. Our work revealed that 3 fibrotic progression markers (Vimentin, COL5A2, and COL1A1) were significantly increased in the endometrium of IUA patients. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (EXOs) have been recently revealed as a cell-free therapy for fibrosis diseases. Nevertheless, the application of EXOs is restricted by the short residency duration in the target tissue. To overcome this limitation, herein, we reported an exosome-based regimen (EXOs-HP) that thermosensitive poloxamer hydrogel possessed the ability to efficiently promote the residency duration of EXOs in the uterine cavity. By downregulating fibrotic progression markers (Vimentin, COL5A2, and COL1A1), EXOs-HP could significantly restore the function and structure of the injured endometrium in the IUA model. Our work provides the theoretical and experimental foundation of EXOs-HP in treating IUA, highlighting the clinical potential of topical EXOs-HP delivery system in IUA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Lin
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yaoshen Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Panpan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanye 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, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiwei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaqun Li
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiani Jin
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinglei Xue
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junyan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin-Chi Jiang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Dr Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chuan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqing Li
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yiqing Wu
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of 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, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of 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, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Runju Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianqing Gao
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Dr Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
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21
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Fang Z, Lu C, Du W, Wang X, Yang H, Shi M, Liu T, Xie Y, Wang S, Xu X, Li H, Wang H, Zheng Y. Injectable self-assembled dual-crosslinked alginate/recombinant collagen-based hydrogel for endometrium regeneration. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 236:123943. [PMID: 36889621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123943] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The disadvantages of mainstream therapies for endometrial injury are difficult to resolve, herein, we suggest an omnibearing improvement strategy by introducing an injectable multifunctional self-assembled dual-crosslinked sodium alginate/recombinant collagen hydrogel. The hydrogel possessed a reversible and dynamic double network based on dynamic covalent bonds and ionic interactions, which also contributed to excellent capability in viscosity and injectability. Moreover, it was also biodegradable with a suitable speed, giving off active ingredients during the degradation process and eventually disappearing completely. In vitro tests exhibited that the hydrogel was biocompatible and able to enhance endometrial stromal cells viability. These features synergistically promoted cell multiplication and maintenance of endometrial hormone homeostasis, which accelerated endometrial matrix regeneration and structural reconstruction after severe injury in vivo. Furthermore, we explored the interrelation between the hydrogel characteristics, endometrial structure, and postoperative uterine recovery, which would benefit deep research on regulation of uterine repair mechanism and optimization of hydrogel materials. The injectable hydrogel could achieve favourable therapeutic efficacy without the need of exogenous hormones or cells, which would be of clinical value in endometrium regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyuan Fang
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Cong Lu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wenjun Du
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Huiyi Yang
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Miaojie Shi
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yajie Xie
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shufang Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, China
| | - Xiangbo Xu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Haihang Li
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Sichuan Province 610065, China
| | - Hanbi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Yudong Zheng
- School of Material Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
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22
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Wang T, Tan J. Therapeutic effect of menstrual blood stem cells in rats with thin endometrium. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2023; 52:13-23. [PMID: 37283114 PMCID: PMC10407991 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2022-0509] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the therapeutic effect of transplantation of menstrual blood stem cells (MenSCs) in rats with thin endometrium. METHODS Thirty SPF grade female SD rats aged 8-10 weeks were randomly divided into model control group and MenSC group, with 15 rats in each group. The thin endometrium injury model was prepared by chemical method in one side of the uterus of both groups. On the 7th day of modeling, normal saline or the third generation of MenSCs were injected into the model uterus at multiple points, and the other side of the uterus was used as an internal control without treatment. HE staining was used to observe the histological structure of endometrium; immunohistochemical staining was used to observe the expression of cyto-keratin (CK) 18 and vimentin in endometrial tissue; 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) cell proliferation assay was used to evaluate the cell proliferation in endometrial tissue; immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression of vascular endothelial marker CD34 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in endometrial tissue; the expression of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), integrin β3 (ITGβ3) and homeobox A10 (HOXA10) in endometrial tissue was determined by realtime RT-PCR. After treatments, the female and male rats were caged in a ratio of 2∶1 to observe the effect of MenSC on the reproductive function of thin endometrium model rats. RESULTS Compared with the surgical control group, the endometrium in the model control group was thinner, and the numbers of glands and blood vessels were less (all P<0.01). After MenSC transplantation, the thickness of endometrium, the numbers of blood vessels and glands were significantly increased (all P<0.01). The proliferative cells in the basal layer of endometrium in MenSC group were more than those in the model control group (P<0.05), and the expression of vimentin, CK18, CD34 and VEGF in the uterus of rats in MenSC group were significantly higher than those in the model control group (P<0.05). LIF, ITGβ3 and HOXA10 gene expression levels were also significantly higher than those in the model control group (all P<0.05). The results of pregnancy experiment showed that the number of embryo implantation in MenSC group was higher than that in model control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS MenSC transplantation can promote the proliferation of endometrial cells, upregulate vimentin, CK18, CD34 and VEGF levels, and promote the recovery of endometrial morphology and function, thus improving the endometrial receptivity and fertility of the rats with thin endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China.
| | - Jichun Tan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110022, China.
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23
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Song YT, Dong L, Hu JG, Liu PC, Jiang YL, Zhou L, Wang M, Tan J, Li YX, Zhang QY, Zou CY, Zhang XZ, Zhao LM, Nie R, Zhang Y, Li-Ling J, Xie HQ. Application of genipin-crosslinked small intestine submucosa and urine-derived stem cells for the prevention of intrauterine adhesion in a rat model. COMPOSITES PART B: ENGINEERING 2023; 250:110461. [DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2022.110461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2024]
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Yang J, Chen Z, Li S, Yang Y, Liao Y. Role of TGF-β3 and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on regeneration of myometrial injury in rats. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrras.2022.100476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Huang Z, Chen Y, Xiao Q, Kuang W, Liu K, Jiang Y, Wen X, Qin W, Liu Y, Liu T. Effect of acupuncture for disorders of consciousness in patients with stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol 2022; 13:930546. [PMID: 36277925 PMCID: PMC9581330 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.930546] [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: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Disorder of consciousness (DOC) is frequent in patients with stroke, which is the second most common cause of death and a leading cause of disability. Acupuncture has been used as a curative method for DOC treatment in China. Nevertheless, no critical systematic review of acupuncture's effect on DOC has been published. This review aims to evaluate the present evidence regarding the efficacy of acupuncture for DOC after stroke. Methods Seven databases were searched from their inception to November 1, 2021, containing three English databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) and four Chinese databases (CNKI, CBM, VIP, and Wanfang Database). The primary outcomes comprise the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) before and after treatment. Secondary outcomes involve resuscitation rate, resuscitation time, and adverse events. Data synthesis was calculated by RevMan (V.5.4.1) software. According to the Cochrane Handbook, methodological quality was assessed with the risk of bias tool 2.0 (RoB2). Results Seventeen studies containing 1,208 patients were eventually included in our review. Overall, most trials were rated as high or had some concerns regarding the risk of bias. GCS was reported in 16 trials, and a meta-analysis showed that GCS improvement in the acupuncture group was greater than in the non-acupuncture group (MD 1.45, 95% CI 0.94-1.97, P < 0.0001). One trial reported that GOS improvement in the acupuncture plus medication group was greater than in the medication group (MD 0.58, 95% CI 0.11-1.05, P = 0.01). Another study reported that acupuncture plus medication was statistically more effective in shortening resuscitation time than medication alone (MD-0.89, 95% CI -1.53 to -0.25, P = 0.006). Four trials reported that the resuscitation rate in the acupuncture group was higher than without acupuncture intervention (RR 1.68, 95% CI 1.30-2.18, I 2 0%, P = 0.39). Adverse events were reported in two studies, with one case in the acupuncture group suffering from subcutaneous hematoma. Conclusion Acupuncture may improve consciousness level, increase the resuscitation rate, and shorten resuscitation time for post-stroke patients with DOC. Adverse events from acupuncture were rare, tolerable, and recoverable. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously, and more rigorous RCTs with better methodology are warranted. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=289802, identifier 289802.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Huang
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuning Chen
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qilan Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Equivalent Master's Degree Applicants of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Dongguan, China
| | - Weichuan Kuang
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ye Jiang
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Wen
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiting Qin
- Department of Urinary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Fifth College of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 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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Wang X, Wu J, Xie Y, Liu Y, Feng W, Zhang L, Zhao J, Meng H, Chen B, Zhao Q, Guo R. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles facilitate endometrial injury repair by carrying the E3 ubiquitin ligase WWP1. Biochem Cell Biol 2022; 100:357-369. [PMID: 36043683 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2021-0543] [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: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles (BMSC-EVs) relieve endometrial injury. This study aimed to elucidate the BMSC-EV mechanism in alleviating endometrial injury. Endometrial injury model in vivo was induced using 95% ethanol, and endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) treated with mifepristone were applied as an endometrial injury model in vitro. After BMSCs and BMSC-EVs were isolated and identified, the BMSC-EV function was evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining, immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time PCR, Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Transwell and tubule formation assays. The BMSC-EV mechanism was assessed using Western blot, ubiquitination, and cycloheximide-chase assays. After isolation and identification, BMSC-EVs were effective in endometrial injury repair in vivo and facilitated EEC proliferation and repressed cell apoptosis in vitro; the EEC supernatants accelerated human umbilical vein endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and facilitated angiogenesis after endometrial injury in vitro. For the BMSC-EV mechanism, E3 ubiquitin ligase WWP1 in BMSC-EVs mediated the ubiquitination of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), thus relieving the PPARγ inhibition on vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Furthermore, the WWP1 in BMSC-EVs alleviated endometrial injury in vitro and in vivo. BMSC-EVs facilitated endometrial injury repair by carrying WWP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Hua County People's Hospital, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Junwei Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Hua County People's Hospital, Anyang, Henan, China.,Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ya Xie
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yanjie Liu
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wei Feng
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lirong Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Hua County People's Hospital, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Hongyu Meng
- Hua County People's Hospital, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Baohong Chen
- Hua County People's Hospital, Anyang, Henan, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ruixia Guo
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Yuan L, Cao J, Hu M, Xu D, Li Y, Zhao S, Yuan J, Zhang H, Huang Y, Jin H, Chen M, Liu D. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells combined with estrogen synergistically promote endometrial regeneration and reverse EMT via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:121. [PMID: 35971112 PMCID: PMC9377128 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00988-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a clinical disease characterized by the uterine cavity occlusion caused by the damage of the endometrial basal layer. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transplantation have the potential to promote endometrial regeneration mainly through paracrine ability. Estrogen is an indispensable and important factor in the repair of endometrial damage, which has been reported as a promising and adjunctive therapeutic application for stem cell transplantation therapy. This study aims to investigate the synergistic effect of BMSCs and estrogen on improving the endometrial regeneration and restoring the endometrium morphology in a dual damage model of IUA in rabbits and the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS BMSCs were isolated and identified by adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation and flow cytometry assays. The rabbit IUA animal model was established by a dual damage method of mechanical curettage and lipopolysaccharide infection. Additionally, we investigated the therapeutic impact of both BMSCs and estrogen either separately or in combination in a rabbit model. The retention of PKH26-labeled BMSCs was observed by vivo fluorescence imaging.The number of endometrial glands and the degree of fibrosis were observed by H&E and Masson staining respectively. Western blotting, Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect biomarkers related to endometrial epithelium, endometrial fibrosis and EMT. Finally, the protein expression of core molecules of Wnt/β-catenin pathway was detected by Western blotting. RESULTS PKH26-labeled fluorescence results revealed that BMSCs appeared and located in the endometrial glands and extracellular matrix area when orthotopic transplanted into the uterine cavity. Histological assays showed that remarkably increasing the number of endometrial glands and decreasing the area of endometrial fibrosis in the BMSCs combined with estrogen treatment group. Moreover, downregulated expression of fibrosis markers (fibronectin, CollagenI, a-SMA) and interstitial markers (ZEB1, Vimentin, N-cadherin), as well as upregulated E-cadherin expression were found in the combined group. Further study of in vivo staining revealed that fluorescence intensity of CK7 was stronger in the combined group than that of direct BMSCs intrauterine transplantation, while vimentin showed the opposite results. Moreover, the protein levels of β-catenin, Axin2, C-myc, CycinE of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway increased in the BMSCs combined with estrogen group than in the other treatment groups. CONCLUSION BMSCs combined with estrogen can promote the differentiation of stem cells into endometrial epithelial cells to facilitate the regeneration of damaged endometrium. The potential mechanism of the synergistic effect may inhibit the occurrence of EMT by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Yuan
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Jia Cao
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Mingyue Hu
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Dabao Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Shiyun Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Juanjuan Yuan
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Huixing Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Yani Huang
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - He Jin
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Meixia Chen
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
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Human umbilical cord blood-derived MSCs trans-differentiate into endometrial cells and regulate Th17/Treg balance through NF-κB signaling in rabbit intrauterine adhesions endometrium. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:301. [PMID: 35841027 PMCID: PMC9284747 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02990-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The fundamental cause of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) is the destruction and reduction in stem cells in endometrial basal layer, resulting in endometrial reconstruction very difficult. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects and underlying mechanism of human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) on the endometrial reconstruction after transplantation. Methods hUCB-MSCs were isolated and identified by flow cytometry, osteogenic, adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation assays. The rabbit IUA models were established and set five groups (control, 14/28th day after surgery, estrogen and hUCB-MSCs treatment). The number of endometrial glands and the fibrosis rate were evaluated using HE and Masson staining, respectively. Endometrial proliferation, angiogenesis and inflammation were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining of ER, Ki-67and TGF-β1, respectively. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was applied to explore the cell differentiation trajectory after hUCB-MSCs transplanted into IUA endometrium. Finally, molecular mechanism of hUCB-MSCs repairing damaged endometrium was investigated by RNA sequencing, qRT-PCR and Western blot assays. Results After transplantation of the hUCB-MSCs, the increase in endometrial gland number, estrogen receptor (ER) and Ki-67 expression, and the decrease in fibrosis rate and TGF-β expression (P < 0.05), suggested the endometrial repair, angiogenesis and inflammatory suppression. The therapeutic effect of hUCB-MSCs was significantly improved compared with 28th day after surgery and estrogen group. ScRNA-seq demonstrated that the transplanted hUCB-MSCs can trans-differentiate into endometrial cells: epithelial, fibroblast and macrophage. RNA sequencing of six IUA samples combined with qRT-PCR and Western blot assays further revealed that hUCB-MSCs may regulate Th17/Treg balance through NF-κB signaling, thus inhibiting the immune response of damaged endometrium. Conclusions Our study demonstrated that hUCB-MSCs can repair damaged endometrium through trans-differentiation, immunomodulatory capacities and NF-κB signaling, suggesting the treatment value of hUCB-MSCs in IUA. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02990-1.
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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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Yang W, Li L, Jia J, Wang Z, Zang H. Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF)-Overexpressed Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Orchestrate Lung Cancer Development and Fibroblast Growth. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.3029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of most common cancer with a complicated pathogenesis and a poor prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the role of bFGF and BMSCs in lung cancer progression. BMSCs were transfected with bFGF mimic or NC and then co-cultured with lung cancer cells followed by
measuring cell migration by Transwell assay and proliferation by CCK-8 assay, expression of bFGF, E-cadherin, and Vimentin by RT-qPCR and Western blot. The BMSCs were positive for CD90, CD71, CD29 and CD45. Overexpression of bFGF in BMSCs resulted in increased lung cancer cell proliferation
at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. Meanwhile, bFGF overexpression also significantly promoted cell migration and invasion as well as upregulated bFGF (4.03±0.36 ng/μl) and E-cadherin (3.64±0.27 ng/μl) and downregulated Vimentin (1.45±0.19 ng/μl). In
conclusion, co-culture of BMSCs overexpressing bFGF and lung cancer cells enhances BMSCs differentiation and promotes cancer cell development possibly through regulation of E-cadherin and Vimentin expression, indicating that this might be a novel approach for the treatment of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidong Yang
- Department of X-ray, The No. 2 Hospital of Baoding, No. 338 Dongfeng West Road, Baoding, Hebei, 072750, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of X-ray, The No. 2 Hospital of Baoding, No. 338 Dongfeng West Road, Baoding, Hebei, 072750, China
| | - Jiangtao Jia
- Department of Digestive System, The No. 2 Hospital of Baoding, No. 338 Dongfeng West Road, Baoding, Hebei, 072750, China
| | - Zhibao Wang
- Department of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Room, The No. 2 Hospital of Baoding, No. 338 4Dongfeng West Road, Baoding, Hebei, 072750, China
| | - Hanqing Zang
- Department of ICU, The No. 2 Hospital of Baoding, No. 338 Dongfeng West Road, Baoding, Hebei, 072750, China
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Oxycodone Alleviates Endometrial Injury via the TLR4/NF- κB Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:6153279. [PMID: 35310024 PMCID: PMC8933090 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6153279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial injury is a common female disease. This study was designed to illustrate the effects of oxycodone on mifepristone-induced human endometrial stromal cells (hEndoSCs) injury and delineate the underlying molecular mechanism. hEndoSCs were stimulated with mifepristone to generate the endometrial injury in vitro model. hEndoSCs viability, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis were measured by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay, lactate dehydrogenase assay (LDH), and flow cytometry (FCM) analysis, respectively. Meanwhile, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot assay were conducted to evaluate gene and protein expressions. The secretions of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data revealed that mifepristone exposure memorably inhibited hEndoSCs viability and promoted cell apoptosis and inflammatory cytokines secretion, and oxycodone had no cytotoxicity on hEndoSCs. Oxycodone increased hEndoSCs growth, blocked cell apoptosis, enhanced Bcl-2 expression, reduced Bax levels, and decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines in mifepristone-induced hEndoSCs, exhibiting the protective effects in endometrial injury. In addition, the TLR4/NF-κB pathway-related protein levels (TLR4 and p-p65) in mifepristone-treated hEndoSCs were enhanced, while these enhancements were inhibited by oxycodone treatment. In conclusion, oxycodone exhibited the protective role in mifepristone-triggered endometrial injury via inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB signal pathway.
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Combination of stem cell therapy and acupuncture to treat ischemic stroke: a prospective review. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:87. [PMID: 35241146 PMCID: PMC8896103 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02761-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is the second leading cause globally that leads to severe disability and death. Stem cell therapy has been developed over the recent years to treat stroke and diminish the mortality and disability rate of brain injuries. Acupuncture, which can activate endogenous recovery via physical stimuli, has been applied to enhance the recovery and rehabilitation of stroke patients. Attempts have been made to combine stem cell therapy and acupuncture to treat stroke patients and have shown the promising results. This prospective review will look into the possible mechanisms of stem cell therapy and acupuncture and intend to undercover the potential benefit of the combined therapy. It intends to bridge the modern emerging stem cell therapy and traditional acupuncture at cellular and molecular levels and to demonstrate the potential benefit to improve clinical outcomes.
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Jin L, Wang X, Qiao Z, Deng Y. The safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in diabetic lower extremity vascular disease: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:225-234. [PMID: 34656420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Several studies have shown the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for lower extremity vascular disease (LEVD) in diabetic patients, but the results are not consistent. Therefore, the authors conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to examine the safety and efficacy of MSC therapy in diabetic patients with LEVD. METHODS Eight available databases were searched in both English and Chinese to identify RCTs comparing MSC therapy-based conventional treatment with conventional treatment alone in diabetic patients with LEVD. Three investigators independently screened the literature, extracted the data and assessed the risk bias. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4.1 and Stata 14.0. RESULTS A total of 10 studies involving 453 patients were included. Compared with conventional treatment only, patients receiving MSC therapy-based conventional treatment had a higher ulcer healing rate, greater number of reduced ulcers and shorter complete healing time. MSC therapy also increased ankle-brachial index and transcutaneous oxygen pressure. In addition, four of the included studies showed that MSC therapy significantly improved the number of new collateral vessels. Moreover, no more adverse events were recorded in the MSC group. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis suggests that MSC therapy promotes ulcer healing in diabetic LEVD patients with ulcers, improves blood supply and has a favorable safety profile. More large and well-designed RCTs with long-term follow-up are still needed to explore the safety and efficacy of MSC therapy in diabetic patients with LEVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewei Jin
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery and Burns, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, P.R China 410011
| | - Xiancheng Wang
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery and Burns, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, P.R China 410011.
| | - Zhihua Qiao
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery and Burns, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, P.R China 410011
| | - Yiwen Deng
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery and Burns, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, P.R China 410011
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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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Evidence-Based Application of Acupuncture in Theriogenology. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9020053. [PMID: 35202306 PMCID: PMC8880739 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9020053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Historical evidence of acupuncture predates written history. It has been a component of Traditional Chinese veterinary medicine for many generations and is officially recognized in recorded history for treating equine disease in the Zhou Dynasty, circa 1050 BC. Drawing from a range of searchable databases, we present the use of veterinary acupuncture related to theriogenology. We touch on human-based medicine only as an introduction to current uses within veterinary medical acupuncture. This review is confined to the use of acupuncture encompassing dry needle, electroacupuncture, aquapuncture, and the few reports of laserpuncture. Starting with acupuncture’s influence on the master organs of reproduction, the hypothalamus and the pituitary glands, and the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, we then review reports specific to the gonads—ovaries and testicles—and then its influences on the uterus. From there, we review reports on the influence of acupuncture on pain associated with reproductive surgery, and finally, on the use of acupuncture for maternal lactation. Based on published reports, we conclude that acupuncture has been shown to be effective in many situations as a treatment for infertility and/or reproductive tract disfunction, resulting in improvements in both female and male patients.
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Zhang L, Li Y, Dong YC, Guan CY, Tian S, Lv XD, Li JH, Su X, Xia HF, Ma X. Transplantation of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells promotes the recovery of thin endometrium in rats. Sci Rep 2022; 12:412. [PMID: 35013490 PMCID: PMC8748676 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04454-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium plays a critical role in embryo implantation and pregnancy, and a thin uterus is recognized as a key factor in embryo implantation failure. Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) have attracted interest for the repair of intrauterine adhesions. The current study investigated the repair of thin endometrium in rats using the UC-MSCs and the mechanisms involved. Rats were injected with 95% ethanol to establish a model of thin endometrium. The rats were randomly divided into normal, sham, model, and UC-MSCs groups. Endometrial morphological alterations were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining, and functional restoration was assessed by testing embryo implantation. The interaction between UC-MSCs and rat endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) was evaluated using a transwell 3D model and immunocytochemistry. Microarray mRNA and miRNA platforms were used for miRNA-mRNA expression profiling. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to identify the biological processes, molecular functions, cellular components, and pathways of endometrial injury and UC-MSCs transplantation repair and real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to further identify the expression changes of key molecules in the pathways. Endometrium thickness, number of glands, and the embryo implantation numbers were improved, and the degree of fibrosis was significantly alleviated by UC-MSCs treatment in the rat model of thin endometrium. In vitro cell experiments showed that UC-MSCs migrated to injured ESCs and enhanced their proliferation. miRNA microarray chip results showed that expression of 45 miRNAs was downregulated in the injured endometrium and upregulated after UC-MSCs transplantation. Likewise, expression of 39 miRNAs was upregulated in the injured endometrium and downregulated after UC-MSCs transplantation. The miRNA-mRNA interactions showed the changes in the miRNA and mRNA network during the processes of endometrial injury and repair. GO and KEGG analyses showed that the process of endometrial injury was mainly attributed to the decomposition of the extracellular matrix (ECM), protein degradation and absorption, and accompanying inflammation. The process of UC-MSCs transplantation and repair were accompanied by the reconstruction of the ECM, regulation of chemokines and inflammation, and cell proliferation and apoptosis. The key molecules involved in ECM-receptor interaction pathways were further verified by qRT-PCR. Itga1 and Thbs expression decreased in the model group and increased by UC-MSCs transplantation, while Laminin and Collagen expression increased in both the model group and MSCs group, with greater expression observed in the latter. This study showed that UC-MSCs transplantation could promote recovery of thin endometrial morphology and function. Furthermore, it revealed the expression changes of miRNA and mRNA after endometrial injury and UC-MSCs transplantation repair processed, and signaling pathways that may be involved in endometrial injury and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Li
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Chao Dong
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Yi Guan
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shi Tian
- Haidian Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Dan Lv
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Hui Li
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Su
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Fei Xia
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Xu Ma
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Zhao M, Chi F, Zhang T, Teng X, Li K. Human menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells regulation of the EGF/Ras p21 pathway as a potential therapeutic target for thin endometrium. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1476. [PMID: 34734028 PMCID: PMC8506758 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-4652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Human infertility is caused by many factors, among which thin endometrium is the main reason for poor embryo implantation. Currently, stem cell therapy could be a potential approach in treating human endometrial disorder like thin endometrium. In this study, we aimed to explore the influence of menstrual stem cells from non-thin endometrium (NTE-MenSCs) and thin endometrium (TE-MenSCs) on the phenotype of endometrial epithelial cells (EECs). Methods The MenSCs were isolated from women with and without thin endometria, characterized and co-cultured with the EECs. The expression of cytokeratin 7 (CK7) was verified by immunofluorescence while the detection stem cell markers was determined flow cytometry. Osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation were induced in appropriate media. The quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were respectively used for detecting the mRNA and protein expression levels, respectively. The CCK-8 assay was used for cell viability analysis whereas ELISA was used for the detection of cytokine levels. Results The results showed that the co-culture of NTE-MenSCs or TE-MenSCs and EECs promoted the proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of endothelial progenitor cells differently. Furthermore, the TE-MenSCs promoted the expression of inflammation, vascularized adipose, and extracellular matrix related proteins. The epidermal growth factor (EGF)/Ras p21 pathway was found to mediate the influence of MenSCs on EECs. Conclusions These findings are vital in that they may promote stem cell therapy of thin endometrium and enable embryo implantation in humans with thin endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Zhao
- Department of Assisted Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fengli Chi
- Department of Assisted Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingyu Zhang
- Department of Assisted Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoming Teng
- Department of Assisted Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kunming Li
- Department of Assisted Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Zhu YC, Sun YX, Shen XY, Jiang Y, Liu JY. Effect of intrauterine perfusion of granular leukocyte-colony stimulating factor on the outcome of frozen embryo transfer. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:9038-9049. [PMID: 34786386 PMCID: PMC8567495 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i30.9038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of thin endometrium with granular leukocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) remains controversial.
AIM To investigate the effect of G-CSF on the outcome of frozen embryo transfer in patients with thin endometrium.
METHODS A retrospective propensity score matching (PSM) study was performed to assess patients administered frozen embryo transfer at the Reproductive Medicine Center of the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, in 2012-2018. The patients were divided into G-CSF intrauterine perfusion (G-CSF) and non-G-CSF groups, and clinical pregnancy, implantation, ectopic pregnancy, and early abortion rates between the two groups were compared.
RESULTS Before PSM, 372 cycles were enrolled, including 242 and 130 cycles in the G-CSF and non-G-CSF groups, respectively. Age (34.23 ± 5.76 vs 32.99 ± 5.59 years; P = 0.047) and the blastula/cleavage stage embryo ratio (0.68 vs 0.37; P = 0.011) were significantly elevated in the G-CSF group compared with the non-G-CSF group; however, clinical pregnancy (46.28% vs 51.54%; P = 0.371) and embryo implantation (35.21% vs 35.65%; P = 0.910) rates were similar in both groups. After PSM by age and blastula/cleavage stage embryo ratio, 244 cycles were included (122 cases each in the G-CSF and non-G-CSF groups). The clinical pregnancy (50.82 % vs 48.36%; P = 0.701) and embryo implantation (37.38% vs 34.11%; P = 0.480) remained similar in both groups.
CONCLUSION Intrauterine infusion of G-CSF does not improve the clinical outcome of frozen embryo transfer in patients with thin endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Chun Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yan-Xin Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao-Yue Shen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jing-Yu Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
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Wang G, Ren C, Jiang J. Effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on repair and receptivity of damaged endometrium in rats. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:3223-3231. [PMID: 34184363 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study was to investigate whether bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can repair damaged endometrium in rats and its effect on endometrial receptivity. METHODS A rat model of endometrial damage was established by heat injury. BMSCs were labeled with PKH26 and were transplanted into the right uterine cavity. The endometrial thickness and fertility testing were examined to assess the repair of damaged endometrium. The mass on trichrome staining was used to assess the endometrium fibrosis. The expression of integrin avβ3 and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in rat endometrium was used to evaluate the endometrial receptivity. RESULTS After transplantation of BMSCs, the distribution of PKH26 positive cells was mainly on the damaged side in the endometrial tissues. Compared to control group, the endometrial tissue structure recovered after treatment with BMSCs. BMSCs transplantation improved the fertility of endometrial injury model rats. BMSCs decreased the area of endometrial fibrosis. The expression of integrin avβ3 and LIF in endometrium was the stronger in BMSCs treatment group than control group. CONCLUSION BMSCs can migrate to the endometrium and repair damaged endometrium and improve endometrium receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiling Wang
- Reproductive Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Chun'e Ren
- Reproductive Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Junyi Jiang
- Reproductive Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
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Lv Q, Wang L, Luo X, Chen X. Adult stem cells in endometrial regeneration: Molecular insights and clinical applications. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:379-394. [PMID: 34014590 PMCID: PMC8362170 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial damage is an important cause of female reproductive problems, manifested as menstrual abnormalities, infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and other complications. These conditions are collectively termed "Asherman syndrome" (AS) and are typically associated with recurrent induced pregnancy terminations, repeated diagnostic curettage and intrauterine infections. Cancer treatment also has unexpected detrimental side effects on endometrial function in survivors independently of ovarian effects. Endometrial stem cells act in the regeneration of the endometrium and in repair through direct differentiation or paracrine effects. Nonendometrial adult stem cells, such as bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells, with autologous and allogenic applications, can also repair injured endometrial tissue in animal models of AS and in human studies. However, there remains a lack of research on the repair of the damaged endometrium after the reversal of tumors, especially endometrial cancers. Here, we review the biological mechanisms of endometrial regeneration, and research progress and challenges for adult stem cell therapy for damaged endometrium, and discuss the potential applications of their use for endometrial repair after cancer remission, especially in endometrial cancers. Successful application of such cells will improve reproductive parameters in patients with AS or cancer. Significance: The endometrium is the fertile ground for embryos, but damage to the endometrium will greatly impair female fertility. Adult stem cells combined with tissue engineering scaffold materials or not have made great progress in repairing the injured endometrium due to benign lesions. However, due to the lack of research on the repair of the damaged endometrium caused by malignant tumors or tumor therapies, the safety and effectiveness of such stem cell-based therapies need to be further explored. This review focuses on the molecular insights and clinical application potential of adult stem cells in endometrial regeneration and discusses the possible challenges or difficulties that need to be overcome in stem cell-based therapies for tumor survivors. The development of adult stem cell-related new programs will help repair damaged endometrium safely and effectively and meet fertility needs in tumor survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoying Lv
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xuezhen Luo
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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Xia W, Hu S, Wang M, Xu F, Han L, Peng D. Exploration of the potential mechanism of the Tao Hong Si Wu Decoction for the treatment of postpartum blood stasis based on network pharmacology and in vivo experimental verification. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 268:113641. [PMID: 33271240 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Tao Hong Si Wu Decoction (THSWD) is a traditional prescription for blood management in traditional Chinese medicine, THSWD consists of Paeoniae Radix Alba (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.), Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata (Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC.), Angelicae Sinensis Radix (Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels), Chuanxiong Rhizoma (Conioselinum anthriscoides 'Chuanxiong'), Persicae Seman (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) and Carthami Flos (Carthamus tinctorius L.) at a weight ratio of 3: 4: 3: 2: 3: 2. THSWD is a commonly used prescription in the treatment of postpartum blood stasis disease. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the potential mechanism of THSWD for the treatment of postpartum blood stasis using network pharmacology and experimental research. MATERIALS AND METHODS We extracted the active ingredients and targets in THSWD from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP), and constructed a herbs-ingredients-targets-disease-network, devised a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, performed GO enrichment analysis, and performed Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis to discover potential treatment mechanisms. A postpartum blood stasis model was established in rats, and the results of network pharmacology were verified by in vivo experiments. RESULTS The results showed that 69 potential active ingredients and 207 THSWD target genes for the treatment of postpartum blood stasis disease were obtained after ADME filtering analysis. The targets were enriched in multiple gene functions and different signaling pathways. By exploring various different signaling pathways, it was found that mitochondrial regulation of oxidative stress plays a potentially important role in the treatment of postpartum blood stasis with THSWD. Compared to model group, THSWD alleviated mitochondrial damage, decreased levels of oxidative stress in the rat model of postpartum blood stasis and reduced apoptosis in uterine cells. CONCLUSION The therapeutic effect of THSWD on postpartum blood stasis is likely related to mitochondrial regulation of oxidative stress, which paves the way for further research investigating its mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Xia
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Shoushan Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Fan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Xin'an Medicine, Key Laboratory of Chinese Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China
| | - Lan Han
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Xin'an Medicine, Key Laboratory of Chinese Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China.
| | - Daiyin Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Xin'an Medicine, Key Laboratory of Chinese Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China.
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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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Li F, Lu H, Wang X, Zhang Q, Liu Q, Wang T. Effectiveness of electroacupuncture for thin endometrium in infertile women: study protocol for a single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Trials 2021; 22:73. [PMID: 33478562 PMCID: PMC7818916 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05029-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thin endometrium negatively impacts the reproductive function. Current treatments for thin endometrium do not always improve endometrial receptivity. Preliminary evidence suggests that electroacupuncture could have potential therapy for thin endometrium in infertile women. Thus, this randomized controlled trial was designed to test whether electroacupuncture can improve endometrial receptivity in infertile women with thin endometrium. METHODS This study is a randomized, single-blinded, controlled, clinical trial. A total of 142 eligible patients will be recruited and randomly assigned to the electroacupuncture (EA) group or the sham electroacupuncture (SEA) group in a 1:1 ratio. Participants will receive 36 sessions over three menstrual cycles (12 weeks in total), with the same acupoint prescription. The primary outcome of this trial is endometrial thickness in the midluteal phase. The secondary outcomes include endometrial pattern, resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) of bilateral uterine artery and endometrium blood flow, serum estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P), and pregnancy rate. The pregnancy rate will be evaluated during a 6-month follow-up after completion of the trial. All other outcomes will be evaluated before treatment, during the treatment of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd menstrual cycle, and 6 months after treatment. DISCUSSION If the outcome confirms the effectiveness of electroacupuncture for thin endometrium in infertile women, this treatment will be proposed for application in clinical practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trials Registry ChiCTR2 000029983. Registered on 18 February 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyuan Li
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Hua Lu
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Qi Zhang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Qianchen Liu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Tong Wang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075 Sichuan Province People’s Republic of China
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Chen TY, Wen TK, Dai NT, Hsu SH. Cryogel/hydrogel biomaterials and acupuncture combined to promote diabetic skin wound healing through immunomodulation. Biomaterials 2020; 269:120608. [PMID: 33388690 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Unhealed chronic wounds often deteriorate into multiple infection with several kinds of bacteria and excessive proteolytic wound exudate and remains one of the common healthcare issues. Here, the functional and antimicrobial hydrogel and cryogel biomaterials were prepared from glycol chitosan and a novel biodegradable Schiff base crosslinker difunctional polyurethane (DF-PU). The cryogel exhibited ~2730 ± 400% of water absorption with abundant macropores and 86.5 ± 1.6% of porosity formed by ice crystal as well as ~240% cell proliferation effect; while the hydrogel demonstrated considerable antimicrobial activity and biodegradability. As an optimized procedure to treat the diabetic skin wound in a rat model, the combined application of adipose stem cell-seeded cryogel/hydrogel biomaterials on the wound and acupuncture surrounding the wound may attain 90.34 ± 2.3% of wound closure and secure the formation of granulation tissue with sufficient microvessels and complete re-epithelialization in 8 days. The average increases in the superficial temperature of wounded animals after acupuncture were about 1-2 °C. Through the activation of C3a and C5a, the increased secretion of cytokines SDF-1 and TGFβ-1, as well as the down-regulation of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β, the combined treatment of stem cell-seeded cryogel/hydrogel biomaterials and acupuncture on wounds produced synergistic immunomodulatory effects. The strategy using the combined treatment of biomaterials, stem cells, and acupuncture reveals a perspective new approach to accelerate the tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Yu Chen
- Institute of Polymer Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tsung-Kai Wen
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Niann-Tzyy Dai
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Shan-Hui Hsu
- Institute of Polymer Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
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A triple-coated ligament graft to facilitate ligament-bone healing by inhibiting fibrogenesis and promoting osteogenesis. Acta Biomater 2020; 115:160-175. [PMID: 32791348 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Absence of ligament-bone healing due to poor bioactivity and hyperplasia of fibrous tissue caused by immune response severely impairs ligament grafts' functional duration in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. While osteogenic modification is a popular technique for promoting ligament-bone integration, inadequate osseointegration remains a common experience, due to occupying fibrous hyperplasia and impaired osteogenesis potential. In the present study, a triple-nano-coating polyethylene terephthalate (PET) graft was developed by polydopamine self-assembly, chondroitin sulfate (CS) chemical-grafting and BMP-2 physical-immobilization to facilitate robust ligament-bone healing, The CS/polydopamine-modified PET (C-pPET) graft was demonstrated to inhibit fibrogenesis by regulating polarization of macrophages and promoting the secretion of anti-inflammatory factors. Moreover, the immunoregulatory function of CS cooperated with BMP-2 to facilitate osteogenic differentiation of stem cells, promoting the expression of ALP, Runx2, OCN and COL I. Bone regeneration was significantly enhanced at early-middle stage in the BMP-loaded pPET (B/pPET) group, while occurring at middle-late stage in the C-pPET group. Continuous new bone formation and optimal ligament-bone healing were observed in the B/C-pPET group via sequential and synergistic immune osteogenesis by CS and cytokine osteogenesis by BMP-2. Thus, the present study revealed a practical avenue for the promotion of ligament-bone healing through the development of a triple-nano-coating engineered ligament combining immunoregulatory anti-fibrogenesis and sequential-synergistic osteogenesis, which holds a great potential for improving the clinical efficacy of ligament graft in ACL reconstruction. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: A triple-nano-coating polyethylene terephthalate (PET) graft was developed by polydopamine self-assembly, chondroitin sulfate (CS) chemical-grafting and BMP-2 physical-immobilization to facilitate robust ligament-bone healing. This study demonstrated that the multifunctional ligament grafts could reshape the local immune microenvironment by regulating macrophage phenotype and immune cytokine secretion to inhibit the fibrous hyperplasia and regulate stem cell towards osteogenic differentiation to promote bone regeneration. The present study demonstrates that efficient ligament-bone healing is achieved via the combination of immunoregulatory anti-fibrogenesis and dual osteogenesis of immunoregulation and cytokine induction.
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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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