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Sun B, Cheng X, Wu Q. The Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells and Their Niches. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:1273-1284. [PMID: 38635126 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10725-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Endometrial stem/progenitor cells are a type of stem cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into multiple cell types. They exist in the endometrium and form niches with their neighbor cells and extracellular matrix. The interaction between endometrial stem/progenitor cells and niches plays an important role in maintaining, repairing, and regenerating the endometrial structure and function. This review will discuss the characteristics and functions of endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their niches, the mechanisms of their interaction, and their roles in endometrial regeneration and diseases. Finally, the prospects for their applications will also be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baolan Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
- The State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China.
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qiang Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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2
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Samare-Najaf M, Razavinasab SA, Samareh A, Jamali N. Omics-based novel strategies in the diagnosis of endometriosis. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2024; 61:205-225. [PMID: 37878077 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2023.2270736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis, an enigmatic and chronic disorder, is considered a debilitating condition despite being benign. Globally, this gynecologic disorder affects up to 10% of females of reproductive age, impacting almost 190 million individuals. A variety of genetic and environmental factors are involved in endometriosis development, hence the pathophysiology and etiology of endometriosis remain unclear. The uncertainty of the etiology of the disease and its complexity along with nonspecific symptoms have led to misdiagnosis or lack of diagnosis of affected people. Biopsy and laparoscopy are referred to as the gold standard for endometriosis diagnosis. However, the invasiveness of the procedure, the unnecessary operation in disease-free women, and the dependence of the reliability of diagnosis on experience in this area are considered the most significant limitations. Therefore, continuous studies have attempted to offer a noninvasive and reliable approach. The recent advances in modern technologies have led to the generation of large-scale biological data sets, known as -omics data, resulting in the proceeding of the -omics century in biomedical sciences. Thereby, the present study critically reviews novel and noninvasive biomarkers that are based on -omics approaches from 2020 onward. The findings reveal that biomarkers identified based on genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics are potentially able to diagnose endometriosis, predict prognosis, and stage patients, and potentially, in the near future, a multi-panel of these biomarkers will generate clinical benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Samare-Najaf
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Kerman Regional Blood Transfusion Center, Kerman, Iran
- Biochemistry Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Ali Samareh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Navid Jamali
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
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3
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Zhang Y, Sun X, Li Z, Han X, Wang W, Xu P, Liu Y, Xue Y, Wang Z, Xu S, Wang X, Li G, Tian Y, Zhao Q. Interactions between miRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in endometriosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116182. [PMID: 38262146 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116182] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the ectopic growth of endometrial tissue (glands and stroma) outside the confines of the uterus and often involves vital organs such as the intestines and urinary system. Endometriosis is considered a refractory disease owing to its enigmatic etiology, propensity for recurrence following conservative or surgical interventions, and the absence of radical treatment and long-term management. In recent years, the incidence of endometriosis has gradually increased, rendering it a pressing concern among women of childbearing age. A more profound understanding of its pathogenesis can significantly improve prognosis. Recent research endeavors have spotlighted the molecular mechanisms by which microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the occurrence and progression of endometriosis. Many miRNAs have been reported to be aberrantly expressed in the affected tissues of both patients and animal models. These miRNAs actively participate in the regulation of inflammatory reactions, cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. Their capacity to modulate crucial signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, reinforces their potential utility as diagnostic markers or therapeutic agents for endometriosis. In this review, we provide the latest insights into the role of miRNAs that interact with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to regulate the biological behaviors of endometriosis cells and disease-related symptoms, such as pain and infertility. We hope that this review will provide novel insights and promising targets for innovative therapies addressing endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Xueyu Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, PR China
| | - Zhongkang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, PR China
| | - Xianhong Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Wenjun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Penglin Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Yuna Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Basic Medicine, Chengde Medical College, Chengde, Hebei 067000, PR China
| | - Shuling Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Xueying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Gailing Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China
| | - Yanpeng Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China.
| | - Qian Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China.
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4
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Zhang S, Yahaya BH, Pan Y, Liu Y, Lin J. Menstrual blood-derived endometrial stem cell, a unique and promising alternative in the stem cell-based therapy for chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:327. [PMID: 37957675 PMCID: PMC10644549 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03551-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy can cause ovarian dysfunction and infertility since the ovary is extremely sensitive to chemotherapeutic drugs. Apart from the indispensable role of the ovary in the overall hormonal milieu, ovarian dysfunction also affects many other organ systems and functions including sexuality, bones, the cardiovascular system, and neurocognitive function. Although conventional hormone replacement therapy can partly relieve the adverse symptoms of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), the treatment cannot fundamentally prevent deterioration of POI. Therefore, effective treatments to improve chemotherapy-induced POI are urgently needed, especially for patients desiring fertility preservation. Recently, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapies have resulted in promising improvements in chemotherapy-induced ovary dysfunction by enhancing the anti-apoptotic capacity of ovarian cells, preventing ovarian follicular atresia, promoting angiogenesis and improving injured ovarian structure and the pregnancy rate. These improvements are mainly attributed to MSC-derived biological factors, functional RNAs, and even mitochondria, which are directly secreted or indirectly translocated with extracellular vesicles (microvesicles and exosomes) to repair ovarian dysfunction. Additionally, as a novel source of MSCs, menstrual blood-derived endometrial stem cells (MenSCs) have exhibited promising therapeutic effects in various diseases due to their comprehensive advantages, such as periodic and non-invasive sample collection, abundant sources, regular donation and autologous transplantation. Therefore, this review summarizes the efficacy of MSCs transplantation in improving chemotherapy-induced POI and analyzes the underlying mechanism, and further discusses the benefit and existing challenges in promoting the clinical application of MenSCs in chemotherapy-induced POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghui Zhang
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Stem Cell Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Lung Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Group, Regenerative Medicine Cluster, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (IPPT), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Badrul Hisham Yahaya
- Lung Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Group, Regenerative Medicine Cluster, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (IPPT), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Ying Pan
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, , China
| | - Yanli Liu
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Stem Cell Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang, Henan, China.
| | - Juntang Lin
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Stem Cell Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang, Henan, China.
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Liu X, Li J, Wang W, Ren X, Hu JF. Therapeutic restoration of female reproductive and endocrine dysfunction using stem cells. Life Sci 2023; 322:121658. [PMID: 37023951 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Millions of women worldwide suffer from infertility associated with gynecologic disorders such as premature ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome, Asherman syndrome, endometriosis, preeclampsia, and fallopian tube obstruction. These disorders can lead to infertility and thereby affect the quality of life of the infertile couple because of their psychological impact and significant costs. In recent years, stem cell therapy has emerged as a therapeutic approach to repair or replace damaged tissues or organs. This review describes the recent development as well as the underlying mechanisms of stem cell therapy for a variety of female reproductive diseases, offering us new therapeutic options for the treatment of female reproductive and endocrine dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Liu
- The Laboratory of Cancer Precision Medicine, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130061, China
| | - Jiajia Li
- The Laboratory of Cancer Precision Medicine, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130061, China; Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Obstetrics Centre, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, China
| | - Wenjun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Cancer Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130061, China; Stanford University Medical School, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Xue Ren
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Obstetrics Centre, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130012, China
| | - Ji-Fan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Cancer Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130061, China; Stanford University Medical School, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
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Ruiz-Magaña MJ, Puerta JM, Llorca T, Méndez-Malagón C, Martínez-Aguilar R, Abadía-Molina AC, Olivares EG, Ruiz-Ruiz C. Influence of the ectopic location on the antigen expression and functional characteristics of endometrioma stromal cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:460-469. [PMID: 36586747 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.12.005] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are the alterations observed in the endometriotic cells, such as progesterone resistance, already present in the eutopic endometrium or acquired in the ectopic location? DESIGN The response to decidualization with progesterone and cyclic AMP for up to 28 days was compared in different endometrial stromal cell (EnSC) lines established from samples of endometriomas (eEnSC), eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis (eBEnSC), endometrial tissue from healthy women (BEnSC) and menstrual blood from healthy donors (mEnSC). RESULTS Usual features of decidualized cells, such as changes in cell morphology and expression of prolactin, were similarly observed in the three types of eutopic EnSC studied, but not in the ectopic cells upon decidualization. Among the phenotypic markers analysed, CD105 was down-regulated under decidualization in all cell types (mEnSC, P = 0.005; BEnSC, P = 0.029; eBEnSC, P = 0.022) except eEnSC. mEnSC and BEnSC underwent apoptosis during decidualization, whereas eBEnSC and eEnSC were resistant to the induction of cell death. Lastly, migration studies revealed that mEnSC secreted undetermined factors during decidualization that inhibited cell motility, whereas eEnSC showed a significantly lower ability to produce those migration-regulating factors (P < 0.0001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.0013 for the migration of mEnSC at 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively; P < 0.0001 for the migration of eEnSC at all times studied). CONCLUSIONS This study provides novel insights into the differences between endometriotic and eutopic endometrial cells and reinforces the idea that the microenvironment in the ectopic location plays additional roles in the acquisition of the alterations that characterize the cells of the endometriotic foci.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Ruiz-Magaña
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - José M Puerta
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain; Hospital Quirón Ruber Juan Bravo, Madrid, Spain
| | - Tatiana Llorca
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Méndez-Malagón
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Rocío Martínez-Aguilar
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain; Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Ana Clara Abadía-Molina
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Enrique G Olivares
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain; Unidad de Gestión Clínica Laboratorios, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, Granada, Spain.
| | - Carmen Ruiz-Ruiz
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.
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7
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Irandoost E, Najibi S, Talebbeigi S, Nassiri S. Focus on the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathology of endometriosis: a review on molecular mechanisms and possible medical applications. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 396:621-631. [PMID: 36542122 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-022-02365-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMS) is a gynecological disease that leads to pathological conditions, which are connected to the initiation of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Inflammation plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of EMS. The activation and formation of cytoplasmic inflammasome complexes is considered an important step of inflammation and a key regulator of pyroptosis, a form of cell death. NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome complex modulates innate immune activity and inflammation. The NLRP3 inflammasome activates cysteine protease caspase-1, which produces active pro-inflammatory interleukins (ILs), including IL-1β and IL-18. The aim of this review article was to discuss the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and its activation in the pathophysiology of EMS and target related pathways in designing appropriate therapeutic approaches. Dysregulation of sex hormone signaling pathways was associated with over-activation of the NLPR3 inflammasome. In this study, we demonstrated the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathways in the pathophysiology of EMS. The manuscript also discusses the beneficial effects of targeted therapy through synthetic inhibitors of NLRP3 signaling pathways to control EMS lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Irandoost
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shaparak Najibi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Talebbeigi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saina Nassiri
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Penariol LBC, Thomé CH, Tozetti PA, Paier CRK, Buono FO, Peronni KC, Orellana MD, Covas DT, Moraes MEA, Silva WA, Rosa-e-Silva JC, Ferriani RA, Faça VM, Poli-Neto OB, Tiezzi DG, Meola J. What Do the Transcriptome and Proteome of Menstrual Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Tell Us about Endometriosis? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911515. [PMID: 36232817 PMCID: PMC9570451 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the importance of menstrual blood in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and the multifunctional roles of menstrual mesenchymal stem cells (MenSCs) in regenerative medicine, this issue has gained prominence in the scientific community. Moreover, recent reviews highlight how robust the integrated assessment of omics data are for endometriosis. To our knowledge, no study has applied the multi-omics approaches to endometriosis MenSCs. This is a case-control study at a university-affiliated hospital. MenSCs transcriptome and proteome data were obtained by RNA-seq and UHPLC-MS/MS detection. Among the differentially expressed proteins and genes, we emphasize ATF3, ID1, ID3, FOSB, SNAI1, NR4A1, EGR1, LAMC3, and ZFP36 genes and MT2A, TYMP, COL1A1, COL6A2, and NID2 proteins that were already reported in the endometriosis. Our functional enrichment analysis reveals integrated modulating signaling pathways such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (↑) and PI3K signaling via AKT to mTORC1 (↓ in proteome), mTORC1 signaling, TGF beta signaling, TNFA signaling via NFkB, IL6 STAT3 signaling, and response to hypoxia via HIF1A targets (↑ in transcriptome). Our findings highlight primary changes in the endometriosis MenSCs, suggesting that the chronic inflammatory endometrial microenvironment can modulate these cells, providing opportunities for endometriosis etiopathogenesis. Moreover, they identify challenges for future research leveraging knowledge for regenerative and precision medicine in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letícia B. C. Penariol
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Carolina H. Thomé
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
- Regional Blood Center, Medical School of Hemocenter Foundation of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14051-140, Brazil
| | - Patrícia A. Tozetti
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Carlos R. K. Paier
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceara, Ceará 60430-275, Brazil
| | - Fabiana O. Buono
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Kamila C. Peronni
- Department of Genetics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Maristela D. Orellana
- Regional Blood Center, Medical School of Hemocenter Foundation of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14051-140, Brazil
| | - Dimas T. Covas
- Regional Blood Center, Medical School of Hemocenter Foundation of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14051-140, Brazil
| | - Maria E. A. Moraes
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceara, Ceará 60430-275, Brazil
| | - Wilson A. Silva
- Department of Genetics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Júlio C. Rosa-e-Silva
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
- Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Rui A. Ferriani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Hormones and Women’s Health (Hormona), CNPq, Porto Alegre 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Vitor M. Faça
- Regional Blood Center, Medical School of Hemocenter Foundation of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14051-140, Brazil
- Department Biochemistry and Immunology, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Omero B. Poli-Neto
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
- Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Daniel G. Tiezzi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
- Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
- Laboratory for Translational Data Science, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Hormones and Women’s Health (Hormona), CNPq, Porto Alegre 90035-003, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-16-3315-0577
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9
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Ruiz-Magaña MJ, Llorca T, Martinez-Aguilar R, Abadia-Molina AC, Ruiz-Ruiz C, Olivares EG. Stromal cells of the endometrium and decidua: in search of a name and an identity. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1166-1176. [PMID: 35947987 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endometrial and decidual stromal cells are the same cells in different environments (non-pregnancy and pregnancy, respectively). Although some authors consider decidual stromal cells to arise solely from the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells, this is a debatable issue given that decidualization processes do not end with the formation of the decidua, as shown by the presence of stromal cells from both the endometrium and decidua in both undifferentiated (non-decidualized) and decidualized states. Furthermore, recent functional and transcriptomic results have shown that there are differences in the decidualization process of endometrial and decidual stromal cells, with the latter having a greater decidualization capacity than the former. These differences suggest that in the terminology and study of their characteristics, endometrial and decidual stromal cells should be clearly distinguished, as should their undifferentiated or decidualized status. There is, however, considerable confusion in the designation and identification of uterine stromal cells. This confusion may impede a judicious understanding of the functional processes in normal and pathological situations. In the present article we analyse the different terms used in the literature for different types of uterine stromal cells, and propose that a combination of differentiation status (undifferentiated, decidualized) and localization (endometrium, decidua) criteria should be used to arrive at a set of accurate, unambiguous terms. The cell identity of uterine stromal cells is also a debatable issue: phenotypic, functional and transcriptomic studies in recent decades have related these cells to different established cells. We discuss the relevance of these associations in normal and pathological situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jose Ruiz-Magaña
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Tatiana Llorca
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Rocio Martinez-Aguilar
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Clara Abadia-Molina
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Carmen Ruiz-Ruiz
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Enrique G Olivares
- Instituto de Biopatología y Medicina Regenerativa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad de Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular III e Inmunología, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Unidad de Gestión Clínica Laboratorios, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, Granada, Spain
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10
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Gołąbek-Grenda A, Olejnik A. In vitro modeling of endometriosis and endometriotic microenvironment - Challenges and recent advances. Cell Signal 2022; 97:110375. [PMID: 35690293 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic condition with high prevalence in reproductive age women, defined as the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, most commonly on the pelvic peritoneum. The ectopic endometrial lesions exist in a unique microenvironment created by the interaction of epithelial, stromal, endothelial, glandular, and immune cell components, dominated by inflammatory, angiogenic, and endocrine signals. Current research is directed at understanding the complex microenvironment of the lesions and its relationship with different endometriosis stages, phenotypes, and disease symptoms and at the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic concepts that minimalize the undesirable side effects of current medical management. Recreating pathophysiological cellular and molecular mechanisms and identifying clinically relevant metrics to assess drug efficacy is a great challenge for the experimental disease models. This review summarizes the complete range of available in vitro experimental systems used in endometriotic studies, which reflect the multifactorial nature of the endometriotic lesion. The article discusses the simplistic in vitro models such as primary endometrial cells and endometriotic cell lines to heterogeneous 2D co-cultures, and recently more common, 3D systems based on self-organization and controlled assembly, both in microfluidic or bioprinting methodologies. Basic research models allow studying fundamental pathological mechanisms by which menstrual endometrium adheres, invades, and establishes lesions in ectopic sites. The advanced endometriosis experimental models address the critical challenges and unsolved problems and provide an approach to drug screening and medicine discovery by mimicking the complicated behaviors of the endometriotic lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Gołąbek-Grenda
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 48 Wojska Polskiego St., 60-627 Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Olejnik
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 48 Wojska Polskiego St., 60-627 Poznan, Poland.
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11
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Ferrer AI, Einstein E, Morelli SS. Bone Marrow-Derived Cells in Endometrial Cancer Pathogenesis: Insights from Breast Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040714. [PMID: 35203363 PMCID: PMC8869947 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer, representing 3.5% of all new cancer cases in the United States. Abnormal stem cell-like cells, referred to as cancer stem cells (CSCs), reside in the endometrium and possess the capacity to self-renew and differentiate into cancer progenitors, leading to tumor progression. Herein we review the role of the endometrial microenvironment and sex hormone signaling in sustaining EC progenitors and potentially promoting dormancy, a cellular state characterized by cell cycle quiescence and resistance to conventional treatments. We offer perspective on mechanisms by which bone marrow-derived cells (BMDCs) within the endometrial microenvironment could promote endometrial CSC (eCSC) survival and/or dormancy. Our perspective relies on the well-established example of another sex hormone-driven cancer, breast cancer, in which the BM microenvironment plays a crucial role in acquisition of CSC phenotype and dormancy. Our previous studies demonstrate that BMDCs migrate to the endometrium and express sex hormone (estrogen and progesterone) receptors. Whether the BM is a source of eCSCs is unknown; alternatively, crosstalk between BMDCs and CSCs within the endometrial microenvironment could be an additional mechanism supporting eCSCs and tumorigenesis. Elucidating these mechanisms will provide avenues to develop novel therapeutic interventions for EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra I. Ferrer
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.I.F.); (E.E.)
- School of Graduate Studies Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Ella Einstein
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (A.I.F.); (E.E.)
| | - Sara S. Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Correspondence:
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12
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Quinagolide Treatment Reduces Invasive and Angiogenic Properties of Endometrial Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031775. [PMID: 35163699 PMCID: PMC8836593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells (E-MSCs) extensively contribute to the establishment and progression of endometrial ectopic lesions through formation of the stromal vascular tissue, and support to its growth and vascularization. As E-MSCs lack oestrogen receptors, endometriosis eradication cannot be achieved by hormone-based pharmacological approaches. Quinagolide is a non-ergot-derived dopamine receptor 2 agonist reported to display therapeutic effects in in vivo models of endometriosis. In the present study, we isolated E-MSCs from eutopic endometrial tissue and from ovarian and peritoneal endometriotic lesions, and we tested the effect of quinagolide on their proliferation and matrix invasion ability. Moreover, the effect of quinagolide on E-MSC endothelial differentiation was assessed in an endothelial co-culture model of angiogenesis. E-MSC lines expressed dopamine receptor 2, with higher expression in ectopic than eutopic ones. Quinagolide inhibited the invasive properties of E-MSCs, but not their proliferation, and limited their endothelial differentiation. The abrogation of the observed effects by spiperone, a dopamine receptor antagonist, confirmed specific dopamine receptor activation. At variance, no involvement of VEGFR2 inhibition was observed. Moreover, dopamine receptor 2 activation led to downregulation of AKT and its phosphorylation. Of interest, several effects were more prominent on ectopic E-MSCs with respect to eutopic lines. Together with the reported effects on endometrial and endothelial cells, the observed inhibition of E-MSCs may increase the rationale for quinagolide in endometriosis treatment.
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13
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Cousins FL, Filby CE, Gargett CE. Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells–Their Role in Endometrial Repair and Regeneration. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:811537. [PMID: 36304009 PMCID: PMC9580754 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.811537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a remarkable tissue, undergoing ~450 cycles of proliferation, differentiation, shedding (menstruation), repair, and regeneration over a woman's reproductive lifespan. Post-menstrual repair is an extremely rapid and scar-free process, with re-epithelialization of the luminal epithelium completed within 48 h of initiation of shedding. Following menstruation, the functionalis grows from the residual basalis layer during the proliferative phase under the influence of rising circulating estrogen levels. The regenerative capacity of the endometrium is attributed to stem/progenitor cells which reside in both the epithelial and stromal cell compartments of the basalis layer. Finding a definitive marker for endometrial epithelial progenitors (eEPCs) has proven difficult. A number of different markers have been suggested as putative progenitor markers including, N-cadherin, SSEA-1, AXIN2, SOX-9 and ALDH1A1, some of which show functional stem cell activity in in vitro assays. Each marker has a unique location(s) in the glandular epithelium, which has led to the suggestion that a differentiation hierarchy exists, from the base of epithelial glands in the basalis to the luminal epithelium lining the functionalis, where epithelial cells express different combinations of markers as they differentiate and move up the gland into the functionalis away from the basalis niche. Perivascular endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) can be identified by co-expression of PDGFRβ and CD146 or by a single marker, SUSD2. This review will detail the known endometrial stem/progenitor markers; their identity, location and known interactions and hierarchy across the menstrual cycle, in particular post-menstrual repair and estrogen-driven regeneration, as well as their possible contributions to menstruation-related disorders such as endometriosis and regeneration-related disorder Asherman's syndrome. We will also highlight new techniques that allow for a greater understanding of stem/progenitor cells' role in repair and regeneration, including 3D organoids, 3D slice cultures and gene sequencing at the single cell level. Since mouse models are commonly used to study menstruation, repair and regeneration we will also detail the mouse stem/progenitor markers that have been investigated in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Fiona L. Cousins
| | - Caitlin E. Filby
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Caroline E. Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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14
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A Comparative Study of Gene Expression in Menstrual Blood-Derived Stromal Cells between Endometriosis and Healthy Women. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:7053521. [PMID: 35059465 PMCID: PMC8766185 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7053521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background. Research into the pathogenesis of endometriosis would substantially promote its effective treatment and early diagnosis. Currently, accumulating evidence has shed light on the importance of endometrial stem cells within the menstrual blood which are involved in the establishment and progression of endometriotic lesions in a retrograde manner. Objectives. We aimed to identify the differences in some genes’ expression between menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MenSCs) isolated from endometriosis patients (E-MenSCs) and MenSCs from healthy women (NE-MenSCs). Methods. Menstrual blood samples (2-3 mL) from healthy and endometriosis women in the age range of 22–35 years were collected. Isolated MenSCs by the Ficoll-Paque density-gradient centrifugation method were characterized by flow cytometry. MenSCs were evaluated for key related endometriosis genes by real-time-PCR. Results. E-MenSCs were morphologically different from NE-MenSCs and showed, respectively, higher and lower expression of CD10 and CD9. Furthermore, E-MenSCs had higher expression of Cyclin D1 (a cell cycle-related gene) and MMP-2 and MMP-9 (migration- and invasion-related genes) genes compared with NE-MenSCs. Despite higher cell proliferation in E-MenSCs, the BAX/BCL-2 ratio was significantly lower in E-MenSCs compared to NE-MenSCs. Also, the level of inflammatory genes such as IL1β, IL6, IL8, and NF-κB and stemness genes including SOX2 and SALL4 was increased in E-MenSCs compared with NE-MenSCs. Further, VEGF, as a potent angiogenic factor, showed a significant increase in E-MenSCs rather than NE-MenSCs. However, NE-MenSCs showed increased ER-α and β-catenin when compared with E-MenSCs. Conclusion. Here, we showed that there are gene expression differences between E-MenSCs and NE-MenSCs. These findings propose that MenSCs could play key role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and further support the menstrual blood retrograde theory of endometriosis formation. This could be of great importance in exploiting promising therapeutic targets and new biomarkers for endometriosis treatment and prognosis.
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15
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Jin Z, Zhang Y, Li J, Lv S, Zhang L, Feng Y. Endometriosis stem cell sources and potential therapeutic targets: literature review and bioinformatics analysis. Regen Med 2021; 16:949-962. [PMID: 34585967 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2021-0039] [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: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The stem cell origin theory of endometriosis (EMS) is a significant area of new research but the sources of this have yet to be adequately summarized. Existing treatments for EMS are commonly associated with a high recurrence rate; consequently, there is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic measures for the future treatment of this disease from the view of stem cells and gene therapy. Recently, we described the evidence for the potential sources of EMS stem cells and other key molecules participating in the establishment of lesions, and predict the miRNAs that target these key genes via bioinformatics analysis for further research. This review highlights the origin of EMS stem cells and potential therapy targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Jin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.,The Second Clinical Medical School of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Yize Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.,The Second Clinical Medical School of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- School of Public Health of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Sidi Lv
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.,The Second Clinical Medical School of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Lixia Zhang
- The First Hospital of Handan City, Hebei, 056004, China
| | - Ying Feng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China
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16
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Brichant G, Laraki I, Henry L, Munaut C, Nisolle M. New Therapeutics in Endometriosis: A Review of Hormonal, Non-Hormonal, and Non-Coding RNA Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10498. [PMID: 34638843 PMCID: PMC8508913 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined as endometrial-like tissue outside the uterine cavity. It is a chronic inflammatory estrogen-dependent disease causing pain and infertility in about 10% of women of reproductive age. Treatment nowadays consists of medical and surgical therapies. Medical treatments are based on painkillers and hormonal treatments. To date, none of the medical treatments have been able to cure the disease and symptoms recur as soon as the medication is stopped. The development of new biomedical targets, aiming at the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for endometriosis, is needed. This article summarizes the most recent medications under investigation in endometriosis treatment with an emphasis on non-coding RNAs that are emerging as key players in several human diseases, including cancer and endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine Brichant
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, ULiege, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (I.L.); (L.H.); (M.N.)
| | - Ines Laraki
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, ULiege, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (I.L.); (L.H.); (M.N.)
| | - Laurie Henry
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, ULiege, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (I.L.); (L.H.); (M.N.)
| | - Carine Munaut
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, Giga-Cancer, ULiege, 4000 Liège, Belgium;
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, ULiege, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (I.L.); (L.H.); (M.N.)
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17
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Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Isolated from Ectopic but Not Eutopic Endometrium Display Pronounced Immunomodulatory Activity In Vitro. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101286. [PMID: 34680403 PMCID: PMC8533241 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101286] [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: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A comparative analysis of the cell surface markers and immunological properties of cell cultures originating from normal endometrium and endometrioid heterotopias of women with extragenital endometriosis was carried out. Both types of cell cultures expressed surface molecules typical of mesenchymal stromal cells and did not express hematopoietic and epithelial markers. Despite similar phenotype, the mesenchymal stromal cells derived from the two sources had different immunomodulation capacities: the cells of endometrioid heterotopias but not eutopic endometrium could suppress dendritic cell differentiation from monocytes as well as lymphocyte proliferation in allogeneic co-cultures. A comparative multiplex analysis of the secretomes revealed a significant increase in the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, including IL6, IFN-γ, and several chemokines associated with inflammation by the stromal cells of ectopic lesions. The results demonstrate that the stromal cells of endometrioid heterotopias display enhanced pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities, which most likely impact the pathogenesis and progression of the disease.
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18
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Oliveira FR, Casalechi M, Carneiro MM, de Ávila I, Dela Cruz C, Del Puerto HL, Camargos AF, Abrão MS, Reis FM. Immunolocalization of stem/progenitor cell biomarkers Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1 in endometriotic lesions. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:6863-6870. [PMID: 34468911 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06685-3] [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: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human endometrium harbors stem/progenitor cells (SPCs) that may contribute to the establishment of endometriosis when seeded outside the uterus. Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1 are some of the many proteins used to characterize SPCs, but their association with endometriosis is uncertain. OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN In this study, specimens of normal endometrium (n = 12), eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis (n = 9), superficial peritoneal endometriosis (SUP, n = 12) and deep endometriosis (DE, n = 13) lesions were evaluated for localization and intensity of immunostaining for Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1. RESULTS The three markers were abundantly expressed in normal endometrium, eutopic endometrium from endometriosis patients, SUP and DE specimens. Oct-4 and C-kit expression did not vary across groups as regards intensity or frequency. C-kit staining signal was seldom detected in vascular endothelium of normal or eutopic endometrium from endometriosis patients; however, it was positive in 67% of the SUP lesions and in 25% of the DE lesions (p = 0.042). Musashi-1 was expressed in some endometriotic glands as cell clusters, but its signal was similar between the four types of tissue (p = 0.971) CONCLUSION: The wide distribution of Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1 in endometria of patients with and without endometriosis and in SUP and DE endometriotic lesions suggests that these markers are not suitable for the in situ characterization of endometrial SPCs and should not be taken as surrogates for the study of SPCs in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia R Oliveira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maíra Casalechi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Márcia M Carneiro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ivete de Ávila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Helen L Del Puerto
- Department of Pathology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Aroldo F Camargos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maurício S Abrão
- Gynecologic Division, BP - A Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando M Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital das Clínicas, UFMG, Av. Alfredo Balena, 110, 9˚ andar, Belo Horizonte, MG, 30130-100, Brazil.
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19
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Králíčková M, Vetvicka V, Fiala L, Laganà AS, Garzon S. The Search for Biomarkers in Endometriosis: a Long and Windy Road. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1667-1673. [PMID: 34159571 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00668-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex and chronic estrogen-dependent disease, affecting a significant proportion of women of reproductive age. Despite the long interest and extensive research, the pathogenesis of the disease is still debated. Although available non-invasive diagnostic methods have adequate accuracy, an invasive approach by laparoscopy is often necessary to obtain histological confirmation. In this scenario, the search for an accurate, reliable, cost-effective, clinically applicable non-invasive biomarker plays a crucial role in a potentially early diagnosis and, in this way, shape the future management of the disease. Considering these elements, the current review aims to summarize the most significant and novel results about biomarkers for the diagnosis and follow-up of women affected by endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Králíčková
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Plzen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Vaclav Vetvicka
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Luděk Fiala
- Institute of Sexology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Filippo Del Ponte" Hospital, University of Insubria, Piazza Biroldi 1, 21100, Varese, Italy.
| | - Simone Garzon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Filippo Del Ponte" Hospital, University of Insubria, Piazza Biroldi 1, 21100, Varese, Italy.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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20
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Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Human Embryo Implantation: Clinical Implications. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020253. [PMID: 33578823 PMCID: PMC7916576 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well-known angiogenic factor that plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes. VEGF also contributes to the process of embryo implantation by enhancing embryo development, improving endometrial receptivity, and facilitating the interactions between the developing embryo and the endometrium. There is a correlation between the alteration of VEGF expression and reproductive failure, including recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriage (RM). In order to clarify the role of VEGF in embryo implantation, we reviewed recent literature concerning the expression and function of VEGF in the reproductive system around the time of embryo implantation and we provide a summary of the findings reported so far. We also explored the effects and the possible underlying mechanisms of action of VEGF in embryo implantation.
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