1
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Quan Q, Gu H, Wang Y, Yu M. Immune micro-environment analysis and drug screening for ovarian endometriosis. Genes Genomics 2024; 46:803-815. [PMID: 38776050 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-024-01497-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients of ovary endometriosis have an abnormal immune micro-environment, leading to endometrial tissue that from retrograde menstruation evade immune surveillance and subsequently develop into ectopic lesions. OBJECTIVE This study aims to elucidate the crucial immune cells and molecular pathways that are associated with an aberrant immune micro-environment of endometriosis. METHOD In this study, we identified differentially expressed genes between ovarian ectopic endometrial tissue (OVE) and eutopic endometrial tissue from patients with endometriosis (PE) and non-endometriosis patients (CON) by analyzing the mRNA sequencing data. Additionally, we used WGCNA(Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis) to screen for key genes related to immune cell infiltration and compared the sub-types of infiltrating immune cells using CIBERSORT(cell-type identification by estimating relative subsets of RNA transcript). Subsequently, we conducted a single-cell analysis on the identified key genes. Furthermore, we analyzed potential drugs suitable for ovarian endometriosis treatment using pRRophertic. RESULTS Seven key genes associated with immune cell infiltration were screened out. The expression of these genes in OVE was significantly lower than that in PE and CON. These key genes were mainly enriched in the NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity pathway, especially for CD16 + CD56dim NK. Moreover, NK cells infiltration in ovarian endometriosis was significantly reduced compared with PE and CON, while M2 macrophage shown the opposite. Results of the single-cell analysis showed that the expression of the seven key genes in NK cells and monocyte-macrophages in OVE was significantly lower than that in PE or CON. Additionally, we identified potential drugs suitable for ovarian endometriosis treatment. CONCLUSION The decreased infiltration of NK cells and increased infiltration of M2 macrophages contribute to the evasion of immune surveillance against endometrial tissue, promoting the progression of OVE. Therefore, potential strategies for the treatment of OVE include increasing NK cell activation and decreasing M2 macrophage polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingli Quan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), PO Box 510600, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heng Gu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), PO Box 510600, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongxia Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), PO Box 510600, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Meixing Yu
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, PO Box 510623, Guangzhou, China.
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2
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Ochoa Bernal MA, Fazleabas AT. The Known, the Unknown and the Future of the Pathophysiology of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5815. [PMID: 38892003 PMCID: PMC11172035 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain and infertility, affecting 10% of women of reproductive age. A delay of up to 9 years is estimated between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of endometriosis. Endometriosis is currently defined as the presence of endometrial epithelial and stromal cells at ectopic sites; however, advances in research on endometriosis have some authors believing that endometriosis should be re-defined as "a fibrotic condition in which endometrial stroma and epithelium can be identified". There are several theories on the etiology of the disease, but the origin of endometriosis remains unclear. This review addresses the role of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are naturally occurring post-transcriptional regulatory molecules, in endometriotic lesion development, the inflammatory environment within the peritoneal cavity, including the role that cytokines play during the development of the disease, and how animal models have helped in our understanding of the pathology of this enigmatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ariadna Ochoa Bernal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
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3
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Knez J, Kovačič B, Goropevšek A. The role of regulatory T-cells in the development of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2024:deae103. [PMID: 38756099 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a benign disease of the female reproductive tract, characterized by the process of chronic inflammation and alterations in immune response. It is estimated to affect 2-19% of women in the general population and is commonly associated with symptoms of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Regulatory T cells (Treg) are a subpopulation of T lymphocytes that are potent suppressors of inflammatory immune response, essential in preventing destructive immunity in all tissues. In endometriosis, several studies have investigated the possible role of Treg cells in the development of the disease. Most studies to date are heterogeneous in methodology and are based on a small number of cases, which means that it is impossible to define their exact role at present. Based on current knowledge, it seems that disturbed Treg homeostasis, leading to increased systemic and local inflammation within ectopic and eutopic endometrium, is present in women who eventually develop endometriosis. It is also evident that different subsets of human Treg cells have different roles in suppressing the immune response. Recent studies in patients with endometriosis have investigated naive/resting FOXP3lowCD45RA+ Treg cells, which upon T cell receptor stimulation, differentiate into activated/effector FOXP3highCD45RA- Treg cells, characterized by a strong immunosuppressive activity. In addition, critical factors controlling expression of Treg/effector genes, including reactive oxygen species and heme-responsive master transcription factor BACH2, were found to be upregulated in endometriotic lesions. As shown recently for cancer microenvironments, microbial inflammation may also contribute to the local composition of FOXP3+ subpopulations in endometriotic lesions. Furthermore, cytokines, such as IL-7, which control the homeostasis of Treg subsets through the tyrosine phosphorylation STAT5 signalling pathway, have also been shown to be dysregulated. To better understand the role of Treg in the development of endometriosis, future studies should use clear definitions of Tregs along with specific characterization of the non-Treg (FOXP3lowCD45RA-) fraction, which itself is a mixture of follicular Tregs and cells producing inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jure Knez
- Clinic for Gynaecology, Department for Gynaecological Oncology, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Borut Kovačič
- Clinic for Gynaecology, Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Aleš Goropevšek
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
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4
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Riaz MA, Kary FL, Jensen A, Zeppernick F, Meinhold-Heerlein I, Konrad L. Long-Term Maintenance of Viable Human Endometrial Epithelial Cells to Analyze Estrogen and Progestin Effects. Cells 2024; 13:811. [PMID: 38786035 PMCID: PMC11120542 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
There are fewer investigations conducted on human primary endometrial epithelial cells (HPEECs) compared to human primary endometrial stromal cells (HPESCs). One of the main reasons is the scarcity of protocols enabling prolonged epithelial cell culture. Even though it is possible to culture HPEECs in 3D over a longer period of time, it is technically demanding. In this study, we successfully established a highly pure, stable, and long-term viable human conditionally reprogrammed endometrial epithelial cell line, designated as eCRC560. These cells stained positive for epithelial markers, estrogen and progesterone receptors, and epithelial cell-cell contacts but negative for stromal and endothelial cell markers. Estradiol (ES) reduced the abundance of ZO-1 in a time- and dose-dependent manner, in contrast to the dose-dependent increase with the progestin dienogest (DNG) when co-cultured with HPESCs. Moreover, ES significantly increased cell viability, cell migration, and invasion of the eCRC560 cells; all these effects were inhibited by pretreatment with DNG. DNG withdrawal led to a significantly disrupted monolayer of eCRC560 cells in co-culture with HPESCs, yet it markedly increased the adhesion of eCRC560 to the human mesothelial MeT-5A cells. The long-term viable eCRC560 cells are suitable for in vitro analysis of HPEECs to study the epithelial compartment of the human endometrium and endometrial pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Assad Riaz
- Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.A.R.); (F.L.K.); (F.Z.); (I.M.-H.)
| | - Franziska Louisa Kary
- Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.A.R.); (F.L.K.); (F.Z.); (I.M.-H.)
| | - Alexandra Jensen
- Institute of Radiooncology and Radiotherapy, Clinic Fulda, 36043 Fulda, Germany;
| | - Felix Zeppernick
- Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.A.R.); (F.L.K.); (F.Z.); (I.M.-H.)
| | - Ivo Meinhold-Heerlein
- Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.A.R.); (F.L.K.); (F.Z.); (I.M.-H.)
| | - Lutz Konrad
- Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.A.R.); (F.L.K.); (F.Z.); (I.M.-H.)
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5
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Li Q, Shi J, Yi D, Li X, Gu Z, Yan H, Leng J. The pathogenesis of endometriosis and adenomyosis: insights from single-cell RNA sequencing†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:854-865. [PMID: 38386960 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae032] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis and adenomyosis are two similar gynecological diseases that are characterized by ectopic implantation and the growth of the endometrial tissue. Previous studies have reported that they share a common pathophysiology in some respects, such as a similar cellular composition and resistance to the progestogen of lesions, but their underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Emerging single-cell ribonucleic acid sequencing (scRNA-seq) technologies allow for the dissection of single-cell transcriptome mapping to reveal the etiology of diseases at the level of the individual cell. In this review, we summarized the published findings in research on scRNA-seq regarding the cellular components and molecular profiles of diverse lesions. They show that epithelial cell clusters may be the vital progenitors of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Subclusters of stromal cells, such as endometrial mesenchymal stem cells and fibroblasts, are also involved in the occurrence of endometriosis and adenomyosis, respectively. Moreover, CD8+ T cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages exhibit a deficiency in clearing the ectopic endometrial cells in the immune microenvironment of endometriosis. It seems that the immune responses are activated in adenomyosis. Understanding the immune characteristics of adenomyosis still needs further exploration. Finally, we discuss the application of findings from scRNA-seq for clinical diagnosis and treatment. This review provides fresh insights into the pathogenesis of endometriosis and adenomyosis as well as the therapeutic targets at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiutong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jinghua Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Dai Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyue Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hailan Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jinhua Leng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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6
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Li R, Tran DN, Lessey BA, Young SL, Kim TH, Jeong JW. Transcriptomic changes in eutopic endometrium and ectopic lesions during endometriosis progression in a mouse model. F&S SCIENCE 2024; 5:182-194. [PMID: 38342342 PMCID: PMC11116064 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2024.02.001] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the transcriptomic changes of ectopic lesions and eutopic endometrial tissues during the progression of endometriosis, we performed transcriptomic analysis in the eutopic endometrium and ectopic lesions. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING Academic medical center. ANIMALS Four fertile and 4 subfertile Pgrcre/+Rosa26mTmG/+ mice with endometriosis, and 4 sham mice for each group of endometriosis mice as control. These mice underwent either surgery to induce endometriosis or sham surgery. Fertile sham and mice with endometriosis were used 1 month after surgery, whereas subfertile ones were used 3 months after surgery. INTERVENTIONS Early and chronic effects of endometriosis on transcriptomics of ectopic lesions and eutopic endometrium. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES RNA-sequencing analysis and identification of differentially expressed genes and pathways in the ectopic lesions and eutopic uteri from mice with endometriosis and sham mice at day 3.5 of pregnancy. RESULTS Our mouse model recapitulates the transcriptomic changes of ectopic lesions in humans. RNA-sequencing analysis was performed in ectopic lesions and eutopic uteri from mice with or without endometriosis during the progression of the disease. Estrogen activity, inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis pathways were consistently elevated in all the ectopic lesions compared with eutopic endometrium. Cholesterol/glucose synthesis and stem cell pluripotency pathways were more enhanced in ectopic lesions from subfertile mice compared with their eutopic endometrium. Dysregulation of infiltration of macrophage, dendritic, T and B cells was validated with the use of immunohistochemistry in ectopic lesions. Multiple ligand-receptor pairs between the ectopic and eutopic endometrium were altered compared with the sham endometrium. Suppressed WNT and EGF pathways were only found in the eutopic endometrium from subfertile not fertile mice compared with sham. CONCLUSIONS Our mouse endometriosis model recapitulates the transcriptomics of ectopic lesions in humans. Our transcriptomic analysis during endometriosis progression in our mouse model will help us understand the pathophysiology of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Dinh Nam Tran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri.
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7
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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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8
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Cheng YH, Huang CW, Lien HT, Hsiao YY, Weng PL, Chang YC, Cheng JH, Lan KC. A Preliminary Investigation of the Roles of Endometrial Cells in Endometriosis Development via In Vitro and In Vivo Analyses. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3873. [PMID: 38612685 PMCID: PMC11011664 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073873] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex gynecological disease that affects more than 10% of women in their reproductive years. While surgery can provide temporary relief from women's pain, symptoms often return in as many as 75% of cases within two years. Previous literature has contributed to theories about the development of endometriosis; however, the exact pathogenesis and etiology remain elusive. We conducted a preliminary investigation into the influence of primary endometrial cells (ECs) on the development and progression of endometriosis. In vitro studies, they were involved in inducing Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rat-isolated primary endometrial cells, which resulted in increased nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA gene expression (quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, qPCR) and protein expression (western blot analysis). Additionally, in vivo studies utilized autogenic and allogeneic transplantations (rat to rat) to investigate endometriosis-like lesion cyst size, body weight, protein levels (immunohistochemistry), and mRNA gene expression. These studies demonstrated that estrogen upregulates the gene and protein regulation of cytoskeletal (CK)-18, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), VEGF, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, particularly in the peritoneum. These findings may influence cell proliferation, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation markers. Consequently, this could exacerbate the occurrence and progression of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hua Cheng
- Department of Medical Research and Development, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Ching-Wei Huang
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
| | - Hao-Ting Lien
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yang Hsiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ling Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Yung-Chiao Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Jai-Hong Cheng
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Leisure and Sports Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
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Yan J, Zhou L, Liu M, Zhu H, Zhang X, Cai E, Xu X, Chen T, Cheng H, Liu J, Wang S, Dai L, Chang X, Tang F. Single-cell analysis reveals insights into epithelial abnormalities in ovarian endometriosis. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113716. [PMID: 38412094 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113716] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian endometriosis is characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue within the ovary, causing infertility and chronic pain. However, its pathophysiology remains unclear. Utilizing high-precision single-cell RNA sequencing, we profile the normal, eutopic, and ectopic endometrium from 34 individuals across proliferative and secretory phases. We observe an increased proportion of ciliated cells in both eutopic and ectopic endometrium, characterized by a diminished expression of estrogen sulfotransferase, which likely confers apoptosis resistance. After translocating to ectopic lesions, endometrial epithelium upregulates nicotinamide N-methyltransferase expression that inhibits apoptosis by promoting deacetylation and subsequent nuclear exclusion of transcription factor forkhead box protein O1, thereby leading to the downregulation of the apoptotic gene BIM. Moreover, epithelial cells in ectopic lesions elevate HLA class II complex expression, which stimulates CD4+ T cells and consequently contributes to chronic inflammation. Altogether, our study provides a comprehensive atlas of ovarian endometriosis and highlights potential therapeutic targets for modulating apoptosis and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yan
- School of Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Ling Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Mengya Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Honglan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China
| | - E Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Xueqiang Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Tinghan Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Hongyan Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Jun'e Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Shang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Lin Dai
- Department of Pathology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Xiaohong Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Fuchou Tang
- School of Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University, Beijing 100000, China.
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10
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Huang E, Wang X, Chen L. Regulated Cell Death in Endometriosis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:142. [PMID: 38397379 PMCID: PMC10886833 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020142] [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: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulated cell death (RCD) represents a distinct mode of cell demise, differing from accidental cell death (ACD), characterized by specific signaling cascades orchestrated by diverse biomolecules. The regular process of cell death plays a crucial role in upholding internal homeostasis, acting as a safeguard against biological or chemical damage. Nonetheless, specific programmed cell deaths have the potential to activate an immune-inflammatory response, potentially contributing to diseases by enlisting immune cells and releasing pro-inflammatory factors. Endometriosis, a prevalent gynecological ailment, remains incompletely understood despite substantial progress in unraveling associated signaling pathways. Its complexity is intricately tied to the dysregulation of inflammatory immune responses, with various RCD processes such as apoptosis, autophagic cell death, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis implicated in its development. Notably, limited research explores the association between endometriosis and specific RCD pathways like pyroptosis and cuproptosis. The exploration of regulated cell death in the context of endometriosis holds tremendous potential for further advancements. This article thoroughly reviews the molecular mechanisms governed by regulated cell death and their implications for endometriosis. A comprehensive understanding of the regulated cell death mechanism in endometriosis has the potential to catalyze the development of promising therapeutic strategies and chart the course for future research directions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lijuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; (E.H.)
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Pei FL, Jia JJ, Lin SH, Chen XX, Wu LZ, Lin ZX, Sun BW, Zeng C. Construction and evaluation of endometriosis diagnostic prediction model and immune infiltration based on efferocytosis-related genes. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 10:1298457. [PMID: 38370978 PMCID: PMC10870152 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1298457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Endometriosis (EM) is a long-lasting inflammatory disease that is difficult to treat and prevent. Existing research indicates the significance of immune infiltration in the progression of EM. Efferocytosis has an important immunomodulatory function. However, research on the identification and clinical significance of efferocytosis-related genes (EFRGs) in EM is sparse. Methods: The EFRDEGs (differentially expressed efferocytosis-related genes) linked to datasets associated with endometriosis were thoroughly examined utilizing the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and GeneCards databases. The construction of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) and transcription factor (TF) regulatory network of EFRDEGs ensued. Subsequently, machine learning techniques including Univariate logistic regression, LASSO, and SVM classification were applied to filter and pinpoint diagnostic biomarkers. To establish and assess the diagnostic model, ROC analysis, multivariate regression analysis, nomogram, and calibration curve were employed. The CIBERSORT algorithm and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) were employed to explore immune cell infiltration, while the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) was utilized for the identification of potential therapeutic drugs for endometriosis. Finally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were utilized to quantify the expression levels of biomarkers in clinical samples of endometriosis. Results: Our findings revealed 13 EFRDEGs associated with EM, and the LASSO and SVM regression model identified six hub genes (ARG2, GAS6, C3, PROS1, CLU, and FGL2). Among these, ARG2, GAS6, and C3 were confirmed as diagnostic biomarkers through multivariate logistic regression analysis. The ROC curve analysis of GSE37837 (AUC = 0.627) and GSE6374 (AUC = 0.635), along with calibration and DCA curve assessments, demonstrated that the nomogram built on these three biomarkers exhibited a commendable predictive capacity for the disease. Notably, the ratio of nine immune cell types exhibited significant differences between eutopic and ectopic endometrial samples, with scRNA-seq highlighting M0 Macrophages, Fibroblasts, and CD8 Tex cells as the cell populations undergoing the most substantial changes in the three biomarkers. Additionally, our study predicted seven potential medications for EM. Finally, the expression levels of the three biomarkers in clinical samples were validated through RT-qPCR and IHC, consistently aligning with the results obtained from the public database. Conclusion: we identified three biomarkers and constructed a diagnostic model for EM in this study, these findings provide valuable insights for subsequent mechanistic research and clinical applications in the field of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Li Pei
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Jin Jia
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Hong Lin
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Zheng Wu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeng-Xian Lin
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo-Wen Sun
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Zeng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Lee JW, Lee HY. Exploring distinct properties of endometrial stem cells through advanced single-cell analysis platforms. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:379. [PMID: 38124100 PMCID: PMC10734114 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03616-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a dynamic tissue that undergoes cyclic changes in response to ovarian hormones during the menstrual cycle. These changes are crucial for pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Endometrial stem cells play a pivotal role in endometrial regeneration and repair by differentiating into various cell types within the endometrium. However, their involvement in endometrial disorders such as endometriosis, infertility, and endometrial cancer is still not fully understood yet. Traditional bulk sequencing methods have limitations in capturing heterogeneity and complexity of endometrial stem cell populations. To overcome these limitations, recent single-cell analysis techniques, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq), single-cell ATAC sequencing (scATAC-Seq), and spatial transcriptomics, have emerged as valuable tools for studying endometrial stem cells. In this review, although there are still many technical limitations that require improvement, we will summarize the current state-of-the-art single-cell analysis techniques for endometrial stem cells and explore their relevance to related diseases. We will discuss studies utilizing various single-cell analysis platforms to identify and characterize distinct endometrial stem cell populations and investigate their dynamic changes in gene expression and epigenetic patterns during menstrual cycle and differentiation processes. These techniques enable the identification of rare cell populations, capture heterogeneity of cell populations within the endometrium, and provide potential targets for more effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Woo Lee
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 406-840, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwa-Yong Lee
- Division of Science Education, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Dong Y, Zhang M, OuYang J, Zhou W, Yu B. Tumor-derived Endothelial Cell: Important Etiological Factors in Endometriosis. Arch Med Res 2023; 54:102891. [PMID: 37738888 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2023.102891] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Endometriosis (EMS) is a very complex disease with high heterogeneity. Recently, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been applied to comprehensively characterize cellular heterogeneity. Here, we built a new transcriptomic profile of EMS cellular signatures. METHODS Three women diagnosed with endometriosis were recruited. Their fresh eutopic endometrium (EM) and ectopic endometrium (EC) tissues were sampled during surgery. ScRNA-seq was performed on 10x Genomics Chromium. RESULTS Thirty cell clusters were identified as more than ten different cell types using cell type-specific marker genes. Re-clustering analysis revealed five subtypes of endothelial cells (ECs). Compared to EM, the proportion of tumor-derived ECs (IGFBP3+) was significantly increased in EC (43.8 vs. 16.0%). 63 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between tumor-derived ECs and normal ECs were enriched in "angiogenesis", such as EFNB2, DLL4, and THSD7A. Subsequently, 114 retrospective EMS cases were included in clinical validation studies of EFNB2. It was co-expressed with PECAM1 and IGFBP3 and significantly increased in EC. Meanwhile, the recurrence rate of women with EFNB2++ expression was significantly higher than that of EFNB2+ cases (p <0.05). CONCLUSIONS The significant increase in tumor-derived ECs characterized by neovascularization may be an important pathological feature of EMS. In addition, EFNB2 plays an important role and is closely related to the recurrence of EMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yishan Dong
- Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jun OuYang
- Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wenbai Zhou
- Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Bin Yu
- Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
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14
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Shin S, Chung YJ, Moon SW, Choi EJ, Kim MR, Chung YJ, Lee SH. Single-cell profiling identifies distinct hormonal, immunologic, and inflammatory signatures of endometriosis-constituting cells. J Pathol 2023; 261:323-334. [PMID: 37807404 DOI: 10.1002/path.6178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis consists of ectopic endometrial epithelial cells (EEECs) and ectopic endometrial stromal cells (EESCs) mixed with heterogeneous stromal cells. To address how endometriosis-constituting cells are different from normal endometrium and among endometriosis subtypes and how their molecular signatures are related to phenotypic manifestations, we analyzed ovarian endometrial cyst (OEC), superficial peritoneal endometriosis (SPE), and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) from 12 patients using single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq). We identified 11 cell clusters, including EEEC, EESC, fibroblasts, inflammatory/immune, endothelial, mesothelial, and Schwann cells. For hormonal signatures, EESCs, but not EEECs, showed high estrogen signatures (estrogen response scores and HOXA downregulation) and low progesterone signatures (DKK1 downregulation) compared to normal endometrium. In EEECs, we found MUC5B+ TFF3low cells enriched in endometriosis. In lymphoid cells, evidence for both immune activation (high cytotoxicity in NK) and exhaustion (high checkpoint genes in NKT and cytotoxic T) was identified in endometriosis. Signatures and subpopulations of macrophages were remarkably different among endometriosis subtypes with increased monocyte-derived macrophages and IL1B expression in DIE. The scRNA-seq predicted NRG1 (macrophage)-ERBB3 (Schwann cell) interaction in endometriosis, expressions of which were validated by immunohistochemistry. Myofibroblast subpopulations differed according to the location (OECs from fibroblasts and SPE/DIEs from mesothelial cells and fibroblasts). Endometriosis endothelial cells displayed proinflammation, angiogenesis, and leaky permeability signatures that were enhanced in DIE. Collectively, our study revealed that (1) many cell types-endometrial, lymphoid, macrophage, fibroblast, and endothelial cells-are altered in endometriosis; (2) endometriosis cells show estrogen responsiveness, immunologic cytotoxicity and exhaustion, and proinflammation signatures that are different in endometriosis subtypes; and (3) novel endometriosis-specific findings of MUC5B+ EEECs, mesothelial cell-derived myofibroblasts, and NRG1-ERBB3 interaction may underlie the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Our results may help extend pathologic insights, dissect aggressive diseases, and discover therapeutic targets in endometriosis. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Shin
- Departments of Microbiology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Precision Medicine Research Center/IRCGP, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Youn-Jee Chung
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Won Moon
- Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Pathology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ji Choi
- Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Pathology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mee-Ran Kim
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeun-Jun Chung
- Departments of Microbiology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Precision Medicine Research Center/IRCGP, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sug Hyung Lee
- Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Pathology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Departments of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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15
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Yang H, Zhuang Y. The deviations of CD4 + T cells during peripheral blood and peritoneal fluid of endometriosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:1431-1446. [PMID: 36840769 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-06964-3] [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: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether endometriosis (EMs) was related to systematic and/or local deviations of cluster of differentiation (CD)4 + T cells. METHODS Until November 2022, we enrolled a total of 1363 EMs and 1564 healthy women from 32 studies who met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS After systematically retrieving the literature, we identified 1086 citations and 32 case-control studies were enrolled. Cumulative results suggested that there were insignificant deviations of CD4 + T cells during peripheral blood (PB) between EMs and healthy women (RR: - 0.83, I2 = 99%, p = 0.65), also no statistically significant difference was found between mild and severe EMs (RR: 3.19, I2 = 94%, p = 0.19). We also found insignificant deviations of CD4 + /CD8 + during PB between EMs and healthy women (RR: 0.09, I2 = 99%, p = 0.39), and between mild and severe EMs (RR: - 0.16, I2 = 99%, p = 0.29). The results might suggest that there was no significant correlation between EMs and systematic deviations of CD4 + T cells. When it came to local deviation during peritoneal fluid (PF), the polled results suggested that the frequency of CD4 + T cells during EMs was significantly lower than healthy women (RR: - 5.38, I2 = 93%, p = 0.01), and the ratio of CD4 + /CD8 + during EMs was significantly lower than healthy women (RR: - 0.13, I2 = 0%, p < 0.0001). However, there were insignificant deviations of CD4 + during PF between mild and severe EMs (RR: 1.65, I2 = 53%, p = 0.15), also there was an insignificant difference of CD4 + /CD8 + between mild and severe EMs (RR: - 0.09, I2 = 14%, p = 0.19). EMs might be closely related to local deviations of CD4 + T cells. CONCLUSION There was no obvious correlation between EMs and systematic deviations of CD4 + T cells, EMs might be closely related to local deviations of CD4 + T cells. Further study on the functional deviations and subpopulation distribution of CD4 + T cells is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Yang
- Department of Gynecology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Yuan Zhuang
- Department of Gynecology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519000, China.
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16
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Wang X, Zheng Q, Sun M, Liu L, Zhang H, Ying W. Signatures of necroptosis-related genes as diagnostic markers of endometriosis and their correlation with immune infiltration. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:535. [PMID: 37817158 PMCID: PMC10566087 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02668-7] [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: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis (EMS) occurs when normal uterine tissue grows outside the uterus and causes chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Endometriosis-associated infertility is thought to be caused by unknown mechanisms. In this study, using necroptosis-related genes, we developed and validated multigene joint signatures to diagnose EMS and explored their biological roles. METHODS We downloaded two databases (GSE7305 and GSE1169) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and 630 necroptosis-related genes from the GeneCards and GSEA databases. The limma package in Rsoftware was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). We interleaved common differentially expressed genes (co-DEGs) and necroptosis-related genes (NRDEGs) in the endometriosis dataset. The DEGs functions were reflected by gene ontology analysis (GO), pathway enrichment analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). We used CIBERSORT to analyze the immune microenvironment differences between EMS patients and controls. Furthermore, a correlation was found between necroptosis-related differentially expressed genes and infiltrating immune cells to better understand the molecular immune mechanism. RESULTS Compared with the control group, this study revealed that 10 NRDEGs were identified in EMS. There were two types of immune cell infiltration abundance (activated NK cells and M2 macrophages) in these two datasets, and the correlation between different groups of samples was statistically significant (P < 0.05). MYO6 consistently correlated with activated NK cells in the two datasets. HOOK1 consistently demonstrated a high correlation with M2 Macrophages in two datasets. The immunohistochemical result indicated that the protein levels of MYO6 and HOOK1 were increased in patients with endometriosis, further suggesting that MYO6 and HOOK1 can be used as potential biomarkers for endometriosis. CONCLUSIONS We identified ten necroptosis-related genes in EMS and assessed their relationship with the immune microenvironment. MYO6 and HOOK1 may serve as novel biomarkers and treatment targets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuezhen Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, 317000, China
| | - Qin Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, 317000, China
| | - Man Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Luotong Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China.
| | - Weiwei Ying
- Department of Gynecology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, 317000, China.
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17
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Gao X, Gao H, Shao W, Wang J, Li M, Liu S. The Extracellular Vesicle-Macrophage Regulatory Axis: A Novel Pathogenesis for Endometriosis. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1376. [PMID: 37759776 PMCID: PMC10527545 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMs) is a common disease among women whose pathogenesis is still unclear, although there are various hypotheses. Recent studies have considered macrophages the key part of the immune system in developing EMs, inducing inflammation, the growth and invasion of the ectopic endometrium, and angiogenesis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) as novel intercellular vesicle traffic, can be secreted by many kinds of cells, including macrophages. By carrying long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), or other molecules, EVs can regulate the biological functions of macrophages in an autocrine and paracrine manner, including ectopic lesion growth, immune dysfunction, angiogenesis, and can further accelerate the progression of EMs. In this review, the interactions between macrophages and EVs for the pathogenesis of EMs are summarized. Notably, the regulatory pathways and molecular mechanisms of EVs secreted by macrophages during EMs are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China; (X.G.); (H.G.); (W.S.); (J.W.)
| | - Han Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China; (X.G.); (H.G.); (W.S.); (J.W.)
| | - Wei Shao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China; (X.G.); (H.G.); (W.S.); (J.W.)
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China; (X.G.); (H.G.); (W.S.); (J.W.)
| | - Mingqing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Songping Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China; (X.G.); (H.G.); (W.S.); (J.W.)
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Giudice LC, Oskotsky TT, Falako S, Opoku‐Anane J, Sirota M. Endometriosis in the era of precision medicine and impact on sexual and reproductive health across the lifespan and in diverse populations. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23130. [PMID: 37641572 PMCID: PMC10503213 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300907] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common estrogen-dependent disorder wherein uterine lining tissue (endometrium) is found mainly in the pelvis where it causes inflammation, chronic pelvic pain, pain with intercourse and menses, and infertility. Recent evidence also supports a systemic inflammatory component that underlies associated co-morbidities, e.g., migraines and cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. Genetics and environment contribute significantly to disease risk, and with the explosion of omics technologies, underlying mechanisms of symptoms are increasingly being elucidated, although novel and effective therapeutics for pain and infertility have lagged behind these advances. Moreover, there are stark disparities in diagnosis, access to care, and treatment among persons of color and transgender/nonbinary identity, socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, and adolescents, and a disturbing low awareness among health care providers, policymakers, and the lay public about endometriosis, which, if left undiagnosed and under-treated can lead to significant fibrosis, infertility, depression, and markedly diminished quality of life. This review summarizes endometriosis epidemiology, compelling evidence for its pathogenesis, mechanisms underlying its pathophysiology in the age of precision medicine, recent biomarker discovery, novel therapeutic approaches, and issues around reproductive justice for marginalized populations with this disorder spanning the past 100 years. As we enter the next revolution in health care and biomedical research, with rich molecular and clinical datasets, single-cell omics, and population-level data, endometriosis is well positioned to benefit from data-driven research leveraging computational and artificial intelligence approaches integrating data and predicting disease risk, diagnosis, response to medical and surgical therapies, and prognosis for recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda C. Giudice
- UCSF Stanford Endometriosis Center for Innovation, Training, and Community Outreach (ENACT)University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Center for Reproductive SciencesUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Tomiko T. Oskotsky
- UCSF Stanford Endometriosis Center for Innovation, Training, and Community Outreach (ENACT)University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences InstituteUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Simileoluwa Falako
- UCSF Stanford Endometriosis Center for Innovation, Training, and Community Outreach (ENACT)University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and SurgeonsNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Jessica Opoku‐Anane
- UCSF Stanford Endometriosis Center for Innovation, Training, and Community Outreach (ENACT)University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Division of Gynecologic Specialty SurgeryColumbia UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Marina Sirota
- UCSF Stanford Endometriosis Center for Innovation, Training, and Community Outreach (ENACT)University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences InstituteUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
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19
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Kisovar A, Becker CM, Granne I, Southcombe JH. The role of CD8+ T cells in endometriosis: a systematic review. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1225639. [PMID: 37497226 PMCID: PMC10366819 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1225639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a chronic disease affecting 6-10% of women of reproductive age. It is an important cause of infertility and chronic pelvic pain with poorly understood aetiology. CD8+ T (CD8 T) cells were shown to be linked to infertility and chronic pain and play a significant role in lesion clearance in other pathologies, yet their function in endometriosis is unknown. We systematically evaluated the literature on the CD8 T in peripheral blood and endometriosis-associated tissues to determine the current understanding of their pathophysiological and clinical relevance in the disease and associated conditions (e.g. infertility and pelvic pain). Methods Four databases were searched (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL), from database inception until September 2022, for papers written in the English language with database-specific relevant terms/free-text terms from two categories: CD8 T cells and endometriosis. We included peer-reviewed papers investigating CD8 T cells in peripheral blood and endometriosis-associated tissues of patients with surgically confirmed endometriosis between menarche and menopause, and animal models with oestrous cycles. Studies enrolling participants with other gynaecological pathologies (except uterine fibroids and tubal factor infertility used as controls), cancer, immune diseases, or taking immune or hormonal therapy were excluded. Results 28 published case-control studies and gene set analyses investigating CD8 T cells in endometriosis were included. Data consistently indicate that CD8 T cells are enriched in endometriotic lesions in comparison to eutopic endometrium, with no differences in peripheral blood CD8 T populations between patients and healthy controls. Evidence on CD8 T cells in peritoneal fluid and eutopic endometrium is conflicting. CD8 T cell cytotoxicity was increased in the menstrual effluent of patients, and genomic analyses have shown a clear trend of enriched CD8 T effector memory cells in the eutopic endometrium of patients. Conclusion Literature on CD8 T cells in endometriosis-associated tissues is inconsistent. Increased CD8 T levels are found in endometriotic lesions, however, their activation potential is understudied in all relevant tissues. Future research should focus on identifying clinically relevant phenotypes to support the development of non-invasive diagnostic and treatment strategies. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO identifier CRD42021233304.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jennifer H. Southcombe
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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20
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Muraoka A, Suzuki M, Hamaguchi T, Watanabe S, Iijima K, Murofushi Y, Shinjo K, Osuka S, Hariyama Y, Ito M, Ohno K, Kiyono T, Kyo S, Iwase A, Kikkawa F, Kajiyama H, Kondo Y. Fusobacterium infection facilitates the development of endometriosis through the phenotypic transition of endometrial fibroblasts. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadd1531. [PMID: 37315109 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.add1531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Retrograde menstruation is a widely accepted cause of endometriosis. However, not all women who experience retrograde menstruation develop endometriosis, and the mechanisms underlying these observations are not yet understood. Here, we demonstrated a pathogenic role of Fusobacterium in the formation of ovarian endometriosis. In a cohort of women, 64% of patients with endometriosis but <10% of controls were found to have Fusobacterium infiltration in the endometrium. Immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses revealed that activated transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling resulting from Fusobacterium infection of endometrial cells led to the transition from quiescent fibroblasts to transgelin (TAGLN)-positive myofibroblasts, which gained the ability to proliferate, adhere, and migrate in vitro. Fusobacterium inoculation in a syngeneic mouse model of endometriosis resulted in a marked increase in TAGLN-positive myofibroblasts and increased number and weight of endometriotic lesions. Furthermore, antibiotic treatment largely prevented establishment of endometriosis and reduced the number and weight of established endometriotic lesions in the mouse model. Our data support a mechanism for the pathogenesis of endometriosis via Fusobacterium infection and suggest that eradication of this bacterium could be an approach to treat endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Muraoka
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Miho Suzuki
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tomonari Hamaguchi
- Division of Neurogenetics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Shinya Watanabe
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Kenta Iijima
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yoshiteru Murofushi
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Keiko Shinjo
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Satoko Osuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yumi Hariyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ihohara, Zyosui-cho, Toyota 470-0396, Japan
| | - Mikako Ito
- Division of Neurogenetics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Kinji Ohno
- Division of Neurogenetics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tohru Kiyono
- Project for Prevention of HPV-related Cancer, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Kashiwanoha 6-5-1, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan
| | - Satoru Kyo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, 89-1 Enya-Cho, Izumo 693-8501, Japan
| | - Akira Iwase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi 371-8511, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Kikkawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kondo
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Institute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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21
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Huang X, Wu L, Pei T, Liu D, Liu C, Luo B, Xiao L, Li Y, Wang R, Ouyang Y, Zhu H, Huang W. Single-cell transcriptome analysis reveals endometrial immune microenvironment in minimal/mild endometriosis. Clin Exp Immunol 2023; 212:285-295. [PMID: 36869723 PMCID: PMC10243848 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxad029] [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: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common inflammatory disorder in women of reproductive age due to an abnormal endometrial immune environment and is associated with infertility. This study aimed to systematically understand the endometrial leukocyte types, inflammatory environment, and impaired receptivity at single-cell resolution. We profiled single-cell RNA transcriptomes of 138 057 endometrial cells from endometriosis patients (n = 6) and control (n = 7), respectively, using 10x Genomics platform. We found that one cluster of epithelial cells that expressed PAEP and CXCL14 was mostly from the control during the window of implantation (WOI). This epithelial cell type is absent in the eutopic endometrium during the secretory phase. The proportion of endometrial immune cells decreased in the secretory phase in the control group, whereas the cycle variation of total immune cells, NK cells, and T cells was absent in endometriosis. Endometrial immune cells secreted more IL-10 in the secretory phase than in the proliferative phase in the control group; the opposite trend was observed in endometriosis. Proinflammatory cytokines levels in the endometrial immune cells were higher in endometriosis than in the control group. Trajectory analysis revealed that the secretory phase epithelial cells decreased in endometriosis. Ligand-receptor analysis revealed that 11 ligand-receptor pairs were upregulated between endometrial immune and epithelial cells during WOI. These results provide new insights into the endometrial immune microenvironment and impaired endometrial receptivity in infertile women with minimal/mild endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lukanxuan Wu
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianjiao Pei
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Luo
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Xiao
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yujing Li
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ruiying Wang
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yunwei Ouyang
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huili Zhu
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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22
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Zhu S, Wang A, Xu W, Hu L, Sun J, Wang X. The heterogeneity of fibrosis and angiogenesis in endometriosis revealed by single-cell RNA-sequencing. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166602. [PMID: 36400338 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis, angiogenesis and chronic inflammation are the inherent characteristics of endometriosis (EMS). The cellular heterogeneity of ectopic and non-ectopic endometrium by single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq)at secretory phase without the disturbance of hormone drugs hasn't been explored so far. In this study, scRNA-seq was adopted to explore the properties of ectopic endometrium (ECE), eutopic endometrium (EUE) and normal endometrium (NOE) at secretory phase. We found that (i) The proportion of myofibroblasts, pericytes, endothelial cells and macrophages in ECE overwhelms that of non-ectopic tissues (EUE and NOE), and Myofibro.C2 was the predominant myofibroblast sub-cluster in ECE. (ii) Myofibroblasts were mainly fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT) and pericytes were endothelial cell-dependent differentiation in ECE. (iii) Both myofibroblasts and pericytes had a low differentiation potential. (iv) The increased inflammation score, deceased NK cells, T cell exhaustion score and antigen-presenting capacity in ECE confirmed the inflammatory properties and immunodeficiency of ECE. These findings suggested that myofibroblasts, pericytes and macrophages may be the potential targets for anti-fibrotic, anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory therapy of EMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, The First Clinical Medical College of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Anqi Wang
- Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, The First Clinical Medical College of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Longfei Hu
- Singleron Biotechnologies, Yaogu Avenue 11, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiafan Sun
- Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiuli Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, The First Clinical Medical College of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
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23
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Myeloid-derived suppressor cells: A new emerging player in endometriosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 375:191-220. [PMID: 36967153 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder defined by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. This is commonly associated with chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and dysmenorrhea, which occurs in approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. Although the exact mechanism remains uncertain, it has been widely accepted to be an estrogen-dependent and inflammatory disease. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous group of immune cells with immunosuppressive capacity and non-immunological functions. They have been found to be aggressively involved in the pathologies of various disorders. In regards to tumors, the functions of MDSCs have been profoundly shown to inhibit tumor immune response and to promote angiogenesis, tumor metastasis, fibrosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In recent years, the elevation of MDSCs in endometriosis was reported by several studies that provoke the assumption that MDSCs might exert similar roles to promote the development of endometriosis. Such that, precision treatments targeting MDSCs might be a promising direction for future study. Herein, we will review the research progress of MDSCs in endometriosis and its potential relevance to the pathogenesis, progression, and therapeutics strategy of endometriosis.
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24
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Translational Bioinformatics for Human Reproductive Biology Research: Examples, Opportunities and Challenges for a Future Reproductive Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010004. [PMID: 36613446 PMCID: PMC9819745 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 1978, with the first IVF (in vitro fertilization) baby birth in Manchester (England), more than eight million IVF babies have been born throughout the world, and many new techniques and discoveries have emerged in reproductive medicine. To summarize the modern technology and progress in reproductive medicine, all scientific papers related to reproductive medicine, especially papers related to reproductive translational medicine, were fully searched, manually curated and reviewed. Results indicated whether male reproductive medicine or female reproductive medicine all have made significant progress, and their markers have experienced the progress from karyotype analysis to single-cell omics. However, due to the lack of comprehensive databases, especially databases collecting risk exposures, disease markers and models, prevention drugs and effective treatment methods, the application of the latest precision medicine technologies and methods in reproductive medicine is limited.
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25
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Baicalein Relieves Ferroptosis-Mediated Phagocytosis Inhibition of Macrophages in Ovarian Endometriosis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:6189-6204. [PMID: 36547083 PMCID: PMC9777460 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44120422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron overload and oxidative stress have been reported to contribute to ferroptosis in endometriotic lesions. However, the possible roles of iron overload on macrophages in endometriosis (EMs) remain unknown. Based on recent reports by single-cell sequencing data of endometriosis, here we found significant upregulations of ferroptosis-associated genes in the macrophage of the endometriotic lesion. Additionally, there was an elevated expression of HMOX1, FTH1, and FTL in macrophages of peritoneal fluid in EMs, as well as iron accumulation in the endometriotic lesions. Notably, cyst fluid significantly up-regulated levels of intracellular iron and ferroptosis in Phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA)-stimulated THP-1 cells. Additionally, high iron-induced ferroptosis obviously reduced PMA-stimulated THP-1 cells' phagocytosis and increased the expression of angiogenic cytokines, such as vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and interleukin 8 (IL8). Baicalein, a potential anti-ferroptosis compound, increased GPX4 expression, significantly inhibited ferroptosis, and restored phagocytosis of THP-1 cells in vitro. Collectively, our study reveals that ferroptosis triggered by high iron in cyst fluid promotes the development of EMs by impairing macrophage phagocytosis and producing more angiogenic cytokines (e.g., IL8 and VEGFA). Baicalein displays the potential for the treatment of EMs, especially in patients with high ferroptosis and low phagocytosis of macrophages.
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26
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Zeng L, Yang K, Zhang T, Zhu X, Hao W, Chen H, Ge J. Research progress of single-cell transcriptome sequencing in autoimmune diseases and autoinflammatory disease: A review. J Autoimmun 2022; 133:102919. [PMID: 36242821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2022.102919] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmunity refers to the phenomenon that the body's immune system produces antibodies or sensitized lymphocytes to its own tissues to cause an immune response. Immune disorders caused by autoimmunity can mediate autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases have complicated pathogenesis due to the many types of cells involved, and the mechanism is still unclear. The emergence of single-cell research technology can solve the problem that ordinary transcriptome technology cannot be accurate to cell type. It provides unbiased results through independent analysis of cells in tissues and provides more mRNA information for identifying cell subpopulations, which provides a novel approach to study disruption of immune tolerance and disturbance of pro-inflammatory pathways on a cellular basis. It may fundamentally change the understanding of molecular pathways in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and develop targeted drugs. Single-cell transcriptome sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been widely applied in autoimmune diseases, which provides a powerful tool for demonstrating the cellular heterogeneity of tissues involved in various immune inflammations, identifying pathogenic cell populations, and revealing the mechanism of disease occurrence and development. This review describes the principles of scRNA-seq, introduces common sequencing platforms and practical procedures, and focuses on the progress of scRNA-seq in 41 autoimmune diseases, which include 9 systemic autoimmune diseases and autoinflammatory diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.) and 32 organ-specific autoimmune diseases (5 Skin diseases, 3 Nervous system diseases, 4 Eye diseases, 2 Respiratory system diseases, 2 Circulatory system diseases, 6 Liver, Gallbladder and Pancreas diseases, 2 Gastrointestinal system diseases, 3 Muscle, Bones and joint diseases, 3 Urinary system diseases, 2 Reproductive system diseases). This review also prospects the molecular mechanism targets of autoimmune diseases from the multi-molecular level and multi-dimensional analysis combined with single-cell multi-omics sequencing technology (such as scRNA-seq, Single cell ATAC-seq and single cell immune group library sequencing), which provides a reference for further exploring the pathogenesis and marker screening of autoimmune diseases and autoimmune inflammatory diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuting Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Kailin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China.
| | - Tianqing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China.
| | - Wensa Hao
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Jinwen Ge
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China; Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China.
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27
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Yuan LL, Chen Z, Qin J, Qin CJ, Bian J, Dong RF, Yuan TB, Xu YT, Kong LY, Xia YZ. Single-cell sequencing reveals the landscape of the tumor microenvironment in a skeletal undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma patient. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1019870. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1019870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (SUPS) is an invasive pleomorphic soft tissue sarcoma with a high degree of malignancy and poor prognosis. It is prone to recur and metastasize. The tumor microenvironment (TME) and the pathophysiology of SUPS are barely described. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) provides an opportunity to dissect the landscape of human diseases at an unprecedented resolution, particularly in diseases lacking animal models, such as SUPS. We performed scRNA-seq to analyze tumor tissues and paracancer tissues from a SUPS patient. We identified the cell types and the corresponding marker genes in this SUPS case. We further showed that CD8+ exhausted T cells and Tregs highly expressed PDCD1, CTLA4 and TIGIT. Thus, PDCD1, CTLA4 and TIGIT were identified as potential targets in this case. We applied copy number karyotyping of aneuploid tumors (CopyKAT) to distinguish malignant cells from normal cells in fibroblasts. Our study identified eight malignant fibroblast subsets in SUPS with distinct gene expression profiles. C1-malignant Fibroblast and C6-malignant Fibroblast in the TME play crucial roles in tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis and immune response. Hence, targeting malignant fibroblasts could represent a potential strategy for this SUPS therapy. Intervention via tirelizumab enabled disease control, and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) of PD-1 may be considered as the first-line option in patients with SUPS. Taken together, scRNA-seq analyses provided a powerful basis for this SUPS treatment, improved our understanding of complex human diseases, and may afforded an alternative approach for personalized medicine in the future.
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28
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Huang Y, Yan S, Dong X, Jiao X, Wang S, Li D, Wang G. Deficiency of MST1 in endometriosis related peritoneal macrophages promoted the autophagy of ectopic endometrial stromal cells by IL-10. Front Immunol 2022; 13:993788. [PMID: 36263059 PMCID: PMC9575673 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.993788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in the function of peritoneal macrophages contribute to the homeostasis of the peritoneal immune microenvironment in endometriosis. The mechanism by which ectopic tissues escape phagocytic clearance by macrophages to achieve ectopic colonization and proliferation is unknown. The expression of CD163 in peritoneal macrophages in patients with endometriosis is increased, with the overexpression of MAPK, which can promote the M2-type polarization of macrophages and reduce their ability to phagocytose ectopic endometrial cells. As an upstream regulator of MAPK, MST1 expression is deficient in peritoneal macrophages of patients with endometriosis. This process is regulated by miR-887-5p, a noncoding RNA targeting MST1. Moreover, MST1-knockout macrophages secrete anti-inflammatory factor IL-10, which promotes autophagy of ectopic endometrial stromal cells. These results suggest that MST1 deficient macrophages may accelerate the autophagy of ectopic endometrium via IL-10 which was regulated by miR-887-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shumin Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xue Jiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dong Li
- Cryomedicine Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guoyun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Guoyun Wang,
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29
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Chen CC, Chou YC, Hsu CY, Tsai EM, Er TK. Transcriptome Profiling of Eutopic and Ectopic Endometrial Stromal Cells in Women with Endometriosis Based on High-Throughput Sequencing. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102432. [PMID: 36289693 PMCID: PMC9598494 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102432] [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: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease that affects approximately 5–10% of reproductive-aged women. However, the etiology and pathophysiology of endometriosis are currently unclear. The objective of this study was to identify a potential pathogenic gene of endometriosis using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis. Human endometrial stromal cells were isolated from four patients receiving surgical treatment for endometriosis during laparoscopic surgery, and RNA-seq was used to examine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells. The functional significance of the differentially expressed genes was analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. A total of 1309 upregulated and 663 downregulated genes were identified through the analysis of the transcriptomes of eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells. Furthermore, KEGG analysis indicated that these DEGs were mainly enriched in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, and MAPK signaling pathway. Our study identified differential gene expression in eutopic as compared to ectopic endometrial tissue stromal cells. We strongly believe that our findings can bring new insights into the underlying mechanisms of endometriosis. However, future research is necessary to clarify the roles of the identified genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Chieh Chen
- Institute of Medical Science and Technology, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Che Chou
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Asia University Hospital, Asia University, Taichung 413, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yi Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Eing-Mei Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Tze-Kiong Er
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Asia University Hospital, Asia University, Taichung 413, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 413, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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30
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Unveil the pain of endometriosis: from the perspective of the nervous system. Expert Rev Mol Med 2022; 24:e36. [PMID: 36059111 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2022.26] [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: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with pelvic pain and uncharacteristic accompanying symptoms. Endometriosis-associated pain often persists despite treatment of the disease, thus it brings a deleterious impact on their personal lives as well as imposing a substantial economic burden on them. At present, mechanisms underlie endometriosis-associated pain including inflammatory reaction, injury, aberrant blood vessels and the morphological and functional anomaly of the peripheral and central nervous systems. The nerve endings are influenced by the physical and chemical factors surrounding the lesion, via afferent nerve to the posterior root of the spinal nerve, then to the specific cerebral cortex involved in nociception. However, our understanding of the aetiology and mechanism of this complex pain process caused by endometriosis remains incomplete. Identifying the pathogenesis of endometriosis is crucial to disease management, offering proper treatment, and helping patients to seek novel targets for the maintenance and contributors of chronic pain. The main aim of this review is to focus on every possible mechanism of pain related to endometriosis in both peripheral and central nervous systems, and to present related mechanisms of action from the interaction between peripheral lesions and nerves to the changes in transmission of pain, resulting in hyperalgesia and the corresponding alterations in cerebral cortex and brain metabolism.
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31
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Iwasaki S, Kaneda K. Genes Relating to Biological Processes of Endometriosis: Expression Changes Common to a Mouse Model and Patients. Drug Res (Stuttg) 2022; 72:523-533. [PMID: 36055285 DOI: 10.1055/a-1894-6817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases in women of reproductive age. Retrograde menstruation is considered a major reason for the development of endometriosis. The syngeneic transplantation mouse model is an endometriosis animal model that is considered to mimic retrograde menstruation. However, it remains poorly understood which genetic signatures of endometriosis are reflected in this model. Here, we employed an in vivo syngeneic mouse endometriosis model and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the ectopic and eutopic tissues using microarray analysis. Three gene expression profile datasets, GSE5108, GSE7305, and GSE11691, were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and DEGs between ectopic and eutopic tissues from the same patients were identified. Gene ontology analysis of the DEGs revealed that biological processes including cell adhesion, the inflammatory response, the response to mechanical stimulus, cell proliferation, and extracellular matrix organization were enriched in both the model and patients. Of the 195 DEGs common to the model and patients, 154 showed the same expression pattern, and 28 of these 154 DEGs came up when PubMed was searched for each gene along with the terms "endometriosis" and "development". This is the first comparison of the DEGs of the mouse syngeneic endometriosis model and those of patients, and we identified the biological processes common to the model and patients at the transcriptional level. This model may be useful to evaluate the efficacy of drugs which target these biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiho Iwasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.,Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Kaneda
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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32
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Tan Y, Flynn WF, Sivajothi S, Luo D, Bozal SB, Davé M, Luciano AA, Robson P, Luciano DE, Courtois ET. Single-cell analysis of endometriosis reveals a coordinated transcriptional programme driving immunotolerance and angiogenesis across eutopic and ectopic tissues. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:1306-1318. [PMID: 35864314 PMCID: PMC9901845 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00961-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. It affects many women during their reproductive age, causing years of pelvic pain and potential infertility. Its pathophysiology remains largely unknown, which limits early diagnosis and treatment. We characterized peritoneal and ovarian lesions at single-cell transcriptome resolution and compared them to matched eutopic endometrium, unaffected endometrium and organoids derived from these tissues, generating data on over 122,000 cells across 14 individuals. We spatially localized many of the cell types using imaging mass cytometry. We identify a perivascular mural cell specific to the peritoneal lesions, with dual roles in angiogenesis promotion and immune cell trafficking. We define an immunotolerant peritoneal niche, fundamental differences in eutopic endometrium and between lesion microenvironments and an unreported progenitor-like epithelial cell subpopulation. Altogether, this study provides a holistic view of the endometriosis microenvironment that represents a comprehensive cell atlas of the disease in individuals undergoing hormonal treatment, providing essential information for future therapeutics and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliana Tan
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032
| | - William F. Flynn
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032
| | | | - Diane Luo
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032
| | - Suleyman B. Bozal
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032
| | - Monica Davé
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032
| | - Anthony A. Luciano
- Obstetrics and Gynecology at University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA 06032
| | - Paul Robson
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032,Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA 06032,Corresponding authors
| | - Danielle E. Luciano
- Obstetrics and Gynecology at University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA 06032,Corresponding authors
| | - Elise T. Courtois
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA 06032,Corresponding authors
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ASPN Is a Potential Biomarker and Associated with Immune Infiltration in Endometriosis. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081352. [PMID: 36011263 PMCID: PMC9407481 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Endometriosis is a benign gynecological disease characterized by distant metastasis. Previous studies have discovered abnormal numbers and function of immune cells in endometriotic lesions. We aimed to find potential biomarkers of endometriosis and to explore the relationship between ASPN and the immune microenvironment of endometriosis. Methods: We obtained the GSE141549 and GSE7305 datasets containing endometriosis and normal endometrial samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO). In the GSE141549 dataset, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found. The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (Lasso) regression and generalized linear models (GLMs) were used to screen new biomarkers. The expression levels and diagnostic utility of biomarkers were assessed in GSE7305, and biomarker expression levels were further validated using qRT-PCR and western blot. We identified DEGs between high and low expression groups of key biomarkers. Enrichment analysis was carried out to discover the target gene’s biological function. We analyzed the relationship between key biomarker expression and patient clinical features. Finally, the immune cells that infiltrate endometriosis were assessed using the Microenvironment Cell Population-Counter (MCP-counter), and the correlation of biomarker expression with immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoints genes was studied. Results: There were a total of 38 DEGs discovered. Two machine learning techniques were used to identify 10 genes. Six biomarkers (SCG2, ASPN, SLIT2, GEM, EGR1, and FOS) had good diagnostic efficiency (AUC > 0.7) by internal and external validation. We excluded previously reported related genes (SLIT2, EGR1, and FOS). ASPN was the most significantly differentially expressed biomarker between normal and ectopic endometrial tissues, as verified by qPCR. The western blot assay revealed a significant upregulation of ASPN expression in endometriotic tissues. The investigation for DEGs in the ASPN high- and low-expression groups revealed that the DEGs were particularly enriched in extracellular matrix tissue, vascular smooth muscle contraction, cytokine interactions, the calcium signaling pathway, and the chemokine signaling pathway. High ASPN expression was related to r-AFS stage (p = 0.006), age (p = 0.03), and lesion location (p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that ASPN expression was an independent influencing factor in patients with endometriosis. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed a significant increase in T-cell, B-cell, and fibroblast infiltration in endometriosis lesions; cytotoxic lymphocyte, NK-cell, and endothelial cell infiltration were reduced. Additionally, the percentage of T cells, B cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells was favorably connected with ASPN expression, while the percentage of cytotoxic lymphocytes and NK cells was negatively correlated. Immune checkpoint gene (CTLA4, LAG3, CD27, CD40, and ICOS) expression and ASPN expression were positively associated. Conclusions: Increased expression of ASPN is associated with immune infiltration in endometriosis, and ASPN can be used as a diagnostic biomarker as well as a potential immunotherapeutic target in endometriosis.
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Szukiewicz D. Epigenetic regulation and T-cell responses in endometriosis – something other than autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:943839. [PMID: 35935991 PMCID: PMC9355085 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.943839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial-like glands and stroma located outside the uterine cavity. This common, estrogen dependent, inflammatory condition affects up to 15% of reproductive-aged women and is a well-recognized cause of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Despite the still unknown etiology of endometriosis, much evidence suggests the participation of epigenetic mechanisms in the disease etiopathogenesis. The main rationale is based on the fact that heritable phenotype changes that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence are common triggers for hormonal, immunological, and inflammatory disorders, which play a key role in the formation of endometriotic foci. Epigenetic mechanisms regulating T-cell responses, including DNA methylation and posttranslational histone modifications, deserve attention because tissue-resident T lymphocytes work in concert with organ structural cells to generate appropriate immune responses and are functionally shaped by organ-specific environmental conditions. Thus, a failure to precisely regulate immune cell transcription may result in compromised immunological integrity of the organ with an increased risk of inflammatory disorders. The coexistence of endometriosis and autoimmunity is a well-known occurrence. Recent research results indicate regulatory T-cell (Treg) alterations in endometriosis, and an increased number of highly active Tregs and macrophages have been found in peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis. Elimination of the regulatory function of T cells and an imbalance between T helper cells of the Th1 and Th2 types have been reported in the endometria of women with endometriosis-associated infertility. This review aims to present the state of the art in recognition epigenetic reprogramming of T cells as the key factor in the pathophysiology of endometriosis in the context of T-cell-related autoimmunity. The new potential therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic modulation and/or adoptive transfer of T cells will also be outlined.
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Modeling Endometrium Biology and Disease. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12071048. [PMID: 35887546 PMCID: PMC9316888 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12071048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium, lining the uterine lumen, is highly essential for human reproduction. Its exceptional remodeling plasticity, including the transformation process to welcome and nest the embryo, is not well understood. Lack of representative and reliable study models allowing the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying endometrium development and biology to be deciphered is an important hurdle to progress in the field. Recently, powerful organoid models have been developed that not only recapitulate endometrial biology such as the menstrual cycle, but also faithfully reproduce diseases of the endometrium such as endometriosis. Moreover, single-cell profiling endeavors of the endometrium in health and disease, and of derived organoids, start to provide deeper insight into cellular complexity and expression specificities, and in resulting tissue processes. This granular portrayal will not only help in understanding endometrium biology and disease, but also in pinning down the tissue’s stem cells, at present not yet conclusively defined. Here, we provide a general overview of endometrium development and biology, and the efforts of modeling both the healthy tissue, as well as its key diseased form of endometriosis. The future of modeling and deciphering this key tissue, hidden inside the womb, looks bright.
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Xie M, Li Y, Meng YZ, Xu P, Yang YG, Dong S, He J, Hu Z. Uterine Natural Killer Cells: A Rising Star in Human Pregnancy Regulation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:918550. [PMID: 35720413 PMCID: PMC9198966 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.918550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are an immune subset located in the uterus. uNK cells have distinct tissue-specific characteristics compared to their counterparts in peripheral blood and lymphoid organs. Based on their location and the pregnancy status of the host, uNK cells are classified as endometrial NK (eNK) cells or decidua NK (dNK) cells. uNK cells are important in protecting the host from pathogen invasion and contribute to a series of physiological processes that affect successful pregnancy, including uterine spiral artery remodeling, fetal development, and immunity tolerance. Abnormal alterations in uNK cell numbers and/or impaired function may cause pregnancy complications, such as recurrent miscarriage, preeclampsia, or even infertility. In this review, we introduce recent advances in human uNK cell research under normal physiological or pathological conditions, and summarize their unique influences on the process of pregnancy complications or uterine diseases. Finally, we propose the potential clinical use of uNK cells as a novel cellular immunotherapeutic approach for reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Xie
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Li
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yi-Zi Meng
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yong-Guang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,International Center of Future Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shuai Dong
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jin He
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zheng Hu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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The expression pattern of endometrial receptivity genes is desynchronized between endometrium and matched endometriomas. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:713-720. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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38
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Chen P, Yao M, Fang T, Ye C, Du Y, Jin Y, Wu R. Identification of NFASC and CHL1 as Two Novel Hub Genes in Endometriosis Using Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis and Experimental Verification. Pharmgenomics Pers Med 2022; 15:377-392. [PMID: 35496348 PMCID: PMC9041605 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s354957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis (EMS) is a common and highly recurrent gynecological disease characterized by chronic pain and infertility. There are no definitive therapies for endometriosis since the pathogenesis remains undetermined. This study aimed to identify EMS-related functional modules and hub genes by integrated bioinformatics analysis. Methods Three endometriosis expression profiling series (GSE25628, GSE23339, and GSE7305) were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The EMS-related module was constructed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), followed by Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses. Cytohubba and the MCODE plug-ins of Cytoscape were used to screen out the hub genes, which were verified via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Immunohistochemistry was performed to verify the protein expression of the hub genes in ectopic endometrial tissues. Moreover, CIBERSORT was used to analyze the relationship between the abundance of immune cells infiltration and the expression of hub genes. Results Among the 18 modules obtained, the darkmagenta module was identified as the EMS-related module, genes of which were significantly enriched to terms referring to cell migration and neurogenesis. NFASC and CHL1 were screened out and prioritized as hub genes through Cytoscape and confirmed to be differentially upregulated in ectopic endometrial samples. Finally, the expression of hub genes was related to the abundance of immune cells infiltration. The higher expression of NFASC or CHL1 correlated with increased M2 macrophages and decreased natural killer (NK) cells in ectopic lesions. Conclusion This study provided new insights into the molecular factors underlying the pathogenesis of endometriosis and provided a theoretical basis for the potential that the two hub genes, NFASC and CHL1, might be novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengyun Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chaoshuang Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongjiang Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yang Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruijin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Ruijin Wu, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 571-8706223, Email
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Bao C, Wang H, Fang H. Genomic Evidence Supports the Recognition of Endometriosis as an Inflammatory Systemic Disease and Reveals Disease-Specific Therapeutic Potentials of Targeting Neutrophil Degranulation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:758440. [PMID: 35401535 PMCID: PMC8983833 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.758440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis, classically viewed as a localized disease, is increasingly recognized as a systemic disease with multi-organ effects. This disease is highlighted by systemic inflammation in affected organs and by high comorbidity with immune-mediated diseases. Results We provide genomic evidence to support the recognition of endometriosis as an inflammatory systemic disease. This was achieved through our genomics-led target prioritization, called ‘END’, that leverages the value of multi-layered genomic datasets (including genome-wide associations in disease, regulatory genomics, and protein interactome). Our prioritization recovered existing proof-of-concept therapeutic targeting in endometriosis and outperformed competing prioritization approaches (Open Targets and Naïve prioritization). Target genes at the leading prioritization revealed molecular hallmarks (and possibly the cellular basis as well) that are consistent with systemic disease manifestations. Pathway crosstalk-based attack analysis identified the critical gene AKT1. In the context of this gene, we further identified genes that are already targeted by licensed medications in other diseases, such as ESR1. Such analysis was supported by current interests targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in endometriosis and by the fact that therapeutic agents targeting ESR1 are now under active clinical trials in disease. The construction of cross-disease prioritization map enabled the identification of shared and distinct targets between endometriosis and immune-mediated diseases. Shared target genes identified opportunities for repurposing existing immunomodulators, particularly disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (such as TNF, IL6 and IL6R blockades, and JAK inhibitors). Genes highly prioritized only in endometriosis revealed disease-specific therapeutic potentials of targeting neutrophil degranulation – the exocytosis that can facilitate metastasis-like spread to distant organs causing inflammatory-like microenvironments. Conclusion Improved target prioritization, along with an atlas of in silico predicted targets and repurposed drugs (available at https://23verse.github.io/end), provides genomic insights into endometriosis, reveals disease-specific therapeutic potentials, and expands the existing theories on the origin of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohui Bao
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hengru Wang
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Fang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hai Fang,
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Mortlock S, Corona RI, Kho PF, Pharoah P, Seo JH, Freedman ML, Gayther SA, Siedhoff MT, Rogers PAW, Leuchter R, Walsh CS, Cass I, Karlan BY, Rimel BJ, Montgomery GW, Lawrenson K, Kar SP. A multi-level investigation of the genetic relationship between endometriosis and ovarian cancer histotypes. Cell Rep Med 2022; 3:100542. [PMID: 35492879 PMCID: PMC9040176 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is associated with increased risk of epithelial ovarian cancers (EOCs). Using data from large endometriosis and EOC genome-wide association meta-analyses, we estimate the genetic correlation and evaluate the causal relationship between genetic liability to endometriosis and EOC histotypes, and identify shared susceptibility loci. We estimate a significant genetic correlation (rg) between endometriosis and clear cell (rg = 0.71), endometrioid (rg = 0.48), and high-grade serous (rg = 0.19) ovarian cancer, associations supported by Mendelian randomization analyses. Bivariate meta-analysis identified 28 loci associated with both endometriosis and EOC, including 19 with evidence for a shared underlying association signal. Differences in the shared risk suggest different underlying pathways may contribute to the relationship between endometriosis and the different histotypes. Functional annotation using transcriptomic and epigenomic profiles of relevant tissues/cells highlights several target genes. This comprehensive analysis reveals profound genetic overlap between endometriosis and EOC histotypes with valuable genomic targets for understanding the biological mechanisms linking the diseases. Endometriosis is genetically correlated with CCOC, ENOC, and HGSOC Genetic liability to endometriosis confers risk of these EOC histotypes Profound colocalization of genetic associations at endometriosis and EOC risk loci Functional annotation highlights shared target genes elucidating the genetic link
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Mortlock
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Rosario I Corona
- Women's Cancer Research Program at Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pik Fang Kho
- Department of Genetics and Computational Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul Pharoah
- Centre for Cancer Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, CB1 8RN Cambridge, UK.,Centre for Cancer Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, CB1 8RN Cambridge, UK
| | - Ji-Heui Seo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew L Freedman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.,Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Simon A Gayther
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Matthew T Siedhoff
- Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Peter A W Rogers
- University of Melbourne Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Ronald Leuchter
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christine S Walsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ilana Cass
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Beth Y Karlan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - B J Rimel
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Grant W Montgomery
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Kate Lawrenson
- Women's Cancer Research Program at Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Siddhartha P Kar
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, BS8 2BN Bristol, UK.,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, BS8 2BN Bristol, UK
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Mortlock S, McKinnon B, Montgomery GW. Genetic Regulation of Transcription in the Endometrium in Health and Disease. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:795464. [PMID: 36304015 PMCID: PMC9580733 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.795464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a complex and dynamic tissue essential for fertility and implicated in many reproductive disorders. The tissue consists of glandular epithelium and vascularised stroma and is unique because it is constantly shed and regrown with each menstrual cycle, generating up to 10 mm of new mucosa. Consequently, there are marked changes in cell composition and gene expression across the menstrual cycle. Recent evidence shows expression of many genes is influenced by genetic variation between individuals. We and others have reported evidence for genetic effects on hundreds of genes in endometrium. The genetic factors influencing endometrial gene expression are highly correlated with the genetic effects on expression in other reproductive (e.g., in uterus and ovary) and digestive tissues (e.g., salivary gland and stomach), supporting a shared genetic regulation of gene expression in biologically similar tissues. There is also increasing evidence for cell specific genetic effects for some genes. Sample size for studies in endometrium are modest and results from the larger studies of gene expression in blood report genetic effects for a much higher proportion of genes than currently reported for endometrium. There is also emerging evidence for the importance of genetic variation on RNA splicing. Gene mapping studies for common disease, including diseases associated with endometrium, show most variation maps to intergenic regulatory regions. It is likely that genetic risk factors for disease function through modifying the program of cell specific gene expression. The emerging evidence from our gene mapping studies coupled with tissue specific studies, and the GTEx, eQTLGen and EpiMap projects, show we need to expand our understanding of the complex regulation of gene expression. These data also help to link disease genetic risk factors to specific target genes. Combining our data on genetic regulation of gene expression in endometrium, and cell types within the endometrium with gene mapping data for endometriosis and related diseases is beginning to uncover the specific genes and pathways responsible for increased risk of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Grant W. Montgomery
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Quan Q, Wu J, Yu M, Tang J. Immune micro-environment and drug analysis of peritoneal endometriosis based on epithelial-mesenchymal transition classification. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1035158. [PMID: 36523599 PMCID: PMC9745086 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1035158] [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: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex event that drives polar epithelial cells transform from adherent cells to motile mesenchymal cells, in which are involved immune cells and stroma cells. EMT plays crucial roles in migration and invasion of endometriosis. The interaction of endometrial implants with the surrounding peritoneal micro-environment probably affects the development of peritoneal endometriosis. To date, very few studies have been carried out on peritoneal endometriosis sub-type classification and micro-environment analysis based on EMT. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential application of EMT-based classification in precise diagnosis and treatment of peritoneal endometriosis. METHOD Based on EMT hallmark genes, 76 peritoneal endometriosis samples were classified into two clusters by consistent cluster classification. EMT scores, which calculated by Z score of 8 epithelial cell marker genes and 8 mesenchymal cell marker genes, were compared in two clusters. Then, immune scores and the abundances of corresponding immune cells, stroma scores and the abundances of corresponding stroma cells were analyzed by the "xCell" package. Futhermore, a diagnostic model was constructed based on 9 diagnostic markers which related to immune score and stroma score by Lasso-Logistic regression analysis. Finally, based on EMT classification, a total of 8 targeted drugs against two clusters were screened out by drug susceptibility analysis via "pRRophetic" package. RESULTS Hallmark epithelial-mesenchymal transition was the mainly enriched pathway of differentially expressed genes between peritoneal endometriosis tissues and endometrium tissues. Compared with cluster 2, EMT score and the abundances of most infiltrating stroma cell were significantly higher, while the abundances of most infiltrating immune cells were dramatically less. The diagnostic model could accurately distinguish cluster 1 from cluster 2. Pathway analysis showed drug candidates targeting cluster 1 mainly act on the IGF-1 signaling pathway, and drug candidates targeting cluster 2 mainly block the EGFR signaling pathway. CONCLUSION In peritoneal endometriosis, EMT was probably promoted by stroma cell infiltration and inhibited by immune cell infiltration. Besides, our study highlighted the potential uses of the EMT classification in the precise diagnosis and treatment of peritoneal endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingli Quan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qingli Quan, ; Jia Tang,
| | - Jiabao Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Meixing Yu
- Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Tang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qingli Quan, ; Jia Tang,
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