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Bączkowska M, Dutsch-Wicherek MM, Przytuła E, Faryna J, Wojtyła C, Ali M, Knafel A, Ciebiera M. Expression of the Costimulatory Molecule B7-H4 in the Decidua and Placental Tissues in Patients with Placental Abruption. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040918. [PMID: 35453668 PMCID: PMC9033103 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040918] [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: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
B7 homolog 4 protein (B7-H4), a member of the B7 family, is a immunomodulatory membrane protein. The aim of the study was to evaluate the expression of this protein in the decidua and placental tissues in case of placental abruption (PA) compared to cases of retained placental tissue (RPT) and controls. Tissue samples were obtained from 47 patients with PA, 60 patients with RPT, and 41 healthy controls. The samples were stained for B7-H4 expression, analyzed by an expert pathologist, and a semi-quantitative scale was applied. A statistical analysis revealed that the expression of B7-H4 was significantly higher in the decidua in PA samples compared to samples from patients with RPT (p-value < 0.001) and healthy controls (p-value < 0.001). The expression of B7-H4 in the placental chorionic villus was significantly higher in PA samples in relation to samples from healthy controls (p-value < 0.001) but not in relation to RPT samples (p-value = 0.0853). This finding suggests that B7-H4 might play an important role in mechanisms restoring reproductive tract homeostasis. Further research is necessary in regard to the role of B7-H4 in PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Bączkowska
- Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.K.)
| | | | - Ewa Przytuła
- Department of Pathology, Bielański Hospital, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (E.P.); (J.F.)
| | - Jan Faryna
- Department of Pathology, Bielański Hospital, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (E.P.); (J.F.)
| | - Cezary Wojtyła
- International Prevention Research Institute-Collaborating Centre, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland;
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Anna Knafel
- Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.K.)
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-607-155-177
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Molecular Changes on Maternal-Fetal Interface in Placental Abruption-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126612. [PMID: 34205566 PMCID: PMC8235312 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental abruption is the separation of the placenta from the lining of the uterus before childbirth. It is an infrequent perinatal complication with serious after-effects and a marked risk of maternal and fetal mortality. Despite the fact that numerous placental abruption risk factors are known, the pathophysiology of this issue is multifactorial and not entirely clear. The aim of this review was to examine the current state of knowledge concerning the molecular changes on the maternal–fetal interface occurring in placental abruption. Only original research articles describing studies published in English until the 15 March 2021 were considered eligible. Reviews, book chapters, case studies, conference papers and opinions were excluded. The systematic literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus databases identified 708 articles, 22 of which were analyzed. The available evidence indicates that the disruption of the immunological processes on the maternal–fetal interface plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of placental abruption. The features of chronic non-infectious inflammation and augmented immunological cytotoxic response were found to be present in placental abruption samples in the reviewed studies. Various molecules participate in this process, with only a few being examined. More advanced research is needed to fully explain this complicated process.
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Abstract
The comparison of the immunological state of pregnancy to an immunosuppressed host-graft model continues to lead research and clinical practice to ill-defined approaches. This Review discusses recent evidence that supports the idea that immunological responses at the receptive maternal-fetal interface are not simply suppressed but are instead highly dynamic. We discuss the crucial role of trophoblast cells in shaping not only the way in which immune cells respond to the invading blastocyst but also how they collectively react to external stimuli. We also discuss the role of the microbiota in promoting a tolerogenic maternal immune system and highlight how subclinical viral infections can disrupt this status quo, leading to pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Mor
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Paulomi Aldo
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
| | - Ayesha B Alvero
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA
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Ferreira LMR, Meissner TB, Tilburgs T, Strominger JL. HLA-G: At the Interface of Maternal-Fetal Tolerance. Trends Immunol 2017; 38:272-286. [PMID: 28279591 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, semiallogeneic fetal extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) invade the uterine mucosa without being rejected by the maternal immune system. Several mechanisms were initially proposed by Peter Medawar half a century ago to explain this apparent violation of the laws of transplantation. Then, three decades ago, an unusual human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecule was identified: HLA-G. Uniquely expressed in EVT, HLA-G has since become the center of the present understanding of fetus-induced immune tolerance. Despite slow progress in the field, the last few years have seen an explosion in our knowledge of HLA-G biology. Here, we critically review new insights into the mechanisms controlling the expression and function of HLA-G at the maternal-fetal interface, and discuss their relevance for fetal tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo M R Ferreira
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Torsten B Meissner
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Tamara Tilburgs
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Jack L Strominger
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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Turner MA, Vause S, Greenwood SL. The Regulation of Interleukin-6 Secretion by Prostanoids and Members of the Tumor Necrosis Factor Superfamily in Fresh Villous Fragments of Term Human Placenta. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 11:141-8. [PMID: 15051033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsgi.2003.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether prostanoids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and members of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily can regulate placental secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and whether labor influences any such effects. METHODS Villous fragments of term, human placenta were kept in culture for up to 4 hours, and IL-6 concentrations were measured in the supernatant. We assessed the effects of the following prostanoids: PGE(2), PGF(2alpha), thromboxane A(2) mimetic (U-46619), and carbacyclin, a stable prostacyclin analogue (all at 1 microM); NSAIDs: indomethacin (150 microM) or nimesulide (100 microM); and Fas ligand (5 ng/mL). RESULTS Secretion (mean +/- standard error) of IL-6 was, for control conditions, 1.92 +/- 0.28 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours; for PGE(2), 3.57 +/- 0.29 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours, P <.01; and for carbacyclin, 3.11 +/- 0.44 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours, P <.01. Incubation with PGF(2alpha) or the thromboxane A(2) analogue, U46619, had no effect on IL-6 secretion under these conditions. Fas ligand stimulated IL-6 secretion (3.06 +/- 0.38 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours, P <.05). Labor did not alter the effects of prostanoids or FasL. The effects of NSAIDs were assessed over 4 hours. Secretion (median, interquartile range) was, under control conditions 3.26, 2.83-6.23 fmol/mg wet weight per 4 hours, with indomethacin 1.4, 1.28-3.21 (P <.05), and with nimesulide 0.75, 0.50-1.56 fmol/mg wet weight per 4 hours. The magnitude of the effect of Fas ligand in the presence of NSAIDs depended on whether the placentas were delivered before or after labor. CONCLUSION Prostanoids, NSAIDs, and the Fas ligand regulate placental IL-6 secretion. Although the effects of individual agents did not vary with the presence or absence of labor, modulation of IL-6 secretion by labor became apparent when agents were combined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Turner
- Academic Unit of Child Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
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Vellido-Cotelo R, Muñoz-González JL, Oliver-Pérez MR, de la Hera-Lázaro C, Almansa-González C, Pérez-Sagaseta C, Jiménez-López JS. Endometriosis node in gynaecologic scars: a study of 17 patients and the diagnostic considerations in clinical experience in tertiary care center. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2015; 15:13. [PMID: 25783643 PMCID: PMC4337097 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-015-0170-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Endometriosis nodes are observed in extra pelvic locations, particularly in gynaecological scars, with the abdominal wall being one of the most frequent locations. The main objective of the study is to review patient characteristics of cases of endometriosis nodes in gynaecological scars. Methods A retrospective, observational and descriptive study with a cohort of patients from Hospital 12 de Octubre was conducted from January 2000 to January 2012. We analysed all of the patients who presented with an endometriosis node in a gynaecological scar presentation who had undergone surgery in that period. Descriptive data were collected and analysed. Results A total of 17 patients with an anatomopathological diagnosis of an endometriosis node in a gynaecological scar were found. The following variables were studied: the age at diagnosis (32.5 years +/− 5.5 years), personal and obstetric history, time from surgery to diagnosis (4.2 years +/− 3.4 years), symptoms (a painful mass that grows during menstruation is the most frequent symptom in our patients), technical analyses by computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR) or fine needle aspiration (FNA) (77% of the patients), node size (2.5 cm +/− 1.1 cm) and location (caesarean scar, 82%; episiotomy scar, 11.7%; and laparoscopic surgery port, 5.8%), involvement of adjacent structures (29% of the patients), treatment (exeresis with a security margin in all the patients) and other endometriosis locations (14% of the patients). Conclusions A high level of suspicion is required to diagnose gynaecological scar endometriosis, which should be suspected in the differential diagnosis of scar masses in reproductive-aged women. Several theories have been proposed to explain the formation of endometriosis nodes in extrauterine localizations. The two of them that seem to be more plausible are the metaplasia and transport theories. Imaging with ultrasound, CT and MR facilitate the diagnosis. FNA could be used for preoperative diagnosis. Treatment must be by node resection with a security margin. In some cases, surgery could be combined with hormonal treatment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12905-015-0170-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Schäfer-Somi S, Sabitzer S, Klein D, Tomaszewski C, Kanca H, Beceriklisoy HB, Kucukaslan I, Agaoglu R, Kaya D, Ay S, Aslan S. Is apoptosis a regulatory mechanism during early canine pregnancy? Reprod Domest Anim 2013; 47 Suppl 6:169-72. [PMID: 23279491 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fas is a membrane-bound protein which upon activation causes programmed cell death. Fas ligand (FasL) binds Fas on target cells. Both these factors are known to regulate apoptosis at implantation in different species and thus might be involved in the regulation of implantation in dogs. The aim of the study was to assess the expression of Fas and FasL in canine uterine tissue throughout pregnancy as well as in pre-implantation embryos using RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. Uterine tissues was collected from of 21 healthy pregnant bitches (group I: days 10-12, n = 5; group II: days 18-25, n = 6; group III: days 28-45, n = 6) and from 4 non-pregnant bitches (controls: days 10-12). Pregnancy stage was determined by days after mating, that is, 2-3 days after ovulation as determined by vaginal cytology and progesterone measurement. After ovariohysterectomy, uteri from group I bitches were flushed with PBS and the embryos washed and stored frozen at -80°. Tissues from the other groups were taken from the implantation and placentation sites, respectively, covered with Tissue Tek(®) and frozen at -80°. Extraction of RNA was performed with Trizol Reagent and RT-qPCR using SYBR green probes. In pre-implantation embryos, only FasL but not Fas could be detected. In all tissues from pregnant and non-pregnant bitches, both parameters were detectable. Before implantation (group I) expression of FasL resembled that of non-pregnant bitches in early dioestrus and decreased significantly during implantation and thereafter (p < 0.05). Expression of Fas did not change significantly until day 45. The relative expression of Fas exceeded that of FasL at each stage investigated, which is comparable to observations of other species; however, high standard deviations indicate high individual differences. These preliminary results point towards a regulatory function of the Fas/FasL system during early canine pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Schäfer-Somi
- Centre for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Soni S, Rath G, Prasad CP, Salhan S, Jain AK, Saxena S. Fas-FasL System in Molar Pregnancy. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 65:512-20. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2010.00926.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
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Straszewski-Chavez SL, Abrahams VM, Aldo PB, Romero R, Mor G. AKT controls human first trimester trophoblast cell sensitivity to FAS-mediated apoptosis by regulating XIAP expression. Biol Reprod 2009; 82:146-52. [PMID: 19726736 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.078972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The PIK3/AKT pathway plays an important role in both the inhibition of the apoptotic cascade and the promotion of cell growth and proliferation. Multiple apoptosis-related targets of phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PIK3) and protein kinase B (AKT) have been identified, including the antiapoptotic protein XIAP. By phosphorylating XIAP, AKT was previously shown to prevent the ubiquitinization and degradation of XIAP. First-trimester trophoblast cells express high levels of XIAP, which protects them from certain apoptotic stimuli. In this study, we determine that the inhibition of the PIK3/AKT pathway induces XIAP inactivation and the activation of caspase 3 in first-trimester trophoblast cells. Using a specific AKT inhibitor and a XIAP mutant construct, which mimics the AKT phosphorylated form of XIAP, we also demonstrate that these effects are dependent on the phosphorylation of XIAP by AKT. Finally, we show that the selective inhibition of AKT renders normally resistant first-trimester trophoblast cells sensitive to FAS-mediated apoptosis by regulating XIAP expression. Our findings may provide a link between AKT, XIAP, and the regulation of the FAS apoptotic cascade in first-trimester trophoblast cells and contribute to our current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms mediating normal trophoblast physiology during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn L Straszewski-Chavez
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA
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Danielsson O, Nilsson C, Lindvall B, Ernerudh J. Expression of apoptosis related proteins in normal and diseased muscle: a possible role for Bcl-2 in protection of striated muscle. Neuromuscul Disord 2009; 19:412-7. [PMID: 19477129 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2009.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2008] [Revised: 03/16/2009] [Accepted: 03/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The unique absence of major histocompatibility complex class I antigen (MHC-I) expression in normal muscle is one possible mechanism protecting striated muscle. In order to define their possible involvement in protection of normal muscle, we investigated the expression of molecules involved in muscle fibre death and survival mechanisms (Bcl-2, Fas, Fas-ligand and TRAIL), focusing on disorders with possible involvement of cytotoxic T cells. We studied muscle biopsies from 20 healthy volunteers, from 10 patients affected by polymyositis and 10 by Duchenne muscular dystrophy. By using immunohistochemistry, Western blot and real-time PCR we detected a constitutional expression of Bcl-2 in healthy muscle, whereas the expression was weaker in disease processes. Fas-L and TRAIL were not detected in muscle fibres, and Fas only in muscle affected by disease. Our findings indicate that the major apoptotic protein Bcl-2 might have a hitherto unrecognized role in the protection of normal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olof Danielsson
- Neuromuscular Unit, Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Sweden.
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Wicherek L, Basta P, Galazka K, Mak P, Dancewicz L, Kalinka J. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: RCAS1 Decidual Immunoreactivity and RCAS1 Serum Level During Cesarean Section with Respect to the Progression of Labor. Am J Reprod Immunol 2008; 59:152-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2007.00540.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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The possible correlation between the patient's immune tolerance level during cesaerean section and the incidence of subsequent emergency peripartum hysterectomy. Clin Dev Immunol 2008; 2007:63596. [PMID: 18317530 PMCID: PMC2246050 DOI: 10.1155/2007/63596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2007] [Revised: 11/04/2007] [Accepted: 11/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. Cesarean section is an independent risk factor for peripartum hysterectomy. As a method of delivery, cesarean section may interfere with a number of molecular changes that occur at the maternal-fetal interface during the course of labor. Methods. The level of CD3, CD56, CD25, and CD69 antigen immunoreactivity was assessed by immunohistochemistry in 26 decidual tissue samples. The tissue samples were obtained from 18 women who underwent cesarean sections at term and from 8 women who underwent cesarean hysterectomies. Results. An increase in the activity and infiltration of immune cells in the decidua sampled during the spontaneous beginning of labor was observed. The further progression of labor was accompanied by a decrease in the number and activity of immune cells. The number of CD56+ and CD3+
cells in the decidua was statistically significantly lower in patients who had undergone cesarean hysterectomies than in those who had had cesarean sections at term. Conclusion. Abnormal immune response during labor may increase the risk for peripartum hysterectomy.
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Mammalian Ste20-like protein kinase 3 mediates trophoblast apoptosis in spontaneous delivery. Apoptosis 2007; 13:283-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s10495-007-0161-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Skret-Magierlo J, Wicherek L, Basta P, Galazka K, Sikora J, Wilk M, Fudali L, Skret A. RCAS1 Decidual Immunoreactivity during Cesarean Section in Scar Deciduosis: Immune Cell Presence and Activity. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2007; 65:187-94. [DOI: 10.1159/000111533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2007] [Accepted: 06/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Wicherek L, Galazka K, Lazar A. RCAS1 decidual immunoreactivity during placental abruption: immune cell presence and activity. Am J Reprod Immunol 2007; 58:46-55. [PMID: 17565547 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2007.00490.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM RCAS1 is a protein responsible for the suppression of cytotoxic immune response during gestation. The present study evaluates the immunoreactivity level of RCAS1 with respect to immune cell status during placental abruption (PA) and retained placental tissue (RPT). METHOD OF STUDY RCAS1, CD3, CD56, CD69 and CD25 immunoreactivity was assessed by immunohistochemistry in 66 decidual samples derived from PA and from RPT. RESULTS RCAS1 immunoreactivity was statistically significantly higher in decidual tissue samples derived from patients with RPT than in those derived from patients with PA. A statistically significantly lower number of CD56(+) and CD3(+) cells and immunoreactivity level of CD69 were found in patients with RPT, compared to those with PA. CONCLUSION Placental abruption seems to be associated with excessive accumulation and activity of CD3(+) and CD56(+) cells in decidua, which processes might, in turn, result from an insufficient RCAS1 decidual level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Wicherek
- Department of Gynecology and Oncology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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Sun QH, Peng JP, Xia HF, Yang Y. IFN-γ Promotes Apoptosis of the Uterus and Placenta in Pregnant Rat and Human Cytotrophoblast Cells. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2007; 27:567-78. [PMID: 17651018 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2006.0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth and development of placentas in all pregnancy periods and that of fetuses in late pregnancy were inhibited after administration of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Apoptosis can be detected by TUNEL at the maternal-fetal interface during normal rat pregnancy. Apoptosis locations at the maternal-fetal interface changed according to the period of pregnancy. The results of immunohistochemistry and the DNA ladder assay showed that IFN-gamma could promote the apoptosis levels during the entire pregnancy, but it did not change the apoptosis locations. IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1), FasL, and p53 expressions were modulated by IFN-gamma during the entire pregnancy. In vitro cell proliferation assay indicated that IFN-gamma could inhibit proliferation of human cytotrophoblast cells, and flow assay showed that this effect was mainly due to apoptosis induction. TUNEL and Hoechst staining also showed that IFN-gamma could induce apoptosis of human cytotrophoblast cells. Expression of IRF-1 was induced and expression of active caspase-3 was promoted by IFN-gamma treatment, but IFN-gamma did not affect the expression of IFNGR and p53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan-Hong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080, P.R. China
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Eide IP, Isaksen CV, Salvesen KA, Langaas M, Günther CC, Iversen AC, Austgulen R. Fetal growth restriction is associated with reduced FasL expression by decidual cells. J Reprod Immunol 2006; 74:7-14. [PMID: 17196256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2006.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2006] [Revised: 11/27/2006] [Accepted: 11/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The Fas-Fas ligand (FasL) system contributes to immune tolerance at the feto-maternal site and has been ascribed a role in implantation and placental development by regulating trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodelling. In the present study, we have examined FasL expression in decidual tissue from pregnancies with impaired placental development. Women with pre-eclampsia (PE) and/or fetal growth restriction (FGR) were enrolled as cases (n=33), and women with normal pregnancies were used as controls (n=27). Decidua basalis tissue was obtained by vacuum suction of the placental bed after delivery. FasL expression by extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) and decidual cells (DeCs), together with EVT apoptosis, were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Levels of soluble FasL in maternal serum and apoptosis-related gene expression in decidual tissue were determined. The proportion of FasL-expressing DeCs was high in controls (72.0+/-10.2%), with a significant reduction among cases (58.1+/-19.7%; p=0.002), especially in those with FGR (54.3+/-19.9%; p<0.001). EVTs had a lower proportion of FasL expression than DeCs, with a less pronounced reduction in cases compared to controls (10.9+/-3.9 and 8.3+/-4.0%, respectively; p=0.02). Decidual FasL expression correlated with placental growth. The EVT apoptosis rate did not differ between cases and controls (1.1+/-1.9 and 1.1+/-1.3%, respectively). These findings indicate a reduction of immune privilege in decidua of PE/FGR pregnancies by reduced FasL expression and that DeCs may have a central role in the Fas-FasL-based feto-maternal immune balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina P Eide
- Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, DMF, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Medisinsk teknisk forskningssenter, Olav Kyrres gt. 3, N-7489 Trondheim, Norway.
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Wicherek L, Klimek M, Skret-Magierlo J, Czekierdowski A, Banas T, Popiela TJ, Kraczkowski J, Sikora J, Oplawski M, Nowak A, Skret A, Basta A. The obstetrical history in patients with Pfannenstiel scar endometriomas--an analysis of 81 patients. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2006; 63:107-13. [PMID: 17028436 DOI: 10.1159/000096083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2006] [Accepted: 08/08/2006] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The participation of immune tolerance during pregnancy was suggested to be an important factor predisposing to the implantation of decidual cells after cesarean section in Pfannenstiel scar. Delivery at term is related to the termination of immune tolerance to fetal antigens that is maintained throughout pregnancy. Substantial proportion of cesarean section deliveries is performed before the onset of true term labor. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical symptoms of spontaneous beginning of labor in pregnant women in whom cesarean sections were performed and in whom Pfannenstiel scar endometriomas were observed during follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS We have retrospectively analyzed 81 patients following the surgical removal of scar endometrioma after cesarean section. Obstetrical histories of cesarean sections in the number of 5,370 preceding the occurrence of the scar endometrioma were analyzed. These data were collected in six different Gynecological and Obstetrical wards in Malopolska Province in Poland. Analysis of data was started by the retrospective evaluation of regular uterine contractions, uterine cervix ripening before cesarean section and the indications for surgery. RESULTS In 67 women from the group of 81 patients cesarean sections were performed with unripe uterine cervix and without the presence of regular uterine contractions. Elective indications for cesarean sections were predominant in this group of women. The relative risk of scar endometriomas occurrence following cesarean sections performed before onset of labor in comparison to cesarean sections following spontaneous onset of labor was statistically significantly higher [RR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.21-3.83; OR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.22-3.89]. CONCLUSIONS Cesarean section performed before spontaneous onset of labor may increase substantially the risk of occurrence of scar endometriomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Wicherek
- Department of Gynecology and Infertility, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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Abstract
It has become clear in recent years that apoptosis is a normal process in trophoblast turnover during pregnancy. Increased trophoblast apoptosis has been observed in the placenta of women with preeclampsia, serum from women with preeclampsia has been found to induce increased trophoblast sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis, and serum from women with preeclampsia has elevated levels of various chemokines, growth factors and cytokines that are involved in the regulation of apoptosis. This review highlights the importance of apoptosis in normal placental development and explores the mechanisms whereby Fas-mediated apoptosis may play a role in conditions related to abnormal placentation, such as preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna M Neale
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Straszewski-Chavez SL, Abrahams VM, Mor G. The role of apoptosis in the regulation of trophoblast survival and differentiation during pregnancy. Endocr Rev 2005; 26:877-97. [PMID: 15901666 DOI: 10.1210/er.2005-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis is important for normal placental development, but it may also be involved in the pathophysiology of pregnancy-related diseases. Normal placental development is dependent upon the differentiation and invasion of the trophoblast, the main cellular component of the placenta. Trophoblast apoptosis increases in normal placentas as gestation proceeds, and a greater incidence of trophoblast apoptosis has been observed in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). In response to different stimuli, apoptosis may be initiated extrinsically by the death receptor pathway or intrinsically by the mitochondrial pathway. The central executioners of apoptosis are the caspases, which cleave numerous vital cellular proteins to affect the apoptotic cascade. By inhibiting caspase activation, several endogenous inhibitors, including flice-like inhibitory proteins (FLIPs), inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs), and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family members, can prevent further propagation of the death signal. Macrophages present at the maternal-fetal interface may also contribute to trophoblast survival by removing apoptotic cells and producing cytokines and growth factors, which influence the progression of the apoptotic cascade. This review focuses on the role of apoptosis in trophoblast development and differentiation, the molecular mechanisms by which normal trophoblast apoptosis can occur, and how it is regulated to prevent excessive trophoblast apoptosis and possible pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn L Straszewski-Chavez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Reproductive Immunology Unit, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street FMB 301, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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Wicherek L, Klimek M, Dutsch-Wicherek M, Kolodziejski L, Skotniczny K. The molecular changes during placental detachment. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2005; 125:171-5. [PMID: 16099585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2005.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2004] [Revised: 04/12/2005] [Accepted: 05/01/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES RCAS1 is a membrane protein that plays a role in the maintenance of maternal immune tolerance during pregnancy. The work presented here demonstrates the results of RCAS1 expression in placenta in cases of placental abruption and patients with retained placental tissue during the third stage of labor. STUDY DESIGN The placenta tissue samples were obtained during vaginal and cesarean delivery (derived from 117 pregnancies). Pregnant women were divided into four groups according to the onset of labor and the time of placental detachment in term labors. The samples were analyzed by the Western blot method. Statistical analysis was performed using the Shapiro-Wilk procedure. The Mann-Whitney test and Student's t-test were applied to compare the differences between parametric data. RESULTS The average relative amount of RCAS1 observed in those patients with retained placental tissue was statistically significantly higher than in the patients with placental abruption. CONCLUSION The differences observed in placental RCAS1 levels confirm the participation of this protein in the inhibition of maternal immune response during gestation. The present results also indicate that RCAS1 participates in the changes in the maternal immune system that take place during parturition and reinforce its potential involvement in the mechanism of placental abruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Wicherek
- Department of Gynecology and Infertility Clinic of Jagiellonian University, 23 Kopernika Street, 30-005 Krakow, Poland.
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Wicherek L, Klimek M, Czekierdowski A, Popiela TJ, Galazka K, Tetlak T, Gilowski A, Dutsch-Wicherek M. The placental RCAS1 expression during stillbirth. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2005; 3:24. [PMID: 15963226 PMCID: PMC1184098 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-3-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2005] [Accepted: 06/17/2005] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Independently of the fetal death cause the beginning and course of stillbirth is closely related with the growing cytotoxic activity at the maternal-fetal interface. RCAS1 participates in the inhibition of maternal immune response during pregnancy. The alterations of RCAS1 protein expression in placental cells seem to determine the beginning of the labor and participate in the placental abruption. The aim of the present study was to investigate RCAS1 expression in placentas obtained following stillbirths or normal term births. METHODS RCAS1 expression was evaluated by Western blot method with the use of monoclonal anti-RCAS1 antibody in 67 placental tissue samples. Pregnant women were divided into four groups according to the mode of labor onset--spontaneous or induced, and the type of labor, stillbirth or labor at term. Placental beta-Actin expression was chosen as a control protein. Relative amounts of placental RCAS1 were compared with the use of Student's t-test, whereas beta-Actin control data were compared with the use of Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS The average relative amount of RCAS1 was significantly lower in women with induced stillbirths than in women with induced labor at term. Similarly, significantly lower RCAS1 placental levels were observed in patients with spontaneous stillbirths than in women with spontaneous labor at term. Significant differences in RCAS1 expression were also observed with the respect to the beginning of the stillbirth: spontaneous and induced. Lowest RCAS1 placental levels were observed in women with spontaneous stillbirth. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary results indicate that the alterations of RCAS1 expression in the human placenta may be involved in the changes of maternal immune system that take place during stillbirth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Wicherek
- Department of Gynecology and Infertility of Jagiellonian University, 23 Kopernik Str, 31–501 Krakow, Poland
| | - Marek Klimek
- Department of Gynecology and Infertility of Jagiellonian University, 23 Kopernik Str, 31–501 Krakow, Poland
| | - Artur Czekierdowski
- Ist Department of Gynecology of the Medical University in Lublin, 16 Staszica Str, 20–081 Lublin Poland
| | - Tadeusz J Popiela
- Radiology Department of Jagiellonian University, 19 Kopernik Str, 31–501 Krakow, Poland
| | - Krystyna Galazka
- Department of Pathomorphology Jagiellonian University, 17 Grzegórzecka, 31–531 Krakow, Poland
| | - Tomasz Tetlak
- Department of Gynecology and Infertility of Jagiellonian University, 23 Kopernik Str, 31–501 Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Gilowski
- Department of Gynecology and Infertility of Jagiellonian University, 23 Kopernik Str, 31–501 Krakow, Poland
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Frängsmyr L, Baranov V, Nagaeva O, Stendahl U, Kjellberg L, Mincheva-Nilsson L. Cytoplasmic microvesicular form of Fas ligand in human early placenta: switching the tissue immune privilege hypothesis from cellular to vesicular level. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 11:35-41. [PMID: 15579659 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gah129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The local immune privilege of the fetus is created by the placenta. Fas ligand (FasL) expression in trophoblast has been implied as one of the mechanisms of fetal tolerance. However, the expression of membranal FasL by trophoblast has failed to explain this role of FasL. Two objections can be raised: (1) there have been contradictions considering which trophoblast cells, syncytiotrophoblast (ST) or cytotrophoblast, express FasL; (2) in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that the membranal form of FasL evokes inflammatory response and thus may promote fetal rejection. Using different assays and the FasL-specific antibody G247-4 we demonstrate beyond doubt that in vivo, (1) FasL is produced by and stored in the first trimester human ST only and (2) the human ST lacks surface membranal FasL. Instead, FasL, loaded in microvesicles, is stored in cytoplasmic granules. These results complement the recent in vitro studies of the microvesicular form of FasL secretion by cultured trophoblast cells, and suggest that placental FasL is synthesized by villous ST, stored in microvesicular form and secreted as exosomes. Secretion of the exosome-associated form of FasL may be one mechanism by which the placenta promotes a state of immune privilege. Additionally, FasL expression in Hofbauer cells is also demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Frängsmyr
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Umeå University, S-90185 Umeå, Sweden
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Molloy EJ, O'Neill AJ, Grantham JJ, Sheridan-Pereira M, Fitzpatrick JM, Webb DW, Watson RWG. Labor promotes neonatal neutrophil survival and lipopolysaccharide responsiveness. Pediatr Res 2004; 56:99-103. [PMID: 15128917 DOI: 10.1203/01.pdr.0000130473.30874.b6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Labor is a mild proinflammatory state that is associated with fetal leukocytosis. Elective cesarean section has been linked with increased neonatal morbidity, which may be partially immune mediated. We hypothesized that labor may alter neutrophil phenotype and thereby decrease neonatal complications. We characterized neutrophil function and survival in normal neonates after either uncomplicated vaginal delivery (VD) or elective cesarean section (CS) without labor. Spontaneous neutrophil apoptosis is delayed in cord blood neutrophils of neonates after normal labor (VD) compared with CS, as assessed by propidium iodide DNA incorporation using flow cytometry. This demonstrates their ability to maintain an inflammatory response. CD11b expression on neonatal neutrophils after CS is decreased, providing further evidence of altered activation or priming. Lipopolysaccharide responsiveness, characterized by CD11b and apoptosis, is similar in VD and adults, but CS-derived neutrophils are unresponsive. Baseline TLR-4 levels are elevated in CS in contrast to the other groups, although expression is not up-regulated by lipopolysaccharide co-incubation. Neonatal neutrophil survival and function are altered by labor and may increase antibacterial function and neutrophilia. This suggests that labor of any duration may be immunologically beneficial to the normal term neonate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor J Molloy
- Department of Surgery, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Pongcharoen S, Searle RF, Bulmer JN. Placental Fas and Fas Ligand Expression in Normal Early, Term and Molar Pregnancy. Placenta 2004; 25:321-30. [PMID: 15028424 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2003.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2003] [Revised: 07/10/2003] [Accepted: 08/06/2003] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
To clarify the Fas and Fas-ligand status of normal and molar trophoblast, the expression of Fas and FasL by placental trophoblast populations in partial and complete hydatidiform moles was compared with that in normal first trimester and term pregnancies using an avidin-biotin peroxidase technique on frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded placental tissues with both monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. The TUNEL technique was used to detect apoptotic cells in the same tissues. The immunoreactivity for Fas and Fas-ligand was comparable with both monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies on frozen as well as paraffin-embedded sections. In normal early and molar pregnancy there was strong FasL expression by villous cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast. However, there were significant differences in FasL expression by trophoblast subpopulations in both early and term normal pregnancy and between the same trophoblast subpopulation at different gestations, with FasL staining generally being weaker at term. Strong FasL staining by cytotrophoblast cells in the distal parts of cell columns contrasted with unstained cytotrophoblast in the proximal part of columns. Distinct trophoblast subpopulations in partial hydatidiform mole also differentially expressed FasL with reduced FasL expression in proliferating syncytiotrophoblast. In contrast there was no differential FasL expression in complete hydatidiform mole, all trophoblast subpopulations strongly expressing FasL. Unlike the differential expression of FasL there were no differences in Fas expression by trophoblast populations in normal early or term placental tissues. Fas expression was reduced in villous cytotrophoblast at term. Differential expression of Fas by different trophoblast subpopulations was noted in partial and complete hydatidiform mole. In complete mole villous cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast stained strongly compared with proliferating trophoblast. Using TUNEL labelling apoptosis was rarely detected in placental trophoblast. Differential Fas and FasL expression by trophoblast subpopulations in normal and pathological pregnancy does not appear to be related to apoptosis of trophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pongcharoen
- School of Cell and Molecular Biosciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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27
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Molloy EJ, O'neill AJ, Grantham JJ, Sheridan-Pereira M, Fitzpatrick JM, Webb DW, Watson RW. Labor induces a maternal inflammatory response syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2004; 190:448-55. [PMID: 14981388 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2003.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We studied the effect of labor on maternal neutrophil phenotype. STUDY DESIGN Neutrophil apoptosis with inflammatory cytokines and the expression of CD11b, CD34 and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) were assessed with flow cytometry in women at uncomplicated vaginal delivery (VD), and elective cesarean section (ElCS) without labor, emergency cesarean section with (EmCSL+) or without (EmCSL-) labor. RESULTS Spontaneous neutrophil apoptosis is delayed in maternal neutrophils after VD, EmCSL+ or EmCSL- versus ElCS. In all groups lipopolysaccharide delayed apoptosis and increased CD11b expression. Elevated TLR4 expression in ElCS was associated with lipopolysaccharide responsiveness. CD34 was diminished in VD, indicating increased cell maturity. CONCLUSION Normal labor primes the neutrophil and may enhance antibacterial function by inducing a mild maternal inflammatory response syndrome. Delayed neutrophil apoptosis may promote the neutrophilia seen in women after VD. We suggest that labor of any duration may be immunologically beneficial to the parturient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor J Molloy
- Department of Surgery, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, Dublin, Ireland
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Rajashekhar G, Loganath A, Roy AC, Mongelli JM. Resistance to Fas-mediated cell death in BeWo and NJG choriocarcinoma cell lines: implications in immune privilege. Gynecol Oncol 2003; 91:89-100. [PMID: 14529667 DOI: 10.1016/s0090-8258(03)00396-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An immune privileged site occurs when the allogenic tissue grafts have the propensity for prolonged survival in the host tissue. In this context, the survival and proliferation of malignant trophoblasts in the gravid uterus are currently unclear. In a previous study, we documented that Fas and FasL are coexpressed in choriocarcinoma [Gynecol. Oncol. (2003)]. This study was conducted to examine the role of the Fas/FasL pathway in immune privilege of BeWo and NJG choriocarcinoma cells in culture. METHODS The ability of anti-Fas mAb (CH-11) to sensitize choriocarcinoma cell lines to Fas-mediated cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT assays. Coculture experiments with Fas-sensitive Jurkat cells were used to demonstrate functional FasL from choriocarcinoma. RT-PCR was used to assess the expression of cFLIP. RESULTS The mean cell viability of BeWo and NJG cells declined to about 58 and 63% compared to controls after 72 h of culture in the presence of anti-Fas mAb (CH-11) while the Fas-sensitive Jurkat cells showed viability of only 10%. This resistance to Fas-mediated apoptosis in choriocarcinoma cells is reversed in the presence of cycloheximide (0.5 micro g/ml) which further decreased the viability to 36 and 32%, respectively, at a dose of 300 ng/ml (P < 0.05). The observed resistance to Fas-mediated apoptosis therefore could be attributed to the short-lived endogenous inhibitor, cFLIP as demonstrated by the RT-PCR technique. In coculture experiments, FasL from choriocarcinoma cells induced apoptosis in the Fas-sensitive Jurkat cells, thereby indicating the capacity to evade immune attack. CONCLUSIONS Decreased sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis and counterattacking the lymphocytes may impart immune privilege in these malignant trophoblasts for prolonged survival in the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rajashekhar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074
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Balkundi DR, Ziegler JA, Watchko JF, Craven C, Trucco M. Regulation of FasL/Fas in human trophoblasts: possible implications for chorioamnionitis. Biol Reprod 2003; 69:718-24. [PMID: 12700199 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.013102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Chorioamnionitis is a common cause of premature birth and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in the mother and infant. Preterm birth shares similarities with rejection of the fetal allograft, which is characterized by increased apoptosis of placental trophoblasts. We hypothesized that there is increased trophoblast apoptosis in chorioamnionitis and that this increased apoptosis is mediated by the Fas ligand (FasL)/Fas pathway. To test our hypothesis, we examined placental villous tissues from patients with chorioamnionitis and used the TUNEL assay to demonstrate enhanced trophoblast apoptosis in patients with chorioamnionitis. When the same samples were stained for Fas, there was increased trophoblast Fas expression in patients with chorioamnionitis. To define the mechanisms responsible for this increase in trophoblast apoptosis, we cultured villous explants from uncomplicated term placentas with proinflammatory cytokines and demonstrated a marked increase in trophoblast apoptosis. By blocking FasL, we reduced tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced and interferon gamma-induced apoptosis. These data suggest that chorioamnionitis is associated with increased trophoblast apoptosis and enhanced trophoblast Fas expression. As a complement to our in vivo study, we demonstrated that cytokine-induced trophoblast apoptosis is mediated in part by the FasL/Fas pathway, suggesting that cytokines promote sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis. These mechanisms may be important in perpetuating inflammation in the placental microenvironment and may contribute to the pathogenesis of chorioamnionitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruv R Balkundi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology and Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Magee Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA.
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Gercel-Taylor C, O'Connor SM, Lam GK, Taylor DD. Shed membrane fragment modulation of CD3-zeta during pregnancy: link with induction of apoptosis. J Reprod Immunol 2002; 56:29-44. [PMID: 12106882 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0378(02)00025-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to identify shed placental plasma membrane fragments in the maternal circulation and determine whether these fragments are capable of down-regulating CD3-zeta chain expression and inducing apoptosis in T lymphocytes. Sera, isolated from the blood of pregnant women at 26-29 weeks gestation that subsequently had uncomplicated term deliveries, were subjected to high exclusion-limit gel chromatography to isolate placental membrane fragments. The placental origin of the fragments was confirmed by the presence of placental-type alkaline phosphates. These shed membrane fragments were further analyzed for the presence of Fas ligand (FasL) and modulation of CD3-zeta expression on cultured T-lymphocytes (Jurkat cells). The ability of the shed membrane fragments to induce apoptosis was assayed using a cell death ELISA. Components associated with Fas-dependent apoptosis (caspase-3, bcl-2 and bax) were characterized using western immunoblot following exposure to serum-derived membrane fragments. Placental membrane fragments were identified in all pregnancy sera, but not in non-pregnant controls. The 41 kDa FasL was identified in membrane fragment isolates and all samples were capable of inducing apoptosis as determined by the ELISA assay. Exposure of T lymphocytes to isolated membrane fragments suppressed the expression of CD3-zeta. The induction of apoptosis correlated with the induction and activation of caspase 3 and the induction of bax. Placenta-derived membrane fragments are detectable in the maternal circulation. These membrane fragment isolates are capable of inducing FasL-mediated apoptosis and down-regulating CD3-zeta expression, which may contribute to the immune tolerance of the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cicek Gercel-Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 511 South Floyd Street, MDR 420, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
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Mu J, Kanzaki T, Si X, Tomimatsu T, Fukuda H, Fujii E, Hosono T, Murata Y, Sugimoto Y, Ichikawa A. Apoptosis and related proteins during parturition in prostaglandin F receptor-deficient mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2002; 292:675-81. [PMID: 11922619 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.2002.6698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated whether apoptosis and related proteins are involved in parturition by comparative observation of FP-deficient mice without labor and wild type mice with vaginal delivery. We examined the expression of apoptosis, Fas, FasL, active caspase-3 and bcl-2 proteins in the amnion, placenta and decidua. DNA laddering in the amnion, placenta and decidua tissue did not significantly differ between FP-deficient and wild type mice on day 18 of pregnancy. Similar TUNEL staining results were found in all tissues of FP-deficient mice compared with those of wild type mice. A higher intensity of apoptotic cells was found in the decidua basalis. The index of TUNEL-positive cells were not significantly different in the amnion, placenta and decidua of FP-deficient mice compared with that of wild type mice on day 18 of pregnancy. Specific bands for Fas were clearly observed in the amnion, placenta and decidua tissue. FasL specific bands were observed in the placenta and decidua, but a few in amnion tissue. A great number of active caspase-3 specific bands were detected in decidua, while a few such bands were detected in the placenta and few bands in the amniotic tissue. Bands for bcl-2 were detected in the amnion, placenta and decidua tissue. The weakest band was in decidual tissue. Fas, FasL, active caspase-3, and bcl-2 specific bands did not show any significant differences between the two groups. These findings demonstrate that apoptosis, Fas, FasL, caspase-3, and Bcl-2 occur in mouse term placenta that is not involved in parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwu Mu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radiation Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
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Plevyak M, Hanna N, Mayer S, Murphy S, Pinar H, Fast L, Ekerfelt C, Ernerudh J, Berg G, Matthiesen L, Sharma S. Deficiency of decidual IL-10 in first trimester missed abortion: a lack of correlation with the decidual immune cell profile. Am J Reprod Immunol 2002; 47:242-50. [PMID: 12069391 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0897.2002.01060.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM To determine if first trimester missed abortion decidua is characterized by an altered immune cell profile and/or a modified interleukin (IL)-10 and interferon (IFN)-gamma production pattern compared with decidua from elective termination. METHOD OF STUDY Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry techniques were used to determine the decidual immune cell phenotypic profile and production pattern of IL-10 and IFN-gamma in cases of elective termination (n = 14) and missed abortion (n = 12). RESULTS Both groups had a similar proportion of CD56+ CD16-, CD56+ CD16+, CD19+, CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, alphabeta T cells and gammadelta T cells. The majority of alphabeta and gammadelta positive T cells in both groups coexpressed the natural killer (NK) cell marker CD56, but lacked cell surface expression of CD3. Diminished decidual IL-10 staining was noted in 7/10 missed abortion cases compared with none of the elective termination cases (n = 12) (P = 0.007). A uniform decidual IFN-gamma staining pattern was observed in both groups. CONCLUSION Decreased IL-10 production coupled with a sustained IFN-gamma presence noted in missed abortion compared with elective termination cases suggest that these cytokines may be important determinants in pregnancy outcome. In contrast, differences in the proportion of immune cells between both groups may not be a critical factor in early pregnancy loss. In normal pregnancy, decidual alphabeta and gammadelta positive T cells with reduced CD3 on their cell surface may be intrinsically restricted in T-cell receptor (TCR)-mediated activation.
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MESH Headings
- Abortion, Induced
- Abortion, Missed/immunology
- Abortion, Missed/pathology
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Case-Control Studies
- Decidua/immunology
- Decidua/pathology
- Female
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Interferon-gamma/metabolism
- Interleukin-10/deficiency
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Trimester, First
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, alpha-beta/metabolism
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta/metabolism
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Plevyak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants' Hospital of Rhode Island, Brown University, Providence 02905, USA
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Ohshima K, Nakashima M, Sonoda K, Kikuchi M, Watanabe T. Expression of RCAS1 and FasL in human trophoblasts and uterine glands during pregnancy: the possible role in immune privilege. Clin Exp Immunol 2001; 123:481-6. [PMID: 11298137 PMCID: PMC1906005 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2249.2001.01461.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2000] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is an immunological balancing act. Trophoblasts do not express MHC class I or II, except HLA-C and G, but express Fas ligand (FasL), which confers immune privilege. RCAS1 (receptor-binding cancer antigen expressed on SiSo cells) has recently been recognized to play a role in immune evasion of the tumour cells. We therefore studied the involvement of RCAS1 and FasL in the infiltration of NK cells by examining the curettaged uterine contents of 20 cases of early stage of pregnancy. The cases were clinically divided into two groups; curettage was performed (A) due to the absence of foetal heart beats, and (B) due to spontaneous uterine bleeding and abortion. In group A, RCAS1 was expressed in the uterine glands and extravillous cytotrophoblasts, as was FasL. Infiltration of NK cells around the uterine glands was scarcely detected. In contrast, in group B, expression of both RCAS1 and FasL was strikingly decreased in both the level of expression and the numbers of RCAS1/FasL-positive cells and massive infiltration of NK cells was frequently detected around the uterine glands. These findings suggest that a reduction in RCAS1 and FasL expression seems to be closely associated with activation and infiltration of maternal NK cells and destruction of uterine glands, resulting in rejection of the foetus. Thus, expression of RCAS1 and FasL in the uterine glands and cytotrophoblasts may play a role in the downregulation of the maternal immune response, thereby maintaining pregnancy at early stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Ohshima
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Japan.
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Hanna N, Hanna I, Hleb M, Wagner E, Dougherty J, Balkundi D, Padbury J, Sharma S. Gestational age-dependent expression of IL-10 and its receptor in human placental tissues and isolated cytotrophoblasts. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2000; 164:5721-8. [PMID: 10820249 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.164.11.5721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Control of antifetal immune responses is thought to be regulated locally by the placenta. Because the physiologic programming of the placenta across gestation is likely to influence the local immunity, we hypothesize that a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine such as IL-10 may be produced in a gestational age-dependent manner. In the present study, we examined the expression of IL-10 and its receptor in placental explants or freshly isolated cytotrophoblasts from different gestational ages and compared it with the expression profiles of other cytokines. First and second trimester placental tissues from normal pregnancies predominantly expressed IL-10, whereas the levels of IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-gamma were mostly below detection throughout pregnancy. The expression of IL-10, but not its receptor, diminished significantly in term placental tissues collected "before" the onset of labor and did not change appreciably "after" labor. On the other hand, TNF-alpha and IL-1beta were significantly up-regulated in response to labor-associated conditions. IL-10 expression was transcriptionally attenuated at term as observed in cytotrophoblasts. In contrast to the placental cytokine milieu, autologous PBMCs, when activated with PHA, secreted significant amounts of IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-gamma, albeit with a statistically significantly enhanced IL-10 production in first trimester compared with age-matched nonpregnant women. These data suggest that IL-10 is expressed in the placenta in a gestational age-dependent manner and that its down-regulation at term may be an important mechanism underlying the subtle changes associated with parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hanna
- Departments of Pediatrics and Pathology, Brown University, and Women and Infants' Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI 02905, USA
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