1
|
Yun BS, Yun NY, Lee JE, Go M, Jang HY, Park JE, Roh JW, Shim SS. Endometrial E-cadherin and N-cadherin Expression during the Mid-Secretory Phase of Women with Ovarian Endometrioma or Uterine Fibroids. J Pers Med 2024; 14:920. [PMID: 39338174 PMCID: PMC11433430 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14090920] [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: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis and uterine fibroids are benign conditions frequently linked to subfertility/infertility. Recent research has highlighted the importance of epithelial-mesenchymal transition between embryonic and endometrial cells in the context of embryo implantation. Additionally, the adverse endometrial environment during implantation has been proposed as a mechanism contributing to infertility in endometriosis. Nevertheless, the role of cadherin molecule alterations in relation to endometrial receptivity and embryo invasion remains a subject of controversy. METHODS We investigated the expression patterns of E-cadherin and N-cadherin in the endometria of women with ovarian endometrioma or uterine fibroids and assessed whether they differed from those of healthy women. We enrolled 17 women with ovarian endometrioma, 16 with uterine fibroids, and 6 healthy women. Endometrial tissues were obtained at the mid-secretory phase on days 19-24 of the menstrual cycle. The E-cadherin and N-cadherin mRNA and protein expression levels were measured using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis, respectively. RESULTS The E-cadherin and N-cadherin mRNA expression levels were higher and lower, respectively, in the endometrium of women with ovarian endometrioma than in those of the controls. In the endometrium of women with uterine fibroids, similar patterns with higher E-cadherin and lower N-cadherin levels were observed compared with that of the controls. Protein expression showed similar patterns. CONCLUSIONS Our findings revealed higher E-cadherin expression and lower N-cadherin expression in the endometria of women with infertility-related diseases than in those of healthy women in the mid-secretory phase. This suggests a resistance to endometrial receptivity, potentially reflecting mesenchymal-epithelial transition properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Seong Yun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University, Goyang 10414, Republic of Korea
| | - Na Yeon Yun
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Eun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Minyeon Go
- Center for Genome Diagnostics, CHA Biotech Inc., Seoul 06125, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Yeon Jang
- Center for Genome Diagnostics, CHA Biotech Inc., Seoul 06125, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Eun Park
- Center for Genome Diagnostics, CHA Biotech Inc., Seoul 06125, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Won Roh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University, Goyang 10414, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Shin Shim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul 06125, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kula H, Ilgen O, Kurt S, Yılmaz F. Patterns of proliferation and fibrosis in a rat model of endometriosis following administration of Allium cepa. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2024; 51:112-119. [PMID: 38263589 PMCID: PMC11140262 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.06261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease among reproductive-age women. Numerous hypotheses exist regarding the pathogenesis of endometriosis. In Turkey, the consumption of Allium cepa (commonly known as the "onion cure") is a popular treatment employed to alleviate a variety of gynecological disorders. METHODS In this study, our objective was to assess the therapeutic mechanisms of the onion bulb A. cepa using an autologous endometriosis model in Sprague-Dawley rats. Previous research has shown that A. cepa possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic properties. We evaluated the pathological condition of endometriotic implants by employing hematoxylin-eosin staining and Ki67 immunohistochemistry analysis. Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) have been identified as profibrotic markers that are highly overexpressed in endometriotic tissues relative to eutopic endometrial tissue. Furthermore, TGF-β1 influences the differentiation and progression of endometriosis. To quantify profibrotic activity, we measured TGF-β1 and α-SMA using the immunosorbent assay method. RESULTS Lower histologic evaluation scores for endometriotic implants were observed in the group receiving high-dose A. cepa relative to the other groups. Ki67 expression was reduced following the high-dose A. cepa regimen, which consisted of 30% A. cepa and 70% normal feed. However, no statistically significant differences in TGF-β1 or α-SMA levels were observed among the groups (p=0.7 and p=0.778, respectively). CONCLUSION The findings suggest that A. cepa could serve as a therapeutic agent in endometriosis treatment, as evidenced by the reduction in proliferative potential. Nevertheless, A. cepa was not associated with significantly lower levels of endometriosis-associated TGF-β1 or α-SMA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Kula
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Orkun Ilgen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sefa Kurt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Filiz Yılmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Matasariu DR, Bausic AIG, Mandici CE, Bujor IE, Cristofor AE, Bratila E, Lozneanu L, Boiculese LV, Grigore M, Ursache A. Effects of Progestin on Modulation of the Expression of Biomarkers in Endometriosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2036. [PMID: 37509675 PMCID: PMC10377117 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11072036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our study aimed to examine the osteopontin (OPN) serum levels and tissue expression of CD44 and OPN in endometriosis-affected women both undergoing and not undergoing progestin treatment, and also to determine their involvement in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. METHODS Using an ELISA kit, we evaluated the OPN serum levels of healthy and endometriosis-affected women both undergoing and not undergoing progestin treatment. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses were used to assess the endometriotic tissue expressions of CD44 and OPN. RESULTS There were statistically significant higher OPN serum levels in the healthy control group compared to the women with endometriosis. Furthermore, there were higher OPN serum levels in the endometriosis-affected women undergoing the progestin treatment, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. In comparison to OPN, CD44 expression was significantly higher in all the endometriotic tissue glands and stroma, regardless of the patient's treatment status. Compared to the group receiving therapy, the OPN levels were higher in the endometriosis group not receiving therapy. OPN's robust cytoplasmic expression seemed to be associated with the non-treatment group. CONCLUSION Endometriosis, CD44, and OPN appear to be closely related. This study suggests that endometriosis that has not been treated has an immunological profile distinct to endometriosis that has received treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Roxana Matasariu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Cuza Vodă" Hospital, 700038 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandra Irma Gabriela Bausic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Carol Davila", 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu" Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, 060251 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Elena Mandici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Iuliana Elena Bujor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandra Elena Cristofor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Elvira Bratila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Carol Davila", 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu" Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, 060251 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ludmila Lozneanu
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences I-Histology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Lucian Vasile Boiculese
- Biostatistics, Department of Preventive Medicine and Interdisciplinarity, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mihaela Grigore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Cuza Vodă" Hospital, 700038 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandra Ursache
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Gr. T. Popa", 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Cuza Vodă" Hospital, 700038 Iasi, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhang M, Xu T, Tong D, Li S, Yu X, Liu B, Jiang L, Liu K. Research advances in endometriosis-related signaling pathways: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114909. [PMID: 37210898 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is characterized by the existence of endometrial mucosa outside the uterine cavity, which causesinfertility, persistent aches, and a decline in women's quality of life. Both hormone therapies and nonhormone therapies, such as NSAIDs, are ineffective, generic categories of EM drugs. Endometriosis is a benign gynecological condition, yet it shares a number of features with cancer cells, including immune evasion, survival, adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis. Several endometriosis-related signaling pathways are comprehensively reviewed in this article, including E2, NF-κB, MAPK, ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, YAP, Wnt/β-catenin, Rho/ROCK, TGF-β, VEGF, NO, iron, cytokines and chemokines. To find and develop novel medications for the treatment of EM, it is essential to implicitly determine the molecular pathways that are disordered during EM development. Additionally, research on the shared pathways between EM and tumors can provide hypotheses or suggestions for endometriosis therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manlin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tongtong Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Deming Tong
- Department of General Surgery, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
| | - Siman Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaodan Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Boya Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lili Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Kuiran Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yu SL, Kang Y, Jeong DU, Lee DC, Jeon HJ, Kim TH, Lee SK, Han AR, Kang J, Park SR. The miR-182-5p/NDRG1 Axis Controls Endometrial Receptivity through the NF-κB/ZEB1/E-Cadherin Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012303. [PMID: 36293154 PMCID: PMC9602861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is essential for successful pregnancy, and its impairment is a major cause of embryo-implantation failure. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) that regulate epigenetic modifications have been associated with endometrial receptivity. However, the molecular mechanisms whereby miRNAs regulate endometrial receptivity remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated whether miR-182 and its potential targets influence trophoblast cell attachment. miR-182 was expressed at lower levels in the secretory phase than in the proliferative phase of endometrium tissues from fertile donors. However, miR-182 expression was upregulated during the secretory phase in infertile women. Transfecting a synthetic miR-182-5p mimic decreased spheroid attachment of human JAr choriocarcinoma cells and E-cadherin expression (which is important for endometrial receptivity). miR-182-5p also downregulated N-Myc downstream regulated 1 (NDRG1), which was studied further. NDRG1 was upregulated in the secretory phase of the endometrium tissues and induced E-cadherin expression through the nuclear factor-κΒ (NF-κΒ)/zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) signaling pathway. NDRG1-overexpressing or -depleted cells showed altered attachment rates of JAr spheroids. Collectively, our findings indicate that miR-182-5p-mediated NDRG1 downregulation impaired embryo implantation by upregulating the NF-κΒ/ZEB1/E-cadherin pathway. Hence, miR-182-5p is a potential biomarker for negative selection in endometrial receptivity and a therapeutic target for successful embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Lan Yu
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
| | - Yujin Kang
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
| | - Da-Un Jeong
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
| | - Dong Chul Lee
- Personalized Genomic Medicine Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Hye Jin Jeon
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
| | - Tae-Hyun Kim
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konyang University Hospital, Daejeon 35365, Korea
| | - Sung Ki Lee
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konyang University Hospital, Daejeon 35365, Korea
| | - Ae Ra Han
- I-Dream Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mizmedi Hospital, Seoul 07639, Korea
- Daegu cha Fertility Center, CHA University, Daegu 42469, Korea
| | - Jaeku Kang
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.K.); (S.-R.P.); Tel.: +82-42-600-8685 (J.K.); +82-42-600-8695 (S.-R.P.)
| | - Seok-Rae Park
- Priority Research Center, Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.K.); (S.-R.P.); Tel.: +82-42-600-8685 (J.K.); +82-42-600-8695 (S.-R.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Soroczynska K, Zareba L, Dlugolecka M, Czystowska-Kuzmicz M. Immunosuppressive Extracellular Vesicles as a Linking Factor in the Development of Tumor and Endometriotic Lesions in the Gynecologic Tract. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091483. [PMID: 35563789 PMCID: PMC9105295 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Both gynecological tumors and endometriosis require for their development a favorable environment, termed in the case of tumors a "pre-metastatic niche" and in case of endometriosis a "pro-endometriotic niche". This is characterized by chronic inflammation and immunosuppression that support the further progression of initial lesions. This microenvironment is established and shaped in the course of a vivid cross-talk between the tumor or endometrial cells with other stromal, endothelial and immune cells. There is emerging evidence that extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a key role in this cellular communication, mediating both in tumors and endometriosis similar immunosuppressive and pro-inflammatory mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the latest findings about EVs as immunosuppressive factors, highlighting the parallels between gynecological tumors and endometriosis. Furthermore, we outline their role as potential diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers as well as their future in therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Soroczynska
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1 St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (L.Z.); (M.D.)
- Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 61 St., 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lukasz Zareba
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1 St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (L.Z.); (M.D.)
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, Doctoral School, Medical University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 61 St., 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Dlugolecka
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1 St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (L.Z.); (M.D.)
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, Doctoral School, Medical University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 61 St., 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czystowska-Kuzmicz
- Chair and Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1 St., 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (K.S.); (L.Z.); (M.D.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yoshihara M, Mizutani S, Kato Y, Matsumoto K, Mizutani E, Mizutani H, Fujimoto H, Osuka S, Kajiyama H. Recent Insights into Human Endometrial Peptidases in Blastocyst Implantation via Shedding of Microvesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13479. [PMID: 34948276 PMCID: PMC8708926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocyst implantation involves multiple interactions with numerous molecules expressed in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) during the implantation window; however, there is limited information regarding the molecular mechanism underlying the crosstalk. In blastocysts, fibronectin plays a major role in the adhesion of various types of cells by binding to extracellular matrix proteins via the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif. In EECs, RGD-recognizing integrins are important bridging receptors for fibronectin, whereas the non-RGD binding of fibronectin includes interactions with dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV)/cluster of differentiation (CD) 26. Fibronectin may also bind to aminopeptidase N (APN)/CD13, and in the endometrium, these peptidases are present in plasma membranes and lysosomal membranes. Blastocyst implantation is accompanied by lysosome exocytosis, which transports various peptidases and nutrients into the endometrial cavity to facilitate blastocyst implantation. Both DPPIV and APN are released into the uterine cavity via shedding of microvesicles (MVs) from EECs. Recently, extracellular vesicles derived from endometrial cells have been proposed to act on trophectoderm cells to promote implantation. MVs are also secreted from embryonal stem cells and may play an active role in implantation. Thus, crosstalk between the blastocyst and endometrium via extracellular vesicles is a new insight into the fundamental molecular basis of blastocyst implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masato Yoshihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| | - Shigehiko Mizutani
- Daiyabilding Lady’s Clinic, 1-1-17 Meieki, Nishi-ku, Nagoya 451-0045, Japan;
| | - Yukio Kato
- Department of Molecular Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan;
| | - Kunio Matsumoto
- Division of Tumor Dynamics and Regulation, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan;
| | - Eita Mizutani
- Daiyabilding Lady’s Clinic, 1-1-17 Meieki, Nishi-ku, Nagoya 451-0045, Japan;
| | - Hidesuke Mizutani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| | - Hiroki Fujimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Satoko Osuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tiwari A, Ashary N, Singh N, Sharma S, Modi D. Modulation of E-Cadherin and N-Cadherin by ovarian steroids and embryonic stimuli. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101670. [PMID: 34710830 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Endometrium is a dynamic tissue that undergoes extensive remodelling to attain a receptive state which is further modulated in presence of an embryo for successful initiation of pregnancy. Cadherins are the proteins of the junctional complex of which E-cadherin (E-Cad) is crucial for maintaining epithelial cell state and integrity of the epithelial barrier; gain of N-cadherin (N-Cad) in epithelial cells leads to epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). In the present study, we investigated the expression of E-Cad and N-Cad in the mouse endometrial luminal epithelium and its modulation by estrogen, progesterone, and embryonic stimuli. We observed that E-Cad is diffusely expressed in the luminal epithelium of mouse endometrium during the estrus stage and upon estrogen treatment. It is apico-laterally and basolaterally sorted at the diestrus stage and in response to the combined treatment of estrogen and progesterone. In 3D spheroids of human endometrial epithelial cells, combined treatment with estrogen and progesterone led to lateral sorting of E-Cad without any effects on its mRNA levels. at the time of embryo implantation, there is loss of E-Cad along with the gain of N-Cad and SNAIL expression suggestive of EMT in the luminal epithelium. This EMT is possibly driven by embryonic stimuli as treatment with estrogen and progesterone did not lead to the gain of N-Cad expression in the mouse endometrium in vivo or in human endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that steroid hormones directly affect E-Cad sorting in the endometrial epithelium which undergo EMT in response to embryonic stimuli.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tiwari
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Nancy Ashary
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Neha Singh
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Shipra Sharma
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
You F, Du X, Zhang T, Wang Y, Lv Y, Zeng L. High-frequency electroacupuncture improves endometrial receptivity via regulating cell adhesion molecules and leukemia inhibitory factor / signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathway. Bioengineered 2021; 12:10470-10479. [PMID: 34898339 PMCID: PMC8810124 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1997367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) impairs the endometrium receptivity during the implantation window, resulting in a lower clinical pregnancy rate and a higher abortion rate. Our study explored the effect of electroacupuncture on the endometrial receptivity of COH rats. Female rats were randomly divided into normal treatment (Normal), model treatment (Model), low-frequency electroacupuncture treatment (LF-EA) and high-frequency electroacupuncture treatment (HF-EA). Rats in the Model, LF-EA, and HF-EA treatment groups were injected with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to establish a model of COH rats. Compared with the Normal, the endometrial thickness, the number of pinopodes and amount of blastocyst implantation in the Model group were significantly reduced. Among them, the endometrial thickness and the amount of blastocyst implantation in the Model group were substantially decreased than those in the HF-EA group. High-frequency electroacupuncture treatment could markedly reduce the protein expression levels of E-cadherin, β-catenin and claudin-1 (CLDN1). During HF-EA treatment, the LIF/STAT3 signaling pathway of COH rats was enhanced. In conclusion, electroacupuncture could improve the endometrium receptivity and promote the blastocyst implantation in COH rats by reducing cell adhesion molecules and enhancing the LIF/STAT3 signaling pathway.Highlights High-frequency electroacupuncture could effectively improve endometrial receptivity and blastocyst implantation amount in COH rats.Electroacupuncture, especially high-frequency electroacupuncture, could significantly increase endometrial thickness and the number of pinopodes.High-frequency electroacupuncture significantly reduced the protein expression levels of E-cadherin, β-catenin and CLDN1 adhesion molecules in COH rats.High-frequency electroacupuncture could markedly enhance the LIF/STAT3 signaling pathway in COH rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang You
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Clinical College, Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xin Du
- Reproductive Centre,Women and Children’s Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Taiwei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology,The First Clinical College, Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Reproductive Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuxia Lv
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal and Child Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Clinical College, Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kapoor R, Stratopoulou CA, Dolmans MM. Pathogenesis of Endometriosis: New Insights into Prospective Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11700. [PMID: 34769130 PMCID: PMC8583778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a female reproductive disorder characterized by growth of uterine cells and tissue in distant sites. Around 2-10% of women experience this condition during reproductive age, 35-50% of whom encounter fertility issues or pain. To date, there are no established methods for its early diagnosis and treatment, other than surgical procedures and scans. It is difficult to identify the disease at its onset, unless symptoms such as infertility and/or pain are present. Determining the mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis is vital, not only to pave the way for early identification, but also for disease management and development of less invasive but successful treatment strategies. Endometriosis is characterized by cell proliferation, propagation, evasion of immunosurveillance, and invasive metastasis. This review reports the underlying mechanisms that are individually or collectively responsible for disease establishment and evolution. Treatment of endometriosis mainly involves hormone therapies, which may be undesirable or have their own repercussions. It is therefore important to devise alternative strategies that are both effective and cause fewer side effects. Use of phytochemicals may be one of them. This review focuses on pharmacological inhibitors that can be therapeutically investigated in terms of their effects on signaling pathways and/or mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Kapoor
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.K.); (C.A.S.)
| | - Christina Anna Stratopoulou
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.K.); (C.A.S.)
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.K.); (C.A.S.)
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Novel diagnostic options for endometriosis - Based on the glycome and microbiome. J Adv Res 2021; 33:167-181. [PMID: 34603787 PMCID: PMC8463906 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease whose aetiology is still unknown. Despite its prevalence among women of reproductive age, the pathology of the disease has not yet been elucidated and only symptomatic treatment is available. Endometriosis has high latency and diagnostic methods are both limited and invasive. Aim of review The aim of this review is to summarise minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods for endometriosis and their diagnostic efficiencies. Furthermore, we discuss the identification and diagnostic potential of novel disease biomarkers of microbial or glycan origin. Key scientific concepts of review Great efforts have been made to develop minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods in endometriosis. The problem with most potential biomarker candidates is that they have high accuracy only in cases of severe disease. Therefore, it is necessary to examine other potential biomarkers more closely. Associations between gastrointestinal and genital tract microbial health and endometriosis have been identified. For instance, irritable bowel syndrome is more common in women with endometriosis, and hormonal imbalance has a negative impact on the microbiome of both the genital tract and the gastrointestinal system. Further interrogation of these associations may have potential diagnostic significance and may identify novel therapeutic avenues. Glycomics may also be a potent source of biomarkers of endometriosis, with a number of glyco-biomarkers already approved by the FDA. Endometriosis-associated microbial and glycomic profiles may represent viable targets for development of innovative diagnostics in this debilitating disease.
Collapse
|
12
|
Hung SW, Zhang R, Tan Z, Chung JPW, Zhang T, Wang CC. Pharmaceuticals targeting signaling pathways of endometriosis as potential new medical treatment: A review. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:2489-2564. [PMID: 33948974 PMCID: PMC8252000 DOI: 10.1002/med.21802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is defined as endometrial tissues found outside the uterus. Growth and development of endometriotic cells in ectopic sites can be promoted via multiple pathways, including MAPK/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, Rho/ROCK, reactive oxidative stress, tumor necrosis factor, transforming growth factor-β, Wnt/β-catenin, vascular endothelial growth factor, estrogen, and cytokines. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms include proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, invasion, fibrosis, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune escape. Current medical treatments for EM are mainly hormonal and symptomatic, and thus the development of new, effective, and safe pharmaceuticals targeting specific molecular and signaling pathways is needed. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature focused on pharmaceuticals that specifically target the molecular and signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of EM. Potential drug targets, their upstream and downstream molecules with key aberrant signaling, and the regulatory mechanisms promoting the growth and development of endometriotic cells and tissues were discussed. Hormonal pharmaceuticals, including melatonin, exerts proapoptotic via regulating matrix metallopeptidase activity while nonhormonal pharmaceutical sorafenib exerts antiproliferative effect via MAPK/ERK pathway and antiangiogenesis activity via VEGF/VEGFR pathway. N-acetyl cysteine, curcumin, and ginsenoside exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via radical scavenging activity. Natural products have high efficacy with minimal side effects; for example, resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate have multiple targets and provide synergistic efficacy to resolve the complexity of the pathophysiology of EM, showing promising efficacy in treating EM. Although new medical treatments are currently being developed, more detailed pharmacological studies and large sample size clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of these treatments in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sze Wan Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and GeneticsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhou
| | - Zhouyurong Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | | | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- School of Biomedical SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Chinese University of Hong Kong‐Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive MedicineThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Expression of E-Cadherin in Pig-Tailed Monkey ( Macaca nemestrina) Endometrium after Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:8824614. [PMID: 33708995 PMCID: PMC7932768 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8824614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An increase of steroid hormones in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) procedures is reducing the success rate in assisted reproductive technology (ART), and this includes the pregnancy rate and/or implantation rate. Research has found that the decrease in the success rate occurred due to the decreased expression of the protein that is needed to prepare the endometrium so that the embryo could attach. The aim of the study was to analyse the changes in E-chaderin expression due to COH and its relations with increased level of steroid hormones as one of the proteins in the endometrium. There were 13 samples of stored biological tissue from Macaca nemestrina endometrial tissue; came from one group of natural cycles as the control group (n = 4) and three groups of stimulated cycles. The first stimulated cycle group was injected by a 30 IU dose of rFSH (n = 2). The second stimulated cycle group was injected by a 50 IU dose of rFSH (n = 4). The third stimulated cycle group was injected by a 70 IU dose of rFSH (n = 3). The expression of E-cadherin was measured by the immunohistochemistry (IHC) technique. Estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels were assessed using ELISA and have already been done. The IHC staining expression of E-cadherin was found in the cytoplasm of glandular epithelium. Immunostaining measurement used the H_SCORE. We found that the expression of E-cadherin within the group was not significantly different (p value: 0.178). Similarly, both the correlation between the estradiol level with E-cadherin and the correlation between the progesterone level with E-cadherin were not significantly different (p value: 0.872 and p value: 0.836). The conclusion is that the level of E-Cadherin expression in the endometrium that were taken in themiddle secretion phase not affected by the dose regimen that given. In addition, the level of expression is not influenced by the increase of serum E2 and P4 levels.
Collapse
|
14
|
Liu X, Zhang T, Zhou J, Xiao Z, Li Y, Zhang Y, Yue H, Li Z, Tian J. β-Catenin/Lin28/let-7 regulatory network determines type II alveolar epithelial stem cell differentiation phenotypes following thoracic irradiation. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH 2021; 62:119-132. [PMID: 33302295 PMCID: PMC7779353 DOI: 10.1093/jrr/rraa119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The contribution of type II alveolar epithelial stem cells (AEC II) to radiation-induced lung fibrosis (RILF) is largely unknown. Cell differentiation phenotypes are determined by the balance between Lin28 and lethal-7 microRNA (let-7 miRNA). Lin28 is activated by β-catenin. The aim of this study was to track AEC II phenotypes at different phases of injury following thoracic irradiation and examine the expression of β-catenin, Lin28 and let-7 to identify their role in AEC II differentiation. Results showed that coexpression of prosurfactant protein C (proSP-C, an AEC II biomarker) and HOPX (homeobox only protein X, an AEC I biomarker) or vimentin (a differentiation marker) was detected in AEC II post-irradiation. The protein expression levels of HOPX and proSP-C were significantly downregulated, but vimentin was significantly upregulated following irradiation. The expression of E-cadherin, which prevents β-catenin from translocating to the nucleus, was downregulated, and the expression of β-catenin and Lin28 was upregulated after irradiation (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). Four let-7 miRNA members (a, b, c and d) were upregulated in irradiated lungs (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001), but let-7d was significantly downregulated at 5 and 6 months (P < 0.001). The ratios of Lin28 to four let-7 members were low during the early phase of injury and were slightly higher after 2 months. Intriguingly, the Lin28/let-7d ratio was strikingly increased after 4 months. We concluded that β-catenin contributed to RILF by promoting Lin28 expression, which increased the number of AEC II and the transcription of profibrotic molecules. In this study, the downregulation of let-7d miRNA by Lin28 resulted in the inability of AEC II to differentiate into type I alveolar epithelial cells (AEC I).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaozhuan Liu
- Center for Clinical Single-Cell Biomedicine, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Center for Clinical Single-Cell Biomedicine, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Jianwei Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Ziting Xiao
- Department of Oncology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Yanjun Li
- Center for Clinical Single-Cell Biomedicine, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Science Research and Discipline Construction, Henan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Differentiation and Modification, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Haodi Yue
- Center for Clinical Single-Cell Biomedicine, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Zhitao Li
- Department of Immunology, Medical College of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China, 471023
| | - Jian Tian
- Department of Oncology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li W, Zhang Y, Li Y, Cao Y, Zhou J, Sun Z, Wu W, Tan X, Shao Y, Xie K, Yan X. Profiling Analysis Reveals the Crucial Role of the Endogenous Peptides in Bladder Cancer Progression. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:12443-12455. [PMID: 33311987 PMCID: PMC7725083 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s281713] [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: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Peptide drugs provide promising regimes in bladder cancer. In order to identify potential bioactive peptides involved in bladder cancer, we performed the present study. Methods Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry assay was used to compare the endogenous peptides between bladder cancer and normal control. The potential biological functions of these dysregulated peptides are assessed by GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis of their precursors. The SMART and UniProt databases are used to identify the sequences of the dysregulated peptides located in the functional domains. The Open Targets Platform database was used to investigate the precursors related to metabolic diseases. Results A total of 9 up-regulated peptides and 110 down-regulated peptides in bladder cancer compared with normal control were identified (fold change > 1.2, P < 0.05). The MW of these dysregulated peptides ranged from 500 Da to 2500 Da and the MW of all identified peptides was below 3500 Da. The GO and KEGG pathway analysis indicated that these dysregulated peptides could play an important role in bladder cancer. Our further analysis revealed that 45HFNPRFNAHGDAN 57 derived from LGALS1 and those peptides derived from P4HB and SERPINA1 might be the promising diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of bladder cancer. Conclusion In the present study, we have identified the profile of the peptides significantly dysregulated in bladder cancer. Moreover, using bioinformatic analysis, we found the peptides derived from LGALS1, P4HB and SERPINA1 could be the promising diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of bladder cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weijian Li
- Department of Nephrology and Urology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Nephrology and Urology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Urology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Institute of Urology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Youjian Li
- Department of Nephrology and Urology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Urology Surgery, The People's Hospital of Xuancheng City, Xuancheng, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuepeng Cao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Nephrology and Urology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongxu Sun
- Department of Nephrology and Urology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanke Wu
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Institute, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofang Tan
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Institute, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Shao
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Institute, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaipeng Xie
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Institute, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.,Department of Women's Health Care, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Yan
- Department of Nephrology and Urology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Urology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Institute of Urology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Brunty S, Mitchell B, Bou-Zgheib N, Santanam N. Endometriosis and ovarian cancer risk, an epigenetic connection. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1715. [PMID: 33490227 PMCID: PMC7812227 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-2449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder that affects 176 million women worldwide and 1 in 10 females in the United States. Endometriosis most often affects women of child-bearing age, with most going undiagnosed. Endometriosis also shares many characteristics common to invasive cancer and has been known to be associated with epithelial ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the 11th most common cancer among women and over 22,000 new cases will be diagnosed within the next year. Women most commonly diagnosed with this cancer are between the ages of 55–64 years, outside the range of the age of women affected with endometriosis. While no known cause of either disease has been established, epigenetic regulation is thought to play a major role in both. This review focuses on epigenetic changes that occur within each individual disease as well as those that are similar in both, suggesting a possible etiological link between the two diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Brunty
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| | - Brenda Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| | - Nadim Bou-Zgheib
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| | - Nalini Santanam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sancakli Usta C, Turan G, Bulbul CB, Usta A, Adali E. Differential expression of Oct-4, CD44, and E-cadherin in eutopic and ectopic endometrium in ovarian endometriomas and their correlations with clinicopathological variables. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:116. [PMID: 33218351 PMCID: PMC7678309 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00673-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease that often causes infertility and chronic pelvic pain. Although endometriosis is known as a benign disease, it has demonstrated characteristics of malignant neoplasms, including neoangiogenesis, tissue invasion, and cell implantation to distant organs. Octamer-binding protein 4 (Oct-4) is a molecular marker for stem cells that plays an essential role in maintaining pluripotency and self-renewal processes in various types of benign and malignant tissues. CD44 is a multifunctional cell surface adhesion molecule that acts as an integral cell membrane protein and plays a role in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. E-cadherin is an epithelial cell-cell adhesion molecule that plays important role in the modulation of cell polarization, cell migration, and cancer metastasis. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression patterns of Oct-4, CD44, and E-cadherin in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues from women with endometrioma compared to control endometrial tissues from women without endometrioma. METHODS In the present study, Oct-4, CD44, and E-cadherin expressions were evaluated in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissue samples from women with endometrioma (n = 32) and compared with those of control endometrial tissue samples from women without endometrioma (n = 30). RESULTS Immunohistochemical expression of Oct-4 was significantly higher in the ectopic endometrial tissue samples of women with endometrioma than in the control endometrial tissue samples (p = 0.0002). Conversely, CD44 and E-cadherin expressions were significantly lower in the ectopic endometrial tissue samples of women with endometrioma than in the control endometrial tissue samples (p = 0.0137 and p = 0.0060, respectively). Correlation analysis demonstrated significant correlations between Oct-4 expression and endometrioma cyst diameter (p = 0.0162), rASRM stage (p = 0.0343), and total rASRM score (p = 0.0223). Moreover, CD44 expression was negatively correlated with the presence of peritoneal endometriotic lesions (p = 0.0304) while E-cadherin expression was negatively correlated with the presence of deep infiltrating endometriosis (p = 0.0445). CONCLUSIONS Increased expression of Oct-4 and decreased expression of adhesion molecules in endometriotic tissues may contribute to the development and progression of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ceyda Sancakli Usta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Balikesir Univesity, Cagis Yerleskesi, Bigadic yolu 17. km, 10145, Balikesir, Turkey.
| | - Gulay Turan
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Balikesir Univesity, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | - Cagla Bahar Bulbul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Balikesir Univesity, Cagis Yerleskesi, Bigadic yolu 17. km, 10145, Balikesir, Turkey
| | - Akin Usta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Balikesir Univesity, Cagis Yerleskesi, Bigadic yolu 17. km, 10145, Balikesir, Turkey
| | - Ertan Adali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Balikesir Univesity, Cagis Yerleskesi, Bigadic yolu 17. km, 10145, Balikesir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Karamian A, Paktinat S, Esfandyari S, Nazarian H, Ziai SA, Zarnani AH, Salehpour S, Hosseinirad H, Karamian A, Novin MG. Pyrvinium pamoate induces in-vitro suppression of IL-6 and IL-8 produced by human endometriotic stromal cells. Hum Exp Toxicol 2020; 40:649-660. [PMID: 33021119 DOI: 10.1177/0960327120964543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is identified by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. The prevalence of this disease among reproductive-age women is almost 10-15%. High levels of IL-6 and IL-8 have been found in the peritoneal fluid (PF) of women with endometriosis and are involved in its pathogenesis. Isolated stromal cells from 12 ectopic and eutopic endometrial biopsies of women with ovarian endometrioma and also 12 endometrial biopsies of nonendometriotic controls were treated with 1.1 µM pyrvinium pamoate, a Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor, for 72 hrs. Before treatment, mRNA gene expression and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly higher in ectopic (EESCs) than eutopic (EuESCs) and control (CESCs) endometrial stromal cells. After treatment, mRNA gene expression and also secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly reduced. Our Findings showed that pyrvinium pamoate suppresses the mRNA gene expression and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 in human endometriotic stromal cells. Additional investigations on this compound are required before clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amin Karamian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, 274946School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Paktinat
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, 274946School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Esfandyari
- Department of Anatomy, 48504School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, 274946School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Ziai
- Department of Pharmacology, 274946School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir-Hassan Zarnani
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saghar Salehpour
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinirad
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, 274946School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Armin Karamian
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, 48468Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, 274946School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu Y, Shen Q, Zhang L, Xiang W. Extracellular Vesicles: Recent Developments in Aging and Reproductive Diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:577084. [PMID: 33043012 PMCID: PMC7527740 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.577084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), present in cell culture media and several body fluids, play a prominent role in intercellular communication under physiological and pathological conditions. We performed a systematic literature search to review evidence regarding the existence, composition, and release of different EVs, as well as the biomarkers, cargos, and separation methods. We also reviewed the potential of EVs to transport cargos and alter the function and phenotype of recipient cells associated with aging and reproductive diseases, including polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis. In aging, EVs promote inflammatory reactions and offsetting the occurrence of aging. In the polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis, EVs and their cargos are involved in the occurrence of diseases, therapeutic strategies, and perform as non-invasive biomarkers. As the study of EVs is still in the early stages, it is not surprising that most of the current literature only describes their possible roles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiuzi Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Adrenomedullin insufficiency alters macrophage activities in fallopian tube: a pathophysiologic explanation of tubal ectopic pregnancy. Mucosal Immunol 2020; 13:743-752. [PMID: 32203061 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-0278-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Ectopic pregnancy is the major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in the first trimester of pregnancy. Tubal ectopic pregnancy (TEP) accounts for nearly 98% of all ectopic pregnancies. TEP is usually associated with salpingitis but the underlying mechanism in salpingitis leading to TEP remains unclear. Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a peptide hormone abundantly expressed in the fallopian tube with potent anti-inflammatory activities. Its expression peaks at the early luteal phase when the developing embryo is being transported through the fallopian tube. In the present study, we demonstrated reduced expression of ADM in fallopian tubes of patients with salpingitis and TEP. Using macrophages isolated from the fallopian tubes of these women, our data revealed that the salpingistis-associated ADM reduction contributed to aggravated pro-inflammatory responses of the tubal macrophages resulting in production of pro-inflammatory and pro-implantation cytokines IL-6 and IL-8. These cytokines activated the expression of implantation-associated molecules and Wnt signaling pathway predisposing the tubal epithelium to an adhesive and receptive state for embryo implantation. In conclusion, this study provided evidence for the role of ADM in the pathogenesis of TEP through regulating the functions of tubal macrophages.
Collapse
|
21
|
Liu D, Yang N, Liang Y, Chen M, Yang F, Liu L, Yao S. Increased expression of epithelial cell adhesion molecule and its possible role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition in endometriosis. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 46:2066-2075. [PMID: 32715572 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM To study the involvement and interrelationship of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in endometriosis. METHODS Samples from 114 patients undergoing endometrial biopsy or operation for endometriosis and 23 premenopausal women undergoing endometrial biopsy for non-endometriotic benign disease. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect expression level of EpCAM, E-cadherin and N-cadherin in endometrium from patients with (n = 24) and without endometriosis (n = 23), and in lesions from bowel (n = 46), peritoneal (n = 20) and ovarian (n = 24) endometriosis. RESULTS There was no significant difference in the expression level of EpCAM, E-cadherin and N-cadherin, respectively, between endometrium from women with and without endometriosis (P > 0.05). There was also no significant difference in the expression level of EpCAM, E-cadherin and N-cadherin, respectively, among lesions from the bowel, peritoneal and ovarian endometriosis (P > 0.05). We found that the immunoreactivity of endometriotic epithelial cells to EpCAM and N-cadherin was significantly higher than that of eutopic endometrium, but decreased to E-cadherin (P < 0.05). According to the expression level of EpCAM, the expression level of E-Cadherin was significantly lower in endometriotic lesions with EpCAM expression above the mean level compared with that of endometriotic lesions with EpCAM expression below mean level, while the expression level of N-cadherin was contrary (P < 0.001). EpCAM staining level was negatively correlated with E-cadherin but positively correlated with N-cadherin (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that overexpression of EpCAM, accompanied by an EMT, might be involved in endometriosis. EMT may be induced by the overexpression of EpCAM, thus promoting the development of endometriosis, which needs future studies to confirm for the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duo Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Yang
- Department of Operating Room, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanchun Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Clinical Research, Yangtze River Pharmaceutical Group, Taizhou, China
| | - Shuzhong Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Inhibition of Histone Methyltransferase EZH2 Suppresses Endometriotic Vesicle Development in a Rat Model of Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1812-1820. [PMID: 32651901 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00257-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a painful gynecological disease with no cure and limited therapeutic options. It has been hypothesized that epigenetic drugs can be used as a nonhormonal treatment for endometriosis. This study was conducted to study the efficacy of an inhibitor of the histone methyltransferase EZH2 using an established rat model of endometriosis. We hypothesized that treatment will block or reduce the number of endometriotic vesicles in this model. We conducted a preclinical drug study in female rats with experimental endometriosis (uterine tissue transplanted next to the intestinal mesentery) or control sham (sutures only). Rats with endometriosis or sham surgery received either treatment with EZH2 inhibitor (5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg) or vehicle (0.1%, 67% DMSO) every other day during 4 weeks. After treatment completion, the number, area, volume, and weight of vesicles were evaluated. RT [2] Profiler Arrays for neuropathic and inflammation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, inflammatory response, and autoimmunity pathways were used to examine gene expression changes in the vesicles that developed. Treatment with EZH2 inhibitor (10 mg/kg) suppressed the development of vesicles, by significantly decreasing the total vesicle number, area, volume, and weight. In addition, EZH2 inhibition significantly increased the expression of CACNA1B and FKBP1A genes, involved in pain and proliferation, respectively. EZH2 inhibition suppresses the growth of vesicles without apparent detrimental effects to other organs. Treatment with this epigenetic inhibitor leads to upregulation of a limited number of genes related to endometriosis-relevant pathways. In conclusion, these data support follow-up studies to evaluate its potential as a therapeutic approach for endometriosis.
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhou W, Santos L, Dimitriadis E. Characterization of the role for cadherin 6 in the regulation of human endometrial receptivity. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:66. [PMID: 32600462 PMCID: PMC7322878 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00624-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endometrial luminal epithelium is the first point of attachment of embryos during implantation. Failure of embryos to firmly adhere results in implantation failure and infertility. A receptive endometrial luminal epithelium is achieved through the expression of adhesion molecules in the mid-secretory phase and is a requirement for implantation. Cadherin 6 (CDH6) is an adhesion molecule localizing to the endometrial luminal epithelial cell surface in the mid-secretory/receptive phase and knockdown of CDH6 in the Ishikawa cells (receptive endometrial epithelial cell line) compromises cell integrity. However, there are no studies investigating the role of CDH6 on receptivity and infertility. This study aimed to investigate whether CDH6 is dysregulated in the endometrium of women with infertility during the receptive window and the effect of CDH6 on endometrial adhesion and receptivity. METHODS The expression and the localization of CDH6 in the human endometrium were determined by immunohistochemistry. Ishikawa cells were used to investigate the functional consequences of CDH6 knockdown on endometrial adhesive capacity to HTR8/SVneo (trophoblast cell line) spheroids in vitro. CDH6 knockdown was assessed by qPCR and immunoblotting. After CDH6 knockdown, the expression of type II cadherin family members and CDH6 functional partners were assessed by qPCR. Two-tailed unpaired student's t-test or one-way ANOVA as appropriate were used for statistical analysis with a significance threshold of P < 0.05. RESULTS A significant reduction of CDH6 immunolocalization was recorded in the luminal and glandular epithelium of endometrium from women with infertility (P < 0.05) compared to fertile group respective cellular compartments in the mid-secretory phase. Functional analysis using Ishikawa cells demonstrated that knockdown of CDH6 (treated with 50 nM CDH6 siRNA) significantly reduced epithelial adhesive capacity (P < 0.05) to HTR8/SVneo spheroids compared to control and other type II cadherin family members likely failed to compensate for the loss of CDH6. The expression levels of CDH6 functional partners, catenin family members were not changed after CDH6 knockdown in Ishikawa cells. CONCLUSION Together, our data revealed that CDH6 was dysregulated in the endometrium from women with infertility and altered Ishikawa cell adhesive capacity. Our study supports a role for CDH6 in regulating endometrial adhesion and implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Leilani Santos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jhamat N, Niazi A, Guo Y, Chanrot M, Ivanova E, Kelsey G, Bongcam-Rudloff E, Andersson G, Humblot P. LPS-treatment of bovine endometrial epithelial cells causes differential DNA methylation of genes associated with inflammation and endometrial function. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:385. [PMID: 32493210 PMCID: PMC7268755 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-06777-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin stimulates pro-inflammatory pathways and is a key player in the pathological mechanisms involved in the development of endometritis. This study aimed to investigate LPS-induced DNA methylation changes in bovine endometrial epithelial cells (bEECs), which may affect endometrial function. Following in vitro culture, bEECs from three cows were either untreated (0) or exposed to 2 and 8 μg/mL LPS for 24 h. Results DNA samples extracted at 0 h and 24 h were sequenced using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS). When comparing DNA methylation results at 24 h to time 0 h, a larger proportion of hypomethylated regions were identified in the LPS-treated groups, whereas the trend was opposite in controls. When comparing LPS groups to controls at 24 h, a total of 1291 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified (55% hypomethylated and 45% hypermethylated). Integration of DNA methylation data obtained here with our previously published gene expression data obtained from the same samples showed a negative correlation (r = − 0.41 for gene promoter, r = − 0.22 for gene body regions, p < 0.05). Differential methylation analysis revealed that effects of LPS treatment were associated with methylation changes for genes involved in regulation of immune and inflammatory responses, cell adhesion, and external stimuli. Gene ontology and pathway analyses showed that most of the differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were associated with cell proliferation and apoptotic processes; and pathways such as calcium-, oxytocin- and MAPK-signaling pathways with recognized roles in innate immunity. Several DMGs were related to systemic inflammation and tissue re-modelling including HDAC4, IRAK1, AKT1, MAP3K6, Wnt7A and ADAMTS17. Conclusions The present results show that LPS altered the DNA methylation patterns of bovine endometrial epithelial cells. This information, combined with our previously reported changes in gene expression related to endometrial function, confirm that LPS activates pro-inflammatory mechanisms leading to perturbed immune balance and cell adhesion processes in the endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naveed Jhamat
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Section of Molecular Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden.,SLU-Global Bioinformatics Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden.,Department of Information Technology, University of the Punjab, Gujranwala Campus, Gujranwala, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Niazi
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Section of Molecular Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden. .,SLU-Global Bioinformatics Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden.
| | - Yongzhi Guo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden
| | - Metasu Chanrot
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden.,Faculty of Veterinary Science, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 802 40, Thailand
| | - Elena Ivanova
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gavin Kelsey
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Erik Bongcam-Rudloff
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Section of Molecular Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden.,SLU-Global Bioinformatics Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden
| | - Göran Andersson
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Section of Molecular Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden.,Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, CRU, P.O. Box 7054, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Patrice Humblot
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, 750 07, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ochoa-Bernal MA, Fazleabas AT. Physiologic Events of Embryo Implantation and Decidualization in Human and Non-Human Primates. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1973. [PMID: 32183093 PMCID: PMC7139778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21061973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is a fundamental process for the preservation of the human species. This process requires a sequence of orchestrated events that are necessary for a successful pregnancy. Two of the most critical steps in the establishment of human pregnancy are implantation and decidualization, which are required for maternal interactions with the developing embryo. This review primarily highlights the physiological aspects of these two events and the adverse pregnancy outcomes from defective implantation and decidualization. The focus of this review is to provide a general concept of the mechanisms involved during the window of implantation, description of components involved in the process and possible pathologies that could disrupt the embryo implantation and decidualization and specifically as it applies to women and non-human primates.
Collapse
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;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Jalali BM, Lukasik K, Witek K, Baclawska A, Skarzynski DJ. Changes in the expression and distribution of junction and polarity proteins in the porcine endometrium during early pregnancy period. Theriogenology 2020; 142:196-206. [PMID: 31606658 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The maternal endometrium undergoes transformations during early pregnancy period to regulate the paracellular permeability across the epithelium and to enable adhesion between the trophoblast and endometrial epithelial cells. These transformations, under the influence of ovarian hormones, are associated with a partial loss in polarity of epithelial cell that is regulated by tight junctions (TJ), adherens junctions (AJ) and associated polarity protein complexes. This study examined the change in expression and distribution of proteins associated with TJs, AJs and apical partition defective (PAR) complex in porcine endometrium on Days 10, 13 and 16 of estrous cycle and pregnancy. Moreover, effect of hormones, progesterone (P4) and 17-β estradiol (E2) on polar phenotype of endometrial epithelial cells was also investigated in vitro. There was pregnancy induced increase in gene and protein expression of TJ associated claudin-1 (CLDN1) on Day 13 of pregnancy as compared to corresponding day of estrous cycle and a decrease in TJ protein, zona occludens-1 (ZO-1) and PAR complex associated PAR6 expression levels on Day 16 of pregnancy (P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence studies revealed that on Days 10 and 13, TJ proteins occludin (OCLN) and ZO-1were primarily present in the apical region of lateral epithelial membrane. On Day 16 of pregnancy, whereas, OCLN redistributed into cytoplasm, ZO-1 decreased apically but was found to localize in the basal epithelium. The AJ proteins cadherin and β-catenin were located at the apical epithelium on Day 10 of estrous cycle and pregnancy and Day 13 of estrous cycle. On Days 13 and 16 of pregnancy both proteins were expressed in the lateral membrane and co-localization between these proteins was observed on Day 16. On Day 10, PAR complex proteins PAR3, cell division control protein 42 (CDC42) and atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) ζ were observed in apical epithelium and in lateral membrane and CDC42 was also present in the cytoplasm of epithelium. Pregnancy induced redistribution of aPKCζ to cytoplasm and CDC42 to apical surface of luminal epithelium was observed on Days 13 and 16. The in vitro P4 and E2 treatment of epithelial cells mimicked in vivo results. These results indicate that P4 and E2 regulate alterations in epithelium that may facilitate embryo implantation and given the role of cadherin, catenin and CDC42 in embryo invasion, change in distribution of these proteins may limit the invasiveness of porcine conceptuses into the stroma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beenu Moza Jalali
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Karolina Lukasik
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Witek
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Baclawska
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Dariusz J Skarzynski
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Karamian A, Nazarian H, Ziai SA, Zarnani AH, Salehpour S, Paktinat S, Novin MG. Pyrvinium pamoate inhibits proliferation and invasion of human endometriotic stromal cells. Hum Exp Toxicol 2019; 39:662-672. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327119896612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of functional endometrial tissue in other pelvic organs. This gynecologic problem occurs in 35–50% of women with pain and infertility. Endometriotic cells share some characteristics such as proliferation, migration, and invasion with tumor cells. Pyrvinium pamoate, an anthelmintic drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration, could inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and its anticancer effects were examined by several researchers. In this study, 12 ectopic and eutopic endometrial biopsies from females with ovarian endometrioma and 12 endometrial biopsies from nonendometriotic females were obtained. Ectopic (EESCs), eutopic (EuESCs), and control (CESCs) endometrial stromal cells were isolated. Then, the effect of pyrvinium pamoate on the proliferation and invasiveness of in vitro cultured cells was evaluated. The proliferation of CESCs, EuESCs, and EESCs was significantly decreased after treatment with pyrvinium pamoate. In addition, treatment with pyrvinium pamoate significantly inhibited the invasiveness of CESCs, EuESCs, and EESCs compared to nontreated groups. The results of the present research showed that pyrvinium pamoate inhibits the proliferation and invasion of human endometriotic stromal cells in vitro, further investigations on the therapeutic potential of this compound in endometriosis are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Karamian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Men’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - SA Ziai
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A-H Zarnani
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Salehpour
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Paktinat
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Men’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - MG Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Men’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
β-catenin signaling inhibitors ICG-001 and C-82 improve fibrosis in preclinical models of endometriosis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20056. [PMID: 31882904 PMCID: PMC6934788 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56302-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis exhibits unique characteristics, such as fibrosis, resistance to apoptosis, and promotion of cell proliferation; however, its pathophysiology is not fully understood. Recurrence rates after treatment are high, and the progression risk continues until menopause; hence, more effective therapy for endometriosis is needed. CREB-binding protein (CBP)/β-catenin signaling inhibitors have demonstrated antifibrogenetic effects in liver, lung, and skin diseases. The present study evaluated the effects of two CBP/β-catenin signaling inhibitors, ICG-001 and C-82, on the progression of endometriosis using endometriotic cyst stromal cells from the ovary and normal endometrial stromal cells from the uterus. ICG-001 was also evaluated in a mouse model. ICG-001 and C-82 inhibited cell proliferation, fibrogenesis, and cell migration, and promoted apoptosis in vitro. ICG-001 inhibited the growth of endometriotic lesions in the mouse model. CBP/β-catenin signaling plays an important role in the pathophysiology of endometriosis. Inhibiting the CBP/β-catenin signal can be a therapeutic target for endometriosis.
Collapse
|
29
|
Colón-Caraballo M, Torres-Reverón A, Soto-Vargas JL, Young SL, Lessey B, Mendoza A, Urrutia R, Flores I. Effects of histone methyltransferase inhibition in endometriosis. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:293-307. [PMID: 29408993 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the histone methyltransferase EZH2 and its product H3K27me3 are well studied in cancer, little is known about their role and potential as therapeutic targets in endometriosis. We have previously reported that endometriotic lesions are characterized by global enrichment of H3K27me3. Therefore, we aimed to (1) characterize the expression levels of EZH2 in endometriotic tissues; (2) assess H3K27me3 enrichment in candidate genes promoter regions; and (3) determine if pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 impacts migration, proliferation, and invasion of endometriotic cells. Immunohistochemistry of an endometriosis-focused tissue microarray was used to assess the EZH2 protein levels in tissues. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-qPCR was conducted to assess enrichment of H3K27me3 in candidate gene promoter regions in tissues. Immunofluorescence was performed to assess the effect of an EZH2-specific pharmacological inhibitor on H3K27me3 global enrichment in cell lines. To measure effects of the inhibitor in migration, proliferation, and invasion in vitro we used Scratch, BrdU, and Matrigel assays, respectively. Endometriotic lesions had significantly higher EZH2α nuclear immunostaining levels compared to eutopic endometrium from patients (glands, stroma) and controls (glands). H3K27me3 was enriched within promoter regions of candidate genes in some but not all of the endometriotic lesions. Inhibition of EZH2 reduced H3K27me3 levels in the endometriotic cells specifically, and also reduced migration, proliferation but not invasion of endometriotic epithelial cells (12Z). These findings support future preclinical studies to determine in vivo efficacy of EZH2 inhibitors as promising nonhormonal treatments for endometriosis, still an incurable gynecological disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Colón-Caraballo
- Department of Basic Sciences-Microbiology Division, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Annelyn Torres-Reverón
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neurosciences, University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley-School of Medicine, Texas, USA
| | - John Lee Soto-Vargas
- Department of Basic Sciences-Microbiology Division, Step-Up Summer Program, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Ob/Gyn, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Bruce Lessey
- Department of Ob/Gyn, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Adalberto Mendoza
- Southern Pathology Inc., Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA.,Department of Basic Sciences-Pathology Division, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Raúl Urrutia
- Epigenetics and Chromatin Dynamics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Idhaliz Flores
- Department of Basic Sciences-Microbiology Division, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA.,Department of Ob/Gyn, Ponce, Puerto Rico, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Chen JJ, Xiao ZJ, Meng X, Wang Y, Yu MK, Huang WQ, Sun X, Chen H, Duan YG, Jiang X, Wong MP, Chan HC, Zou F, Ruan YC. MRP4 sustains Wnt/β-catenin signaling for pregnancy, endometriosis and endometrial cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2019; 9:5049-5064. [PMID: 31410201 PMCID: PMC6691374 DOI: 10.7150/thno.32097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Abnormal Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the endometrium can lead to both embryo implantation failure and severe pathogenic changes of the endometrium such as endometrial cancer and endometriosis. However, how Wnt/β-catenin signaling is regulated in the endometrium remains elusive. We explored possible regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by multi-drug resistance protein 4 (MRP4), a potential target in cancer chemotherapy, and investigated the mechanism. Methods: Knockdown of MRP4 was performed in human endometrial cells in vitro or in a mouse embryo-implantation model in vivo. Immunoprecipitation, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence were used to assess protein interaction and stability. Wnt/β-catenin signaling was assessed by TOPflash reporter assay and quantitative PCR array. Normal and endometriotic human endometrial tissues were examined. Data from human microarray or RNAseq databases of more than 100 participants with endometriosis, endometrial cancer or IVF were analyzed. In vitro and in vivo tumorigenesis was performed. Results: MRP4-knockdown, but not its transporter-function-inhibition, accelerates β-catenin degradation in human endometrial cells. MRP4 and β-catenin are co-localized and co-immunoprecipitated in mouse and human endometrium. MRP4-knockdown in mouse uterus reduces β-catenin levels, downregulates a series of Wnt/β-catenin target genes and impairs embryo implantation, which are all reversed by blocking β-catenin degradation. Analysis of human endometrial biopsy samples and available databases reveals significant and positive correlations of MRP4 with β-catenin and Wnt/β-catenin target genes in the receptive endometrium in IVF, ectopic endometriotic lesions and endometrial cancers. Knockdown of MRP4 also inhibits in vitro and in vivo endometrial tumorigenesis. Conclusion: A previously undefined role of MRP4 in stabilizing β-catenin to sustain Wnt/β-catenin signaling in endometrial cells is revealed for both embryo implantation and endometrial disorders, suggesting MRP4 as a theranostic target for endometrial diseases associated with Wnt/β-catenin signaling abnormality.
Collapse
|
31
|
Wu D, Lu P, Mi X, Miao J. Exosomal miR-214 from endometrial stromal cells inhibits endometriosis fibrosis. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:357-365. [PMID: 29660008 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it possible to improve fibrosis in endometriosis by microRNA-214 delivery in exosomes? SUMMARY ANSWER Upregulation of miR-214 may inhibit fibrogenesis and its delivery by exosomes derived from ectopic endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), offers an alternative therapeutic approach for endometriosis fibrosis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Fibrosis is the primary pathological feature of endometriosis. MiR-214 plays an important role in fibrotic disease. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a critical fibrogenic mediator of miR-214. The expression of miR-214 is decreased in ectopic ESCs compared with normal ESCs. miRNAs are a natural cargo of exosomes and these could be exploited as carriers of miRNA in replacement therapy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Paired eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissue samples were obtained from 10 women with ovarian endometrioma. ESCs and epithelial cells from both were cultured in vitro. RT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to study the effect of transfection with miR-214 mimics on CTGF expression and fibrogenesis respectively, with and without TGFβ stimulation. Exosomes were isolated from ectopic ESCs and Endometrioma tissue was isolated from four patients, dispersed an injected (ip) into nude mice and allowed to implant. The mice were treated with miR-214-enriched exosomes or controls to confirm the effect of inhibiting CTGF overexpression on endometriosis fibrosis. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The primary ectopic ESCs were transfected with miR-214 mimics. The levels of miR-214, CTGF and fibrotic markers were measured by RT-PCR and Immunohistochemistry. A mouse model of endometriosis was established by ip injection of human ectopic endometrial tissues into nude mice. MiR-214-enriched exosomes were injected into the mice and endometriotic lesions were measured on Day 28. Changes in fibrosis of the endometriotic implants were studied by histopathological staining. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE CTGF and fibrotic markers upregulation in endometriosis is associated with a reciprocal down-regulation of miR-214. By using miR-214 mimics and antagomirs to investigate expression of fibrotic markers, we found that increased production of miR-214 reduced Collagen αI and CTGF expression in endometriosis stromal and endometrial epithelial cells in response to fibrosis-inducing stimuli (P < 0.001 versus non-treatment). Ectopic ESCs yielded nano-sized exosomes which expressed miR-214. Loading exosomes with miR-214 mimics and injecting them into an experimental endometriosis mouse model resulted in a decrease in the expression of fibrosis-associated proteins (P < 0.001 versus PBS control group). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We only isolated exosomes from ectopic ESCs, whether this is the optimum source requires further study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Upregulation of miRNA-214 potentially offers an alternative therapeutic approach for endometriosis fibrosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant no. 81771549 Jinwei Miao). The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 251, Yaojiayuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Pan Lu
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 251, Yaojiayuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Mi
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 251, Yaojiayuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Jinwei Miao
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 251, Yaojiayuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Heinosalo T, Gabriel M, Kallio L, Adhikari P, Huhtinen K, Laajala TD, Kaikkonen E, Mehmood A, Suvitie P, Kujari H, Aittokallio T, Perheentupa A, Poutanen M. Secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2) expression promotes lesion proliferation via canonical WNT signaling and indicates lesion borders in extraovarian endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:817-831. [PMID: 29462326 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the role of SFRP2 in endometriosis? SUMMARY ANSWER SFRP2 acts as a canonical WNT/CTNNB1 signaling agonist in endometriosis, regulating endometriosis lesion growth and indicating endometriosis lesion borders together with CTNNB1 (also known as beta catenin). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Endometriosis is a common, chronic disease that affects women of reproductive age, causing pain and infertility, and has significant economic impact on national health systems. Despite extensive research, the pathogenesis of endometriosis is poorly understood, and targeted medical treatments are lacking. WNT signaling is dysregulated in various human diseases, but its role in extraovarian endometriosis has not been fully elucidated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We evaluated the significance of WNT signaling, and especially secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2), in extraovarian endometriosis, including peritoneal and deep lesions. The study design was based on a cohort of clinical samples collected by laparoscopy or curettage and questionnaire data from healthy controls and endometriosis patients. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Global gene expression analysis in human endometrium (n = 104) and endometriosis (n = 177) specimens from 47 healthy controls and 103 endometriosis patients was followed by bioinformatics and supportive qPCR analyses. Immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, primary cell culture and siRNA knockdown approaches were used to validate the findings. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among the 220 WNT signaling and CTNNB1 target genes analysed, 184 genes showed differential expression in extraovarian endometriosis (P < 0.05) compared with endometrium tissue, including SFRP2 and CTNNB1. Menstrual cycle-dependent regulation of WNT genes observed in the endometrium was lost in endometriosis lesions, as shown by hierarchical clustering. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated that SFRP2 and CTNNB1 are novel endometriosis lesion border markers, complementing immunostaining for the known marker CD10 (also known as MME). SFRP2 and CTNNB1 localized similarly in both the epithelium and stroma of extraovarian endometriosis tissue, and interestingly, both also indicated an additional distant lesion border, suggesting that WNT signaling is altered in the endometriosis stroma beyond the primary border indicated by the known marker CD10. SFRP2 expression was positively associated with pain symptoms experienced by patients (P < 0.05), and functional loss of SFRP2 in extraovarian endometriosis primary cell cultures resulted in decreased cell proliferation (P < 0.05) associated with reduced CTNNB1 protein expression (P = 0.05). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION SFRP2 and CTNNB1 improved extraovarian endometriosis lesion border detection in a relatively small cohort (n = 20), although larger studies with different endometriosis subtypes in variable cycle phases and under hormonal medication are required. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The highly expressed SFRP2 and CTNNB1 improve endometriosis lesion border detection, which can have clinical implications for better visualization of endometriosis lesions over CD10. Furthermore, SFRP2 acts as a canonical WNT/CTNNB1 signaling agonist in endometriosis and positively regulates endometriosis lesion growth, suggesting that the WNT pathway may be an important therapeutic target for endometriosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by the Academy of Finland and by Tekes: Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Heinosalo
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - M Gabriel
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - L Kallio
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - P Adhikari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - K Huhtinen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Institute of Biomedicine, Research Center for Cancer, Infections and Immunity, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Department of Pathology, Turku University Hospital, 20521 Turku, Finland
| | - T D Laajala
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.,Turku Center for Disease Modeling (TCDM), University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - E Kaikkonen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - A Mehmood
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Turku Centre for Biotechnology, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi, Turku, Finland
| | - P Suvitie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - H Kujari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Center for Cancer, Infections and Immunity, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Department of Pathology, Turku University Hospital, 20521 Turku, Finland
| | - T Aittokallio
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.,Turku Center for Disease Modeling (TCDM), University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - A Perheentupa
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - M Poutanen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Turku Center for Disease Modeling (TCDM), University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.,Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, 405 30 Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
García-Gómez E, Vázquez-Martínez ER, Reyes-Mayoral C, Cruz-Orozco OP, Camacho-Arroyo I, Cerbón M. Regulation of Inflammation Pathways and Inflammasome by Sex Steroid Hormones in Endometriosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:935. [PMID: 32063886 PMCID: PMC7000463 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue (glands and stroma) outside the uterus, mainly in the peritoneal cavity, ovaries, and intestines. This condition shows estrogen dependency and progesterone resistance, and it has been associated with chronic inflammation, severe pain, and infertility, which negatively affect the quality of life in reproductive women. The molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis are not completely understood; however, inflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology of the disease, mainly by altering the function of immune cells (macrophages, natural killer, and T cells) and increasing levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in the peritoneal cavity, endometrium, and blood. These immune alterations inhibit apoptotic pathways and promote adhesion and proliferation of endometriotic cells, as well as angiogenesis and neurogenesis in endometriotic lesions. It has been demonstrated that hormonal alterations in endometriosis are related to the inflammatory unbalance in this disease. Particularly, steroid hormones (mainly estradiol) promote the expression and release of pro-inflammatory factors. Excessive inflammation in endometriosis contributes to changes of hormonal regulation by modulating sex steroid receptors expression and increasing aromatase activity. In addition, dysregulation of the inflammasome pathway, mediated by an alteration of cellular responses to steroid hormones, participates in disease progression through preventing cell death, promoting adhesion, invasion, and cell proliferation. Furthermore, inflammation is involved in endometriosis-associated infertility, which alters endometrium receptivity by impairing biochemical responses and decidualization. The purpose of this review is to present current research about the role of inflammasome in the pathogenesis of endometriosis as well as the molecular role of sex hormones in the inflammatory responses in endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth García-Gómez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACyT)-Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Elizabeth García-Gómez
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Reilly SJ, Glanville EJ, Dhorepatil B, Prentice LR, Mol BW, Johnson NP. The IVF-LUBE trial - a randomized trial to assess Lipiodol ® uterine bathing effect in women with endometriosis or repeat implantation failure undergoing IVF. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 38:380-386. [PMID: 30679138 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does pre-IVF Lipiodol® increase the success of IVF treatment in women with endometriosis or repeat implantation failure (RIF) compared with IVF alone? DESIGN Lipiodol is known to enhance natural fertility, especially amongst women with endometriosis. The effect of Lipiodol may accrue through an impact on the endometrium that enhances receptivity to implantation. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was carried out on 70 women due to undergo IVF. Women with endometriosis or RIF in previous IVF treatments, recruited from IVF clinics in New Zealand and in Pune, India, received either Lipiodol by hysterosalpingogram or no intervention prior to IVF treatment. RESULTS Between May 2009 and January 2014, 33 women were randomized to Lipiodol plus IVF and 37 to IVF alone. When pregnancies resulting from fresh embryo transfer from the IVF cycle under study were considered, live birth rates were 8/33 (24%) in the pre-IVF Lipiodol group and 11/37 (30%) in the IVF only group (relative risk [RR] 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37 to 1.8). Live birth rates from pregnancies within 6 months were 11/33 (33%) and 12/37 (32%) in these respective groups (RR 1.03; 95% CI, 0.53 to 2.0). The trial was underpowered to detect smaller differences between treatment and control groups. CONCLUSIONS No evidence was found of benefit of Lipiodol prior to fresh embryo transfer in women with endometriosis or RIF. It is suggested that this treatment should not be undertaken purely as an adjuvant in IVF other than in the context of a further well-designed RCT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shelley J Reilly
- Fertility Plus, Greenlane Clinical Centre Auckland, New Zealand; Repromed Auckland and Auckland Gynaecology Group, 105 Remuera Road, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | | | | | - Lucy R Prentice
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ben W Mol
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia; The South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Neil P Johnson
- Repromed Auckland and Auckland Gynaecology Group, 105 Remuera Road, Auckland, New Zealand; The Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Australia; The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Direct Cell⁻Cell Interactions in the Endometrium and in Endometrial Pathophysiology. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19082227. [PMID: 30061539 PMCID: PMC6121364 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell contacts exhibit a considerable influence on tissue physiology and homeostasis by controlling paracellular and intercellular transport processes, as well as by affecting signaling pathways. Since they maintain cell polarity, they play an important role in cell plasticity. The knowledge about the junctional protein families and their interactions has increased considerably during recent years. In contrast to most other tissues, the endometrium undergoes extensive physiological changes and reveals an extraordinary plasticity due to its crucial role in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. These complex changes are accompanied by changes in direct cell–cell contacts to meet the various requirements in the respective developmental stage. Impairment of this sophisticated differentiation process may lead to failure of implantation and embryo development and may be involved in the pathogenesis of endometrial diseases. In this article, we focus on the knowledge about the distribution and regulation of the different junctional proteins in the endometrium during cycling and pregnancy, as well as in pathologic conditions such as endometriosis and cancer. Decoding these sophisticated interactions should improve our understanding of endometrial physiology as well as of the mechanisms involved in pathological conditions.
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhu HY, Ge TX, Pan YB, Zhang SY. Advanced Role of Hippo Signaling in Endometrial Fibrosis: Implications for Intrauterine Adhesion. Chin Med J (Engl) 2018; 130:2732-2737. [PMID: 29133764 PMCID: PMC5695061 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.218013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a major health problem that causes infertility, menstrual irregularities, and recurrent pregnancy losses in women. Unfortunately, treatments for IUA are limited, and there are currently no effective strategies for preventing IUA recurrence. In this review, we introduced the role of Hippo signaling in the normal endometrium and IUA and described the mechanisms by which the Hippo pathway integrates with the Wnt and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathways to form an intricate network governing the development of fibrosis. Data Sources: Original research articles in English that were published until July 2017 were collected from the PubMed database. Study Selection: Literature search was conducted using the search terms “endometrial fibrosis OR fibrosis AND or OR intrauterine adhesion OR Asherman syndrome OR IUA,” “Hippo AND or OR Hippo/TAZ,” “TGF-β,” and “Wnt.” Related original research articles were included in the comprehensive analysis. Results: Endometrial fibrosis is recognized as a key pathological event in the development of IUA, which is characterized by epithelial/fibroblast–myofibroblast transition. Myofibroblasts play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of fibrous scarring, and myofibroblast differentiation can be triggered by multiple signaling pathways. Hippo signaling is a critical regulator of the epithelial/fibroblast–myofibroblast transition and α-smooth muscle actin, which exhibits a specific spatiotemporal expression in the endometrium. Conclusions: Hippo signaling plays a critical role in fibrous diseases and participates in cross talks with Wnt and TGF-β signaling. Our findings not only contributed to knowledge on the pathogenesis of endometrial fibrosis, but can also serve as a useful resource for developing specific molecular inhibitors for IUA treatment and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yan Zhu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Tian-Xiang Ge
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Yi-Bin Pan
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Song-Ying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Pazhohan A, Amidi F, Akbari-Asbagh F, Seyedrezazadeh E, Aftabi Y, Abdolalizadeh J, Khodarahmian M, Khanlarkhani N, Sobhani A. Expression and shedding of CD44 in the endometrium of women with endometriosis and modulating effects of vitamin D: A randomized exploratory trial. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:150-158. [PMID: 29229305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease. The impaired estrogen and progesterone signaling over-activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in endometriosis patients, which can explain the increased invasion potency of endometrial cells derived from the endometrium of women with endometriosis. The regulatory effects of vitamin D on Wnt/β-catenin pathway were demonstrated by previous studies. According to gene prioritization method, among Wnt target genes, CD44 was in high ranking in relation to endometriosis. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression of CD44 in the endometrium of women with endometriosis and to study the effects of vitamin D on its expression. This prospective study was performed, during a 12 months period from December 2015 to November 2016, on healthy women as the control group (n = 14) and endometriosis patients (n = 34). The endometriosis patients randomly divided into two groups: One group treated according to the routine protocol and the other group, alongside the routine protocol, took 50,000 IU vitamin D weekly for 12-14 weeks. Blood, endometrial fluid, and endometrial tissue samples were obtained from the control group and endometriosis groups before and after the intervention. We used in silico gene prioritization to study the relevance of CD44. The expression of CD44 was evaluated using the techniques of Western blot, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and ELISA. The eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis in mid-secretory phase expressed significantly higher levels of CD44s, CD44V, and CD44v6. The concentration of soluble CD44 in the serum and endometrial fluid of endometriosis patients was higher than of healthy women. The expression level of CD44s, CD44V, and CD44v6 in the eutopic endometrium as well as the concentration of soluble CD44 in the endometrial fluid was decreased after modification of the circulating levels of 25(OH)D. It seems that the increased expression and extensive shedding of CD44 in eutopic endometrium play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Vitamin D can control and modify this process at least in part. We suggest more in vivo investigations on the therapeutic potency of vitamin D in endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azar Pazhohan
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Firoozeh Akbari-Asbagh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ensiyeh Seyedrezazadeh
- Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Younes Aftabi
- Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Abdolalizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahshad Khodarahmian
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Khanlarkhani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aligholi Sobhani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Oestrogen–progesterone signalling is highly versatile and critical for the maintenance of healthy endometrium in humans. The genomic and nongenomic signalling cascades initiated by these hormones in differentiated cells of endometrium have been the primary focus of research since 1920s. However, last decade of research has shown a significant role of stem cells in the maintenance of a healthy endometrium and the modulatory effects of hormones on these cells. Endometriosis, the growth of endometrium outside the uterus, is very common in infertile patients and the elusiveness in understanding of disease pathology causes hindrance in selection of treatment approaches to enhance fertility. In endometriosis, the stem cells are dysfunctional as it can confer progesterone resistance to their progenies resulting in disharmony of hormonal orchestration of endometrial homeostasis. The bidirectional communication between stem cell signalling pathways and oestrogen–progesterone signalling is found to be disrupted in endometriosis though it is not clear which precedes the other. In this paper, we review the intricate connection between hormones, stem cells and the cross-talks in their signalling cascades in normal endometrium and discuss how this is deregulated in endometriosis. Re-examination of the oestrogen–progesterone dependency of endometrium with a focus on stem cells is imperative to delineate infertility associated with endometriosis and thereby aid in designing better treatment modalities.
Collapse
|
39
|
Whitby S, Salamonsen LA, Evans J. The Endometrial Polarity Paradox: Differential Regulation of Polarity Within Secretory-Phase Human Endometrium. Endocrinology 2018; 159:506-518. [PMID: 29029020 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A major cause of infertility in normal and assisted reproduction cycles is failure of the endometrium to undergo appropriate changes during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle as it acquires receptivity for an implanting blastocyst. Current dogma states that loss of epithelial polarity in the luminal epithelial cells, the point of first contact between maternal endometrium and blastocyst, may facilitate embryo implantation. Loss of polarity is likely an important change during the secretory phase to overcome mutual repulsion between otherwise polarized epithelial surfaces. Although "plasma membrane transformation" describes morphological/molecular alterations associated with loss of polarity, direct measures of polarity have not been investigated. Transepithelial resistance, a proxy measure of polarity, was downregulated in endometrial epithelial (ECC-1) cells by combined estrogen/progestin, mimicking the hormonal milieu of the secretory phase. Examination of defined polarity markers within human endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle identified downregulation of atypical protein kinase C, Stardust, Crumbs, and Scribble within the luminal-epithelial layer, with upregulation of Scribble within the stromal compartment as the menstrual cycle progressed from the estrogen-dominated proliferative to progesterone-dominated secretory phase. Epithelial (ECC-1) Scribble expression was downregulated in vitro by combined estrogen/progestin and estrogen/progestin/human chorionic gonadotropin treatment, whereas knockdown of Scribble in these cells enhanced "embryo" (trophectodermal spheroid) adhesion. In contrast, Scribble was upregulated within decidualized primary human endometrial stromal cells, with decidualization downregulated upon Scribble knockdown. These data highlight an important contribution of polarity modulation within the human endometrium, likely important for receptivity. Clinical investigations examining how polarity may be modulated in the infertile endometrium may facilitate fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Whitby
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Latifi Z, Fattahi A, Ranjbaran A, Nejabati HR, Imakawa K. Potential roles of metalloproteinases of endometrium-derived exosomes in embryo-maternal crosstalk during implantation. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:4530-4545. [PMID: 29115666 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
During embryo implantation, crosstalk between the endometrial epithelium and the blastocyst, especially the trophoblasts, is a prerequisite for successful implantation. During this crosstalk, various molecular and functional changes occur to promote synchrony between the embryo and the endometrium as well as the uterine cavity microenvironment. In the past few years, growing evidence has shown that endometrium-derived exosomes play pivotal roles in the embryonic-maternal crosstalk during implantation, although the exact mechanism of this crosstalk has yet to be determined. The presence of metalloproteinases has been reported in endometrium-derived exosomes, implying the importance of these enzymes in exosome-based crosstalk. Thus, in this review, we describe the potential roles of the metalloproteinases of endometrium-derived exosomes in promoting embryo attachment and implantation. This study could provide a better understanding of the potential roles of exosomal metalloproteinases in embryo implantation and pave the way for developing novel exosome-based regulatory agents to support early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Latifi
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, Japan.,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Ranjbaran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Detection of Aristaless-related homeobox protein in ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors. Exp Mol Pathol 2017; 104:38-44. [PMID: 29275192 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the potential of ARX as a novel biomarker of ovarian endometriosis and other ovarian pathologies. METHODS The mRNA level of ARX in ovarian endometriosis and normal endometrium samples was determined by real-time PCR, while the protein level was determined by Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on nearly 200 tissue samples of different ovarian pathologies. GraphPad Prism was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS The expression of ARX was significantly increased in ovarian endometriosis samples as compared to normal endometrium. Also Western blotting data showed higher ARX levels in the ovarian endometriosis samples versus normal endometrium. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the protein is localized in the ovarian stroma and does not originate from endometriosis. Further immunohistochemical analysis performed on several different non-neoplastic and neoplastic ovarian tissue samples revealed that in the non-neoplastic ovary ARX protein is present only in the stromal cells and their derivates (luteinized stromal cells, theca and Leydig cells) and not in granulosa cells, oocites, surface epithelium or rete ovarii, while all stromal and sex cord tumors showed strong nuclear staining for ARX. All other primary or metastatic epithelial tumors of the ovary were ARX negative. CONCLUSIONS ARX is not associated with endometriosis and cannot be used as a biomarker for ovarian endometriosis. ARX is present in ovarian stroma and cells derived from ovarian stroma as well as in all types of sex cord-stromal tumors of the ovary and could thus be used as a marker for sex cord-stromal differentiation in ovarian tumors.
Collapse
|
42
|
Pazhohan A, Amidi F, Akbari-Asbagh F, Seyedrezazadeh E, Farzadi L, Khodarahmin M, Mehdinejadiani S, Sobhani A. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling in endometriosis, the expression of total and active forms of β-catenin, total and inactive forms of glycogen synthase kinase-3β, WNT7a and DICKKOPF-1. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2017; 220:1-5. [PMID: 29107840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2017.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The cyclical changes in proliferation and differentiation of endometrial cells are regulated by estrogen and progesterone via modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Imbalance in the expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors causes progesterone resistance in endometriosis patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of some main components of Wnt/β-catenin signaling including WNT7a, DKK-1, β-catenin, and GSK-3β in eutopic endometrium and peritoneal endometriotic lesions of endometriosis patients compared to healthy endometrium in the mid-secretory phase of menstrual cycle. STUDY DESIGN This prospective study was performed, during a 12 months period from December 2015 to November 2016, on healthy women as the control group (n=14) and endometriosis patients (n=34). We used real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot techniques. RESULTS Protein and mRNA expression of DKK-1 were significantly down-regulated in both endometriotic lesions and eutopic endometrium of endometriosis group. We also demonstrated that the expression of non-phosphorylated β-catenin (active form) and phosphorylated GSK-3β (inactive form) were up-regulated in endometriosis patients. The mRNA levels of β-catenin, GSK-3β, and WNT7a, as well as the protein levels of total β-catenin, total GSK-3β, and WNT7a in endometriosis group, were not significantly different with those in control group. The patterns of mRNA and protein expression of all interested factors in the lesions were similar to those in the eutopic endometrium of same patients. CONCLUSIONS It seems that the aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle in endometriosis has two essential elements: excessive inactivation of GSK-3β and suppression of the expression of Wnt signaling inhibitor DKK-1. Interventions in this signaling pathway may allow for the exploration of potential new targets for the control of development and progression of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azar Pazhohan
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Firoozeh Akbari-Asbagh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ensiyeh Seyedrezazadeh
- Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahshad Khodarahmin
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Aligholi Sobhani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Nayeem SB, Arfuso F, Dharmarajan A, Keelan JA. Role of Wnt signalling in early pregnancy. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:525-44. [PMID: 25190280 DOI: 10.1071/rd14079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The integration of a complex network of signalling molecules promotes implantation of the blastocyst and development of the placenta. These processes are crucial for a successful pregnancy and fetal growth and development. The signalling network involves both cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix communication. The family of secreted glycoprotein ligands, the Wnts, plays a major role in regulating a wide range of biological processes, including embryonic development, cell fate, proliferation, migration, stem cell maintenance, tumour suppression, oncogenesis and tissue homeostasis. Recent studies have provided evidence that Wnt signalling pathways play an important role in reproductive tissues and in early pregnancy events. The focus of this review is to summarise our present knowledge of expression, regulation and function of the Wnt signalling pathways in early pregnancy events of human and other model systems, and its association with pathological conditions. Despite our recent progress, much remains to be learned about Wnt signalling in human reproduction. The advancement of knowledge in this area has applications in the reduction of infertility and the incidence and morbidity of gestational diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarmah B Nayeem
- School of Women's and Infant's Health, University of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, 374 Bagot Road, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
| | - Frank Arfuso
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jeffrey A Keelan
- School of Women's and Infant's Health, University of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, 374 Bagot Road, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhang X, Liu Z, Chen M, Cao Q, Huang D. Effects of S100A6 gene silencing on the biological features of eutopic endometrial stromal cells and β‑catenin expression. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:1279-1285. [PMID: 28075439 PMCID: PMC5367373 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein expression levels of S100 calcium binding protein A6 (S100A6) are increased in various malignancies and are associated with tumor behavior; however, the association between S100A6 and endometriosis remains to be elucidated. In order to investigate the influence of S100A6 protein, recombinant lentivirus siS100A6 was used to transfect the eutopic endometrial stromal cells. CCK-8 assay was performed to identify the proliferation ability of cell and the cell migration was detected by Transwell assay. Flow cytometry was performed to detect cell apoptosis, and western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction were performed to identify the expression of β-catenin. The present study investigated the role of S100A6 in endometriosis and its interaction with β-catenin by transfecting eutopic endometrial stromal cells with a recombinant lentivirus containing S100A6-specific small interfering RNA. Inhibition of S100A6 expression had a significant antiproliferative effect and reduced the migratory ability of eutopic endometrial stromal cells, and induced their apoptosis. In addition, inhibition of S100A6 expression suppressed β-catenin expression. These results suggested that inhibition of S100A6 may represent a promising novel approach for the targeted therapy of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zequn Liu
- Department of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Meihong Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qing Cao
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Donghua Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Sagi-Dain L, Ojha K, Bider D, Levron J, Zinchenko V, Walster S, Sagi S, Dirnfeld M. Pregnancy outcomes in oocyte recipients with fibroids not impinging uterine cavity. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2016; 295:497-502. [PMID: 28000026 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-016-4273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the effects of fibroid uterus on pregnancy outcomes and endometrial features in ovum donation recipients. METHODS Retrospective analysis of 744 ovum donation cycles was conducted in two private IVF centers between 2005 and 2012. All the recipients underwent transvaginal ultrasound examination, including endometrial thickness and grade measurements. Clinical pregnancy, spontaneous miscarriage, and live birth rates were regarded as the primary outcomes. RESULTS Leimyomas not distorting the uterine cavity were diagnosed in 264 (35.5%) of the cycles. This group exhibited lower endometrial thickness (8.33 ± 1.8 vs. 8.73 ± 2.03 mm, p = 0.009), lower rates of Grade A (16.1 vs. 30.1%, p < 0.0001), and higher rates of grade C endometrium (10.2 vs. 5.5%, p < 0.0001), compared to the group with sonographically normal uterine cavity. In addition, significantly higher spontaneous miscarriage rates were found in fibroid uteri group (25 vs. 14.5%, p = 0.036). CONCLUSION Our study results suggest that uterine fibroids not distorting the uterine cavity could constitute a risk factor for spontaneous miscarriage in oocyte donation cycles, possibly via their adverse effect on endometrial receptivity. Further well-designed trials should widely explore this subject, particularly focusing on impact of myomectomy on fertility rates in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lena Sagi-Dain
- Division of Fertility-In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Carmel Medical Center, Technion, Michal St., Haifa, Israel.
| | - Kamal Ojha
- St Georges Hospital, London, UK.,The London Bridge Gynecology Fertility and Genetic Centre, London, UK
| | - David Bider
- Division of Fertility-In Vitro Fertilization, Faculty of Medicine, Sheba Medical Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jacob Levron
- Division of Fertility-In Vitro Fertilization, Faculty of Medicine, Sheba Medical Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Sharon Walster
- The London Bridge Gynecology Fertility and Genetic Centre, London, UK
| | - Shlomi Sagi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Martha Dirnfeld
- Division of Fertility-In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Carmel Medical Center, Technion, Michal St., Haifa, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhao L, Gu C, Huang K, Han W, Fu M, Meng Y. Endometriosis research using capture microdissection techniques: Progress and future applications. Biomed Rep 2016; 5:531-540. [PMID: 27882213 DOI: 10.3892/br.2016.758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease with high prevalence, while its etiology and pathophysiology have remained to be fully elucidated. Previous evidence suggested that this disorder may be in part or completely of somatic origin. However, traditional endometrial samples may not be ideal for investigation, as target cells, including epithelial and stromal cells, in endometriotic lesions are too sparse to be analyzed. Recently, capture microdissection techniques have been used to overcome these limitations and eliminate tissue heterogeneity in endometriosis research. Therefore, the present review summarized the alterations in epithelial and stromal cells in endometriosis tissues isolated through capture microdissection, outlined recent progress and provided directions for future investigation of the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luyang Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Chenglei Gu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P.R. China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the 309th Hospital of the PLA, Beijing 100091, P.R. China
| | - Ke Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Weidong Han
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medicine, PLA Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Meng Fu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P.R. China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haidian Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Beijing 100080, P.R. China
| | - Yuanguang Meng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Payan-Carreira R, Pires M, Santos C, Holst BS, Colaço J, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Immunolocalization of E-cadherin and β-catenin in the cyclic and early pregnant canine endometrium. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1092-1101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
48
|
Bolnick AD, Bolnick JM, Kilburn BA, Stewart T, Oakes J, Rodriguez-Kovacs J, Kohan-Ghadr HR, Dai J, Diamond MP, Hirota Y, Drewlo S, Dey SK, Armant DR. Reduced homeobox protein MSX1 in human endometrial tissue is linked to infertility. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2042-50. [PMID: 27312535 PMCID: PMC4991657 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is protein expression of the muscle segment homeobox gene family member MSX1 altered in the human secretory endometrium by cell type, developmental stage or fertility? SUMMARY ANSWER MSX1 protein levels, normally elevated in the secretory phase endometrium, were significantly reduced in endometrial biopsies obtained from women of infertile couples. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Molecular changes in the endometrium are important for fertility in both animals and humans. Msx1 is expressed in the preimplantation mouse uterus and regulates uterine receptivity for implantation. The MSX protein persists a short time, after its message has been down-regulated. Microarray analysis of the human endometrium reveals a similar pattern of MSX1 mRNA expression that peaks before the receptive period, with depressed expression at implantation. Targeted deletion of uterine Msx1 and Msx2 in mice prevents the loss of epithelial cell polarity during implantation and causes infertility. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE DURATION MSX1 mRNA and cell type-specific levels of MSX1 protein were quantified from two retrospective cohorts during the human endometrial cycle. MSX1 protein expression patterns were compared between fertile and infertile couples. Selected samples were dual-labeled by immunofluorescence microscopy to localize E-cadherin and β-catenin in epithelial cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING METHODS MSX1 mRNA was quantified by PCR in endometrium from hysterectomies (n = 14) determined by endometrial dating to be in the late-proliferative (cycle days 10-13), early-secretory (cycle days 14-19) or mid-secretory (cycle days 20-24) phase. MSX1 protein was localized using high-throughput, semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry with sectioned endometrial biopsy tissues from fertile (n = 89) and infertile (n = 89) couples. Image analysis measured stain intensity specifically within the luminal epithelium, glands and stroma during the early-, mid- and late- (cycle days 25-28) secretory phases. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE MSX1 transcript increased 5-fold (P < 0.05) between the late-proliferative and early secretory phase and was then down-regulated (P < 0.05) prior to receptivity for implantation. In fertile patients, MSX1 protein displayed strong nuclear localization in the luminal epithelium and glands, while it was weakly expressed in nuclei of the stroma. MSX1 protein levels accumulated throughout the secretory phase in all endometrial cellular compartments. MSX1 protein decreased (P < 0.05) in the glands between mid- and late-secretory phases. However, infertile patients demonstrated a broad reduction (P < 0.001) of MSX1 accumulation in all cell types throughout the secretory phase that was most pronounced (∼3-fold) in stroma and glands. Infertility was associated with persistent co-localization of E-cadherin and β-catenin in epithelial cell junctions in the mid- and late-secretory phases. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Details of the infertility diagnoses and other patient demographic data were not available. Therefore, patients with uterine abnormalities (Mullerian) could not be distinguished from other sources of infertility. Antibody against human MSX2 is not available, limiting the study to MSX1. However, both RNAs in the human endometrium are similarly regulated. In mice, Msx1 and Msx2 are imperative for murine embryo implantation, with Msx2 compensating for genetic ablation of Msx1 through its up-regulation in a knockout model. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This investigation establishes that the MSX1 homeobox protein accumulation is associated with the secretory phase in endometrium of fertile couples, and is widely disrupted in infertile patients. It is the first study to examine MSX1 protein localization in the human endometrium, and supported by genetic findings in mice, suggests that genes regulated by MSX1 are linked to the loss of epithelial cell polarity required for uterine receptivity during implantation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This research was supported by the NICHD National Cooperative Reproductive Medicine Network grant HD039005 (M.P.D.), NIH grants HD068524 (S.K.D.), HD071408 (D.R.A., M.P.D.), and HL128628 (S.D.), the Intramural Research Program of the NICHD, March of Dimes (S.K.D., S.D.) and JSPS KAKENHI grant 26112506 (Y.H.). There were no conflicts or competing interests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan D. Bolnick
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jay M. Bolnick
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Brian A. Kilburn
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Tamika Stewart
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jonathan Oakes
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Jing Dai
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - Yasushi Hirota
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sascha Drewlo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Sudhansu K. Dey
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - D. Randall Armant
- Obstetrics and Gynecology,Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wang J, Strauss DC, Messiou C, Thway K. Endometriosis of Extra-Abdominal Soft Tissues. Int J Surg Pathol 2016; 24:497-503. [DOI: 10.1177/1066896916644322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
While endometriosis, defined as the presence of endometrial tissue in extrauterine sites, is most frequently encountered within the peritoneal cavity, a small but significant proportion of cases occur at extra-abdominal soft tissue sites, particularly in relation to previous abdominal surgery. We reviewed the cases of endometriosis of soft tissue sites seen at a tertiary soft tissue center. All cases of extra-abdominal soft tissue endometriosis diagnosed at this institution over a 13-year period were reviewed, and clinical and pathologic findings were recorded. Forty-five patients had diagnoses of soft tissue endometriosis and there were 34 diagnostic biopsies and 26 surgical excision specimens. All but 1 case were abdominal wall lesions, with 1 located in the upper arm. A total of 33 patients presented with lesions in scars of previous operations (31 in Pfannenstiel incisions for Caesarean sections, presenting with a median interval of 6 years (range 1-16 years) following surgery). The lesions ranged in size from 1 to 8 cm (median 3.5 cm). One case showed decidualized stroma with trophoblast cells, while 2 had secondary adenocarcinoma arising from endometriosis. Eighteen cases were tested for β-catenin expression immunohistochemically, of which 5 showed at least focal nuclear positivity in the surrounding fibrous tissue (although not within glands or stroma). Soft tissue endometriosis is seen most commonly in surgical scars, particularly following Caesarean sections. Spontaneous endometriosis also most commonly occurs in the abdominal wall, although can occur exceptionally at unusual sites, such as extremities. Secondary changes, including carcinomas, can arise from endometriosis. The differential diagnosis of these lesions includes fibromatosis, which may be erroneously diagnosed on small, nonrepresentative core biopsy specimens.
Collapse
|
50
|
Makker A, Goel MM, Nigam D, Bhatia V, Mahdi AA, Das V, Pandey A. Endometrial Expression of Homeobox Genes and Cell Adhesion Molecules in Infertile Women With Intramural Fibroids During Window of Implantation. Reprod Sci 2016; 24:435-444. [PMID: 27407137 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116657196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to examine the expression and cellular distribution of homeobox ( HOX) genes ( HOXA10 and HOXA11) and cell adhesion molecules (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and β-catenin) during the window of implantation in infertile women with noncavity-distorting intramural (IM) fibroids (n = 18) and in fertile controls (n = 12). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels and protein expression, respectively. When compared to fertile controls, reduced HOXA10 and HOXA11 transcript and protein levels were observed in infertile women. However, changes only in the expression of HOXA10 mRNA (-1.72-fold; P = .03) and stromal protein ( P = .001) were statistically significant. Significantly lower E-cadherin mRNA (-10.97-fold; P = .02) and protein levels were seen in infertile patients. E-cadherin immunostaining was significantly reduced both in the luminal ( P = .048) and in the glandular ( P = .014) epithelium of endometrium from infertile patients when compared to controls. No significant change was observed either in the mRNA levels or in the immunoexpression of N-cadherin and β-catenin. However, a trend toward lower N-cadherin expression in the luminal epithelium ( P = .054) and decreased β-catenin expression in the glandular epithelium ( P = .070) was observed in infertile patients. The present findings suggest that altered endometrial HOXA10 and E-cadherin mRNA and protein expression observed in infertile women with IM fibroids during the mid-secretory phase might impair endometrial receptivity leading to infertility in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annu Makker
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Madhu Mati Goel
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dipti Nigam
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vikram Bhatia
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abbas Ali Mahdi
- 2 Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vinita Das
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amita Pandey
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|