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Ishikawa H, Goto Y, Hirooka C, Katayama E, Baba N, Kaneko M, Saito Y, Kobayashi T, Koga K. Role of inflammation and immune response in the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids: Including their negative impact on reproductive outcomes. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104317. [PMID: 39154624 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104317] [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: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs), the most common tumors in women of reproductive age, are characterized by sex steroid-dependent growth and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding UF smooth muscle cells. Women with symptomatic UFs experience heavy menstrual bleeding and consequent iron-deficiency anemia. They also have a risk of recurrent pregnancy loss, preterm birth, and cesarean delivery, indicating that UFs can negatively affect reproductive outcomes. Various types of immune cells, including innate and adaptive cells, are observed in UFs; however, the impact of these cells on the pathophysiology of UFs remains unclear. Inflammation may play important roles in the growth of UFs, and expression levels of proinflammatory and inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β, are upregulated in UFs. These cytokines play important roles in the interaction between growth factors and ECM that is regulated by the sex steroids estrogen and progesterone. Furthermore, proinflammatory mediators are upregulated in females with UFs, with higher expression levels in the endometrium with submucosal and intramural UFs than in the endometrium without UFs, indicating that these proinflammatory cytokines may impair endometrial receptivity, leading to implantation failure in in vitro fertilization programs. Hormonal treatments using gonadotropin releasing hormone analogs and the selective progesterone receptor modulator ulipristal acetate significantly shrink UFs and improve UF-related symptoms. These compounds can regulate local inflammation in UFs and adjacent myometrium. Controlling and improving local inflammation caused by UFs may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for UFs and potentially improve reproductive outcomes in women with symptomatic UFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ishikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Yuki Goto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Chigusa Hirooka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Eri Katayama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Nao Baba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Meika Kaneko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kobayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan; Department of Regulatory Science, Research Promotion Unit, School of Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan; Fujita Health University Haneda clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Payano VJH, Lopes LVDA, Peixoto LR, Silva KAD, Ortiga-Carvalho TM, Tafuri A, Vago AR, Bloise E. Immunostaining of βA-Activin and Follistatin Is Decreased in HPV(+) Cervical Pre-Neoplastic and Neoplastic Lesions. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051031. [PMID: 37243119 DOI: 10.3390/v15051031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The activin-follistatin system regulates several cellular processes, including differentiation and tumorigenesis. We hypothesized that the immunostaining of βA-activin and follistatin varies in neoplastic cervical lesions. Cervical paraffin-embedded tissues from 162 patients sorted in control (n = 15), cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 1 (n = 38), CIN2 (n = 37), CIN3 (n = 39), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC; n = 33) groups were examined for βA-activin and follistatin immunostaining. Human papillomavirus (HPV) detection and genotyping were performed by PCR and immunohistochemistry. Sixteen samples were inconclusive for HPV detection. In total, 93% of the specimens exhibited HPV positivity, which increased with patient age. The most detected high-risk (HR)-HPV type was HPV16 (41.2%) followed by HPV18 (16%). The immunostaining of cytoplasmatic βA-activin and follistatin was higher than nuclear immunostaining in all cervical epithelium layers of the CIN1, CIN2, CIN3, and SCC groups. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the cytoplasmic and nuclear immunostaining of βA-activin was detected in all cervical epithelial layers from the control to the CIN1, CIN2, CIN3, and SCC groups. Only nuclear follistatin immunostaining exhibited a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in specific epithelial layers of cervical tissues from CIN1, CIN2, CIN3, and SCC compared to the control. Decreased immunostaining of cervical βA-activin and follistatin at specific stages of CIN progression suggests that the activin-follistatin system participates in the loss of the differentiation control of pre-neoplastic and neoplastic cervical specimens predominantly positive for HPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Jesus Huaringa Payano
- Laboratório de Patogênese Molecular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-910, MG, Brazil
| | - Lara Verônica de Araújo Lopes
- Laboratório de Patogênese Molecular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-910, MG, Brazil
| | - Larissa Rodrigues Peixoto
- Laboratório de Patogênese Molecular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-910, MG, Brazil
| | - Keila Alves da Silva
- Laboratório de Patogênese Molecular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-910, MG, Brazil
| | - Tania Maria Ortiga-Carvalho
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Translacional, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Tafuri
- Laboratório de Anatomia Patológica Tafuri, Belo Horizonte 30170-133, MG, Brazil
| | - Annamaria Ravara Vago
- Laboratório de Patogênese Molecular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-910, MG, Brazil
| | - Enrrico Bloise
- Laboratório de Patogênese Molecular, Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-910, MG, Brazil
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Wang S, Fang L, Cong L, Chung JPW, Li TC, Chan DYL. Myostatin: a multifunctional role in human female reproduction and fertility - a short review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:96. [PMID: 35780124 PMCID: PMC9250276 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00969-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Myostatin (MSTN) is member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily and was originally identified in the musculoskeletal system as a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. The functional roles of MSTN outside of the musculoskeletal system have aroused researchers' interest in recent years, with an increasing number of studies being conducted in this area. Notably, the expression of MSTN and its potential activities in various reproductive organs, including the ovary, placenta, and uterus, have recently been examined. Numerous studies published in the last few years demonstrate that MSTN plays a critical role in human reproduction and fertility, including the regulation of follicular development, ovarian steroidogenesis, granule-cell proliferation, and oocyte maturation regulation. Furthermore, findings from clinical samples suggest that MSTN may play a key role in the pathogenesis of several reproductive disorders such as uterine myoma, preeclampsia (PE), ovary hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). There is no comprehensive review regarding to MSTN related to the female reproductive system in the literature. This review serves as a summary of the genes in reproductive medicine and their potential influence. We summarized MSTN expression in different compartments of the female reproductive system. Subsequently, we discuss the role of MSTN in both physiological and several pathological conditions related to the female fertility and reproduction-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Wang
- Assisted reproductive technologies unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, SAR, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Luping Cong
- Assisted reproductive technologies unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, SAR, China
| | - Jacqueline Pui Wah Chung
- Assisted reproductive technologies unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, SAR, China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Assisted reproductive technologies unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, SAR, China
| | - David Yiu Leung Chan
- Assisted reproductive technologies unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, SAR, China.
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Islam MS, Greco S, Delli Carpini G, Giannubilo SR, Segars J, Ciavattini A, Ciarmela P. Hop and artichoke extracts inhibit expression of extracellular matrix components in uterine leiomyoma cells. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:407-418. [PMID: 35559863 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To screen 14 different plant extracts for their antifibrotic effect on human primary leiomyoma and healthy myometrial cells. DESIGN Preclinical study. SETTING University research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Human uterine leiomyoma and matched myometrial tissues were obtained from Caucasian premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine fibroids at the time of hysterectomy. INTERVENTION(S) Primary human leiomyoma and myometrial cells were cultured in the absence or presence of the plant extracts. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantification of the expression of extracellular matrix components, such as fibronectin 1 (FN1), collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1), and versican (VCAN), and the profibrotic growth factor activin A or inhibin beta A subunit (INHBA). RESULT(S) The cells were treated with the 14 extracts for 48 hours, and we measured FN1 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. Of the 14 extracts, about (ABO) ABO-2 (hop) and ABO-9 (artichoke) significantly reduced FN1 expression in both the cell types. Next, we evaluated the effect of fractions of these 2 extracts on the mRNA expression of FN1 and other extracellular matrix components, such as COL1A1, VCAN, and INHBA, in leiomyoma and myometrial cells. We found that ABO-2 (hop) and ABO-9 (artichoke) as well as their fractions, ABO-AR-2016-015 (fraction of ABO-2) and ABO-AR-2014-168 (fraction of ABO-9), reduced the mRNA expression of FN1, COL1A1, VCAN, and INHBA in primary leiomyoma cells. In primary myometrial cells, the mRNA expression of FN1, COL1A1, VCAN, and INHBA was not greatly affected. CONCLUSION(S) These results suggest that the hop and artichoke extracts possess antifibrotic properties and support additional evaluation using in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Greco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Delli Carpini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefano Raffaele Giannubilo
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - James Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea Ciavattini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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Drzewiecka EM, Kozlowska W, Paukszto L, Zmijewska A, Wydorski PJ, Jastrzebski JP, Franczak A. Effect of the Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Radiation on Transcriptomic Profile of Pig Myometrium during the Peri-Implantation Period-An In Vitro Study. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7322. [PMID: 34298942 PMCID: PMC8305477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The electromagnetic field (EMF) affects the physiological processes in mammals, but the molecular background of the observed alterations remains not well established. In this study was tested the effect of short duration (2 h) of the EMF treatment (50 Hz, 8 mT) on global transcriptomic alterations in the myometrium of pigs during the peri-implantation period using next-generation sequencing. As a result, the EMF treatment affected the expression of 215 transcript active regions (TARs), and among them, the assigned gene protein-coding biotype possessed 90 ones (differentially expressed genes, DEGs), categorized mostly to gene ontology terms connected with defense and immune responses, and secretion and export. Evaluated DEGs enrich the KEGG TNF signaling pathway, and regulation of IFNA signaling and interferon-alpha/beta signaling REACTOME pathways. There were evaluated 12 differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DE-lnc-RNAs) and 182 predicted single nucleotide variants (SNVs) substitutions within RNA editing sites. In conclusion, the EMF treatment in the myometrium collected during the peri-implantation period affects the expression of genes involved in defense and immune responses. The study also gives new insight into the mechanisms of the EMF action in the regulation of the transcriptomic profile through lnc-RNAs and SNVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Monika Drzewiecka
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Wiktoria Kozlowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Lukasz Paukszto
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (L.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Agata Zmijewska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Pawel Jozef Wydorski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Jan Pawel Jastrzebski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (L.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Anita Franczak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
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Islam MS, Afrin S, Singh B, Jayes FL, Brennan JT, Borahay MA, Leppert PC, Segars JH. Extracellular matrix and Hippo signaling as therapeutic targets of antifibrotic compounds for uterine fibroids. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e475. [PMID: 34323413 PMCID: PMC8255059 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids are highly prevalent, collagen-rich, mechanically stiff, fibrotic tumors for which new therapeutic options are needed. Increased extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness activates mechanical signaling and Hippo/YAP promoting fibroid growth, but no prior studies have tested either as a therapeutic target. We tested the hypothesis that injection of a purified form of collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) that selectively digests type I and type III collagens would alter ECM stiffness, Hippo signaling, and selectively reduce fibroid cell growth. We also used two FDA-approved drugs, verteporfin and nintedanib, to elucidate the role of Hippo/YAP signaling in uterine fibroid and myometrial cells. METHODS The clinical trial was registered (NCT02889848). Stiffness of samples was measured by rheometry. Protein expression in surgical samples was analyzed via immunofluorescence. Protein and gene expression in uterine fibroid or myometrial cell lines were measured by real time PCR and western blot, and immunofluorescence. RESULTS Injection of CCH at high doses (0.1-0.2 mg/cm3 ) into fibroids resulted in a 46% reduction in stiffness in injected fibroids compared to controls after 60 days. Levels of the cell proliferation marker proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were decreased in fibroids 60 days after injection at high doses of CCH. Key Hippo signaling factors, specifically the transcriptionally inactive phosphorylated YAP (p-YAP), was increased at high CCH doses, supporting the role of YAP in fibroid growth. Furthermore, inhibition of YAP via verteporfin (YAP inhibitor) decreased cell proliferation, gene and protein expression of key factors promoting fibrosis and mechanotransduction in fibroid cells. Additionally, the anti-fibrotic drug, nintedanib, inhibited YAP and showed anti-fibrotic effects. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report that in vivo injection of collagenase into uterine fibroids led to a reduction in Hippo/YAP signaling and crucial genes and pathways involved in fibroid growth. These results indicate that targeting ECM stiffness and Hippo signaling might be an effective strategy for uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health ResearchJohns Hopkins MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health ResearchJohns Hopkins MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Bhuchitra Singh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health ResearchJohns Hopkins MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Friederike L. Jayes
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDuke UniversityDurhamNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Joshua T. Brennan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health ResearchJohns Hopkins MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Mostafa A. Borahay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health ResearchJohns Hopkins MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Phyllis C. Leppert
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDuke UniversityDurhamNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - James H. Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health ResearchJohns Hopkins MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
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Zannotti A, Greco S, Pellegrino P, Giantomassi F, Delli Carpini G, Goteri G, Ciavattini A, Ciarmela P. Macrophages and Immune Responses in Uterine Fibroids. Cells 2021; 10:cells10050982. [PMID: 33922329 PMCID: PMC8146588 DOI: 10.3390/cells10050982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids represent the most common benign tumors of the uterus. They are considered a typical fibrotic disorder. In fact, the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins—above all, collagen 1A1, fibronectin and versican—are upregulated in this pathology. The uterine fibroids etiology has not yet been clarified, and this represents an important matter about their resolution. A model has been proposed according to which the formation of an altered ECM could be the result of an excessive wound healing, in turn driven by a dysregulated inflammation process. A lot of molecules act in the complex inflammatory response. Macrophages have a great flexibility since they can assume different phenotypes leading to the tissue repair process. The dysregulation of macrophage proliferation, accumulation and infiltration could lead to an uncontrolled tissue repair and to the consequent pathological fibrosis. In addition, molecules such as monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), granulocyte macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), activin A and tumor necrosis factor-alfa (TNF-α) were demonstrated to play an important role in the macrophage action within the uncontrolled tissue repair that contributes to the pathological fibrosis that represents a typical feature of the uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Zannotti
- Department of Specialist and Odontostomatological Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (A.Z.); (G.D.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
| | - Stefania Greco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
| | - Pamela Pellegrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
| | - Federica Giantomassi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (F.G.); (G.G.)
| | - Giovanni Delli Carpini
- Department of Specialist and Odontostomatological Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (A.Z.); (G.D.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Gaia Goteri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (F.G.); (G.G.)
| | - Andrea Ciavattini
- Department of Specialist and Odontostomatological Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (A.Z.); (G.D.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+39-071-220-6270
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8
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Bernacchioni C, Ciarmela P, Vannuzzi V, Greco S, Vannuccini S, Malentacchi F, Pellegrino P, Capezzuoli T, Sorbi F, Cencetti F, Bruni P, Donati C, Petraglia F. Sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling in uterine fibroids: implication in activin A pro-fibrotic effect. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1576-1585. [PMID: 33500141 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the link between sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) signaling and leiomyoma and the possible S1P cross-talk with the fibrotic effect of activin A. DESIGN Case-control laboratory study. SETTING University institute and university hospital. PATIENT(S) Patients with uterine fibroids (n = 26). INTERVENTIONS(S) Tissue specimens of leiomyoma and normal myometrium were obtained from patients undergoing myomectomy or total hysterectomy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Expression of mRNA levels of the enzyme involved in S1P metabolism, S1P receptors, and S1P transporter Spns2 was evaluated in matched leiomyoma/myometrium specimens and cell populations. The effects of inhibition of S1P metabolism and signaling was evaluated on activin A-induced fibrotic action in leiomyoma cell lines. RESULT(S) The expression of the enzymes responsible for S1P formation, sphingosine kinase (SK) 1 and 2, and S1P2, S1P3, and S1P5 receptors was significantly augmented in leiomyomas compared with adjacent myometrium. In leiomyoma cells, but not in myometrial cells, activin A increased mRNA expression levels of SK1, SK2, and S1P2. The profibrotic action of activin A was abolished when SK1/2 were inhibited or S1P2/3 were blocked. Finally, S1P augmented by itself mRNA levels of fibrotic markers (fibronectin, collagen 1A1) and activin A in leiomyomas but not in myometrial cells. CONCLUSION(S) This study shows that S1P signaling is dysregulated in uterine fibroids and involved in activin A-induced fibrosis, opening new perspectives for uterine fibroid treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Bernacchioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valentina Vannuzzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefania Greco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Malentacchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pamela Pellegrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Tommaso Capezzuoli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Flavia Sorbi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Cencetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Bruni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Donati
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio," University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Silva AF, Silva ECCDA, Oliveira CN, Rocha KBF, Miguel MCC, Pereira JS. Oral and uterine leiomyomas exhibit high immunoexpression of Cripto-1 compared to normal myometrium. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2020; 92:e20200519. [PMID: 33331446 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202020200519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors in women. Many of them are associated with significant morbidity. The present study aimed to analyze histomorphological and histochemical characteristics and immunoexpression of Cripto-1 in oral leiomyomas (OL), uterine leiomyomas (UL), and normal myometrium (NM). Sample was composed of ten OL, 11 UL and 11 NM. Histomorphological characteristics were analyzed at 100 and 400x magnifications with HE staining. The immunoexpression of Cripto-1 was analyzed in five high-power fields. Statistical analysis considered a significant difference when p<0.05. Six OL disclosed moderate/intense inflammatory infiltrate, while ten UL exhibited mild infiltrate (p=0.024). When analyzing all leiomyomas together, 20 exhibited hyalinization, whereas no NM exhibited this alteration (p<0.001). There was no statistical difference in the distribution of mast cells among the lesions. The median Cripto-1 was higher in UL (9.0), followed by OL and NM (4.0). Associations of the Cripto-1 expression between leiomyomas (separately and together) and NM were statistically significant (p<0.001). These results indicate that OL and UL exhibit similar histomorphological and histochemical characteristics, as well as differences to NM. The higher immunoexpression of Cripto-1 in leiomyomas compared to NM suggests that this protein may influence cell proliferation and tissue architecture of oral and uterine leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- AndrÉ F Silva
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Patologia, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, s/n, Petrópolis, 59012-570 Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Emmily C C DA Silva
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Patologia, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, s/n, Petrópolis, 59012-570 Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - ClÁudia N Oliveira
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Patologia, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, s/n, Petrópolis, 59012-570 Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Keyla B F Rocha
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Patologia, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, s/n, Petrópolis, 59012-570 Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Marcia C C Miguel
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia Oral, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Rua Senador Salgado Filho, 1787, Lagoa Nova, 59056-000 Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Joabe S Pereira
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Patologia, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, s/n, Petrópolis, 59012-570 Natal, RN, Brazil
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10
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Donati C, Cencetti F, Bernacchioni C, Vannuzzi V, Bruni P. Role of sphingosine 1-phosphate signalling in tissue fibrosis. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109861. [PMID: 33253915 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components, leading to loss of tissue function in affected organs. Although the majority of fibrotic diseases have different origins, they have in common a persistent inflammatory stimulus and lymphocyte-monocyte interactions that determine the production of numerous fibrogenic cytokines. Treatment to contrast fibrosis is urgently needed, since some fibrotic diseases lead to systemic fibrosis and represent a major cause of death. In this article, the role of the bioactive sphingolipid sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) and its signalling pathway in the fibrosis of different tissue contexts is extensively reviewed, highlighting that it may represent an innovative and promising pharmacological therapeutic target for treating this devastating multifaceted disease. In multiple tissues S1P influences different aspects of fibrosis modulating the recruitment of inflammatory cells, as well as cell proliferation, migration and transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts, the cell type mainly involved in fibrosis development. Moreover, at the level of fibrotic lesions, S1P metabolism is profoundly influenced by multiple cross-talk with profibrotic mediators, such as transforming growth factor β, thus finely regulating the development of fibrosis. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Physiological and pathological roles of bioactive sphingolipids".
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Donati
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio", University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Francesca Cencetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio", University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Caterina Bernacchioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio", University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Valentina Vannuzzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio", University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Bruni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio", University of Florence, viale GB Morgagni 50, 50134 Florence, Italy
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11
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Bao H, Sin TK, Zhang G. Activin A induces tumorigenesis of leiomyoma via regulation of p38β MAPK-mediated signal cascade. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 529:379-385. [PMID: 32703439 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.05.079] [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: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the role of p38-C/EBPβ signaling in leiomyoma cells and myometrial cells challenged with Activin A, and to identify specifically the isoform of p38 MAPK that mediates the effects of Activin A. METHODS The immortalization human leiomyoma cells (HuLM) and human myometrial cells (HM), and mouse myometrial tissues were treated with Activin A (4 nM) in response to p38α/β inhibition (10 μM SB202190) or depletion (p38 α/β-targeting siRNA or p38β muscle specific-knock out mice). p38 MAPK signaling molecules (p-p38 and p-C/EBPβ) and ECM components (COL1A1 and/or FN) were analyzed by Western blotting. RESULTS Activin A induced ECM accumulation in leiomyoma cells and myofibroblastic transformation in myometrical cells specifically by p38β MAPK. CONCLUSION This study is the first to demonstrate that activation of C/EBPβ by p38β MAPK may contribute to tumorigenesis and progression of Activin A-induced leiomyoma. Specific p38β inhibition may represent a novel and promising intervention for leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqiong Bao
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Thomas K Sin
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Guohua Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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12
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Rodrigues Sousa E, Zoni E, Karkampouna S, La Manna F, Gray PC, De Menna M, Kruithof-de Julio M. A Multidisciplinary Review of the Roles of Cripto in the Scientific Literature Through a Bibliometric Analysis of its Biological Roles. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061480. [PMID: 32517087 PMCID: PMC7352664 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cripto is a small glycosylphosphatidylinisitol (GPI)-anchored and secreted oncofetal protein that plays important roles in regulating normal physiological processes, including stem cell differentiation, embryonal development, and tissue growth and remodeling, as well as pathological processes such as tumor initiation and progression. Cripto functions as a co-receptor for TGF-β ligands such as Nodal, GDF1, and GDF3. Soluble and secreted forms of Cripto also exhibit growth factor-like activity and activate SRC/MAPK/PI3K/AKT pathways. Glucose-Regulated Protein 78 kDa (GRP78) binds Cripto at the cell surface and has been shown to be required for Cripto signaling via both TGF-β and SRC/MAPK/PI3K/AKT pathways. To provide a comprehensive overview of the scientific literature related to Cripto, we performed, for the first time, a bibliometric analysis of the biological roles of Cripto as reported in the scientific literature covering the last 10 years. We present different fields of knowledge in comprehensive areas of research on Cripto, ranging from basic to translational research, using a keyword-driven approach. Our ultimate aim is to aid the scientific community in conducting targeted research by identifying areas where research has been conducted so far and, perhaps more importantly, where critical knowledge is still missing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Rodrigues Sousa
- Department for Biomedical Research, Urology Research Laboratory, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (E.Z.); (S.K.); (F.L.M.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Eugenio Zoni
- Department for Biomedical Research, Urology Research Laboratory, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (E.Z.); (S.K.); (F.L.M.); (M.D.M.)
- Department of Urology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sofia Karkampouna
- Department for Biomedical Research, Urology Research Laboratory, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (E.Z.); (S.K.); (F.L.M.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Federico La Manna
- Department for Biomedical Research, Urology Research Laboratory, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (E.Z.); (S.K.); (F.L.M.); (M.D.M.)
- Department of Urology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marta De Menna
- Department for Biomedical Research, Urology Research Laboratory, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (E.Z.); (S.K.); (F.L.M.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Marianna Kruithof-de Julio
- Department for Biomedical Research, Urology Research Laboratory, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (E.Z.); (S.K.); (F.L.M.); (M.D.M.)
- Department of Urology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
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13
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Santamaria X, Mas A, Cervelló I, Taylor H, Simon C. Uterine stem cells: from basic research to advanced cell therapies. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 24:673-693. [PMID: 30239705 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stem cell research in the endometrium and myometrium from animal models and humans has led to the identification of endometrial/myometrial stem cells and their niches. This basic knowledge is beginning to be translated to clinical use for incurable uterine pathologies. Additionally, the implication of bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDSCs) in uterine physiology has opened the field for the exploration of an exogenous and autologous source of stem cells. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this review, we outline the progress of endometrial and myometrial stem/progenitor cells in both human and mouse models from their characterization to their clinical application, indicating roles in Asherman syndrome, atrophic endometrium and tissue engineering, among others. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed and Google Scholar up to December 2017 was conducted to identify peer-reviewed literature related to the contribution of bone marrow, endometrial and myometrial stem cells to potential physiological regeneration as well as their implications in pathologies of the human uterus. OUTCOMES The discovery and main characteristics of stem cells in the murine and human endometrium and myometrium are presented together with the relevance of their niches and cross-regulation. The current state of advanced stem cell therapy using BMDSCs in the treatment of Asherman syndrome and atrophic endometrium is analyzed. In the myometrium, the understanding of genetic and epigenetic defects that result in the development of tumor-initiating cells in the myometrial stem niche and thus contribute to the growth of uterine leiomyoma is also presented. Finally, recent advances in tissue engineering based on the creation of novel three-dimensional scaffolds or decellularisation open up new perspectives for the field of uterine transplantation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS More than a decade after their discovery, the knowledge of uterine stem cells and their niches is crystalising into novel therapeutic approaches aiming to treat with cells those conditions that cannot be cured with drugs, particularly the currently incurable uterine pathologies. Additional work and improvements are needed, but the basis has been formed for this therapeutic application of uterine cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Santamaria
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Igenomix Academy, Paterna (Valencia), Spain.,Reproductive Medicine Department, IVI Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Biomedical Research Group in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Institut de Recerca, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aymara Mas
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Igenomix Academy, Paterna (Valencia), Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Irene Cervelló
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), and Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Hugh Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carlos Simon
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Igenomix Academy, Paterna (Valencia), Spain.,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Valencia University and INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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14
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Bloise E, Ciarmela P, Dela Cruz C, Luisi S, Petraglia F, Reis FM. Activin A in Mammalian Physiology. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:739-780. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00002.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins are dimeric glycoproteins belonging to the transforming growth factor beta superfamily and resulting from the assembly of two beta subunits, which may also be combined with alpha subunits to form inhibins. Activins were discovered in 1986 following the isolation of inhibins from porcine follicular fluid, and were characterized as ovarian hormones that stimulate follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) release by the pituitary gland. In particular, activin A was shown to be the isoform of greater physiological importance in humans. The current understanding of activin A surpasses the reproductive system and allows its classification as a hormone, a growth factor, and a cytokine. In more than 30 yr of intense research, activin A was localized in female and male reproductive organs but also in other organs and systems as diverse as the brain, liver, lung, bone, and gut. Moreover, its roles include embryonic differentiation, trophoblast invasion of the uterine wall in early pregnancy, and fetal/neonate brain protection in hypoxic conditions. It is now recognized that activin A overexpression may be either cytostatic or mitogenic, depending on the cell type, with important implications for tumor biology. Activin A also regulates bone formation and regeneration, enhances joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, and triggers pathogenic mechanisms in the respiratory system. In this 30-yr review, we analyze the evidence for physiological roles of activin A and the potential use of activin agonists and antagonists as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrrico Bloise
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
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15
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Ciebiera M, Włodarczyk M, Zgliczyńska M, Łukaszuk K, Męczekalski B, Kobierzycki C, Łoziński T, Jakiel G. The Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor α in the Biology of Uterine Fibroids and the Related Symptoms. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3869. [PMID: 30518097 PMCID: PMC6321234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors of the female genital tract. The incidence of UFs has been estimated at 25⁻80% depending on selected population. The pathophysiology of UFs remains poorly understood. The transformation of smooth muscle cells of the uterus into abnormal, immortal cells, capable of clonal division, is the main component of all pathways leading to UF tumor formation and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) is believed to be one of the key factors in this field. TNF-α is a cell signaling protein involved in systemic inflammation and is one of the cytokines responsible for the acute phase reaction. This publication presents current data about the role of tumor necrosis factor α in the biology of UFs and the related symptoms. TNF-α is an extremely important cytokine associated with the biology of UFs, UF-related symptoms and complaints. Its concentration has been proven to be elevated in women with clinically symptomatic UFs. The presented data suggest the presence of an "inflammation-like" state in women with UFs where TNF-α is a potent inflammation inducer. The origin of numerous symptoms reported by women with UFs can be traced back to the TNF-α influence. Nevertheless, our knowledge on this subject remains limited and TNF-α dependent pathways in UF pathophysiology should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacogenomics, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Zgliczyńska
- Students' Scientific Association at the I Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-015 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Łukaszuk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland.
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Błażej Męczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-513 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Christopher Kobierzycki
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Łoziński
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Pro-Familia Hospital, 35-001 Rzeszów, Poland.
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-004 Warsaw, Poland.
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16
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Activin A induces leiomyoma cell proliferation, extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation and myofibroblastic transformation of myometrial cells via p38 MAPK. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 504:447-453. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.08.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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17
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Prusinski Fernung LE, Jones K, Mas A, Kleven D, Waller JL, Al-Hendy A. Expanding upon the Human Myometrial Stem Cell Hypothesis and the Role of Race, Hormones, Age, and Parity in a Profibroid Environment. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2018; 188:2293-2306. [PMID: 30075150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2018.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are clonal, hormonally regulated, benign smooth-muscle myometrial tumors that severely affect female reproductive health, although their unknown etiology limits effective care. UFs occur fourfold more commonly in African American women than in Caucasian women, and African American women generally have earlier disease onset and greater UF tumor burden, although the mechanism of this ethnic disparity has not been identified. Recent findings have linked cancer (ie, tumor) risk to increased tissue-specific stem cell division and self-renewal and suggest that somatic mutations in myometrial stem cells (MyoSCs) convert them into tumor-initiating cells, leading to UF. Specifically, preliminary results in paraffin-embedded myometrial tissues have shown increased STRO-1+/CD44+ MyoSCs in African American versus Caucasian women. Using specific methods of flow cytometry and automated quantitative pathology imaging, a large cohort of myometrial samples were investigated to determine how the STRO-1+/CD44+ MyoSCs change with regard to a patient's race, age, parity, fibroid and hormone statuses, and the location of UFs within the uterus. We confirmed that the STRO-1+/CD44+ MyoSC population is expanded in African American women, is correlated with parity and fibroid number, and fluctuates with cyclic menstrual cycle hormone changes and age. Our data suggest that an expanded MyoSC population increases the formation of tumor-initiating cells, ultimately contributing to increased UF prevalence and burden in African American women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Prusinski Fernung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Kimya Jones
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Aymara Mas
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Daniel Kleven
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Jennifer L Waller
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois.
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18
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Couto HL, Buzelin MA, Toppa NH, Bloise E, Wainstein AJ, Reis FM. Prognostic value of follistatin-like 3 in human invasive breast cancer. Oncotarget 2018; 8:42189-42197. [PMID: 28178680 PMCID: PMC5522059 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin-like 3 (FSTL3) binds and inactivates activin, a growth factor involved with cell growth and differentiation. We have previously shown FSTL3 overexpression in invasive breast cancers, but its clinical relevance remained unexplored. Here we evaluate FSTL3 as a prognostic tool and its relation with clinical and pathological features of breast cancer. A cohort of 154 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 2008 and 2012 was followed up for 5 years. Tumor samples were processed by immunohistochemistry to detect FSTL3 expression in tumor epithelium. FSTL3 expression was classified semiquantitatively and tested for possible correlation with age, menopause status, stage, tumor histological type and grade, estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2 expression. Survival plots with Kaplan-Mayer statistics were used to assess whether FSTL3 expression predicted disease-free survival. Our findings show that FSTL3 staining was unrelated to menopausal status, histological type, disease stage, or receptor profile. However, the intensity of FSTL3 immunostaining correlated inversely with tumor size (r = -0.366, p<0.001) and with nuclear grade (p<0.01). The intensity of FSTL3 expression in the tumoral epithelium was not predictive of the disease-free survival (p = 0.991, log-rank test), even though the follow-up length and the study size were sufficient to detect a significant reduction in disease-free survival among women with stage III-IV compared to stage I-II disease (p<0.001). FSTL3 expression in invasive breast cancer is inversely associated with tumor size and nuclear grade but it does not predict disease relapse in the short term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique L Couto
- Division of Human Reproduction and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Department of Oncology, Hospital Alberto Cavalcanti, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Nivaldo H Toppa
- Laboratório Analys Patologia, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Enrrico Bloise
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Alberto J Wainstein
- Department of Oncology, Hospital Alberto Cavalcanti, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fernando M Reis
- Division of Human Reproduction and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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19
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Islam MS, Akhtar MM, Segars JH, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Molecular targets of dietary phytochemicals for possible prevention and therapy of uterine fibroids: Focus on fibrosis. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2018; 57:3583-3600. [PMID: 28609115 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2016.1245649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (myomas or leiomyomas) are common benign tumors of reproductive aged women. Fibroids are clinically apparent in 20-50% of women, and cause abnormal uterine bleeding, abdominal pain and discomfort, pregnancy complications and infertility. Unfortunately, limited numbers of medical treatment are available but no effective preventive strategies exist. Moreover, the benefits of medical treatments are tempered by lack of efficacy or serious adverse side effects. Fibrosis has recently been recognized as a key pathological event in leiomyoma development and growth. It is defined by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). ECM plays important role in making bulk structure of leiomyoma, and ECM-rich rigid structure is believed to be a cause of abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain/pressure. Dietary phytochemicals are known to regulate fibrotic process in different biological systems, and being considered as potential tool to manage human health. At present, very few dietary phytochemicals have been studied in uterine leiomyoma, and they are mostly known for their antiproliferative effects. Therefore, in this review, our aim was to introduce some dietary phytochemicals that could target fibrotic processes in leiomyoma. Thus, this review could serve as useful resource to develop antifibrotic drugs for possible prevention and treatment of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy.,b Biotechnology and Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Botany , University of Rajshahi , Rajshahi , Bangladesh
| | - Most Mauluda Akhtar
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy.,c Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy
| | - James H Segars
- d Howard W. and Georgeanna Seegar Jones Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
| | - Mario Castellucci
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy.,e Department of Information Engineering , Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy
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Torres-de la Roche LA, Becker S, Cezar C, Hermann A, Larbig A, Leicher L, Di Spiezio Sardo A, Tanos V, Wallwiener M, Verhoeven H, De Wilde RL. Pathobiology of myomatosis uteri: the underlying knowledge to support our clinical practice. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 296:701-707. [PMID: 28864872 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4494-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterine myomatosis, a benign condition, is the most common indication for hysterectomies worldwide, affecting the reproductive goals and quality of health of women. However, gynecologists have been provided with interesting insights on its pathobiology, which are the basis for uterine-preserving therapies. The aim of this paper is to discuss the latest evidence on these mechanisms and its importance in the clinical practice. METHOD A comprehensive literature search was made in Pubmed, Medline, the Cochrane Library, Orbis plus and Google Scholar for articles related to the epidemiological, biological, and genetic bases. RESULTS There is extensive evidence that genetic, epigenetic, hormonal, environmental, proinflamatory, angiogenetic, and growing factors are involved in the biology of myomatosis. Such factors are capable of activating and promoting inhibitory signaling pathways leading to initiation, development, and regression of myomata through changes in myometrial cells and myomata fibers, such as cellular proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and changes in the surrounding environment. CONCLUSION A good understanding of the pathobiologic mechanisms of myomatosis gives reasons to physicians to elect conservative or combined therapies, and allow affected women to receive an individualized management, according to age, reproduction desire, and clinical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz Angela Torres-de la Roche
- Clinic for Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Pius Hospital, University Hospital for Gynecology, Carl von Ossietzky University Medical School, Georgstrasse 12, 26121, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Sven Becker
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universitäts Klinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Cristina Cezar
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Carl von Ossietzky University Medical School, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Anja Hermann
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Carl von Ossietzky University Medical School, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Angelika Larbig
- Clinic for Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Pius Hospital, University Hospital for Gynecology, Carl von Ossietzky University Medical School, Georgstrasse 12, 26121, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Lasse Leicher
- Clinic for Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Pius Hospital, University Hospital for Gynecology, Carl von Ossietzky University Medical School, Georgstrasse 12, 26121, Oldenburg, Germany
| | | | - Vasilis Tanos
- Department of Surgery, Aretaeio Hospital, St. Georges Medical School, Nicosia University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Markus Wallwiener
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hugo Verhoeven
- Clinic for Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Pius Hospital, University Hospital for Gynecology, Carl von Ossietzky University Medical School, Georgstrasse 12, 26121, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Rudy Leon De Wilde
- Clinic for Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Pius Hospital, University Hospital for Gynecology, Carl von Ossietzky University Medical School, Georgstrasse 12, 26121, Oldenburg, Germany.
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Carrarelli P, Funghi L, Ciarmela P, Centini G, Reis FM, Dela Cruz C, Mattei A, Vannuccini S, Petraglia F. Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis and Endometrial Adenocarcinoma Express High Levels of Myostatin and Its Receptors Messenger RNAs. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:1577-1582. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719117698579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Carrarelli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Funghi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
- Department of Information Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gabriele Centini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Division of Human Reproduction, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Division of Human Reproduction, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Alberto Mattei
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Uterine fibroid management: from the present to the future. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:665-686. [PMID: 27466209 PMCID: PMC5853598 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 356] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (also known as leiomyomas or myomas) are the most common form of benign uterine tumors. Clinical presentations include abnormal bleeding, pelvic masses, pelvic pain, infertility, bulk symptoms and obstetric complications.Almost a third of women with leiomyomas will request treatment due to symptoms. Current management strategies mainly involve surgical interventions, but the choice of treatment is guided by patient's age and desire to preserve fertility or avoid 'radical' surgery such as hysterectomy. The management of uterine fibroids also depends on the number, size and location of the fibroids. Other surgical and non-surgical approaches include myomectomy by hysteroscopy, myomectomy by laparotomy or laparoscopy, uterine artery embolization and interventions performed under radiologic or ultrasound guidance to induce thermal ablation of the uterine fibroids.There are only a few randomized trials comparing various therapies for fibroids. Further investigations are required as there is a lack of concrete evidence of effectiveness and areas of uncertainty surrounding correct management according to symptoms. The economic impact of uterine fibroid management is significant and it is imperative that new treatments be developed to provide alternatives to surgical intervention.There is growing evidence of the crucial role of progesterone pathways in the pathophysiology of uterine fibroids due to the use of selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) such as ulipristal acetate (UPA). The efficacy of long-term intermittent use of UPA was recently demonstrated by randomized controlled studies.The need for alternatives to surgical intervention is very real, especially for women seeking to preserve their fertility. These options now exist, with SPRMs which are proven to treat fibroid symptoms effectively. Gynecologists now have new tools in their armamentarium, opening up novel strategies for the management of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Donnez
- Professor EM, Catholic University of Louvain, Director, Société de Recherche pour l'Infertilité (SRI), 143 Avenue Grandchamp, B-1150 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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Janjusevic M, Greco S, Islam MS, Castellucci C, Ciavattini A, Toti P, Petraglia F, Ciarmela P. Locostatin, a disrupter of Raf kinase inhibitor protein, inhibits extracellular matrix production, proliferation, and migration in human uterine leiomyoma and myometrial cells. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:1530-1538.e1. [PMID: 27565262 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.08.010] [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: 03/15/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the presence of Raf kinase inhibitor protein (RKIP) in human myometrium and leiomyoma as well as to determine the effect of locostatin (RKIP inhibitor) on extracellular matrix (ECM) production, proliferation, and migration in human myometrial and leiomyoma cells. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING Human myometrium and leiomyoma. PATIENT(S) Thirty premenopausal women who were admitted to the hospital for myomectomy or hysterectomy. INTERVENTION(S) Myometrial and leiomyoma tissues were used to investigate the localization and the expression level of RKIP through immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Myometrial and leiomyoma cells were treated with locostatin (10 μM) to measure ECM expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction, GSK3β expression by Western blotting, cell migration by wound-healing assay, and cell proliferation by MTT assay and immunocytochemistry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The expression of RKIP in human myometrial and leiomyoma tissue; ECM components and GSK3β expression, migration, and proliferation in myometrial and leiomyoma cells. RESULT(S) RKIP is expressed in human myometrial and leiomyoma tissue. Locostatin treatment resulted in the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal pathway (ERK phosphorylation), providing a powerful validation of our targeting protocol. Further, RKIP inhibition by locostatin reduces ECM components. Moreover, the inhibition of RKIP by locostatin impaired cell proliferation and migration in both leiomyoma and myometrial cells. Finally, locostatin treatment reduced GSK3β expression. Therefore, even if the activation of MAPK pathway should increase proliferation and migration, the destabilization of GSK3β leads to the reduction of proliferation and migration of myometrial and leiomyoma cells. CONCLUSION(S) Our results indicate that RKIP may be involved in leiomyoma pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milijana Janjusevic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Greco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Biotechnology and Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Clara Castellucci
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciavattini
- Department of Clinical Science, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Paolo Toti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Information Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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24
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Reis FM, Bloise E, Ortiga-Carvalho TM. Hormones and pathogenesis of uterine fibroids. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2016; 34:13-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2015.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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25
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Baello S, Iqbal M, Kearney S, Kuthiala S, Bloise E, Gibb W, Matthews SG. Glucocorticoids modify effects of TGF-β1 on multidrug resistance in the fetal blood-brain barrier. Growth Factors 2016; 34:33-41. [PMID: 27126232 DOI: 10.3109/08977194.2016.1162163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) increases P-glycoprotein (P-gp; encoded by Abcb1) activity in fetal brain endothelial cells (BECs). P-gp is important for fetal brain protection against xenobiotics including synthetic glucocorticoids (sGC). We hypothesized that antenatal sGC would modify P-gp responsiveness to TGF-β1 in fetal BECs. Pregnant guinea pigs were treated with dexamethasone or vehicle (N = 5/group) on gestational day (GD) 48-49 and BECs derived on GD50. In BECs from control fetuses, TGF-β1 increased Abcb1 mRNA and P-gp function, by approximately 5-fold and 55% respectively, as well as tight junction function. In contrast, TGF-β1 had no effect on these parameters in BECs from sGC-exposed fetuses. Moreover, levels of TGF-β1 responsive gene, Smad7, were increased 3-fold in BECs from control fetuses after TGF-β1 but not in sGC-exposed fetuses. In conclusion, antenatal sGC alters responsiveness to TGF-β1 in fetal BECs. This study has identified novel mechanisms by which TGF-β1 and sGC modulate fetal brain protection against xenobiotics and other P-gp substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Baello
- a Department of Physiology , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
| | - Majid Iqbal
- a Department of Physiology , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
| | - Samantha Kearney
- a Department of Physiology , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
| | - Shikah Kuthiala
- a Department of Physiology , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
| | - Enrrico Bloise
- b Department of Morphology , Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil
| | - William Gibb
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , and Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa , Ottawa , ON , Canada
| | - Stephen G Matthews
- a Department of Physiology , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
- d Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada , and
- e Department of Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto , Toronto , ON , Canada
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26
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Possible involvement of inflammatory/reparative processes in the development of uterine fibroids. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 364:415-27. [PMID: 26613601 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2324-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are benign tumors in the smooth muscle layer of the uterus. The most common histological type is the "usual leiomyoma", characterized by overexpression of ECM proteins, whereas the "cellular type" has higher cellular content. Our objective is to investigate the involvement of inflammatory and reparative processes in leiomyoma pathobiology. Using a morphological approach, we investigate the presence of inflammatory cells. Next, we determine the localization of the ECM, the presence/absence of fibrotic cells via α-sma and desmin and the immunohistochemical profile of the mesenchymal cells with respect to CD34. Finally, we explore the effect of inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-15, GM-CSF and IFN-γ) on pro-fibrotic factor activin A mRNA expression in vitro. Higher numbers of macrophages were found inside and close to leiomyomas as compared to the more distant myometrium. Cellular leiomyomas showed more macrophages and mast cells than the "usual type". Inside the fibroid tissue, we found cells positive for α-sma, but negative for desmin and a large amount of collagen surrounding the nodule, suggestive of myofibroblasts producing ECM. In the myometrium and leiomyomas of the "usual type", we identified numerous CD34+ fibroblasts, which are known to give rise to myofibroblasts upon loss of CD34 expression. In leiomyomas of the "cellular type", stromal fibroblasts were CD34-negative. Finally, we found that TNF-α increased activin A mRNA in myometrial and leiomyoma cells. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the presence of inflammatory cells in uterine leiomyomas, which may contribute to excessive ECM production, tissue remodeling and leiomyoma growth.
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27
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Growth factors and pathogenesis. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2015; 34:25-36. [PMID: 26527305 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2015.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Growth factors are relatively small and stable, secreted or membrane-bound polypeptide ligands, which play an important role in proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, survival, inflammation, and tissue repair, or fibrosis. They exert multiple effects through the activation of signal transduction pathways by binding to their receptors on the surface of target cells. A number of studies have demonstrated the central role of growth factors and their signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyomas. Numerous differentially expressed growth factors have been identified in leiomyoma and myometrial cells. These growth factors can activate multiple signaling pathways (Smad 2/3, ERK 1/2, PI3K, and β-catenin) and regulate major cellular processes, including inflammation, proliferation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis which are linked to uterine leiomyoma development and growth. In this chapter, we discuss the role of growth factors and their signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyomas.
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28
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Carrarelli P, Yen CF, Arcuri F, Funghi L, Tosti C, Wang TH, Huang JS, Petraglia F. Myostatin, follistatin and activin type II receptors are highly expressed in adenomyosis. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:744-52.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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29
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Tsigkou A, Reis FM, Ciarmela P, Lee MH, Jiang B, Tosti C, Shen FR, Shi Z, Chen YG, Petraglia F. Expression Levels of Myostatin and Matrix Metalloproteinase 14 mRNAs in Uterine Leiomyoma are Correlated With Dysmenorrhea. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1597-602. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115592710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Tsigkou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Division of Human Reproduction, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
- Department of Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Meng H. Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | | | - Claudia Tosti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fang-Rong Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhendan Shi
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - You-Guo Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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30
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Ura B, Scrimin F, Zanconati F, Arrigoni G, Monasta L, Romano A, Banco R, Zweyer M, Milani D, Ricci G. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis analysis of the leiomyoma interstitial fluid reveals altered protein expression with a possible involvement in pathogenesis. Oncol Rep 2015; 33:2219-26. [PMID: 25738828 DOI: 10.3892/or.2015.3827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 12/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyoma is the most common smooth benign neoplasm. In the present study, we analyzed the global interstitial fluid (IF) profile of leiomyoma vs. normal myometrium to identify protein dysregulation involved in leiomyoma pathogenesis. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry were used to generate and compare the global interstitial fluid profiles of the leiomyoma and of the normal tissue. Two proteins were validated by immunohistochemistry. By comparing the interstitial fluid profile of the leiomyoma with that of the normal myometrium, the levels of seven proteins were found to be significantly different: four structural organization proteins (desmin, prelamin-A/C, transgelin and α-actinin-1), an inflammatory response (α1-antitrypsin), a response to oxidative stress (peroxiredoxin-2), and a folding protein (heat shock 70 kDa protein 1A/1B). Desmin, α1-antitrypsin and peroxiredoxin-2 were upregulated in the leiomyoma, whereas heat shock 70 kDa protein 1A/1B, α-actinin-1, prelamin-A/C and transgelin were downregulated. Desmin and α1-antitrypsin were further validated by immunohistochemistry. By identifying proteins with altered expression levels compared to the myometrium from several pathways of the leiomyoma pathogenesis, we found the leiomyoma interstitial fluid to have a characteristic proteomic profile. A better appreciation of the pathophysiology of the disease can be useful in the development of conservative treatments that serve as viable alternatives to hysterectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blendi Ura
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', Trieste, Italy
| | - Federica Scrimin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', Trieste, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Zanconati
- Department of Medical, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giorgio Arrigoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Monasta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrea Romano
- UCO Pathological Anatomy and Histology, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Ospedali Riuniti, Trieste, Italy
| | - Rubina Banco
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', Trieste, Italy
| | - Marina Zweyer
- Department of Medical, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Daniela Milani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', Trieste, Italy
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31
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Borges LE, Bloise E, Dela Cruz C, Massai L, Ciarmela P, Apa R, Luisi S, Severi FM, Petraglia F, Reis FM. Expression, localization and control of activin A release from human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Growth Factors 2015; 33:243-9. [PMID: 26340032 DOI: 10.3109/08977194.2015.1071809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Activin-A is a member of the TGFβ superfamily found in maternal and umbilical cord blood throughout gestation. We investigated whether human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) express activin-A in vivo and tested the effects of vasoactive (endothelin-1), pro-inflammatory (interferon-γ, interleukin-8) and anti-inflammatory (dexamethasone, urocortin) factors on activin-A release by isolated HUVEC in vitro. Activin βA subunit protein and mRNA were strongly localized in the endothelial cells of umbilical veins and were also detectable in scattered cells of the cord connective tissue. Dimeric activin-A was detected in the HUVEC culture medium at picomolar concentrations. Activin-A release by HUVEC decreased after cell incubation with urocortin (p < 0.01), whereas no effect was observed with interleukin-8, interferon-γ, endothelin-1 or dexamethasone. In summary, activin-A is present in the human umbilical vein endothelium in vivo and is produced and released by isolated HUVEC. Activin-A secretion is inhibited in vitro by urocortin, a neuropeptide with predominantly anti-inflammatory action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia E Borges
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil
| | - Enrrico Bloise
- b Laboratory of Translational Endocrinology , Biophysics Institute Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil
| | - Lauretta Massai
- c Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences , University of Siena , Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- d Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Polytechnic University of Marche , Ancona , Italy
| | - Rosanna Apa
- e Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore , Rome , Italy , and
| | - Stefano Luisi
- f Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Filiberto M Severi
- f Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- f Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Fernando M Reis
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil
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Islam MS, Protic O, Ciavattini A, Giannubilo SR, Tranquilli AL, Catherino WH, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Tranilast, an orally active antiallergic compound, inhibits extracellular matrix production in human uterine leiomyoma and myometrial cells. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:597-606. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Ciarmela P, Carrarelli P, Islam MS, Janjusevic M, Zupi E, Tosti C, Castellucci M, Petraglia F. Ulipristal acetate modulates the expression and functions of activin a in leiomyoma cells. Reprod Sci 2014; 21:1120-5. [PMID: 25001022 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114542019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyoma is the most common benign gynecological tumor in women of reproductive age and represents the single most common indication for hysterectomy. A development of new treatments is necessary for a medical management, and in this direction, several hormonal drugs are under investigation. Ulipristal acetate (UPA; a selective progesterone receptor modulator) is considered as one of the most promising because progesterone has a critical role in development and growth of uterine leiomyoma. The effect of steroids is partly mediated by growth factors like activin A which increases extracellular matrix expression contributing to the growth of leiomyoma. The present study aimed to test whether UPA acts on leiomyoma cells affecting expression and functions of activin A system. Cultured myometrial and leiomyoma cells were treated with UPA, and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of activin A (inhibin βA [INHBA] subunits), its binding proteins (follistatin [FST] and FST-related gene), and its receptors (activin receptor-like kinase 4 [ALK4], activin receptor type [ActR] II, and ActRIIB) were evaluated. The effect of UPA on activin A modulation of fibronectin and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) mRNA expression in cultured myometrial and leiomyoma cells was also studied. Ulipristal acetate decreased INHBA, FST, ActRIIB, and Alk4 mRNA expressions in leiomyoma cultured cells. In addition, UPA was able to block the activin A-induced increase in fibronectin or VEGF-A mRNA expression in myometrial and in leiomyoma cultured cells. The present data show that UPA inhibits activin A expression and functions in leiomyoma cells, and this may represent a possible mechanism of action of the drug on uterine leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy Department of Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Patrizia Carrarelli
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 'S. Maria alle Scotte', Siena, Italy
| | - Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy Department of Botany, Biotechnology and Microbiology Laboratory, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Milijana Janjusevic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Errico Zupi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 'S. Maria alle Scotte', Siena, Italy
| | - Claudia Tosti
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 'S. Maria alle Scotte', Siena, Italy
| | - Mario Castellucci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 'S. Maria alle Scotte', Siena, Italy
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Islam MS, Catherino WH, Protic O, Janjusevic M, Gray PC, Giannubilo SR, Ciavattini A, Lamanna P, Tranquilli AL, Petraglia F, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Role of activin-A and myostatin and their signaling pathway in human myometrial and leiomyoma cell function. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:E775-85. [PMID: 24606069 PMCID: PMC4010707 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-2623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Uterine leiomyomas are highly prevalent benign tumors of premenopausal women and the most common indication for hysterectomy. However, the exact etiology of this tumor is not fully understood. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to evaluate the role of activin-A and myostatin and their signaling pathways in human myometrial and leiomyoma cells. DESIGN This was a laboratory study. SETTING Myometrial and leiomyoma cells (primary and cell lines) were cultured in vitro. PATIENTS The study included premenopausal women who were admitted to the hospital for myomectomy or hysterectomy. INTERVENTIONS Primary myometrial and leiomyoma cells and/or cell lines were treated with activin-A (4 nM) and myostatin (4 nM) for different days of interval (to measure proliferation rate) or 30 minutes (to measure signaling molecules) or 48 hours to measure proliferating markers, extracellular matrix mRNA, and/or protein expression by real-time PCR, Western blot, and/or immunocytochemistry. RESULTS We found that activin-A and myostatin significantly reduce cell proliferation in primary myometrial cells but not in leiomyoma cells as measured by a CyQUANT cell proliferation assay kit. Reduced expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Ki-67 were also observed in myometrial cells in response to activin-A and myostatin treatment. Activin-A also significantly increased mRNA expression of fibronectin, collagen1A1, and versican in primary leiomyoma cells. Finally, we found that activin-A and myostatin activate Smad-2/3 signaling but do not affect ERK or p38 signaling in both myometrial and leiomyoma cells. CONCLUSIONS This study results suggest that activin-A and myostatin can exert antiproliferative and/or fibrotic effects on these cell types via Smad-2/3 signaling.
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A novel highly divergent protein family identified from a viviparous insect by RNA-seq analysis: a potential target for tsetse fly-specific abortifacients. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1003874. [PMID: 24763277 PMCID: PMC3998918 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1003874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In tsetse flies, nutrients for intrauterine larval development are synthesized by the modified accessory gland (milk gland) and provided in mother's milk during lactation. Interference with at least two milk proteins has been shown to extend larval development and reduce fecundity. The goal of this study was to perform a comprehensive characterization of tsetse milk proteins using lactation-specific transcriptome/milk proteome analyses and to define functional role(s) for the milk proteins during lactation. Differential analysis of RNA-seq data from lactating and dry (non-lactating) females revealed enrichment of transcripts coding for protein synthesis machinery, lipid metabolism and secretory proteins during lactation. Among the genes induced during lactation were those encoding the previously identified milk proteins (milk gland proteins 1-3, transferrin and acid sphingomyelinase 1) and seven new genes (mgp4-10). The genes encoding mgp2-10 are organized on a 40 kb syntenic block in the tsetse genome, have similar exon-intron arrangements, and share regions of amino acid sequence similarity. Expression of mgp2-10 is female-specific and high during milk secretion. While knockdown of a single mgp failed to reduce fecundity, simultaneous knockdown of multiple variants reduced milk protein levels and lowered fecundity. The genomic localization, gene structure similarities, and functional redundancy of MGP2-10 suggest that they constitute a novel highly divergent protein family. Our data indicates that MGP2-10 function both as the primary amino acid resource for the developing larva and in the maintenance of milk homeostasis, similar to the function of the mammalian casein family of milk proteins. This study underscores the dynamic nature of the lactation cycle and identifies a novel family of lactation-specific proteins, unique to Glossina sp., that are essential to larval development. The specificity of MGP2-10 to tsetse and their critical role during lactation suggests that these proteins may be an excellent target for tsetse-specific population control approaches.
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Uterine fibroids: pathogenesis and interactions with endometrium and endomyometrial junction. Obstet Gynecol Int 2013; 2013:173184. [PMID: 24163697 PMCID: PMC3791844 DOI: 10.1155/2013/173184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids or myomas) are benign tumors of uterus and clinically apparent in a large part of reproductive aged women. Clinically, they present with a variety of symptoms: excessive menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhoea and intermenstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms such as a sensation of bloatedness, increased urinary frequency, and bowel disturbance. In addition, they may compromise reproductive functions, possibly contributing to subfertility, early pregnancy loss, and later pregnancy complications. Despite the prevalence of this condition, myoma research is underfunded compared to other nonmalignant diseases. To date, several pathogenetic factors such as genetics, microRNA, steroids, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and extracellular matrix components have been implicated in the development and growth of leiomyoma. This paper summarizes the available literature regarding the ultimate relative knowledge on pathogenesis of uterine fibroids and their interactions with endometrium and subendometrial myometrium.
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Islam MS, Protic O, Stortoni P, Grechi G, Lamanna P, Petraglia F, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Complex networks of multiple factors in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyoma. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:178-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2012] [Revised: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Islam MS, Protic O, Giannubilo SR, Toti P, Tranquilli AL, Petraglia F, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Uterine leiomyoma: available medical treatments and new possible therapeutic options. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:921-34. [PMID: 23393173 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-3237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids or myomas) are benign tumors of the uterus and are clinically apparent in up to 25% of reproductive-age women. Heavy or abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, infertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss are generally associated with leiomyoma. Although surgical and radiological therapies are frequently used for the management of this tumor, medical therapies are considered the first-line treatment of leiomyoma. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION AND SYNTHESIS A review was conducted of electronic and print data comprising both original and review articles on pathophysiology and medical treatments of uterine leiomyoma retrieved from the PubMed or Google Scholar database up to June 2012. These resources were integrated with the authors' knowledge of the field. CONCLUSION To date, several pathogenetic factors such as genetic factors, epigenetic factors, estrogens, progesterone, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and extracellular matrix components have been implicated in leiomyoma development and growth. On the basis of current hypotheses, several medical therapies have been investigated. GnRH agonist has been approved by US Food and Drug Administration for reducing fibroid volume and related symptoms. In addition, the FDA also approved an intrauterine device, levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (Mirena), for additional use to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in intrauterine device users only. Currently, mifepristone, asoprisnil, ulipristal acetate, and epigallocatechin gallate have been shown to be effective for fibroid regression and symptomatic improvement which are all in clinical trial. In addition, some synthetic and natural compounds as well as growth factor inhibitors are now under laboratory investigation, and they could serve as future therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, via Tronto 10/a, 60020 Ancona, Italy
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Cripto regulates skeletal muscle regeneration and modulates satellite cell determination by antagonizing myostatin. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:E3231-40. [PMID: 23129614 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1204017109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle regeneration mainly depends on satellite cells, a population of resident muscle stem cells. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying satellite cell activation is still largely undefined. Here, we show that Cripto, a regulator of early embryogenesis, is a novel regulator of muscle regeneration and satellite cell progression toward the myogenic lineage. Conditional inactivation of cripto in adult satellite cells compromises skeletal muscle regeneration, whereas gain of function of Cripto accelerates regeneration, leading to muscle hypertrophy. Moreover, we provide evidence that Cripto modulates myogenic cell determination and promotes proliferation by antagonizing the TGF-β ligand myostatin. Our data provide unique insights into the molecular and cellular basis of Cripto activity in skeletal muscle regeneration and raise previously undescribed implications for stem cell biology and regenerative medicine.
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Kim JJ, Sefton EC. The role of progesterone signaling in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyoma. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 358:223-31. [PMID: 21672608 PMCID: PMC3184215 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are benign tumors that originate from the myometrium. Evidence points to ovarian steroid hormones, in particular, progesterone as major promoters of leiomyoma development and growth. While progesterone action in leiomyomas involves the classical nuclear receptor effects on gene regulation, there is growing evidence that signaling pathways are directly activated by the progesterone receptor (PR) and that PR can interact with growth factor signaling systems to promote proliferation and survival of leiomyomas. Studies investigating the genomic and non-genomic actions of PR and its role in leiomyoma growth are summarized here. Studies testing various selective progesterone receptor modulators for the treatment of leiomyomas are also highlighted. An increased understanding of the mechanisms associated with progesterone-driven growth of leiomyomas is critical in order to develop more efficient and targeted therapies for this prevalent disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Julie Kim
- Division of Reproductive Biology Research, Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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Kemaladewi DU, de Gorter DJJ, Aartsma-Rus A, van Ommen GJ, ten Dijke P, 't Hoen PAC, Hoogaars WM. Cell-type specific regulation of myostatin signaling. FASEB J 2011; 26:1462-72. [PMID: 22202673 DOI: 10.1096/fj.11-191189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor (TGF)-β family member myostatin is an important regulator of myoblast, adipocyte, and fibroblast growth and differentiation, but the signaling mechanisms remain to be established. We therefore determined the contribution of myostatin type I receptors activin receptor-like kinase-4 (ALK4) and -5 (ALK5) and different coreceptors in C2C12 myoblasts, C3H10T1/2 mesenchymal stem cells, and 3T3-L1 fibroblasts, as well as in primary myoblast and fibroblasts. We performed siRNA-mediated knockdown of each receptor and measured signaling activity using Smad3-dependent luciferase and Smad2 phosphorylation assays with nontargeting siRNA as control. We find that myostatin utilizes ALK4 in myoblasts, whereas it has a preference for ALK5 in nonmyogenic cells. Notably, our results show that coreceptor Cripto is expressed in myoblasts but not in the nonmyogenic cells and that it regulates myostatin activity. More specifically, myostatin requires Cripto in myoblasts, whereas Cripto represses activin activity and TGF-β signaling is Cripto independent. Cripto-mediated myostatin signaling is dependent on both epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like and Cripto-FRL1-cryptic (CFC) domains, whereas activin signaling is solely conferred by the CFC domain. Furthermore, Cripto down-regulation enhances myoblast differentiation, showing its importance in myostatin signaling. Together, our results identify a molecular mechanism that explains the cell-type specific aspects of signaling by myostatin and other TGF-β family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwi U Kemaladewi
- Center for Human and Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Postzone S4-P, PO Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Ciarmela P, Islam MS, Reis FM, Gray PC, Bloise E, Petraglia F, Vale W, Castellucci M. Growth factors and myometrium: biological effects in uterine fibroid and possible clinical implications. Hum Reprod Update 2011; 17:772-90. [PMID: 21788281 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmr031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growth factors are proteins secreted by a number of cell types that are capable of modulating cellular growth, proliferation and cellular differentiation. It is well accepted that uterine cellular events such as proliferation and differentiation are regulated by sex steroids and their actions in target tissues are mediated by local production of growth factors acting through paracrine and/or autocrine mechanisms. Myometrial mass is ultimately modified in pregnancy as well as in tumour conditions such as leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma. Leiomyomas, also known as fibroids, are benign tumours of the uterus, considered to be one of the most frequent causes of infertility in reproductive years in women. METHODS For this review, we searched the database MEDLINE and Google Scholar for articles with content related to growth factors acting on myometrium; the findings are hereby reviewed and discussed. RESULTS Different growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α), heparin-binding EGF (HB-EGF), acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and TGF-β perform actions in myometrium and in leiomyomas. In addition to these growth factors, activin and myostatin have been recently identified in myometrium and leiomyoma. CONCLUSIONS Growth factors play an important role in the mechanisms involved in myometrial patho-physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, via Tronto 10/a, 60020 Ancona, Italy.
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