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Shimada H, Powell TL, Jansson T. Regulation of placental amino acid transport in health and disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14157. [PMID: 38711335 PMCID: PMC11162343 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Abnormal fetal growth, i.e., intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or fetal growth restriction (FGR) and fetal overgrowth, is associated with increased perinatal morbidity and mortality and is strongly linked to the development of metabolic and cardiovascular disease in childhood and later in life. Emerging evidence suggests that changes in placental amino acid transport may contribute to abnormal fetal growth. This review is focused on amino acid transport in the human placenta, however, relevant animal models will be discussed to add mechanistic insights. At least 25 distinct amino acid transporters with different characteristics and substrate preferences have been identified in the human placenta. Of these, System A, transporting neutral nonessential amino acids, and System L, mediating the transport of essential amino acids, have been studied in some detail. Importantly, decreased placental Systems A and L transporter activity is strongly associated with IUGR and increased placental activity of these two amino acid transporters has been linked to fetal overgrowth in human pregnancy. An array of factors in the maternal circulation, including insulin, IGF-1, and adiponectin, and placental signaling pathways such as mTOR, have been identified as key regulators of placental Systems A and L. Studies using trophoblast-specific gene targeting in mice have provided compelling evidence that changes in placental Systems A and L are mechanistically linked to altered fetal growth. It is possible that targeting specific placental amino acid transporters or their upstream regulators represents a novel intervention to alleviate the short- and long-term consequences of abnormal fetal growth in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Shimada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, US
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Theresa L Powell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, US
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, US
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, US
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Wilson RL, Davenport BN, Jones HN. Mid-pregnancy placental transcriptome in a model of placental insufficiency with and without novel intervention. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.05.597621. [PMID: 38895312 PMCID: PMC11185618 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.05.597621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects between 5-10% of all live births. Placental insufficiency is a leading cause of FGR, resulting in reduced nutrient and oxygen delivery to the fetus. Currently, there are no effective in utero treatment options for FGR, or placental insufficiency. We have developed a gene therapy to deliver, via a non-viral nanoparticle, human insulin-like 1 growth factor ( hIGF1 ) to the placenta as potential treatment of placenta insufficiency and FGR. Using a guinea pig maternal nutrient restriction (MNR) model of FGR, we aimed to understand the transcriptional changes within the placenta associated with placental insufficiency that occur prior to/at initiation of FGR, and the impact of short-term hIGF1 nanoparticle treatment. Using RNAsequencing, we analyzed protein coding genes of three experimental groups: Control and MNR dams receiving a sham treatment, and MNR dams receiving hIGF1 nanoparticle treatment. Pathway enrichment analysis comparing differentially expressed genelists in sham-treated MNR placentas to Control revealed upregulation of pathways associated with degradation and repair of genetic information and downregulation of pathways associated with transmembrane transport. When compared to sham-treated MNR placentas, MNR + hIGF1 placentas demonstrated changes to genelists associated with transmembrane transporter activity including ion, vitamin and solute carrier transport. Overall, this study identifies the key signaling and metabolic changes occurring in the placenta contributing to placental insufficiency prior to/at initiation of FGR, and increases our understanding of the pathways that our nanoparticle-mediated gene therapy intervention regulates. Statements and Declarations Competing Interests: Authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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Rosario FJ, Barentsen K, Powell TL, Urschitz J, Brown TL, Kanai Y, Jansson T. Trophoblast-specific overexpression of the LAT1 increases transplacental transport of essential amino acids and fetal growth in mice. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae207. [PMID: 38894879 PMCID: PMC11184900 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Placental System L amino acid transporter activity is decreased in pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and increased in fetal overgrowth. However, it is unknown if changes in the expression/activity of placental Large Neutral Amino Acid Transporter Small Subunit 1 (Slc7a5/LAT1) are mechanistically linked to placental function and fetal growth. We hypothesized that trophoblast-specific Slc7a5 overexpression increases placental transport of essential amino acids, activates the placental mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, and promotes fetal growth in mice. Using lentiviral transduction of blastocysts with a Slc7a5 transgene, we achieved trophoblast-specific overexpression of Slc7a5 (Slc7a5 OX) with increased fetal (+27%) and placental weights (+10%). Trophoblast-specific Slc7a5 overexpression increased trophoblast plasma membrane (TPM) LAT1 protein abundance and TPM System L transporter (+53%) and System A transporter activity (+ 21%). Slc7a5 overexpression also increased transplacental transport of leucine (+ 85%) but not of the System A tracer, 14C-methylamino isobutyric acid, in vivo. Trophoblast-specific overexpression of Slc7a5 activated placental mTORC1, as assessed by increased (+44%) phosphorylation of S6 ribosomal protein (Ser 235/236), and mTORC2 as indicated by phosphorylation of PKCα-Tyr-657 (+47%) and Akt-Ser 473 (+96%). This is the first demonstration that placental transport of essential amino acids is mechanistically linked to fetal growth. The decreased placental System L activity in human IUGR and the increased placental activity of this transporter in some cases of fetal overgrowth may directly contribute to the development of these pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrick J Rosario
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kenneth Barentsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Theresa L Powell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Section of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Johann Urschitz
- Institue of Biogenesis, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Thomas L Brown
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, USA
| | - Yoshikatsu Kanai
- Department of Bio-system Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Zaugg J, Albrecht C. Assessment of Placental Sodium-Independent Leucine Uptake and Transfer in Trophoblast Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2728:105-121. [PMID: 38019395 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3495-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The placenta maintains the balance between nutrition and growth control of the fetus through selective and regulated supply of macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and critical micronutrients. Perturbations in the balanced supply of nutrients as found in gestational diseases and altered fetal development have been associated with changes in amino acid transport proteins, such as the System L amino acid heterodimeric exchangers LAT1/SLC7A5 and LAT2/SLC7A8. Syncytiotrophoblasts (STB) form the crucial cell layer at the placental barrier coordinating the transfer of essential amino acids such as leucine from the maternal to the fetal circulation. The System L-mediated leucine transport across the placental barrier is a Na+-independent process against a counter-directed gradient, maintained by a tightly regulated interplay between accumulative transporters, exchangers, and facilitators.The two methods described here allow to standardize and characterize the uptake kinetics of leucine in conventionally cultured BeWo cells and the transfer of leucine across the placental cell barrier using a BeWo monolayer in the Transwell® system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Zaugg
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Christiane Albrecht
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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Rosario FJ, Urschitz J, Powell TL, Brown TL, Jansson T. Overexpression of the LAT1 in primary human trophoblast cells increases the uptake of essential amino acids and activates mTOR signaling. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:1651-1664. [PMID: 37861075 DOI: 10.1042/cs20230490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The System L amino acid transporter, particularly the isoform Large Neutral Amino Acid Transporter Small Subunit 1 (LAT1) encoded by SLC7A5, is believed to mediate the transfer of essential amino acids in the human placenta. Placental System L amino acid transporter expression and activity is decreased in pregnancies complicated by IUGR and increased in fetal overgrowth. However, it remains unknown if changes in the expression of LAT1 are mechanistically linked to System L amino acid transport activity. Here, we combined overexpression approaches with protein analysis and functional studies in cultured primary human trophoblast (PHT) cells to test the hypothesis that SLC7A5 overexpression increases the uptake of essential amino acids and activates mTOR signaling in PHT cells. Overexpression of SLC7A5 resulted in a marked increase in protein expression of LAT1 in the PHT cells microvillous plasma membrane and System L amino acid transporter activity. Moreover, mTOR signaling was activated, and System A amino acid transporter activity increased following SLC7A5 overexpression, suggesting coordination of trophoblast amino transporter expression and activity to ensure balanced nutrient flux to the fetus. This is the first report showing that overexpression of LAT1 is sufficient to increase the uptake of essential amino acids in PHT cells, which activates mTOR, a master regulator of placental function. The decreased placental System L activity in human IUGR and the increased placental activity of this transporter system in some cases of fetal overgrowth may directly contribute to changes in fetal amino acid availability and altered fetal growth in these pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrick J Rosario
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, U.S.A
| | - Johann Urschitz
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, U.S.A
| | - Theresa L Powell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, U.S.A
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, U.S.A
| | - Thomas L Brown
- Section of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, U.S.A
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH, U.S.A
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, U.S.A
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Meneghelli M, Peruzzo A, Priante E, Cavicchiolo ME, Bonadies L, Moschino L, De Terlizzi F, Verlato G. Bone Status and Early Nutrition in Preterm Newborns with and without Intrauterine Growth Restriction. Nutrients 2023; 15:4753. [PMID: 38004147 PMCID: PMC10675104 DOI: 10.3390/nu15224753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) together with preterm birth could be harmful to bone health. The aim of the study was to examine bone status in IUGR versus non-IUGR preterms and to analyze the nutritional management best correlated with its improvement. Newborns < 34 weeks of gestational age (wGA), 75 IUGR and 75 non-IUGR, admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the University Hospital of Padova were enrolled and monitored from birth until 36 wGA through anthropometry (weight, length, head circumference, lower limb length (LLL)), biochemistry, bone quantitative ultrasound assessment of bone status (metacarpus bone transmission time, mc-BTT, us) and nutritional intakes monitoring during parenteral nutrition. IUGR compared to non-IUGR showed lower mean mc-BTT (0.45 vs. 0.51, p = 0.0005) and plasmatic phosphate (1.45 vs. 1.79, p < 0.001) at birth. Mc-BTT at 36 wGA, though equal between groups, correlated in IUGR newborns with basal phosphate, mean total energy of the first week and month (positively) and days to reach full enteral feeding (negatively). Lower i.v. vitamin D intake, LLL and prolonged total parenteral nutrition predicted worse mc-BTT at 36 wGA in the enrolled infants. These results suggest that preterms and in particular IUGR newborns need special nutritional care to promote bone development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Meneghelli
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (E.P.); (M.E.C.); (L.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Andrea Peruzzo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (E.P.); (M.E.C.); (L.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Elena Priante
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (E.P.); (M.E.C.); (L.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Maria Elena Cavicchiolo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (E.P.); (M.E.C.); (L.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Luca Bonadies
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (E.P.); (M.E.C.); (L.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Laura Moschino
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (E.P.); (M.E.C.); (L.B.); (L.M.)
| | | | - Giovanna Verlato
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (E.P.); (M.E.C.); (L.B.); (L.M.)
- Paediatric Nutrition Service, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
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Zheng X, Xie Y, Chen Z, He J, Chen J. Effects of Glycine Supplementation in Drinking Water on the Growth Performance, Intestinal Development, and Genes Expression in the Jejunum of Chicks. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3109. [PMID: 37835714 PMCID: PMC10571574 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycine, the most basic amino acid found in nature, is considered an essential amino acid for chicks. However, the precise understanding of high concentrations of glycine's significance in promoting the growth performance of chicks, as well as its impact on intestinal development, re-mains limited. Consequently, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of glycine supplementation in drinking water on growth performance, intestine morphology, and development in newly hatched chicks. In this study, 200 newly born chicks were selected and pro-vided with a supplementation of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% glycine in their drinking water during their first week of life. The results revealed that glycine supplementation in drinking water could significantly increase the average daily gain of chicks from days 7 to 14. Furthermore, a significant difference was observed between the group supplemented with 1% glycine and the control group. Concurrently, this glycine supplementation increased the villus height and the ratio of the villus height to crypt depth in jejunum on both day 7 and day 14. Glycine supplementation in drinking water significantly affected the mRNA expression level of the ZO-1, GCLM, and rBAT genes in jejunum, which may have certain effects on the mucosal immune defense, cellular antioxidant stress capacity, and amino acid absorption. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that glycine supplementation in drinking water can enhance the growth performance of chicks and promote their intestine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Zheng
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China; (X.Z.); (Y.X.); (Z.C.); (J.H.)
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Yinku Xie
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China; (X.Z.); (Y.X.); (Z.C.); (J.H.)
| | - Ziwei Chen
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China; (X.Z.); (Y.X.); (Z.C.); (J.H.)
| | - Jiaheng He
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China; (X.Z.); (Y.X.); (Z.C.); (J.H.)
| | - Jianfei Chen
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China; (X.Z.); (Y.X.); (Z.C.); (J.H.)
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang 212100, China
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White MR, Yates DT. Dousing the flame: reviewing the mechanisms of inflammatory programming during stress-induced intrauterine growth restriction and the potential for ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intervention. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1250134. [PMID: 37727657 PMCID: PMC10505810 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1250134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) arises when maternal stressors coincide with peak placental development, leading to placental insufficiency. When the expanding nutrient demands of the growing fetus subsequently exceed the capacity of the stunted placenta, fetal hypoxemia and hypoglycemia result. Poor fetal nutrient status stimulates greater release of inflammatory cytokines and catecholamines, which in turn lead to thrifty growth and metabolic programming that benefits fetal survival but is maladaptive after birth. Specifically, some IUGR fetal tissues develop enriched expression of inflammatory cytokine receptors and other signaling cascade components, which increases inflammatory sensitivity even when circulating inflammatory cytokines are no longer elevated after birth. Recent evidence indicates that greater inflammatory tone contributes to deficits in skeletal muscle growth and metabolism that are characteristic of IUGR offspring. These deficits underlie the metabolic dysfunction that markedly increases risk for metabolic diseases in IUGR-born individuals. The same programming mechanisms yield reduced metabolic efficiency, poor body composition, and inferior carcass quality in IUGR-born livestock. The ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are diet-derived nutraceuticals with anti-inflammatory effects that have been used to improve conditions of chronic systemic inflammation, including intrauterine stress. In this review, we highlight the role of sustained systemic inflammation in the development of IUGR pathologies. We then discuss the potential for ω-3 PUFA supplementation to improve inflammation-mediated growth and metabolic deficits in IUGR offspring, along with potential barriers that must be considered when developing a supplementation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dustin T. Yates
- Stress Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
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O'Brien K, Wang Y. The Placenta: A Maternofetal Interface. Annu Rev Nutr 2023; 43:301-325. [PMID: 37603428 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-nutr-061121-085246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is the gatekeeper between the mother and the fetus. Over the first trimester of pregnancy, the fetus is nourished by uterine gland secretions in a process known as histiotrophic nutrition. During the second trimester of pregnancy, placentation has evolved to the point at which nutrients are delivered to the placenta via maternal blood (hemotrophic nutrition). Over gestation, the placenta must adapt to these variable nutrient supplies, to alterations in maternal physiology and blood flow, and to dynamic changes in fetal growth rates. Numerous questions remain about the mechanisms used to transport nutrients to the fetus and the maternal and fetal determinants of this process. Growing data highlight the ability of the placenta to regulate this process. As new technologies and omics approaches are utilized to study this maternofetal interface, greater insight into this unique organ and its impact on fetal development and long-term health has been obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly O'Brien
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA; ,
| | - Yiqin Wang
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA; ,
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Placental Metabolomics of Fetal Growth Restriction. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13020235. [PMID: 36837853 PMCID: PMC9959525 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13020235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction is an obstetrical pathological condition that causes high neonatal mortality and morbidity. The mechanisms of its onset are not completely understood. Metabolites were extracted from 493 placentas from non-complicated pregnancies in Hamilton Country, TN (USA), and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Newborns were classified according to raw fetal weight (low birth weight (LBW; <2500 g) and non-low birth weight (Non-LBW; >2500 g)), and according to the calculated birth weight centile as it relates to gestational age (small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), and adequate for gestational age (AGA)). Mothers of LBW infants had a lower pre-pregnancy weight (66.2 ± 17.9 kg vs. 73.4 ± 21.3 kg, p < 0.0001), a lower body mass index (BMI) (25.27 ± 6.58 vs. 27.73 ± 7.83, p < 0.001), and a shorter gestation age (246.4 ± 24.0 days vs. 267.2 ± 19.4 days p < 0.001) compared with non-LBW. Marital status, tobacco use, and fetus sex affected birth weight centile classification according to gestational age. Multivariate statistical comparisons of the extracted metabolomes revealed that asparagine, aspartic acid, deoxyribose, erythritol, glycerophosphocholine, tyrosine, isoleucine, serine, and lactic acid were higher in both SGA and LBW placentas, while taurine, ethanolamine, β-hydroxybutyrate, and glycine were lower in both SGA and LBW. Several metabolic pathways are implicated in fetal growth restriction, including those related to the hypoxia response and amino-acid uptake and metabolism. Inflammatory pathways are also involved, suggesting that fetal growth restriction might share some mechanisms with preeclampsia.
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Zhao J, Stewart ID, Baird D, Mason D, Wright J, Zheng J, Gaunt TR, Evans DM, Freathy RM, Langenberg C, Warrington NM, Lawlor DA, Borges MC. Causal effects of maternal circulating amino acids on offspring birthweight: a Mendelian randomisation study. EBioMedicine 2023; 88:104441. [PMID: 36696816 PMCID: PMC9879767 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amino acids are key to protein synthesis, energy metabolism, cell signaling and gene expression; however, the contribution of specific maternal amino acids to fetal growth is unclear. METHODS We explored the effect of maternal circulating amino acids on fetal growth, proxied by birthweight, using two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) and summary data from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of serum amino acids levels (sample 1, n = 86,507) and a maternal GWAS of offspring birthweight in UK Biobank and Early Growth Genetics Consortium, adjusting for fetal genotype effects (sample 2, n = 406,063 with maternal and/or fetal genotype effect estimates). A total of 106 independent single nucleotide polymorphisms robustly associated with 19 amino acids (p < 4.9 × 10-10) were used as genetic instrumental variables (IV). Wald ratio and inverse variance weighted methods were used in MR main analysis. A series of sensitivity analyses were performed to explore IV assumption violations. FINDINGS Our results provide evidence that maternal circulating glutamine (59 g offspring birthweight increase per standard deviation increase in maternal amino acid level, 95% CI: 7, 110) and serine (27 g, 95% CI: 9, 46) raise, while leucine (-59 g, 95% CI: -106, -11) and phenylalanine (-25 g, 95% CI: -47, -4) lower offspring birthweight. These findings are supported by sensitivity analyses. INTERPRETATION Our findings strengthen evidence for key roles of maternal circulating amino acids during pregnancy in healthy fetal growth. FUNDING A full list of funding bodies that contributed to this study can be found under Acknowledgments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhao
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Bristol NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; The Ministry of Education and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Institute of Early Life Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | | | - Denis Baird
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Dan Mason
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | - John Wright
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | - Jie Zheng
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumor, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tom R Gaunt
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Bristol NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David M Evans
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Rachel M Freathy
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Claudia Langenberg
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Health Data Research UK Cambridge, Wellcome Genome Campus and University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Computational Medicine, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Charité University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicole M Warrington
- University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; K.G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Deborah A Lawlor
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Bristol NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Maria Carolina Borges
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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12
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Li Q, Hoppe T. Role of amino acid metabolism in mitochondrial homeostasis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1127618. [PMID: 36923249 PMCID: PMC10008872 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1127618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are central hubs for energy production, metabolism and cellular signal transduction in eukaryotic cells. Maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis is important for cellular function and survival. In particular, cellular metabolic state is in constant communication with mitochondrial homeostasis. One of the most important metabolic processes that provide energy in the cell is amino acid metabolism. Almost all of the 20 amino acids that serve as the building blocks of proteins are produced or degraded in the mitochondria. The synthesis of the amino acids aspartate and arginine depends on the activity of the respiratory chain, which is essential for cell proliferation. The degradation of branched-chain amino acids mainly occurs in the mitochondrial matrix, contributing to energy metabolism, mitochondrial biogenesis, as well as protein quality control in both mitochondria and cytosol. Dietary supplementation or restriction of amino acids in worms, flies and mice modulates lifespan and health, which has been associated with changes in mitochondrial biogenesis, antioxidant response, as well as the activity of tricarboxylic acid cycle and respiratory chain. Consequently, impaired amino acid metabolism has been associated with both primary mitochondrial diseases and diseases with mitochondrial dysfunction such as cancer. Here, we present recent observations on the crosstalk between amino acid metabolism and mitochondrial homeostasis, summarise the underlying molecular mechanisms to date, and discuss their role in cellular functions and organismal physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaochu Li
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thorsten Hoppe
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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13
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Deng C, Zheng J, Zhou H, You J, Li G. Dietary glycine supplementation prevents heat stress-induced impairment of antioxidant status and intestinal barrier function in broilers. Poult Sci 2022; 102:102408. [PMID: 36584416 PMCID: PMC9827071 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study tested the hypothesis that glycine improves intestinal barrier function through regulating oxidative stress in broilers exposed to heat stress. A total of 300 twenty-one-day-old female Arbor Acres broilers (600 ± 2.5g) was randomly allocated to 5 treatments (6 replicate of 10 birds each). The 5 treatments were as follows: the control group (CON) was kept under thermoneutral condition (24 ± 1°C) and was fed a basal diet. Broilers fed a basal diet and reared under high ambient temperature (HT) were considered as the HT group (34 ± 1°C for 8 h/d). Broilers fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0% glycine and exposed to HT were regarded as the HT + glycine treatments. The results exhibited that heat stress reduced growth performance, serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and glutathione (GSH) concentration (P < 0.05); increased activity of serum catalase (CAT) and the contents of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (P < 0.05). HT exposure led to downregulating the mRNA expression of NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1), Occludin, and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) (P < 0.05); enhanced the mRNA levels of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), CAT, glutathione synthetase (GSS), and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM) (P < 0.05); impaired the intestinal morphology (P < 0.05); and altered the diversity and community of gut microbiota (P < 0.05). The final body weight (FBW), ADFI, ADG, and gain-to-feed ratio (G: F) increased linearly or quadratically, and the antioxidant capacity was improved (P < 0.05) with glycine supplementation. Glycine treatment increased the villus height (VH), and villus height to crypt depth ratio (V/C) of the duodenum linearly or quadratically, and linearly increased the VH of jejunum and ileum. The mRNA expression of Occludin, and ZO-1 were increased linearly in the ileum mucosa of broilers subjected to HT. Collectively, these results demonstrated that glycine supplementation alleviates heat stress-induced dysfunction of antioxidant status and intestinal barrier in broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Deng
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China,Jiangxi Province Key Innovation Center of Integration in Production and Education for High-Quality and Safe Livestock and Poultry, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China,Jiangxi Province Key Innovation Center of Integration in Production and Education for High-Quality and Safe Livestock and Poultry, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China,Jiangxi Province Key Innovation Center of Integration in Production and Education for High-Quality and Safe Livestock and Poultry, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Jinming You
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China,Jiangxi Province Key Innovation Center of Integration in Production and Education for High-Quality and Safe Livestock and Poultry, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Guanhong Li
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; Jiangxi Province Key Innovation Center of Integration in Production and Education for High-Quality and Safe Livestock and Poultry, Nanchang 330045, China.
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14
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Liu X, Fu H, Wen L, Zhu F, Wu Y, Chen Z, Saffery R, Chen C, Qi H, Tong C, Baker PN, Kilby MD. The Metabolic Signatures of Surviving Cotwins in Cases of Single Intrauterine Fetal Death During Monochorionic Diamniotic Pregnancy: A Prospective Case-Control Study. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:799902. [PMID: 35463954 PMCID: PMC9024353 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.799902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Single intrauterine fetal death (sIUFD) in monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancy may be associated with adverse clinical outcomes and possible metabolic changes in the surviving co-twin. Metabolomic profiling has not been undertaken before in these complex twin pregnancies.Methods: In this prospectively collected case-control study, three cross-cohort comparisons were made between sIUFD MCDA (n = 16), uncomplicated MCDA (n = 16, eight pairs), and uncomplicated singleton pregnancies (n = 8). To identify major sources of variation within the sIUFD MCDA cohort, a secondary comparison was conducted between spontaneous sIUFD (n = 8) and sIUFD in MCDA twins due to selective termination of a single abnormal fetus by radiofrequency ablation (RFA) (n = 8). Metabolomics analysis of placental tissue and umbilical cord plasma was performed using LC-MS profiling. The underlying metabolic networks and pathways were analyzed by web-based platforms. Associations and statistical correlations of all identified differential metabolites with neonatal birthweight and birth length were assessed by multivariable linear regression, adjusted for maternal age and gestation.Results: Across four comparisons, 131 and 111 differential metabolites were identified in placental tissue and cord plasma, respectively, with the highest variation seen between the spontaneous vs. single-induced IUFD in MCDA twins by RFA in the cord plasma. Conversely, the number of viable fetuses and the presence of sIUFD in MCDA twins had the highest impact on metabolite variation in placental tissue. Compounds correlated with fetal growth including placental acylcarnitines and gangliosides, along with specific amino acids (e.g., histidinyl-hydroxyproline), xenobiotics and biliverdin in cord plasma.Conclusion: sIUFD in MCDA twin pregnancy correlates with distinctive metabolic signatures, mostly in fatty acyls and complex lipids, in placental tissue and cord plasma of the surviving cotwin. Some metabolites are also associated with fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huijia Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Chao Tong, ; Li Wen, ; Hongbo Qi,
| | - Fangyu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Richard Saffery
- Molecular Immunity, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Chang Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongbo Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Women and Children’s Health Center, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Chao Tong, ; Li Wen, ; Hongbo Qi,
| | - Chao Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Chao Tong, ; Li Wen, ; Hongbo Qi,
| | - Philip N. Baker
- International Collaborative Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark D. Kilby
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Fetal Medicine Centre, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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15
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McClements L, Richards C, Patel N, Chen H, Sesperez K, Bubb KJ, Karlstaedt A, Aksentijevic D. Impact of reduced uterine perfusion pressure model of preeclampsia on metabolism of placenta, maternal and fetal hearts. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1111. [PMID: 35064159 PMCID: PMC8782944 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05120-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a cardiovascular pregnancy complication characterised by new onset hypertension and organ damage or intrauterine growth restriction. It is one of the leading causes of maternal and fetal mortality in pregnancy globally. Short of pre-term delivery of the fetus and placenta, treatment options are limited. Consequently, preeclampsia leads to increased cardiovascular disease risk in both mothers and offspring later in life. Here we aim to examine the impact of the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of preeclampsia on the maternal cardiovascular system, placental and fetal heart metabolism. The surgical RUPP model was induced in pregnant rats by applying silver clips around the aorta and uterine arteries on gestational day 14, resulting in ~ 40% uterine blood flow reduction. The experiment was terminated on gestational day 19 and metabolomic profile of placentae, maternal and fetal hearts analysed using high-resolution 1H NMR spectroscopy. Impairment of uterine perfusion in RUPP rats caused placental and cardiac hypoxia and a series of metabolic adaptations: altered energetics, carbohydrate, lipid and amino acid metabolism of placentae and maternal hearts. Comparatively, the fetal metabolic phenotype was mildly affected. Nevertheless, long-term effects of these changes in both mothers and the offspring should be investigated further in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lana McClements
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire Richards
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nikayla Patel
- Centre for Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Hao Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kimberly Sesperez
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kristen J Bubb
- Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anja Karlstaedt
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 127 San Vincente Blvd, 90048
| | - Dunja Aksentijevic
- Centre for Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
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16
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Fetal Sex Does Not Impact Placental Blood Flow or Placental Amino Acid Transfer in Late Gestation Pregnant Sheep With or Without Placental Insufficiency. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1776-1789. [PMID: 34611848 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00750-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant sheep have been used to model complications of human pregnancies including placental insufficiency and intrauterine growth restriction. Some of the hallmarks of placental insufficiency are slower uterine and umbilical blood flow rates, impaired placental transport of oxygen and amino acids, and lower fetal arterial concentrations of anabolic growth factors. An impact of fetal sex on these outcomes has not been identified in either human or sheep pregnancies. This is likely because most studies measuring these outcomes have used small numbers of subjects or animals. We undertook a secondary analysis of previously published data generated by our laboratory in late-gestation (gestational age of 133 ± 0 days gestational age) control sheep (n = 29 male fetuses; n = 26 female fetuses; n = 3 sex not recorded) and sheep exposed to elevated ambient temperatures to cause experimental placental insufficiency (n = 23 male fetuses; n = 17 female fetuses; n = 1 sex not recorded). The primary goal was to determine how fetal sex modifies the effect of the experimental insult on outcomes related to placental blood flow, amino acid and oxygen transport, and fetal hormones. Of the 112 outcomes measured, we only found an interaction between fetal sex and experimental insult for the uterine uptake rates of isoleucine, phenylalanine, and arginine. Additionally, most outcomes measured did not show a difference based on fetal sex when adjusting for the impact of placental insufficiency. Exceptions included fetal norepinephrine and cortisol concentrations, which were higher in female compared to male fetuses. For the parameters measured in the current analysis, the impact of fetal sex was not widespread.
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17
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Placenta-specific Slc38a2/SNAT2 knockdown causes fetal growth restriction in mice. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:2049-2066. [PMID: 34406367 PMCID: PMC8410983 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a complication of pregnancy that reduces birth weight, markedly increases infant mortality and morbidity and is associated with later-life cardiometabolic disease. No specific treatment is available for FGR. Placentas of human FGR infants have low abundance of sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 2 (Slc38a2/SNAT2), which supplies the fetus with amino acids required for growth. We determined the mechanistic role of placental Slc38a2/SNAT2 deficiency in the development of restricted fetal growth, hypothesizing that placenta-specific Slc38a2 knockdown causes FGR in mice. Using lentiviral transduction of blastocysts with a small hairpin RNA (shRNA), we achieved 59% knockdown of placental Slc38a2, without altering fetal Slc38a2 expression. Placenta-specific Slc38a2 knockdown reduced near-term fetal and placental weight, fetal viability, trophoblast plasma membrane (TPM) SNAT2 protein abundance, and both absolute and weight-specific placental uptake of the amino acid transport System A tracer, 14C-methylaminoisobutyric acid (MeAIB). We also measured human placental SLC38A2 gene expression in a well-defined term clinical cohort and found that SLC38A2 expression was decreased in late-onset, but not early-onset FGR, compared with appropriate for gestational age (AGA) control placentas. The results demonstrate that low placental Slc38a2/SNAT2 causes FGR and could be a target for clinical therapies for late-onset FGR.
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18
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Murgia F, Monni G, Corda V, Hendren AJ, Paci G, Piras A, Ibba RM, Atzori L. Metabolomics Analysis of Amniotic Fluid in Euploid Foetuses with Thickened Nuchal Translucency by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:913. [PMID: 34575062 PMCID: PMC8466859 DOI: 10.3390/life11090913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistence of a fetal thickened nuchal translucency (NT), one of the most sensitive and specific individual markers of fetal disorders, is strongly correlated with the possibility of a genetic syndrome, congenital infections, or other malformations. Thickened NT can also be found in normal pregnancies. Several of its pathophysiological aspects still remain unexplained. Metabolomics could offer a fresh opportunity to explore maternal-foetal metabolism in an effort to explain its physiological and pathological mechanisms. For this prospective case-control pilot study, thirty-nine samples of amniotic fluids were collected, divisible into 12 euploid foetuses with an enlarged nuchal translucency (>NT) and 27 controls (C). Samples were analyzed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Multivariate and univariate statistical analyses were performed to find a specific metabolic pattern of >NT class. The correlation between the metabolic profile and clinical parameters was evaluated (NT showed an R2 = 0.75, foetal crown-rump length showed R2 = 0.65, pregnancy associated plasma protein-A showed R2 = 0.60). Nine metabolites significantly differing between >NT foetuses and C were detected: 2-hydroxybutyric acid, 3-hydroxybutyric, 1,5 Anydro-Sorbitol, cholesterol, erythronic acid, fructose, malic acid, threitol, and threonine, which were linked to altered pathways involved in altered energetic pathways. Through the metabolomics approach, it was possible to identify a specific metabolic fingerprint of the fetuses with >NT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Murgia
- Clinical Metabolomics Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (G.P.); (L.A.)
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico A.Cao, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (R.M.I.)
| | - Giovanni Monni
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico A.Cao, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (R.M.I.)
| | - Valentina Corda
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico A.Cao, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (R.M.I.)
| | - Aran J. Hendren
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK;
| | - Giulia Paci
- Clinical Metabolomics Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (G.P.); (L.A.)
| | - Alba Piras
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico A.Cao, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (R.M.I.)
| | - Rosa M. Ibba
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico A.Cao, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (R.M.I.)
| | - Luigi Atzori
- Clinical Metabolomics Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (G.P.); (L.A.)
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19
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Pendleton AL, Wesolowski SR, Regnault TRH, Lynch RM, Limesand SW. Dimming the Powerhouse: Mitochondrial Dysfunction in the Liver and Skeletal Muscle of Intrauterine Growth Restricted Fetuses. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:612888. [PMID: 34079518 PMCID: PMC8165279 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.612888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) of the fetus, resulting from placental insufficiency (PI), is characterized by low fetal oxygen and nutrient concentrations that stunt growth rates of metabolic organs. Numerous animal models of IUGR recapitulate pathophysiological conditions found in human fetuses with IUGR. These models provide insight into metabolic dysfunction in skeletal muscle and liver. For example, cellular energy production and metabolic rate are decreased in the skeletal muscle and liver of IUGR fetuses. These metabolic adaptations demonstrate that fundamental processes in mitochondria, such as substrate utilization and oxidative phosphorylation, are tempered in response to low oxygen and nutrient availability. As a central metabolic organelle, mitochondria coordinate cellular metabolism by coupling oxygen consumption to substrate utilization in concert with tissue energy demand and accretion. In IUGR fetuses, reducing mitochondrial metabolic capacity in response to nutrient restriction is advantageous to ensure fetal survival. If permanent, however, these adaptations may predispose IUGR fetuses toward metabolic diseases throughout life. Furthermore, these mitochondrial defects may underscore developmental programming that results in the sequela of metabolic pathologies. In this review, we examine how reduced nutrient availability in IUGR fetuses impacts skeletal muscle and liver substrate catabolism, and discuss how enzymatic processes governing mitochondrial function, such as the tricarboxylic acid cycle and electron transport chain, are regulated. Understanding how deficiencies in oxygen and substrate metabolism in response to placental restriction regulate skeletal muscle and liver metabolism is essential given the importance of these tissues in the development of later lifer metabolic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander L. Pendleton
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Stephanie R. Wesolowski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | | | - Ronald M. Lynch
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Sean W. Limesand
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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20
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Tetro N, Hamed R, Berman E, Eyal S. Effects of antiseizure medications on placental cells: Focus on heterodimeric placental carriers. Epilepsy Res 2021; 174:106664. [PMID: 34022522 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2021.106664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Appropriate placental nutrient transfer is essential for optimal fetal development. We have previously shown that antiseizure medications (ASMs) can alter the expression of placental carriers for folate and thyroid hormones. Here we extended our analysis to heterodimeric carriers that mediate the placental uptake of amino acids and antioxidant precursors. We focused on the L-type amino acid transporter (LAT)2/SLC7A8, the cystine/glutamate antiporter xCT/SLC7A11, and their chaperone 4F2hc/SLC3A2. METHODS BeWo cells were exposed for two or five days to therapeutic concentrations of valproate, levetiracetam, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, or lacosamide. Transcript levels were measured by quantitative PCR. Levetiracetam effects on placental carriers were further explored using a tailored gene array. RESULTS At five days, 30 μg/mL levetiracetam (high therapeutic concentrations) significantly reduced the expression of all studied genes (p < 0.05). Carbamazepine treatment was associated with lower SLC7A8 (LAT2) expression (p < 0.05), whereas valproate increased the transcript levels of this transporter by up to 2.0-fold (p < 0.01). Some of these effects were already observed after two incubation days. Lamotrigine did not alter gene expression, and lacosamide slightly elevated SLC3A2 levels (p < 0.05). The array analysis confirmed the trends observed for levetiracetam and identified additional affected genes. SIGNIFICANCE Altered expression of placental heterodimeric transporters may represent a mechanism by which ASM affect fetal development. The placental effects are differential, with valproate, carbamazepine and levetiracetam as the more active compounds. The concentration-dependence of those ASM effects are in line with established dose-dependent teratogenicity implying that ASM doses should be adjusted during pregnancy with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nino Tetro
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Roua Hamed
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Erez Berman
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sara Eyal
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
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21
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Insights into intrauterine growth restriction based on maternal and umbilical cord blood metabolomics. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7824. [PMID: 33837233 PMCID: PMC8035183 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87323-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a fetal adverse condition, ascribed by limited oxygen and nutrient supply from the mother to the fetus. Management of IUGR is an ongoing challenge because of its connection with increased fetal mortality, preterm delivery and postnatal pathologies. Untargeted nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) metabolomics was applied in 84 umbilical cord blood and maternal blood samples obtained from 48 IUGR and 36 appropriate for gestational age (AGA) deliveries. Orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) followed by pathway and enrichment analysis generated classification models and revealed significant metabolites that were associated with altered pathways. A clear association between maternal and cord blood altered metabolomic profile was evidenced in IUGR pregnancies. Increased levels of the amino acids alanine, leucine, valine, isoleucine and phenylalanine were prominent in IUGR pregnancies indicating a connection with impaired amino acid metabolism and transplacental flux. Tryptophan was individually connected with cord blood discrimination while 3-hydroxybutyrate assisted only maternal blood discrimination. Lower glycerol levels in IUGR samples ascribed to imbalance between gluconeogenesis and glycolysis pathways, suggesting poor glycolysis. The elevated levels of branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine) in intrauterine growth restricted pregnancies were linked with increased insulin resistance.
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Riederer M, Wallner M, Schweighofer N, Fuchs-Neuhold B, Rath A, Berghold A, Eberhard K, Groselj-Strele A, Staubmann W, Peterseil M, Waldner I, Mayr JA, Rothe M, Holasek S, Maunz S, Pail E, van der Kleyn M. Distinct maternal amino acids and oxylipins predict infant fat mass and fat-free mass indices. Arch Physiol Biochem 2020; 129:563-574. [PMID: 33283558 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2020.1846204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Interested in maternal determinants of infant fat mass index (FMI) and fat-free mass index (FFMI), considered as predictors for later development of obesity, we analysed amino acids (AA) and oxylipins in maternal serum and breast milk (BM). FMI and FFMI were calculated in 47 term infants aged 4 months (T4). Serum AA were analysed in pregnancy (T1, T2) and 6-8 weeks postpartum (T3). At T3, AA and oxylipins were analysed in BM. Biomarker-index-associations were identified by regression analysis. Infant FMI (4.1 ± 1.31 kg/m2; MW ± SD) was predicted by T2 proline (R2 adj.: 7.6%, p = .036) and T3 BM 11-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic-acid (11-HETE) and 13-hydroxy-docosahexaenoic-acid (13-HDHA; together:35.5% R2 adj., p < .001). Maternal peripartum antibiotics (AB) emerged as confounders (+AB: 23.5% higher FMI; p = .025). Infant FFMI (12.1 ± 1.19 kg/m2; MW ± SD) was predicted by histidine (R2 adj.: 14.5%, p < .001) and 17-HDHA (BM, R2 adj.:19.3%, p < .001), determined at T3. Confirmed in a larger cohort, the parameters could elucidate connections between maternal metabolic status, nutrition, and infant body development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Riederer
- Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | - Marlies Wallner
- Institute of Dietetics and Nutrition, Health Perception Lab, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Bianca Fuchs-Neuhold
- Institute of Dietetics and Nutrition, Health Perception Lab, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | - Anna Rath
- Institute of Midwifery, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | - Andrea Berghold
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Statistics and Documentation, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Katharina Eberhard
- Core Facility Computational Bioanalytics, Center for Medical Research (ZMF), Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Andrea Groselj-Strele
- Core Facility Computational Bioanalytics, Center for Medical Research (ZMF), Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Staubmann
- Institute of Dietetics and Nutrition, Health Perception Lab, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | - Marie Peterseil
- Institute of Dietetics and Nutrition, Health Perception Lab, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | - Irmgard Waldner
- Institute of Midwifery, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | - Johannes A Mayr
- University Clinic for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Sandra Holasek
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Susanne Maunz
- Institute of Dietetics and Nutrition, Health Perception Lab, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Pail
- Institute of Dietetics and Nutrition, Health Perception Lab, University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM, Graz, Austria
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Abstract
Almost 2 billion adults in the world are overweight, and more than half of them are classified as obese, while nearly one-third of children globally experience poor growth and development. Given the vast amount of knowledge that has been gleaned from decades of research on growth and development, a number of questions remain as to why the world is now in the midst of a global epidemic of obesity accompanied by the "double burden of malnutrition," where overweight coexists with underweight and micronutrient deficiencies. This challenge to the human condition can be attributed to nutritional and environmental exposures during pregnancy that may program a fetus to have a higher risk of chronic diseases in adulthood. To explore this concept, frequently called the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD), this review considers a host of factors and physiological mechanisms that drive a fetus or child toward a higher risk of obesity, fatty liver disease, hypertension, and/or type 2 diabetes (T2D). To that end, this review explores the epidemiology of DOHaD with discussions focused on adaptations to human energetics, placental development, dysmetabolism, and key environmental exposures that act to promote chronic diseases in adulthood. These areas are complementary and additive in understanding how providing the best conditions for optimal growth can create the best possible conditions for lifelong health. Moreover, understanding both physiological as well as epigenetic and molecular mechanisms for DOHaD is vital to most fully address the global issues of obesity and other chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Hoffman
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Program in International Nutrition, and Center for Childhood Nutrition Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Theresa L Powell
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Emily S Barrett
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Division of Exposure Science and Epidemiology, Rutgers Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Daniel B Hardy
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Division of Exposure Science and Epidemiology, Rutgers Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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24
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Owaydhah WH, Ashton N, Verrey F, Glazier JD. Differential expression of system L amino acid transporter subtypes in rat placenta and yolk sac. Placenta 2020; 103:188-198. [PMID: 33160252 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amino acid transport across the placenta is crucial for fetal growth. In rodent models, the visceral yolk sac (referred to as yolk sac hereafter) is also likely to contribute to fetal amino acid provision. System L amino acid transporters mediate the transport of essential amino acids. System L activity is mediated by light chains LAT1 (Slc7a5) and LAT2 (Slc7a8) which form functional complexes by heterodimeric linkage to CD98 (Slc3a2). LAT4 (Slc43a2) is monomeric, possessing overlapping amino acid substrate specificity with LAT1 and LAT2. METHODS This study investigates the expression of these LAT subtypes in fetus-matched rat placenta and yolk sac. RESULTS Slc7a5, Slc7a8 and Slc43a2 transcripts were expressed in placenta and yolk sac with similar expression patterns between sexes. LAT1 expression was significantly higher in placenta than yolk sac. Conversely, LAT2 and LAT4 expression was significantly higher in yolk sac than placenta; CD98 expression was comparable. LAT1, LAT2, LAT4 and CD98 were distributed to rat placental labyrinth zone (LZ) and junctional zone (JZ). LAT1 and LAT4 demonstrated higher expression in LZ, whilst LAT2 was more intensely distributed to JZ. LAT1, LAT2, LAT4 and CD98 were expressed in yolk sac, with punctate LAT1 staining to endodermal cell cytoplasm, contrasting with the intense LAT2, LAT4 and CD98 endodermal cell basolateral distribution, accounting for greater LAT2 and LAT4 expression in yolk sac compared to placenta. CONCLUSION LAT1, LAT2 and LAT4 are expressed in rat placenta and yolk sac implicating a combined role for these LAT subtypes in supporting fetal growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wejdan H Owaydhah
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Nick Ashton
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
| | - François Verrey
- Institute of Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, CH-8057, Switzerland
| | - Jocelyn D Glazier
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
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25
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Zaugg J, Huang X, Ziegler F, Rubin M, Graff J, Müller J, Moser-Hässig R, Powell T, Gertsch J, Altmann KH, Albrecht C. Small molecule inhibitors provide insights into the relevance of LAT1 and LAT2 in materno-foetal amino acid transport. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:12681-12693. [PMID: 33001560 PMCID: PMC7687008 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta supplies the foetus with critical nutrients such as essential amino acids (AA, eg leucine) for development and growth. It also represents a cellular barrier which is formed by a polarized, differentiated syncytiotrophoblast (STB) monolayer. Active Na+‐independent leucine transport across the placenta is mainly attributed to the System L transporters LAT1/SLC7A5 and LAT2/SLC7A8. This study explored the influence of trophoblast differentiation on the activity of LAT1/LAT2 and the relevance of LAT1/LAT2 in leucine uptake and transfer in trophoblasts by applying specific small molecule inhibitors (JPH203/JG336/JX009). L‐leucine uptake (total dose = 167 μmol/L) was sensitive to LAT1‐specific inhibition by JPH203 (EC50 = 2.55 µmol/L). The inhibition efficiency of JPH203 was increased by an additional methoxy group in the JPH203‐derivate JG336 (EC50 = 1.99 µmol/L). Interestingly, JX009 showed efficient System L inhibition (EC50 = 2.35 µmol/L) and was the most potent inhibitor of leucine uptake in trophoblasts. The application of JPH203 and JX009 in Transwell®‐based leucine transfer revealed LAT1 as the major accumulative transporter at the apical membrane, but other System L transporters such as LAT2 as rate‐limiting for leucine efflux across the basal membrane. Therefore, differential specificity of the applied inhibitors allowed for estimation of the contribution of LAT1 and LAT2 in materno‐foetal AA transfer and their potential impact in pregnancy diseases associated with impaired foetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Zaugg
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Xiao Huang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Ziegler
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Rubin
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Julien Graff
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Müller
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ruedi Moser-Hässig
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Lindenhofgruppe, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Theresa Powell
- Department of Pediatrics, Neonatology Section, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Karl-Heinz Altmann
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Albrecht
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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26
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Boehmer BH, Baker PR, Brown LD, Wesolowski SR, Rozance PJ. Leucine acutely potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in fetal sheep. J Endocrinol 2020; 247:115-126. [PMID: 32756000 PMCID: PMC7484215 DOI: 10.1530/joe-20-0243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A 9-day infusion of leucine into fetal sheep potentiates fetal glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). However, there were accompanying pancreatic structural changes that included a larger proportion of β-cells and increased vascularity. Whether leucine can acutely potentiate fetal GSIS in vivo before these structural changes develop is unknown. The mechanisms by which leucine acutely potentiates GSIS in adult islets and insulin-secreting cell lines are well known. These mechanisms involve leucine metabolism, including leucine oxidation. However, it is not clear if leucine-stimulated metabolic pathways are active in fetal islets. We hypothesized that leucine would acutely potentiate GSIS in fetal sheep and that isolated fetal islets are capable of oxidizing leucine. We also hypothesized that leucine would stimulate other metabolic pathways associated with insulin secretion. In pregnant sheep we tested in vivo GSIS with and without an acute leucine infusion. In isolated fetal sheep islets, we measured leucine oxidation with a [1-14C] l-leucine tracer. We also measured concentrations of other amino acids, glucose, and analytes associated with cellular metabolism following incubation of fetal islets with leucine. In vivo, a leucine infusion resulted in glucose-stimulated insulin concentrations that were over 50% higher than controls (P < 0.05). Isolated fetal islets oxidized leucine. Leucine supplementation of isolated fetal islets also resulted in significant activation of metabolic pathways involving leucine and other amino acids. In summary, acute leucine supplementation potentiates fetal GSIS in vivo, likely through pathways related to the oxidation of leucine and catabolism of other amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brit H. Boehmer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Peter R. Baker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Laura D. Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Stephanie R. Wesolowski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Paul J. Rozance
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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27
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28
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Porter AC, Gumina DL, Armstrong M, Maclean KN, Reisdorph N, Galan HL, Stabler SP, Bailey BA, Hobbins JC, Hurt KJ. Maternal Amino Acid Profiles to Distinguish Constitutionally Small versus Growth-Restricted Fetuses Defined by Doppler Ultrasound: A Pilot Study. Am J Perinatol 2020; 37:1084-1093. [PMID: 32120425 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1701504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fetuses measuring below the 10th percentile for gestational age may be either constitutionally small for gestational age (SGA) or have pathologic fetal growth restriction (FGR). FGR is associated with adverse outcomes; however, identification of low-risk SGA cases is difficult. We performed a pilot study evaluating maternal markers of pathologic FGR, hypothesizing there are distinct amino acid signatures that might be used for diagnosis and development of new interventions. STUDY DESIGN This was a cohort study of healthy women with sonographic fetal estimated fetal weight <5th percentile divided into two groups based upon umbilical artery (UmA) Doppler studies or uterine artery (UtA) Doppler studies. We collected maternal blood samples prior to delivery and used ion pair reverse phase liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to assess 44 amino acids. RESULTS Among 14 women included, five had abnormal UmA, and three had abnormal UtA Doppler results. Those with abnormal UmA showed elevated ornithine. Those with abnormal UtA had lower dimethylglycine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine, and 1-methylhistidine. CONCLUSION We found several amino acids that might identify pregnancies affected by pathologic FGR. These findings support the feasibility of future larger studies to identify maternal metabolic approaches to accurately stratify risk for small fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Porter
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Diane L Gumina
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado.,Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Michael Armstrong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Nichole Reisdorph
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Henry L Galan
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Beth A Bailey
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - John C Hobbins
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - K Joseph Hurt
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado.,Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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29
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Down-regulation of placental Cdc42 and Rac1 links mTORC2 inhibition to decreased trophoblast amino acid transport in human intrauterine growth restriction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:53-70. [PMID: 31825077 DOI: 10.1042/cs20190794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) increases the risk for perinatal complications and metabolic and cardiovascular disease later in life. The syncytiotrophoblast (ST) is the transporting epithelium of the human placenta, and decreased expression of amino acid transporter isoforms in the ST plasma membranes is believed to contribute to IUGR. Placental mechanistic target of rapamycin Complex 2 (mTORC2) signaling is inhibited in IUGR and regulates the trafficking of key amino acid transporter (AAT) isoforms to the ST plasma membrane; however, the molecular mechanisms are unknown. Cdc42 and Rac1 are Rho-GTPases that regulate actin-binding proteins, thereby modulating the structure and dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton. We hypothesized that inhibition of mTORC2 decreases AAT expression in the plasma membrane and amino acid uptake in primary human trophoblast (PHT) cells mediated by down-regulation of Cdc42 and Rac1. mTORC2, but not mTORC1, inhibition decreased the Cdc42 and Rac1 expression. Silencing of Cdc42 and Rac1 inhibited the activity of the System L and A transporters and markedly decreased the trafficking of LAT1 (System L isoform) and SNAT2 (System A isoform) to the plasma membrane. mTORC2 inhibition by silencing of rictor failed to decrease AAT following activation of Cdc42/Rac1. Placental Cdc42 and Rac1 protein expression was down-regulated in human IUGR and was positively correlated with placental mTORC2 signaling. In conclusion, mTORC2 regulates AAT trafficking in PHT cells by modulating Cdc42 and Rac1. Placental mTORC2 inhibition in human IUGR may contribute to decreased placental amino acid transfer and reduced fetal growth mediated by down-regulation of Cdc42 and Rac1.
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30
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Chassen SS, Ferchaud-Roucher V, Palmer C, Li C, Jansson T, Nathanielsz PW, Powell TL. Placental fatty acid transport across late gestation in a baboon model of intrauterine growth restriction. J Physiol 2020; 598:2469-2489. [PMID: 32338384 PMCID: PMC7384518 DOI: 10.1113/jp279398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with perinatal morbidity and increased risk of lifelong disease, including neurodevelopmental impairment. Fatty acids (FA) are critical for normal brain development, although their transport across the placenta in IUGR pregnancies is poorly understood. The present study used a baboon model of IUGR (maternal nutrient restriction, MNR) to investigate placental expression of FA transport and binding proteins, and to determine gestational age-related changes in maternal and fetal plasma FA concentrations. We found MNR to be associated with increased placental expression of FA binding and transport proteins in late gestation, with fetal plasma FA concentrations that were similar to those of control animals. The present study is the first to report a profile of fetal and maternal plasma FA concentrations in a baboon model of growth restriction with data that suggest adaptation of placental transport to maintain delivery of critically needed FA. ABSTRACT Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with specific changes in placental transport of amino acids, folate and ions. However, little is known about placental fatty acid (FA) transport in IUGR. We hypothesized that placental FA transport proteins (FATP) and FA binding proteins (FABP) are up-regulated and fetal plasma FA concentrations are decreased at term in a baboon model of IUGR. Pregnant baboons were fed control or maternal nutrient restricted (MNR) diet (70% of control calories) from gestation day (GD) 30 (term 184 days). Plasma and placental samples were collected at GD120 (control n = 8, MNR n = 9), GD140 (control n = 6, MNR n = 7) and GD170 (control n = 6, MNR n = 6). Placentas were homogenized, and syncytiotrophoblast microvillous plasma membrane (MVM) and basal plasma membranes (BM) were isolated. Protein expression of FABP1, 3, 4 and 5 (homogenate) and FATP2, 4, and 6 (MVM, BM) was determined by Western blotting. FA content in maternal and umbilical vein plasma was measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Placental FABP1 and FABP5 expression was increased in MNR compared to controls at GD170, as was MVM FATP2 and FATP6 expression at GD140 and FATP2 expression at GD170. BM FATP4 and FATP6 expression was increased in MNR at GD140. Fetal plasma FA concentrations were similar in controls and MNR. These data suggest the adaptation of placental transport when aiming to maintain delivery of critically needed FAs for fetal growth and brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie S Chassen
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neonatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Veronique Ferchaud-Roucher
- University of Nantes, CHU Nantes, INRA, UMR 1280 Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, Nantes, France
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Claire Palmer
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neonatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Cun Li
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Peter W Nathanielsz
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Theresa L Powell
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neonatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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31
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Bourdon A, Hannigsberg J, Misbert E, Tran TN, Amarger V, Ferchaud-Roucher V, Winer N, Darmaun D. Maternal supplementation with citrulline or arginine during gestation impacts fetal amino acid availability in a model of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Clin Nutr 2020; 39:3736-3743. [PMID: 32336525 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2020.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Supplementing maternal diet with citrulline or arginine during gestation was shown to enhance fetal growth in a model of IUGR induced by maternal dietary protein restriction in the rat. OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to determine in the same model whether maternal supplementation with citrulline or arginine would increase 1) citrulline and arginine concentration in fetal circulation; 2) the expression of placental amino acid transporters, and 3) the fetal availability of essential amino acids. METHODS Pregnant rats (n = 8 per group) were fed either an isocaloric control (20% protein, NP) or a low protein (LP, 4% protein) diet, either alone or supplemented with 2 g/kg/d of l-citrulline (LP + CIT) or isonitrogenous Arginine (LP + ARG) in drinking water throughout gestation. Fetuses were extracted by C-section on the 21st day of gestation. The gene expression of system A (Slc38a1, Slc38a2, and Slc38a4) and L (Slc7a2, Slc7a5, Slc7a8) amino acid transporters was measured in placenta and amino acid concentrations determined in maternal and fetal plasma. RESULTS Maternal LP diet decreased fetal (4.01 ± 0.03 vs. 5.45 ± 0.07 g, p < 0.0001) and placental weight (0.617 ± 0.01 vs. 0.392 ± 0.04 g, p < 0.001), by 26 and 36% respectively, compared with NP diet. Supplementation with either CIT or ARG increased fetal birth weight by ≈ 5 or 11%, respectively (4.21 ± 0.05 and 4.48 ± 0.05 g vs. 4.01 ± 0.03 g, p < 0.05). CIT supplementation produced a 5- and 2-fold increase in fetal plasma citrulline and arginine, respectively, whereas ARG supplementation only increased fetal arginine concentration. LP diet led to lower placental SNAT 4 mRNA, and higher LAT2 and SNAT1 expression, compared with NP. SNAT4, 4hFC, LAT2 mRNA were up-regulated in LP + CIT and LP + ARG group compared with the un-supplemented LP group. Higher level of LAT1 mRNA was also observed in the LP + CIT group than in the LP group (p < 0.01). SNAT2 expression was unchanged in response to CIT or ARG supplementation. Fetal amino acid concentrations were decreased by LP diet, and were not restored by CIT or ARG supplementation. CONCLUSIONS The current findings confirm supplementation with citrulline or arginine enhances fetal growth in a rat model of IUGR. They further suggest that: 1) citrulline and arginine administered orally to the pregnant mother may reach fetal circulation; 2) citrulline effectively raises fetal arginine availability; and 3) although it failed to increase the concentrations of essential amino acids in fetal plasma, citrulline or arginine supplementation upregulates the gene expression of several placental amino acid transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Bourdon
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France
| | - Jacob Hannigsberg
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France
| | - Emilie Misbert
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hotel-Dieu, Nantes, France
| | - Thang Nhat Tran
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France
| | - Valérie Amarger
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France
| | - Véronique Ferchaud-Roucher
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France
| | - Norbert Winer
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hotel-Dieu, Nantes, France
| | - Dominique Darmaun
- INRAE, UMR 1280, Physiology of Nutritional Adaptations, University of Nantes, IMAD, CRNH-Ouest, Nantes, France; Nutrition Support Team, IMAD, University Medical Center of Nantes, France.
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Feng C, Bai K, Wang A, Ge X, Zhao Y, Zhang L, Wang T. Effects of dimethylglycine sodium salt supplementation on growth performance, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and mitochondria-related gene expression in weanling piglets born with low birth weight1. J Anim Sci 2020; 96:3791-3803. [PMID: 29931075 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dimethylglycine sodium salt (DMG-Na) has exhibited excellent advantages in animal experiments and human health. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with 0.1% DMG-Na on the growth performance, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and mRNA expression of mitochondria-related genes in low birth weight (LBW) piglets during weaning period. Sixteen piglets with normal birth weight (NBW) and 16 LBW piglets were fed either a basal diet or a 0.1% DMG-Na supplemented diet from age of 21 to 49 d. Blood and liver samples were collected at the end of the study. The results showed that compared with NBW piglets, LBW piglets exhibited greater (P < 0.05) alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase activities in the serum. LBW decreased (P < 0.05) the activity of glutathione peroxidase and increased (P < 0.05) the contents of malondialdehyde and H2O2 in liver. DMG-Na supplementation increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency, decreased (P < 0.05) ALT and AST activities, and reduced the content of H2O2 in LBW piglets. LBW piglets had downregulated (P < 0.05) mRNA expression of thioredoxin 2, thioredoxin reductases 2, and nuclear respiratory factor-1 (Nrf1) in the liver. However, DMG-Na supplementation increased (P < 0.05) mRNA expression of Nrf1 in the liver. In conclusion, DMG-Na supplementation has beneficial effects in alleviating LBW-induced hepatic oxidative damage and changed mitochondrial genes expression levels, which is associated with increased antioxidant enzyme activities and up-regulating mRNA gene abundance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, People' s Republic of China
| | - Kaiwen Bai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, People' s Republic of China
| | - Anan Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, People' s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoke Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, People' s Republic of China
| | - Yongwei Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, People' s Republic of China
| | - Lili Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, People' s Republic of China
| | - Tian Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, People' s Republic of China
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Hu X, Li S, Cirillo P, Krigbaum N, Tran V, Ishikawa T, La Merrill MA, Jones DP, Cohn B. Metabolome Wide Association Study of serum DDT and DDE in Pregnancy and Early Postpartum. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 92:129-137. [PMID: 31102720 PMCID: PMC7055929 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.05.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The advancement of high-resolution metabolomics (HRM) and metabolome-wide-association study (MWAS) enables the readout of environmental effects in human specimens. We used HRM to understand DDT-induced alterations of in utero environment and potential health effects. Endogenous metabolites were measured in 397 maternal perinatal serum samples collected during 1959-1967 in the Child Health and Development Studies (CHDS) and in 16 maternal postnatal serum samples of mice treated with or without DDT. MWAS was performed to assess associations between metabolites and p,p'-DDT, o,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDE levels, followed by pathway analysis. Distinct metabolic profiles were found with p,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDE. Amino acids such arginine had a strong association with p,p'-DDT and o,p'-DDT in both women and mice, whereas lipids and acyl-carnitine intermediates were found exclusively associated with p,p'-DDE in CHDS women indicating mitochondrial impairment. It suggests that the role of serine and fatty acid metabolism on the causal disease pathway should be examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Shuzhao Li
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Piera Cirillo
- The Center for Research on Women and Children's Health, Child Health and Development Studies, Public Health Institute, 1683 Shattuck Avenue, Suite B, Berkeley, CA 94709, USA
| | - Nickilou Krigbaum
- The Center for Research on Women and Children's Health, Child Health and Development Studies, Public Health Institute, 1683 Shattuck Avenue, Suite B, Berkeley, CA 94709, USA
| | - ViLinh Tran
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Tomoko Ishikawa
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Michele A La Merrill
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Dean P Jones
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA.
| | - Barbara Cohn
- The Center for Research on Women and Children's Health, Child Health and Development Studies, Public Health Institute, 1683 Shattuck Avenue, Suite B, Berkeley, CA 94709, USA.
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Chassen S, Jansson T. Complex, coordinated and highly regulated changes in placental signaling and nutrient transport capacity in IUGR. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165373. [PMID: 30684642 PMCID: PMC6650384 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The most common cause of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in the developed world is placental insufficiency, a concept often used synonymously with reduced utero-placental and umbilical blood flows. However, placental insufficiency and IUGR are associated with complex, coordinated and highly regulated changes in placental signaling and nutrient transport including inhibition of insulin and mTOR signaling and down-regulation of specific amino acid transporters, Na+/K+-ATPase, the Na+/H+-exchanger, folate and lactate transporters. In contrast, placental glucose transport capacity is unaltered and Ca2+-ATPase activity and the expression of proteins involved in placental lipid transport are increased in IUGR. These findings are not entirely consistent with the traditional view that the placenta is dysfunctional in IUGR, but rather suggest that the placenta adapts to reduce fetal growth in response to an inability of the mother to allocate resources to the fetus. This new model has implications for the understanding of the mechanisms underpinning IUGR and for the development of intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Chassen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA.
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Lee JW, Moen EL, Punshon T, Hoen AG, Stewart D, Li H, Karagas MR, Gui J. An Integrated Gaussian Graphical Model to evaluate the impact of exposures on metabolic networks. Comput Biol Med 2019; 114:103417. [PMID: 31521894 PMCID: PMC6817396 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2019.103417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Examining the effects of exogenous exposures on complex metabolic processes poses the unique challenge of identifying interactions among a large number of metabolites. Recent progress in the quantification of the metabolome through mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has given rise to high-dimensional biomedical data of specific metabolites that can be leveraged to study their effects in humans. These metabolic interactions can be evaluated using probabilistic graphical models (PGMs), which define conditional dependence and independence between components within and between heterogeneous biomedical datasets. This method allows for the detection and recovery of valuable but latent information that cannot be easily detected by other currently existing methods. Here, we develop a PGM method, referred to as an "Integrated Gaussian Graphical Model (IGGM)", to incorporate exposure concentrations of seven trace elements-arsenic (As), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se) and copper (Cu-into metabolic networks. We first conducted a simulation study demonstrating that the integration of trace elements into metabolomics data can improve the accuracy of detecting latent interactions of metabolites impacted by exposure in the network. We tested parameters such as sample size and the number of neighboring metabolites of a chosen trace element for their impact on the accuracy of detecting metabolite interactions. We then applied this method to measurements of cord blood plasma metabolites and placental trace elements collected from newborns in the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study (NHBCS). We found that our approach can identify latent interactions among metabolites that are related to trace element concentrations. Application to similarly structured data may contribute to our understanding of the complex interplay between exposure-related metabolic interactions that are important for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Woo Lee
- Institute for Quantitative Biomedical Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Erika L Moen
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Tracy Punshon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Anne G Hoen
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Delisha Stewart
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Hongzhe Li
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadephia, PA, USA
| | | | - Jiang Gui
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, USA.
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36
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Xing Y, Zhang W, Zhao H, Shen Z, Liang W, Zhou J, Shi L, Chen J, Zhong X, Tang S. Multi‑organ assessment via a 9.4‑Tesla MRS evaluation of metabolites during the embryonic development of cleft palate induced by dexamethasone. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:3326-3336. [PMID: 31432193 PMCID: PMC6755240 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine the association between maternal metabolism and development of the fetal palate, and to suggest a potential non‑invasive prenatal diagnostic method for fetal cleft palate (CP). Dexamethasone (DXM) was used to create a CP mouse model. A 9.4‑Tesla (T) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) imager was used to measure an array of metabolites in the maternal serum, placental tissue, amniotic fluid and fetal palates. Multivariate statistical analysis was performed using SIMCA‑P 14.1 software. Following DXM treatment, variations were detected in multiple metabolites in the female mice and their fetuses based on 9.4T MRS. It was indicated that in the experimental group during CP formation, leucine, valine, creatine, acetate and citrate levels in the palatal tissue were lower, whereas lactate, alanine, proline/inositol and glutamate‑containing metabolite levels were higher, compared with the levels in the control group. In placental tissue and amniotic fluid, succinate and choline levels were lower in the experimental group. The relative concentrations of cholesterol and lipids in palatal tissues from mice treated with DXM were higher compared with the concentrations in tissues from mice in the control group, with the exception of (CH2)n lipids. In the placental tissue, the alteration in cholesterol level exhibited the opposite trend. Lipid levels for the different lipid forms varied and most of them were unsaturated lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xing
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Wancong Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Hanxing Zhao
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Zhiwei Shen
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Weijie Liang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Jianda Zhou
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Central South University Third Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Lungang Shi
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Jiasheng Chen
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoping Zhong
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Shijie Tang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Correspondence to: Dr Shijie Tang, Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, and Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 69 Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China, E-mail: ;
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37
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Gupta MB, Jansson T. Novel roles of mechanistic target of rapamycin signaling in regulating fetal growth†. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:872-884. [PMID: 30476008 PMCID: PMC6698747 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling functions as a central regulator of cellular metabolism, growth, and survival in response to hormones, growth factors, nutrients, energy, and stress signals. Mechanistic TOR is therefore critical for the growth of most fetal organs, and global mTOR deletion is embryonic lethal. This review discusses emerging evidence suggesting that mTOR signaling also has a role as a critical hub in the overall homeostatic control of fetal growth, adjusting the fetal growth trajectory according to the ability of the maternal supply line to support fetal growth. In the fetus, liver mTOR governs the secretion and phosphorylation of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1) thereby controlling the bioavailability of insulin-like growth factors (IGF-I and IGF-II), which function as important growth hormones during fetal life. In the placenta, mTOR responds to a large number of growth-related signals, including amino acids, glucose, oxygen, folate, and growth factors, to regulate trophoblast mitochondrial respiration, nutrient transport, and protein synthesis, thereby influencing fetal growth. In the maternal compartment, mTOR is an integral part of a decidual nutrient sensor which links oxygen and nutrient availability to the phosphorylation of IGFBP-1 with preferential effects on the bioavailability of IGF-I in the maternal-fetal interface and in the maternal circulation. These new roles of mTOR signaling in the regulation fetal growth will help us better understand the molecular underpinnings of abnormal fetal growth, such as intrauterine growth restriction and fetal overgrowth, and may represent novel avenues for diagnostics and intervention in important pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhulika B Gupta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado | Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Cleal JK, Lofthouse EM, Sengers BG, Lewis RM. A systems perspective on placental amino acid transport. J Physiol 2018; 596:5511-5522. [PMID: 29984402 PMCID: PMC6265537 DOI: 10.1113/jp274883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental amino acid transfer is a complex process that is essential for fetal development. Impaired amino acid transfer causes fetal growth restriction, which may have lifelong health consequences. Transepithelial transfer of amino acids across the placental syncytiotrophoblast requires accumulative, exchange and facilitated transporters on the apical and basal membranes to work in concert. However, transporters alone do not determine amino acid transfer and factors that affect substrate availability, such as blood flow and metabolism, may also become rate-limiting for transfer. In order to determine the rate-limiting processes, it is necessary to take a systems approach which recognises the interdependence of these processes. New technologies have the potential to deliver targeted interventions to the placenta and help poorly growing fetuses. While many factors are necessary for amino acid transfer, novel therapies need to target the rate-limiting factors if they are going to be effective. This review will outline the factors which determine amino acid transfer and describe how they become interdependent. It will also highlight the role of computational modelling as a tool to understand this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane K. Cleal
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Emma M. Lofthouse
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Bram G. Sengers
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Faculty of Engineering and the EnvironmentUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Rohan M. Lewis
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
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Wai SG, Rozance PJ, Wesolowski SR, Hay WW, Brown LD. Prolonged amino acid infusion into intrauterine growth-restricted fetal sheep increases leucine oxidation rates. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2018; 315:E1143-E1153. [PMID: 30205012 PMCID: PMC6336957 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00128.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Overcoming impaired growth in an intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetus has potential to improve neonatal morbidity, long-term growth, and metabolic health outcomes. The extent to which fetal anabolic capacity persists as the IUGR condition progresses is not known. We subjected fetal sheep to chronic placental insufficiency and tested whether prolonged amino acid infusion would increase protein accretion in these IUGR fetuses. IUGR fetal sheep were infused for 10 days with either mixed amino acids providing ~2 g·kg-1·day-1 (IUGR-AA) or saline (IUGR-Sal) during late gestation. At the end of the infusion, fetal plasma leucine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, and arginine concentrations were higher in the IUGR-AA than IUGR-Sal group ( P < 0.05). Fetal plasma glucose, oxygen, insulin, IGF-1, cortisol, and norepinephrine concentrations were similar between IUGR groups, but glucagon concentrations were fourfold higher in the IUGR-AA group ( P < 0.05). Net umbilical amino acid uptake rate did not differ between IUGR groups; thus the total amino acid delivery rate (net umbilical amino acid uptake + infusion rate) was higher in the IUGR-AA than IUGR-Sal group (30 ± 4 vs. 19 ± 1 μmol·kg-1·min-1, P < 0.05). Net umbilical glucose, lactate, and oxygen uptake rates were similar between IUGR groups. Fetal leucine oxidation rate, measured using a leucine tracer, was higher in the IUGR-AA than IUGR-Sal group (2.5 ± 0.3 vs. 1.7 ± 0.3 μmol·kg-1·min-1, P < 0.05). Fetal protein accretion rate was not statistically different between the IUGR groups (1.6 ± 0.4 and 0.8 ± 0.3 μmol·kg-1·min-1 in IUGR-AA and IUGR-Sal, respectively) due to variability in response to amino acids. Prolonged amino acid infusion into IUGR fetal sheep increased leucine oxidation rates with variable anabolic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra G Wai
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - Paul J Rozance
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - Stephanie R Wesolowski
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - William W Hay
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - Laura D Brown
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
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40
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Morrison JL, Berry MJ, Botting KJ, Darby JRT, Frasch MG, Gatford KL, Giussani DA, Gray CL, Harding R, Herrera EA, Kemp MW, Lock MC, McMillen IC, Moss TJ, Musk GC, Oliver MH, Regnault TRH, Roberts CT, Soo JY, Tellam RL. Improving pregnancy outcomes in humans through studies in sheep. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2018; 315:R1123-R1153. [PMID: 30325659 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00391.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Experimental studies that are relevant to human pregnancy rely on the selection of appropriate animal models as an important element in experimental design. Consideration of the strengths and weaknesses of any animal model of human disease is fundamental to effective and meaningful translation of preclinical research. Studies in sheep have made significant contributions to our understanding of the normal and abnormal development of the fetus. As a model of human pregnancy, studies in sheep have enabled scientists and clinicians to answer questions about the etiology and treatment of poor maternal, placental, and fetal health and to provide an evidence base for translation of interventions to the clinic. The aim of this review is to highlight the advances in perinatal human medicine that have been achieved following translation of research using the pregnant sheep and fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Mary J Berry
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago , Wellington , New Zealand
| | - Kimberley J Botting
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge , Cambridge , United Kingdom
| | - Jack R T Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Martin G Frasch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide , Adelaide, South Australia , Australia
| | - Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge , Cambridge , United Kingdom
| | - Clint L Gray
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago , Wellington , New Zealand
| | - Richard Harding
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University , Clayton, Victoria , Australia
| | - Emilio A Herrera
- Pathophysiology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile , Santiago , Chile
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia , Perth, Western Australia , Australia
| | - Mitchell C Lock
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - I Caroline McMillen
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Timothy J Moss
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University , Clayton, Victoria , Australia
| | - Gabrielle C Musk
- Animal Care Services, University of Western Australia , Perth, Western Australia , Australia
| | - Mark H Oliver
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Timothy R H Regnault
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, and Children's Health Research Institute , London, Ontario , Canada
| | - Claire T Roberts
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide , Adelaide, South Australia , Australia
| | - Jia Yin Soo
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ross L Tellam
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Wang L, Han TL, Luo X, Li S, Young T, Chen C, Wen L, Xu P, Zheng Y, Saffery R, Baker PN, Tong C, Qi H. Metabolic Biomarkers of Monochorionic Twins Complicated With Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction in Cord Plasma and Placental Tissue. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15914. [PMID: 30374111 PMCID: PMC6206027 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33788-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) of monochorionic diamniotic (MCDC) twins causes phenotypic growth discordance, which is correlated with metabolomic pertubations. A global, untargeted identification of the metabolic fingerprint may help elucidate the etiology of sIUGR. Umbilical cord blood and placentas collected from 15 pairs of sIUGR monochorionic twins, 24 pairs of uncomplicated twins, and 14 singletons diagnosed with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) were subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry based metabolomic analyses. Supervised multivariate regression analysis and pathway analysis were performed to compare control twins with sIUGR twins. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was utilized to explore metabolic differences within sIUGR co-twins. Linear logistic regression was applied to screen metabolites that significantly differed in concentration between control twins and sIUGR twins or IUGR singletons. Umbilical cord blood demonstrated better global metabolomic separation of sIUGR and control twins compared to the placenta. Disrupted amino acid and fatty acid metabolism as well as high levels of exposure to environmental xenobiotics were associated with sIUGR. The metabolic abnormalities in MCDA twins suggested that in utero growth discordance is caused by intrauterine and extrauterine environmental factors, rather than genetics. Thus, this study provides new therapeutic targets and strategies for sIUGR management and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianlian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Department of Reproduction Health and Infertility, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Ting-Li Han
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Liggins Institution, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Xiaofang Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Siming Li
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
| | - Tim Young
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
| | - Chang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Li Wen
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yangxi Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Richard Saffery
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Philip N Baker
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Liggins Institution, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
- College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Chao Tong
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Hongbo Qi
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
- International Collaborative Joint Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of Ministry of Education P.R.C, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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Manta-Vogli PD, Schulpis KH, Dotsikas Y, Loukas YL. The significant role of amino acids during pregnancy: nutritional support. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 33:334-340. [PMID: 29909700 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1489795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy is characterized by a complexity of metabolic processes that may impact fetal development and infant health outcome. Normal fetal growth and development depend on a continuous supply of nutrients via the placenta. The placenta transports, utilizes, produces, and interconverts amino acids (AAs).Findings: Concentrations of both nonessential and essential AAs in maternal plasma decrease in early pregnancy and persist at low concentrations throughout. The decline is greatest for the glucogenic AAs and AAs of the urea cycle. Additionally, there is a large placental utilization of the branched-chain AAs, some of which are transaminated to alpha ketoacids and contribute to placental ammonia production. Both nonessential and essential AAs regulate key metabolic pathways to improve health, survival, growth, development, lactation, and reproduction of organisms. Some of the nonessential AAs (e.g. glutamine, glutamate, and arginine) play also important roles in regulating gene expression, cell signaling, antioxidant responses, immunity, and neurological function.Conclusions: Nutritional support during pregnancy is of great interest focusing not only to common pregnancies but also to those with low socioeconomic status, vegan-vegetarian groups, and pregnant women with metabolic disorders, the most known maternal phenylketonuria. The latter is of great interest because phenylalanine must be within the recommended range throughout pregnancy in addition to other nutrients such as vitamin B12, folate, etc. Loss of the adherence to this specific diet results in congenital malformations of the fetus. In addition to the routine laboratory test, quantitation of plasma AAs may be necessary throughout pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penelope D Manta-Vogli
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Agia Sofia Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Yannis Dotsikas
- Laboratory of Pharm. Analysis, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodestrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Yannis L Loukas
- Laboratory of Pharm. Analysis, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodestrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Global Metabolomics of the Placenta Reveals Distinct Metabolic Profiles between Maternal and Fetal Placental Tissues Following Delivery in Non-Labored Women. Metabolites 2018; 8:metabo8010010. [PMID: 29360753 PMCID: PMC5876000 DOI: 10.3390/metabo8010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the metabolic alterations in maternal and fetal placental tissues from non-labored women undergoing cesarean section using samples collected from 5 min to 24 h following delivery. Using 1H-NMR, we identified 14 metabolites that significantly differed between maternal and fetal placental tissues (FDR-corrected p-value < 0.05), with 12 metabolites elevated in the maternal tissue, reflecting the flux of these metabolites from mother to fetus. In the maternal tissue, 4 metabolites were significantly altered at 15 min, 10 metabolites at 30 min, and 16 metabolites at 1 h postdelivery, while 11 metabolites remained stable over 24 h. In contrast, in the fetal placenta tissue, 1 metabolite was significantly altered at 15 min, 2 metabolites at 30 min, and 4 metabolites at 1 h postdelivery, while 22 metabolites remained stable over 24 h. Our study provides information on the metabolic profiles of maternal and fetal placental tissues delivered by cesarean section and reveals that there are different metabolic alterations in the maternal and fetal tissues of the placenta following delivery.
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Perng W, Rifas-Shiman SL, McCulloch S, Chatzi L, Mantzoros C, Hivert MF, Oken E. Associations of cord blood metabolites with perinatal characteristics, newborn anthropometry, and cord blood hormones in project viva. Metabolism 2017; 76:11-22. [PMID: 28987236 PMCID: PMC5675164 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Metabolomics has emerged as a powerful tool to characterize biomarkers and elucidate physiological processes underlying adverse health outcomes. Little is known of these relationships during gestation and infancy, which are critical period for development of metabolic disease risk. OBJECTIVES To identify cord blood metabolite patterns associated with birth size; and to investigate relations of the birth size-associated metabolite patterns, and a branched chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolite pattern with a range of newborn and perinatal characteristics. METHODS Using untargeted mass-spectrometry, we quantified metabolites in cord blood of 126 mother-child pairs. After excluding 103 xenobiotics, we used principal components analysis (PCA) to consolidate the remaining 606 metabolites into principal components ("factors"). Next, we identified factors associated with gestational age-and sex-standardized birthweight z-score (BW/GA) and examined associations of the BW/GA-associated pattern(s) and the BCAA pattern with cord blood insulin, leptin, adiponectin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, IGF-2, and IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) using multivariable linear regression. Finally, we examined associations of maternal/perinatal characteristics with the cord blood metabolite patterns. RESULTS Mean BW/GA z-score was 0.27±0.98 units. About half of the infants were male (52.4%) and white (57.1%). Of the 6 factors identified from PCA, one was associated with higher BW/GA: Factor 5, which comprised metabolites involved in energy production (malate, succinate, fumarate) and nucleotide turnover (inosine 5-monophosphate, adenosine 5-monophosphate, cytidine 5-monophosphate) pathways. In multivariable analysis, Factor 5 was related to higher cord blood leptin (1.64 [95% CI: 0.42, 2.87] ng/mL) and IGF-1 even after adjusting for IGFBP-3 (3.35 [0.25, 6.44] ng/mL). The BCAA pattern was associated with higher BW/GA (0.20 [0.03, 0.36] z-scores) and IGFBP-3 (106.5 [44.7, 168.2] ng/mL). No maternal characteristics were associated with either metabolite pattern; however, infants born via Cesarean delivery exhibited a higher score for Factor 5, and gestation length was inversely associated with the BCAA pattern. CONCLUSIONS Metabolites in energy production and DNA/RNA turnover pathways in cord blood are associated with larger size at birth, and higher leptin and IGF-1. Similarly, the BCAA pattern was associated with larger birth size and IGFBP-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Perng
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Sheryl L Rifas-Shiman
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Leda Chatzi
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of South California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Genetics & Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Christos Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marie-France Hivert
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emily Oken
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School/Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Boehmer BH, Limesand SW, Rozance PJ. The impact of IUGR on pancreatic islet development and β-cell function. J Endocrinol 2017; 235:R63-R76. [PMID: 28808079 PMCID: PMC5808569 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Placental insufficiency is a primary cause of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). IUGR increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) throughout life, which indicates that insults from placental insufficiency impair β-cell development during the perinatal period because β-cells have a central role in the regulation of glucose tolerance. The severely IUGR fetal pancreas is characterized by smaller islets, less β-cells, and lower insulin secretion. Because of the important associations among impaired islet growth, β-cell dysfunction, impaired fetal growth, and the propensity for T2DM, significant progress has been made in understanding the pathophysiology of IUGR and programing events in the fetal endocrine pancreas. Animal models of IUGR replicate many of the observations in severe cases of human IUGR and allow us to refine our understanding of the pathophysiology of developmental and functional defects in islet from IUGR fetuses. Almost all models demonstrate a phenotype of progressive loss of β-cell mass and impaired β-cell function. This review will first provide evidence of impaired human islet development and β-cell function associated with IUGR and the impact on glucose homeostasis including the development of glucose intolerance and diabetes in adulthood. We then discuss evidence for the mechanisms regulating β-cell mass and insulin secretion in the IUGR fetus, including the role of hypoxia, catecholamines, nutrients, growth factors, and pancreatic vascularity. We focus on recent evidence from experimental interventions in established models of IUGR to understand better the pathophysiological mechanisms linking placental insufficiency with impaired islet development and β-cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brit H Boehmer
- Department of PediatricsPerinatal Research Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Sean W Limesand
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Paul J Rozance
- Department of PediatricsPerinatal Research Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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46
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Rozance PJ, Zastoupil L, Wesolowski SR, Goldstrohm DA, Strahan B, Cree-Green M, Sheffield-Moore M, Meschia G, Hay WW, Wilkening RB, Brown LD. Skeletal muscle protein accretion rates and hindlimb growth are reduced in late gestation intrauterine growth-restricted fetal sheep. J Physiol 2017; 596:67-82. [PMID: 28940557 DOI: 10.1113/jp275230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Adults who were affected by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) suffer from reductions in muscle mass, which may contribute to insulin resistance and the development of diabetes. We demonstrate slower hindlimb linear growth and muscle protein synthesis rates that match the reduced hindlimb blood flow and oxygen consumption rates in IUGR fetal sheep. These adaptations resulted in hindlimb blood flow rates in IUGR that were similar to control fetuses on a weight-specific basis. Net hindlimb glucose uptake and lactate output rates were similar between groups, whereas amino acid uptake was significantly lower in IUGR fetal sheep. Among all fetuses, blood O2 saturation and plasma glucose, insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 were positively associated and norepinephrine was negatively associated with hindlimb weight. These results further our understanding of the metabolic and hormonal adaptations to reduced oxygen and nutrient supply with placental insufficiency that develop to slow hindlimb growth and muscle protein accretion. ABSTRACT Reduced skeletal muscle mass in the fetus with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) persists into adulthood and may contribute to increased metabolic disease risk. To determine how placental insufficiency with reduced oxygen and nutrient supply to the fetus affects hindlimb blood flow, substrate uptake and protein accretion rates in skeletal muscle, late gestation control (CON) (n = 8) and IUGR (n = 13) fetal sheep were catheterized with aortic and femoral catheters and a flow transducer around the external iliac artery. Muscle protein kinetic rates were measured using isotopic tracers. Hindlimb weight, linear growth rate, muscle protein accretion rate and fractional synthetic rate were lower in IUGR compared to CON (P < 0.05). Absolute hindlimb blood flow was reduced in IUGR (IUGR: 32.9 ± 5.6 ml min-1 ; CON: 60.9 ± 6.5 ml min-1 ; P < 0.005), although flow normalized to hindlimb weight was similar between groups. Hindlimb oxygen consumption rate was lower in IUGR (IUGR: 10.4 ± 1.4 μmol min-1 100 g-1 ; CON: 14.7 ± 1.3 μmol min-1 100 g-1 ; P < 0.05). Hindlimb glucose uptake and lactate output rates were similar between groups, whereas amino acid uptake was lower in IUGR (IUGR: 1.3 ± 0.5 μmol min-1 100 g-1 ; CON: 2.9 ± 0.2 μmol min-1 100 g-1 ; P < 0.05). Blood O2 saturation (r2 = 0.80, P < 0.0001) and plasma glucose (r2 = 0.68, P < 0.0001), insulin (r2 = 0.40, P < 0.005) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 (r2 = 0.80, P < 0.0001) were positively associated and norepinephrine (r2 = 0.59, P < 0.0001) was negatively associated with hindlimb weight. Slower hindlimb linear growth and muscle protein synthesis rates match reduced hindlimb blood flow and oxygen consumption rates in the IUGR fetus. Metabolic adaptations to slow hindlimb growth are probably hormonally-mediated by mechanisms that include increased fetal norepinephrine and reduced IGF-1 and insulin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Rozance
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laura Zastoupil
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Stephanie R Wesolowski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David A Goldstrohm
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brittany Strahan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Melanie Cree-Green
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Melinda Sheffield-Moore
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Division of Endocrinology, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Giacomo Meschia
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - William W Hay
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Randall B Wilkening
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laura D Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Perinatal Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
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Holm MB, Bastani NE, Holme AM, Zucknick M, Jansson T, Refsum H, Mørkrid L, Blomhoff R, Henriksen T, Michelsen TM. Uptake and release of amino acids in the fetal-placental unit in human pregnancies. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185760. [PMID: 28982184 PMCID: PMC5628923 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The current concepts of human fetal-placental amino acid exchange and metabolism are mainly based on animal-, in vitro- and ex vivo models. We aimed to determine and assess the paired relationships between concentrations and arteriovenous differences of 19 amino acids on the maternal and fetal sides of the human placenta in a large study sample. Methods This cross-sectional in vivo study included 179 healthy women with uncomplicated term pregnancies. During planned cesarean section, we sampled blood from incoming and outgoing vessels on the maternal (radial artery and uterine vein) and fetal (umbilical vein and artery) sides of the placenta. Amino acid concentrations were measured by liquid chromatography—tandem mass spectrometry. We calculated paired arteriovenous differences and performed Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Spearman’s correlations. Results In the umbilical circulation, we observed a positive venoarterial difference (fetal uptake) for 14 amino acids and a negative venoarterial difference (fetal release) for glutamic acid (p<0.001). In the maternal circulation, we observed a positive arteriovenous difference (uteroplacental uptake) for leucine (p = 0.005), isoleucine (p = 0.01), glutamic acid (p<0.001) and arginine (p = 0.04) and a negative arteriovenous difference (uteroplacental release) for tyrosine (p = 0.002), glycine (p = 0.01) and glutamine (p = 0.02). The concentrations in the maternal artery and umbilical vein were correlated for all amino acids except tryptophan, but we observed no correlations between the uteroplacental uptake and the fetal uptake or the umbilical vein concentration. Two amino acids showed a correlation between the maternal artery concentration and the fetal uptake. Conclusions Our human in vivo study expands the current insight into fetal-placental amino acid exchange, and discloses some differences from what has been previously described in animals. Our findings are consistent with the concept that the fetal supply of amino acids in the human is the result of a dynamic interplay between fetal and placental amino acid metabolism and interconversions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maia Blomhoff Holm
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail: ,
| | | | - Ane Moe Holme
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Manuela Zucknick
- Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of OB/GYN University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Helga Refsum
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Mørkrid
- Analytic Unit of Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rune Blomhoff
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Clinical Service, Division of Cancer Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tore Henriksen
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond Melbye Michelsen
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Advisory Unit on Women’s Health, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Pogorelova TN, Gunko VO, Avrutskaya VV, Kaushanskaya LV, Durnitsyna OA. [Impairments of placental amino acid metabolism in fetal growth restriction]. BIOMEDIT︠S︡INSKAI︠A︡ KHIMII︠A︡ 2017; 63:266-271. [PMID: 28781260 DOI: 10.18097/pbmc20176303266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The content of the amino acids in the placenta during physiological pregnancy and fetal growth restriction (FGR) has been investigated my means of the method of ion-exchange chromatography. It has been found that in FGR the placental amino acid pool is characterized by a decreased content of arginine, proline, alanine, serine, cysteine, methionine, tryptophan, leucine, threonine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, glutamine and an increased content of dicarboxylic amino acids, lysine, histidine and glycine. These changes are accompanied by altered activity of some enzymes of amino acid metabolism, and the degree of these changes correlates with the level of corresponding amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- T N Pogorelova
- Rostov Scientific-Research Institute of Obstetrics and Pediatrics
| | - V O Gunko
- Rostov Scientific-Research Institute of Obstetrics and Pediatrics
| | - V V Avrutskaya
- Rostov Scientific-Research Institute of Obstetrics and Pediatrics
| | - L V Kaushanskaya
- Rostov Scientific-Research Institute of Obstetrics and Pediatrics
| | - O A Durnitsyna
- Rostov Scientific-Research Institute of Obstetrics and Pediatrics
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Ravlić S, Škrobot Vidaček N, Nanić L, Laganović M, Slade N, Jelaković B, Rubelj I. Mechanisms of fetal epigenetics that determine telomere dynamics and health span in adulthood. Mech Ageing Dev 2017; 174:55-62. [PMID: 28847485 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2017.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Advances in epigenetics now enable us to better understand environmental influences on the genetic background of human diseases. This refers especially to fetal development where an adverse intrauterine environment impacts oxygen and nutrient supply to the fetus. Recently, differences in telomere length and telomere loss dynamics among individuals born with intrauterine growth restriction compared to normal controls have been described. In this paper we propose possible molecular mechanisms that (pre)program telomere epigenetics during pregnancy. This programming sets differences in telomere lengths and dynamics of telomere shortening in adulthood and therefore dictates the dynamics of aging and morbidity in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanda Ravlić
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Division of Molecular Biology, RBI, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Nikolina Škrobot Vidaček
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Division of Molecular Biology, RBI, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Lucia Nanić
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Division of Molecular Biology, RBI, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Mario Laganović
- Department for Nephrology, Hypertension, Dialysis and Transplantation, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Neda Slade
- Laboratory for Protein Dynamics, Division of Molecular Medicine, RBI, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Bojan Jelaković
- Department for Nephrology, Hypertension, Dialysis and Transplantation, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ivica Rubelj
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Division of Molecular Biology, RBI, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Essential Roles of L-Type Amino Acid Transporter 1 in Syncytiotrophoblast Development by Presenting Fusogenic 4F2hc. Mol Cell Biol 2017; 37:MCB.00427-16. [PMID: 28320871 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00427-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The layers of the epithelial syncytium, i.e., syncytiotrophoblasts, differentiate from chorionic trophoblasts via cell fusion and separate maternal and fetal circulations in hemochorial placentas. L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) and its covalently linked ancillary subunit 4F2hc are colocalized on both maternal and fetal surfaces of syncytiotrophoblasts, implying their roles in amino acid transfer through the placental barrier. In this study, LAT1 knockout, in addition, revealed a novel role of LAT1 in syncytiotrophoblast development. LAT1 at midgestation was selectively expressed in trophoblastic lineages in the placenta, exclusively as a LAT1-4F2hc heterodimer. In LAT1 homozygous knockout mice, chorionic trophoblasts remained largely mononucleated, and the layers of syncytiotrophoblasts were almost completely absent. The amount of 4F2hc protein, which possesses a fusogenic function in trophoblastic cells, as well as in virus-infected cells, was drastically reduced by LAT1 knockout, with less affecting the mRNA level. Knockdown of LAT1 in trophoblastic BeWo cells also reduced 4F2hc protein and suppressed forskolin-induced cell fusion. These results demonstrate a novel fundamental role of LAT1 to support the protein expression of 4F2hc via a chaperone-like function in chorionic trophoblasts and to promote syncytiotrophoblast formation by contributing to cell fusion in the developing placenta.
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