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Gudenschwager-Basso EK, Frydman G, Weerakoon S, Andargachew H, Piltaver CM, Huckle WR. Morphological evaluation of the feline placenta correlates with gene expression of vascular growth factors and receptors†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:569-582. [PMID: 38092011 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad167] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Placental angiogenesis is critical for normal development. Angiogenic factors and their receptors are key regulators of this process. Dysregulated placental vascular development is associated with pregnancy complications. Despite their importance, vascular growth factor expression has not been thoroughly correlated with placental morphologic development across gestation in cats. We postulate that changes in placental vessel morphology can be appreciated as consequences of dynamic expression of angiogenic signaling agents. Here, we characterized changes in placental morphology alongside expression analysis of angiogenic factor splice variants and receptors throughout pregnancy in domestic shorthair cats. We observed increased vascular and lamellar density in the lamellar zone during mid-pregnancy. Immunohistochemical analysis localized the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) receptor KDR to endothelial cells of the maternal and fetal microvasculatures. PlGF and its principal receptor Flt-1 were localized to the trophoblasts and fetal vasculature. VEGF-A was found in trophoblast cells and associated with endothelial cells. We detected expression of two Plgf splice variants and four Vegf-a variants. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis showed upregulation of mRNAs encoding pan Vegf-a and all Vegf-a splice forms at gestational days 30-35. Vegf-A showed a marked relative increase in expression during mid-pregnancy, consistent with the pro-angiogenic changes seen in the lamellar zone at days 30-35. Flt-1 was upregulated during late pregnancy. Plgf variants showed stable expression during the first two-thirds of pregnancy, followed by a marked increase toward term. These findings revealed specific spatiotemporal expression patterns of VEGF-A family members consistent with pivotal roles during normal placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin K Gudenschwager-Basso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Galit Frydman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Shaneke Weerakoon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Hariyat Andargachew
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Cassandra M Piltaver
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - William R Huckle
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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2
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Zhang F, Lu Y. The Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Axis: an Emerging Therapeutic Opportunity for Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2040-2059. [PMID: 36662421 PMCID: PMC9857924 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01167-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common condition in women of reproductive age, but its current interventions are unsatisfactory. Recent research discovered a dysregulation of the sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway in endometriosis and showed a positive outcome by targeting it. The S1P axis participates in a series of fundamental pathophysiological processes. This narrative review is trying to expound the reported and putative (due to limited reports in this area for now) interactions between the S1P axis and endometriosis in those pathophysiological processes, to provide some perspectives for future research. In short, S1P signaling pathway is highly activated in the endometriotic lesion. The S1P concentration has a surge in the endometriotic cyst fluid and the peritoneal fluid, with the downstream dysregulation of its receptors. The S1P axis plays an essential role in the migration and activation of the immune cells, fibrosis, angiogenesis, pain-related hyperalgesia, and innervation. S1P receptor (S1PR) modulators showed an impressive therapeutic effect by targeting the different S1P receptors in the endometriosis model, and many other conditions resemble endometriosis. And several of them already got approval for clinical application in many diseases, which means a drug repurposing direction and a rapid clinical translation for endometriosis treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengrui Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, The Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Department of Gynecology, The Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
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3
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Massri N, Loia R, Sones JL, Arora R, Douglas NC. Vascular changes in the cycling and early pregnant uterus. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e163422. [PMID: 37288662 PMCID: PMC10393238 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.163422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine vascular remodeling is intrinsic to the cycling and early pregnant endometrium. Maternal regulatory factors such as ovarian hormones, VEGF, angiopoietins, Notch, and uterine natural killer cells significantly mediate these vascular changes. In the absence of pregnancy, changes in uterine vessel morphology and function correlate with different stages of the human menstrual cycle. During early pregnancy, vascular remodeling in rodents and humans results in decreased uterine vascular resistance and increased vascular permeability necessary for pregnancy success. Aberrations in these adaptive vascular processes contribute to increased risk of infertility, abnormal fetal growth, and/or preeclampsia. This Review comprehensively summarizes uterine vascular remodeling in the human menstrual cycle, and in the peri- and post-implantation stages in rodent species (mice and rats).
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Affiliation(s)
- Noura Massri
- Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program and
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Rachel Loia
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Sones
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Nataki C. Douglas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health and
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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4
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The investigation of apelin and apelin receptor expressions in mouse endometrium during peri-implantation period. Ann Anat 2023; 246:152027. [PMID: 36379349 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2022.152027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fertilization, pre-implantation embryo development, implantation, and decidualization are critical for a healthy pregnancy. Successful implantation requires a competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus. Apelin was purified from the bovine stomach in 1998. Apelin receptor (APJ) is a member of G protein-coupled receptors. Apelin/APJ system's physiological role was shown in cardiovascular system, immune response, stress response, fluid regulation, nutrient uptake, angiogenesis, and adipoinsular axis; however, whether apelin/APJ system plays a role in implantation is unknown. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the localization and expressions of the apelin/APJ system in the peri-implantation period mouse uterus. METHODS Uteri and implantation sites were collected from mice on the estrous phase and the 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 8th days of pregnancy. Also, inter-implantation sites were collected from the 5th day of the pregnancy group. Localization and expressions of apelin and APJ were determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot, respectively. RESULTS Apelin and APJ were expressed in the luminal and gland epithelium, the stroma of all experimental groups. Two isoforms of apelin-8 and 16 kDa were detected by Western blot. While apelin expression increased from the estrous to the 8th day of pregnancy, APJ expression increased from the estrous to the 4th day of pregnancy, reached the highest expression level, then decreased. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the apelin/APJ system might be involved in implantation and decidualization. Our findings will guide further studies and may help elucidate the underlying causes of implantation failure and pregnancy loss.
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Regulation of angiogenesis by microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs in endometriosis. REPRODUCTIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/rd9.0000000000000024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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6
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Qu Y, Zhang J, Guo S, Zhang L, Qian J, Zhu X, Duan E, Zhang Y. Three-Dimensional Visualization of Mouse Endometrial Remodeling After Superovulation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:933852. [PMID: 35846371 PMCID: PMC9284589 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.933852] [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: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine status determines pregnancy success. Although it is well known that superovulation operations can disrupt uterine function, our understanding of the morphological changes in the uterine endometrium at the three-dimensional (3D) level is limited. Here, combining the tissue clearing with 3D deep imaging, we reveal an increase in epithelial density and angiogenesis after ovarian stimulation, which is accompanied by a circulating surge in P4 levels. Using an ovariectomized mouse model, we further detected the separate regulatory effects of P4 and E2 on the uterine endometrium, with P4 promoting endothelial cell growth and E2 inducing epithelial proliferation. Additionally, we observed that the effects of E2 can be partially neutralized by P4, and vice versa. By analyzing the 3D uterine imaging, we discovered an interesting phenomenon in which the growing blood vessels closely surround the remodeling uterine epithelium, indicating a close relationship between angiogenesis and epithelial growth. These findings provide new insight into the uterine epithelial changes and angiogenesis at the 3D level, and explain a potential reason for endometrial changes due to the low implantation rate in patients undergoing clinic super-ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongcun Qu
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence in Sports, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shanshan Guo
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Qian
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xili Zhu
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Enkui Duan
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Ying Zhang,
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7
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Golal E, Balci CN, Ustunel I, Acar N. The investigation of hippo signaling pathway in mouse uterus during peri-implantation period. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 307:1795-1809. [PMID: 35708783 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06660-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Events in the uterus during the peri-implantation period include embryo development, acquisition of uterine receptivity, implantation and decidualization. Hippo signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. We aimed to determine localization and expressions of pYAP (Phospho Yes-associated protein), YAP (Yes-associated protein), TEAD1 (TEA domain family member 1) and CTGF (Connective tissue growth factor), members of the Hippo signaling pathway, in the mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period. METHODS Pregnant mice were randomly separated into 5 groups: 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 8th days of pregnancy groups. Non-pregnant female mice in estrous phase were included in the estrous group. Uteri and implantation sites were collected. Also, inter-implantation sites were collected from the 5th day of pregnancy group. pYAP, YAP, TEAD-1 and CTGF were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. RESULTS We observed that the expressions of YAP, TEAD-1 and CTGF were increased in the luminal and glandular epithelium on the 1st and 4th days of pregnancy when epithelial proliferation occurred. pYAP expression was high, and YAP and CTGF expressions were low in the luminal epithelium of the implantation sites on the 5th day of pregnancy, when epithelial differentiation occurred. pYAP expression was low, YAP and CTGF expressions were high at implantation sites on the 6th and 8th days of pregnancy, where decidua was formed. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the Hippo signaling pathway might be involved in implantation and decidualization. Our findings will guide further studies and may help to elucidate underlying causes of implantation failure and pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Golal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Cemre Nur Balci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Ismail Ustunel
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Nuray Acar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
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8
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Basso CG, de Araujo-Ramos AT, Martino-Andrade AJ. Exposure to phthalates and female reproductive health: a literature review. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 109:61-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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9
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Yang Y, Kowalkowski K, Ciurlionis R, Buck WR, Glaser KB, Albert DH, Blomme EAG. Identification of VEGF Signaling Inhibition-Induced Glomerular Injury in Rats through Site-Specific Urinary Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312629. [PMID: 34884436 PMCID: PMC8657489 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312629] [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: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapies targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway can lead to renal damage by disrupting the glomerular ultrafiltration apparatus. The objective of the current study was to identify sensitive biomarkers for VEGF inhibition-induced glomerular changes in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered an experimental VEGF receptor (VEGFR) inhibitor, ABT-123, for seven days to investigate the correlation of several biomarkers with microscopic and ultrastructural changes. Glomeruli obtained by laser capture microdissection were also subjected to gene expression analysis to investigate the underlying molecular events of VEGFR inhibition in glomerulus. ABT-123 induced characteristic glomerular ultrastructural changes in rats, including fusion of podocyte foot processes, the presence of subendothelial electron-dense deposits, and swelling and loss of fenestrations in glomerular endothelium. The subtle morphological changes cannot be detected with light microscopy or by changes in standard clinical chemistry and urinalysis. However, urinary albumin increased 44-fold as early as Day three. Urinary β2-microglobulin levels were also increased. Other urinary biomarkers that are typically associated with tubular injury were not significantly impacted. Such patterns in urinary biomarkers can provide valuable diagnostic insight to VEGF inhibition therapy-induced glomeruli injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-847-937-8893
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10
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Xia Z, Xiao J, Chen Q. Solving the Puzzle: What Is the Role of Progestogens in Neovascularization? Biomolecules 2021; 11:1686. [PMID: 34827682 PMCID: PMC8615949 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111686] [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: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian sex steroids can modulate new vessel formation and development, and the clarification of the underlying mechanism will provide insight into neovascularization-related physiological changes and pathological conditions. Unlike estrogen, which mainly promotes neovascularization through activating classic post-receptor signaling pathways, progesterone (P4) regulates a variety of downstream factors with angiogenic or antiangiogenic effects, exerting various influences on neovascularization. Furthermore, diverse progestins, the synthetic progesterone receptor (PR) agonists structurally related to P4, have been used in numerous studies, which could contribute to unequal actions. As a result, there have been many conflicting observations in the past, making it difficult for researchers to define the exact role of progestogens (PR agonists including naturally occurring P4 and synthetic progestins). This review summarizes available evidence for progestogen-mediated neovascularization under physiological and pathological circumstances, and attempts to elaborate their functional characteristics and regulatory patterns from a comprehensive perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Qiong Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; (Z.X.); (J.X.)
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11
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Fukui Y, Hirota Y, Saito-Fujita T, Aikawa S, Hiraoka T, Kaku T, Hirata T, Akaeda S, Matsuo M, Shimizu-Hirota R, Takeda N, Ikawa M, Osuga Y. Uterine Epithelial LIF Receptors Contribute to Implantation Chamber Formation in Blastocyst Attachment. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6353290. [PMID: 34402888 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that the formation of an implantation chamber composed of a uterine crypt, an implantation-competent blastocyst, and uterine glands is a critical step in blastocyst implantation in mice. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) activates signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) precursors via uterine LIF receptors (LIFRs), allowing successful blastocyst implantation. Our recent study revealed that the role of epithelial STAT3 is different from that of stromal STAT3. However, both are essential for blastocyst attachment, suggesting the different roles of epithelial and stromal LIFR in blastocyst implantation. However, how epithelial and stromal LIFR regulate the blastocyst implantation process remains unclear. To investigate the roles of LIFR in the uterine epithelium and stroma, we generated Lifr-floxed/lactoferrin (Ltf)-iCre (Lifr eKO) and Lifr-floxed/antimüllerian hormone receptor type 2 (Amhr2)-Cre (Lifr sKO) mice with deleted epithelial and stromal LIFR, respectively. Surprisingly, fertility and blastocyst implantation in the Lifr sKO mice were normal despite stromal STAT3 inactivation. In contrast, blastocyst attachment failed, and no implantation chambers were formed in the Lifr eKO mice with epithelial inactivation of STAT3. In addition, normal responsiveness to ovarian hormones was observed in the peri-implantation uteri of the Lifr eKO mice. These results indicate that the epithelial LIFR-STAT3 pathway initiates the formation of implantation chambers, leading to complete blastocyst attachment, and that stromal STAT3 regulates blastocyst attachment without stromal LIFR control. Thus, uterine epithelial LIFR is critical to implantation chamber formation and blastocyst attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamato Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoko Saito-Fujita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shizu Aikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tetsuaki Kaku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shun Akaeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Matsuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Ryoko Shimizu-Hirota
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
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Lee B, Shin H, Oh JE, Park J, Park M, Yang SC, Jun JH, Hong SH, Song H, Lim HJ. An autophagic deficit in the uterine vessel microenvironment provokes hyperpermeability through deregulated VEGFA, NOS1, and CTNNB1. Autophagy 2021; 17:1649-1666. [PMID: 32579471 PMCID: PMC8354601 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2020.1778292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus undergoes vascular changes during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy. Steroid hormone deprivation induces macroautophagy/autophagy in major uterine cell types. Herein, we explored the functions of uterine autophagy using the Amhr2-Cre-driven atg7 deletion model. Deletion of Atg7 was confirmed by functional deficit of autophagy in uterine stromal, myometrial, and vascular smooth muscle cells, but not in endothelial cells. atg7d/d uteri exhibited enhanced stromal edema accompanied by dilation of blood vessels. Ovariectomized atg7d/d uteri showed decreased expression of endothelial junction-related proteins, such as CTNNB1/beta-catenin, with increased vascular permeability, and increased expression of VEGFA and NOS1. Nitric oxide (NO) was shown to mediate VEGFA-induced vascular permeability by targeting CTNNB1. NO involvement in maintaining endothelial junctional stability in atg7d/d uteri was confirmed by the reduction in extravasation following treatment with a NOS inhibitor. We also showed that atg7d/d uterine phenotype improved the fetal weight:placental weight ratio, which is one of the indicators of assessing the status of preeclampsia. We showed that autophagic deficit in the uterine vessel microenvironment provokes hyperpermeability through the deregulation of VEGFA, NOS1, and CTNNB1.Abbreviations: ACTA2: actin, alpha 2, smooth muscle, aortic; Amhr2: anti-Mullerian hormone type 2 receptor; ANGPT1: angiopoietin 1; ATG: autophagy-related; CDH5: cadherin 5; CLDN5: claudin 5; COL1A1: collagen, type I, alpha 1; CSPG4/NG2: chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4; CTNNB1: catenin (cadherin associated protein), beta 1; DES: desmin; EDN1: endothelin 1; EDNRB: endothelin receptor type B; F3: coagulation factor III; KDR/FLK1/VEGFR2: kinase insert domain protein receptor; LYVE1: lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1; MAP1LC3B: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MCAM/CD146: melanoma cell adhesion molecule; MYL2: myosin, light polypeptide 2, regulatory, cardiac, slow; MYLK: myosin, light polypeptide kinase; NOS1/nNOS: nitric oxide synthase 1, neuronal; NOS2/iNOS: nitric oxide synthase 2, inducible; NOS3/eNOS: nitric oxide synthase 3, endothelial cell; OVX: ovariectomy; PECAM1/CD31: platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1; POSTN: periostin, osteoblast specific factor; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TEK/Tie2: TEK receptor tyrosine kinase; TJP1/ZO-1: tight junction protein 1; TUBB1, tubulin, beta 1 class VI; USC: uterine stromal cell; VEGFA: vascular endothelial growth factor A; VSMC: vascular smooth muscle cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bora Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyejin Shin
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Oh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaekyoung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Seung Chel Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jin-Hyun Jun
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Eulji University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Eulji Medi-Bio Research Institute, Graduate School, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seok-Ho Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Kangwon-do, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Hyunjung Jade Lim
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
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13
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Fournier SB, D'Errico JN, Stapleton PA. Uterine Vascular Control Preconception and During Pregnancy. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1871-1893. [PMID: 34061977 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c190015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy and reproduction are dependent on adequate uterine blood flow, placental perfusion, and vascular responsivity to fetal demands. The ability to support pregnancy centers on systemic adaptation and endometrial preparation through decidualization, embryonic implantation, trophoblast invasion, arterial/arteriolar reactivity, and vascular remodeling. These adaptations occur through responsiveness to endocrine signaling and local uteroplacental mediators. The purpose of this article is to highlight the current knowledge associated with vascular remodeling and responsivity during uterine preparation for and during pregnancy. We focus on maternal cardiovascular systemic and uterine modifications, endometrial decidualization, implantation and invasion, uterine and spiral artery remodeling, local uterine regulatory mechanisms, placentation, and pathological consequences of vascular dysfunction during pregnancy. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1-23, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Fournier
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jeanine N D'Errico
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Phoebe A Stapleton
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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14
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Song Y, Zhou F, Tan X, Liu X, Ding J, Zhang C, Li F, Zhu W, Ma W, Hu R, Zhang M. Bushen Huoxue recipe attenuates early pregnancy loss via activating endometrial COX2-PGE2 angiogenic signaling in mice. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:36. [PMID: 33446182 PMCID: PMC7809844 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the fresh cycles of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, a disturbance in the reproductive endocrine environment following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is closely related to compromised endometrial receptivity. This is a major disadvantage for women during pregnancy. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, Bushen Huoxue recipe (BSHXR) has been indicated to facilitate embryo implantation. METHODS The COH model (Kunming breed) was induced by injecting mice with pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (0.4 IU/g) and human chorionic gonadotropin (1 IU/g), followed by treatment with BSHXR at three different concentrations (5.7, 11.4, and 22.8 g/kg), Bushen recipe (BSR) (5.7 g/kg), and Huoxue recipe (HXR) (5.7 g/kg). After successful mating, the pregnancy rate and implantation sites were examined on embryo day 8 (ED8), and the weight ratio of endometrium was calculated on ED4 midnight. Serum estrogen, progesterone, and endometrial PGE2 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The endometrial microvasculature was evaluated using CD31 immunostaining. The protein and mRNA levels of the angiogenic factors in the endometrium were evaluated using western blot, immunohistochemistry, and polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS In the COH group, the pregnancy rate and implantation sites were significantly decreased, and abnormal serum hormone levels and impaired endometrial vascular development were observed. After BSHXR treatment, the supraphysiological serum progesterone level in COH mice was restored to normalcy. Moreover, the abnormal expression of the endometrial pro-angiogenic factors, including HIF1α, COX2-PGE2 pathway, and the down-stream factors, namely, MMP2, MMP9, TIMP2, and FGF2 after subjecting mice to COH was significantly improved after BSHXR treatment. CONCLUSION BSHXR could improve embryo implantation by regulating hormonal balance and modulating endometrial angiogenesis in mice, without inducing any side effects in normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Fanru Zhou
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiujuan Tan
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahui Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chu Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenxin Zhu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Lim HJ. Autophagy in the uterine vessel microenvironment: Balancing vasoactive factors. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2020; 47:263-268. [PMID: 33227184 PMCID: PMC7711101 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.04126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy, which has the literal meaning of self-eating, is a cellular catabolic process executed by arrays of conserved proteins in eukaryotes. Autophagy is dynamically ongoing at a basal level, presumably in all cells, and often carries out distinct functions depending on the cell type. Therefore, although a set of common genes and proteins is involved in this process, the outcome of autophagic activation or deficit requires scrutiny regarding how it affects cells in a specific pathophysiological context. The uterus is a complex organ that carries out multiple tasks under the influence of cyclic changes of ovarian steroid hormones. Several major populations of cells are present in the uterus, and the interactions among them drive complex physiological tasks. Mouse models with autophagic deficits in the uterus are very limited, but provide an initial glimpse at how autophagy plays a distinct role in different uterine tissues. Herein, we review recent research findings on the role of autophagy in the uterine mesenchyme in mouse models.
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16
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Narimani L, Boroujeni NB, Gholami M, Anbari K, Alavi SER, Ahmadi SAY, Boroujeni MB. Pre-Implantation Effects of Progesterone Administration on Ovarian Angiogenesis after Ovarian Stimulation: A Histological, Hormonal, and Molecular Analysis. JBRA Assist Reprod 2020; 24:289-295. [PMID: 32155017 PMCID: PMC7365533 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20190076] [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: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Progesterone (P4) is known to directly affect ovarian tissue angiogenesis. The present study was designed to show how P4 affects ovarian angiogenesis in hormonal, histological, and molecular levels. METHODS Fifteen adult female NMRI mice were divided into three groups: Control Group; Case Group I (ovarian stimulation alone); and Case Group II (ovarian stimulation followed by P4 administration). Blood and ovarian tissue samples were assessed for hormonal, histological, and molecular alterations. Gene expression for ovarian vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) was analyzed using real-time PCR. RESULTS Ovarian hormone levels were increased in the case groups compared with the control group (p<0.05). Quantitative corpus luteum parameters were increased in the case groups compared with the control group (p<0.05). Quantitative ovarian vascular parameters were significantly different in the case groups compared with the control group. Gene expression analyses shows that the mice in Case Group I had higher levels of ovarian VEGF expression than the mice in the control group (p<0.05). No significant difference in gene expression was observed for HIF-1ɑ. CONCLUSION Treatment with P4 after ovarian stimulation enhanced ovarian angiogenesis by increasing hormone levels and causing significant structural changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Narimani
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Nasim Beigi Boroujeni
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Gholami
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Khatereh Anbari
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | | | - Seyyed Amir Yasin Ahmadi
- Pediatric Growth and Development Research Center, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mandana Beigi Boroujeni
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
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17
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Cheon YP. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP) and Uterine Histological Characteristics. Dev Reprod 2020; 24:1-17. [PMID: 32411914 PMCID: PMC7201063 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2020.24.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates have a long industrial history. It is suspected that phthalates and their metabolites have detrimental effects on reproduction and development. They are well-known for their anti-androgenic effects. Several studies have indicated that phthalates and their metabolites are reprotoxic in males and endocrine disruptors. Reproduction and embryogenesis occur in the uterus of female eutherian mammals. A horizontal analytical method is preferred to elucidate the toxic effects of phthalates on human reproduction. Nevertheless, there are vast numbers of known phthalates and not all of their modes of action have been clarified. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a commonly used plasticizer and has been the subject of numerous toxicological studies. However, few of these have reported on the toxic effects of DEHP, its metabolites, other phthalates, or mixtures on female reproduction. Acute and high doses of DEHP adversely affect uterine histology. Recently, it was disclosed that chronic exposures to low doses of DEHP have endocrine disruption efficacy. DEHP induces various cellular responses including modulation of the expression and regulation of steroid hormone receptors and transcription and paracrine factors. Uteri do not respond uniformly to DEHP exposure. The phenotypic manifestations and effects on fertility in response to DEHP and its metabolites may vary with species, developmental stage, and generation. Hence, DEHP exposure may histological alter the uterus and induce endometriosis, endometriosis, hyperplasia, myoma, and developmental and reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Pil Cheon
- Division of Developmental Biology and Physiology, Dept. of
Biotechnology, Sungshin University, Seoul 02844,
Korea
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18
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Abstract
Seminal fluid is often assumed to have just one function in mammalian reproduction, delivering sperm to fertilize oocytes. But seminal fluid also transmits signaling agents that interact with female reproductive tissues to facilitate conception and .pregnancy. Upon seminal fluid contact, female tissues initiate a controlled inflammatory response that affects several aspects of reproductive function to ultimately maximize the chances of a male producing healthy offspring. This effect is best characterized in mice, where the female response involves several steps. Initially, seminal fluid factors cause leukocytes to infiltrate the female reproductive tract, and to selectively target and eliminate excess sperm. Other signals stimulate ovulation, induce an altered transcriptional program in female tract tissues that modulates embryo developmental programming, and initiate immune adaptations to promote receptivity to implantation and placental development. A key result is expansion of the pool of regulatory T cells that assist implantation by suppressing inflammation, mediating tolerance to male transplantation antigens, and promoting uterine vascular adaptation and placental development. Principal signaling agents in seminal fluid include prostaglandins and transforming growth factor-β. The balance of male signals affects the nature of the female response, providing a mechanism of ‟cryptic female choiceˮ that influences female reproductive investment. Male-female seminal fluid signaling is evident in all mammalian species investigated including human, and effects of seminal fluid in invertebrates indicate evolutionarily conserved mechanisms. Understanding the female response to seminal fluid will shed new light on infertility and pregnancy disorders and is critical to defining how events at conception influence offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E Schjenken
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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19
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Aikawa S, Deng W, Liang X, Yuan J, Bartos A, Sun X, Dey SK. Uterine deficiency of high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) protein causes implantation defects and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Cell Death Differ 2019; 27:1489-1504. [PMID: 31595043 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0429-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A reciprocal communication between the implantation-competent blastocyst and the receptive uterus is essential to successful implantation and pregnancy success. Progesterone (P4) signaling via nuclear progesterone receptor (PR) is absolutely critical for pregnancy initiation and its success in most eutherian mammals. Here we show that a nuclear protein high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) plays a critical role in implantation in mice by preserving P4-PR signaling. Conditional deletion of uterine Hmgb1 by a Pgr-Cre driver shows implantation defects accompanied by decreased stromal cell Hoxa10 expression and cell proliferation, two known signatures of inefficient responsiveness of stromal cells to PR signaling in implantation. These mice evoke inflammatory conditions with sustained macrophage accumulation in the stromal compartment on day 4 of pregnancy with elevated levels of macrophage attractants Csf1 and Ccl2. The results are consistent with the failure of exogenous P4 administration to rescue implantation deficiency in the mutant females. These early defects are propagated throughout the course of pregnancy and ultimately result in substantial subfertility. Collectively, the present study provides evidence that nuclear HMGB1 contributes to successful blastocyst implantation by sustaining P4-PR signaling and restricting macrophage accumulation to attenuate harmful inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizu Aikawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Wenbo Deng
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaohuan Liang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Jia Yuan
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Amanda Bartos
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Xiaofei Sun
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Sudhansu K Dey
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA. .,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA.
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20
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Irani YD, Pulford E, Mortimer L, Irani S, Butler L, Klebe S, Williams KA. Sex differences in corneal neovascularization in response to superficial corneal cautery in the rat. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221566. [PMID: 31479468 PMCID: PMC6719872 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex-based differences in susceptibility have been reported for a number of neovascular ocular diseases. We quantified corneal neovascularization, induced by superficial silver nitrate cautery, in male and female inbred albino Sprague-Dawley, inbred albino Fischer 344, outbred pigmented Hooded Wistar and inbred pigmented Dark Agouti rats of a range of ages. Corneal neovascular area was quantified on haematoxylin-stained corneal flatmounts by image analysis. Pro-and anti-angiogenic gene expression was measured early in the neovascular response by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Androgen and estrogen receptor expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Male rats from all strains, with or without ocular pigmentation, exhibited significantly greater corneal neovascular area than females: Sprague-Dawley males 43±12% (n = 8), females 25±5% (n = 12), p = 0.001; Fischer 344 males 38±10% (n = 12) females 27±8% (n = 8) p = 0.043; Hooded Wistar males 32±6% (n = 8) females 22±5% (n = 12) p = 0.002; Dark Agouti males 37±11% (n = 9) females 26±7% (n = 9) p = 0.015. Corneal vascular endothelial cells expressed neither androgen nor estrogen receptor. The expression in cornea post-cautery of Cox-2, Vegf-a and Vegf-r2 was significantly higher in males compared with females and Vegf-r1 was significantly lower in the cornea of males compared to females, p<0.001 for each comparison. These data suggest that male corneas are primed for angiogenesis through a signalling nexus involving Cox-2, Vegf-a, and Vegf receptors 1 and 2. Our findings re-enforce that pre-clinical animal models of human diseases should account for sex-based differences in their design and highlight the need for well characterized and reproducible pre-clinical studies that include both male and female animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazad D. Irani
- Discipline of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Emily Pulford
- Discipline of Anatomical Pathology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lauren Mortimer
- Discipline of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- Discipline of Anatomical Pathology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Swati Irani
- Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lisa Butler
- Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sonja Klebe
- Discipline of Anatomical Pathology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Keryn A. Williams
- Discipline of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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21
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Atwood CS, Ekstein SF. Human versus non-human sex steroid use in hormone replacement therapies part 1: Preclinical data. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 480:12-35. [PMID: 30308266 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Prior to 2002, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was considered to be an important component of postmenopausal healthcare. This was based on a plethora of basic, epidemiological and clinical studies demonstrating the health benefits of supplementation with human sex steroids. However, adverse findings from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) studies that examined the 2 major forms of HRT in use in the US at that time - Premarin (conjugated equine estrogens; CEE) and Prempro (CEE + medroxyprogesterone acetate; MPA), cast a shadow over the use of any form of HRT. Here we review the biochemical and physiological differences between the non-human WHI study hormones - CEE and MPA, and their respective human counterparts 17β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). Preclinical data from the last 30 years demonstrate clear differences between human and non-human sex steroids on numerous molecular, physiological and functional parameters in brain, heart and reproductive tissue. In contrast to CEE supplementation, which is not always detrimental although certainly not as optimal as E2 supplementation, MPA is clearly not equivalent to P4, having detrimental effects on cognitive, cardiac and reproductive function. Moreover, unlike P4, MPA is clearly antagonistic of the positive effects of E2 and CEE on tissue function. These data indicate that minor chemical changes to human sex steroids result in physiologically distinct actions that are not optimal for tissue health and functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig S Atwood
- Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Administration Hospital, Madison, WI, 53705, USA; School of Exercise, Biomedical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, 6027, WA, Australia.
| | - Samuel F Ekstein
- Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, USA
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22
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Guajardo-Correa E, Mena-Silva D, Diaz P, Godoy-Guzmán C, Cardenas H, Orihuela PA. 2-Methoxyoestradiol impairs mouse embryo implantation via F-spondin. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 31:689-697. [PMID: 30449298 DOI: 10.1071/rd18114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The anti-implantation effects of high oestradiol (E2) concentrations could be mediated by E2 metabolites. Herein, we examined whether 2-methoxyoestradiol (2ME) impairs embryo implantation via its target protein F-spondin. Mice on Day 3 of pregnancy were treated with E2 concomitantly with the cathecol-O-methyl transferase inhibitor OR486 and the number of implanted embryos was recorded 5 days later. The effect of 2ME or 4-methoxyoestradiol (4ME) on embryo implantation was also investigated. Plasma and uterine levels of 2ME were measured 0.5, 1 or 3h after E2 treatment while the mRNA for spondin 1 (Spon1) and F-spondin were determined in the uterus 3, 6, 12 or 24h after 2ME treatment. Finally, the effect of a neutralising F-spondin antibody on the anti-implantation effect of 2ME was explored. OR486 blocked the anti-implantation effect of E2; 2ME, but not 4ME, affected embryo implantation. The 2ME concentration was increased after 0.5 and 1h in plasma and 3h in uterine fluid following E2 treatment. 2ME increased levels of Spon1 at 12 and 24h although F-spondin was increased at 12h. F-spondin antibody blocked the effect of 2ME on embryo implantation. We conclude that 2ME impairs mouse embryo implantation via activation of F-spondin in the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel Guajardo-Correa
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile
| | - Denisse Mena-Silva
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile
| | - Patricia Diaz
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile
| | - Carlos Godoy-Guzmán
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica y Aplicada (CIBAP), Escuela de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Casilla 40, Correo 33, Chile
| | - Hugo Cardenas
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile
| | - Pedro A Orihuela
- Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile
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23
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Tremaine TD, Fouladi-Nashta AA. Immunolocalization of angiogenic growth factors in the ovine uterus during the oestrus cycle and in response to Steroids. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:667-679. [PMID: 29504156 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The vascular changes associated with endometrial maturation in preparation for embryo implantation depend on numerous growth factors, known to regulate key angiogenic events. Primarily, the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family promotes vascular growth, whilst the angiopoietins maintain blood vessel integrity. The aim was to analyse protein levels of VEGFA ligand and receptors, Angiopoietin-1 and 2 (ANG1/2) and endothelial cell receptor tyrosine kinase (TIE-2) in the ovine endometrium in the follicular and luteal phases of the oestrus cycle and in response to ovarian steroids. VEGFA and its receptors were localized in both vascular cells and non-vascular epithelium (glandular and luminal epithelium) and stroma cells. VEGFA and VEGFR2 proteins were elevated in vascular cells in follicular phase endometrium, compared to luteal phase, most significantly in response to oestradiol. VEGFR1 was expressed by epithelial cells and endothelial cells and was stimulated in response to oestradiol. In contrast, Ang-1 and Ang-2 proteins were elevated in luteal phase endometrium compared to follicular phase, and in response to progesterone, evident in vascular smooth muscle cells and glands which surround TIE-2-expressing blood vessels. Our findings indicate that VEGFA is stimulated by oestradiol, most predominantly in follicular phase endometrium, and Ang-1 and 2 are stimulated by progesterone and were increased during the luteal phase of the oestrus cycle, during the time of vascular maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T D Tremaine
- Reproduction Genes and Development Research Group, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - A A Fouladi-Nashta
- Reproduction Genes and Development Research Group, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
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24
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Matsumoto H. Molecular and cellular events during blastocyst implantation in the receptive uterus: clues from mouse models. J Reprod Dev 2017. [PMID: 28638003 PMCID: PMC5649093 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2017-047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of implantation is an interactive process between the blastocyst and the uterus. Synchronized development of embryos with uterine differentiation to a receptive state is necessary to complete pregnancy. The period of uterine receptivity for implantation is limited and referred to as the “implantation window”, which is regulated by ovarian steroid hormones. Implantation process is complicated due to the many signaling molecules in the hierarchical mechanisms with the embryo-uterine dialogue. The mouse is widely used in animal research, and is uniquely suited for reproductive studies, i.e., having a large litter size and brief estrous cycles. This review first describes why the mouse is the preferred model for implantation studies, focusing on uterine morphology and physiological traits, and then highlights the knowledge on uterine receptivity and the hormonal regulation of blastocyst implantation in mice. Our recent study revealed that selective proteolysis in the activated blastocyst is associated with the completion of blastocyst implantation after embryo transfer. Furthermore, in the context of blastocyst implantation in the mouse, this review discusses the window of uterine receptivity, hormonal regulation, uterine vascular permeability and angiogenesis, the delayed-implantation mouse model, morphogens, adhesion molecules, crosslinker proteins, extracellular matrix, and matricellular proteins. A better understanding of uterine and blastocyst biology during the peri-implantation period should facilitate further development of reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromichi Matsumoto
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Division of Animal Science, Department of Agrobiology and Bioresources, School of Agriculture, Utsunomiya University, Tochigi 321-8505, Japan.,Center for Bioscience Research and Education, Utsunomiya University, Tochigi 321-8505, Japan
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25
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Karizbodagh MP, Rashidi B, Sahebkar A, Masoudifar A, Mirzaei H. Implantation Window and Angiogenesis. J Cell Biochem 2017; 118:4141-4151. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Peyvandi Karizbodagh
- Department of Anatomical SciencesSchool of MedicineMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran
- Department of Anatomical SciencesSchool of MedicineBirjand University of Medical SciencesBirjandIran
| | - Bahman Rashidi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular BiologySchool of MedicineIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
| | | | - Aria Masoudifar
- Department of Molecular BiotechnologyCell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Biotechnology ACECRIsfahanIran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Department of Medical BiotechnologySchool of MedicineMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran
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Kalamarides M, Peyre M. Dramatic Shrinkage with Reduced Vascularization of Large Meningiomas After Cessation of Progestin Treatment. World Neurosurg 2017; 101:814.e7-814.e10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Park J, Shin H, Song H, Lim HJ. Autophagic regulation in steroid hormone-responsive systems. Steroids 2016; 115:177-181. [PMID: 27643453 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2016.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Two female sex steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone, are crucial regulators of many physiological functions of reproductive organs. These two hormones are versatile factors linking growth, differentiation, metabolism, and death of cells in the uterus. In recent years, it has become evident that autophagy is involved in the effects of estrogen and progesterone on various cellular events in reproductive organs. Autophagy is the self-eating catabolic process which is linked to cell survival and death in many contexts. In this review, we focus on the new findings concerning the regulation of autophagic response by sex steroid hormones in responsive target organs. We also attempt to further expand our insight into intracellular signaling mediators governing this regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaekyoung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyejin Shin
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunjung J Lim
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Sheveleva T, Bejenar V, Komlichenko E, Dedul A, Malushko A. Innovative approach in assessing the role of neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis in the pathogenesis of external genital endometriosis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2016; 32:75-79. [PMID: 27759453 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2016.1232789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic, progressive, relapsing estrogen-dependent disorder characterized by the growth of tissue structure and function similar to the endometrium outside the normal mucosa of the uterine cavity localization. Endometriosis is found in 10-15% of women in reproductive age and it is one of the main causes of pelvic pain syndrome and infertility. Mechanisms of the development of endometriosis and related pathological pain impulses are still poorly understood and therapeutic approaches do not always have a sufficient effect; in this connection, the study of the pathogenesis of endometriosis and endometriosis-associated pain currently is perspective. Identification of significant factors of angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and neurogenesis in the external genital endometriosis will promote the development of non-invasive early diagnosis and pathogenetic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - V Bejenar
- b Department of Obstetrics - Gynecology and Neonatology , Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Petersburg State Medical University Named After Academician I. P. Pavlov , Saint Petersburg , Russia
| | - E Komlichenko
- b Department of Obstetrics - Gynecology and Neonatology , Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Petersburg State Medical University Named After Academician I. P. Pavlov , Saint Petersburg , Russia
| | - A Dedul
- b Department of Obstetrics - Gynecology and Neonatology , Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Petersburg State Medical University Named After Academician I. P. Pavlov , Saint Petersburg , Russia
- c Department of Family Planning and Human Reproduction , University Hospital of Saint-Petersburg State University , Saint-Petersburg , Russia , and
| | - A Malushko
- d Department of Gynecology , University Hospital of Saint-Petersburg State University , Saint-Petersburg , Russia
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Tang X, Chen Y, Ran H, Jiang Y, He B, Wang B, Kong S, Wang H. Systemic morphine treatment derails normal uterine receptivity, leading to embryo implantation failure in mice. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:118. [PMID: 25855262 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.128686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphine is the oldest worldwide well-known opioid agonist used for pain treatment in clinic, and its illicit use is often associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in humans. Because of recent dramatic increases in nonmedicinal morphine abuse, one emerging issue is the further revelation of the dark side of illicit opioid uses, particularly in early pregnancy events. In this respect, we have demonstrated that opioid signaling is functionally operative during preimplantation embryo development in mice. However, the pathophysiological significance of the opioid system on uterine functions at peri-implantation remained elusive. In the present study, we demonstrated that opioid receptors were spatiotemporally expressed in the uterus during the peri-implantation period. Employing a pharmacological approach combined with embryo transfer experiments, we further observed that although systemic morphine treatment exerts no apparent adverse influence on preimplantation ovarian secretion of progesterone and estrogen, this aberrant activation of opioid signaling by morphine induces impaired luminal epithelial differentiation, decreased stromal cell proliferation, and poor angiogenesis, and thus hampers uterine receptivity and embryo implantation. These novel findings add a new line of evidence to better understand the causes for obvious adverse effects of opioid abuse on pregnancy success in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yongjie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Hao Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yufei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Bo He
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Bingyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Haibin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
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Expression of hypoxia-inducible factors and vascular endothelial growth factor during pregnancy in the feline uterus. Theriogenology 2015; 84:24-33. [PMID: 25794839 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have critical roles during the development of the fetomaternal unit. The HIFs regulate placentation and vascularization by stimulation of VEGF gene expression. This study aimed to investigate the expression profiles of HIF gene family and VEGF in the cat uterus during pregnancy. Tissue samples of the whole uterine wall were collected after ovariohysterectomy and allocated to the following groups: embryo positive (group 1 [G1], n = 7, 7 days after mating), early pregnancy (group 2 [G2], n = 7, 20 days after mating), mid-pregnancy (group 3 [G3], n = 7, 24 days after mating), late pregnancy (group 4 [G4], n = 7, 30-45 days after mating), and oocyte positive groups (group 5 [G5], n = 7, 7 days after induction of ovulation with GnRH analog). Relative mRNA levels were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. As housekeeping gene, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase was used. The relative gene expression of HIF1A in G5 was found to be significantly higher than that of other groups (G1, G2, G3, and G4) (P < 0.05). In addition, the expression of HIF2A in G5 was higher than that of G1 and HIF2A gene expression at placentation sites of G4 was higher than in G1, G2, and G3 (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry indicated that HIF1A, HIF2A, and VEGF expressions were observed in different cell types of uterine and placental tissues in late pregnancy and oocyte groups. The expression of HIF3A did not change significantly in any group investigated. These observations suggest that HIFs and VEGF may play a role in the establishment and development of pregnancy.
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Seminal Fluid Signalling in the Female Reproductive Tract: Implications for Reproductive Success and Offspring Health. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2015; 868:127-58. [PMID: 26178848 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-18881-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Carriage of sperm is not the only function of seminal fluid in mammals. Studies in mice show that at conception, seminal fluid interacts with the female reproductive tract to induce responses which influence whether or not pregnancy will occur, and to set in train effects that help shape subsequent fetal development. In particular, seminal fluid initiates female immune adaptation processes required to tolerate male transplantation antigens present in seminal fluid and inherited by the conceptus. A tolerogenic immune environment to facilitate pregnancy depends on regulatory T cells (Treg cells), which recognise male antigens and function to suppress inflammation and immune rejection responses. The female response to seminal fluid stimulates the generation of Treg cells that protect the conceptus from inflammatory damage, to support implantation and placental development. Seminal fluid also elicits molecular and cellular changes in the oviduct and endometrium that directly promote embryo development and implantation competence. The plasma fraction of seminal fluid plays a key role in this process with soluble factors, including TGFB, prostaglandin-E, and TLR4 ligands, demonstrated to contribute to the peri-conception immune environment. Recent studies show that conception in the absence of seminal plasma in mice impairs embryo development and alters fetal development to impact the phenotype of offspring, with adverse effects on adult metabolic function particularly in males. This review summarises our current understanding of the molecular responses to seminal fluid and how this contributes to the establishment of pregnancy, generation of an immune-regulatory environment and programming long-term offspring health.
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Care AS, Ingman WV, Moldenhauer LM, Jasper MJ, Robertson SA. Ovarian steroid hormone-regulated uterine remodeling occurs independently of macrophages in mice. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:60. [PMID: 25061095 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.116509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are abundant in the uterine stroma and are intimately juxtaposed with other cell lineages comprising the uterine epithelial and stromal compartments. We postulated that macrophages may participate in mediating or amplifying the effects of ovarian steroid hormones to facilitate the uterine remodeling that is a characteristic feature of every estrus cycle and is essential for pregnancy. Using the Cd11b-Dtr transgenic mouse model with an ovariectomy and hormone replacement strategy, we depleted macrophages to determine their role in hormone-driven proliferation of uterine epithelial and stromal cells and uterine vascular development. Following diphtheria toxin (DT) administration, approximately 85% of EMR1-positive (EMR1⁺) macrophages, as well as 70% of CD11C⁺ dendritic cells, were depleted from Cd11b-Dtr mice. There was no change in bromodeoxyuridine incorporation into epithelial cells induced to proliferate by administration of 17beta-estradiol (E2) to ovariectomized mice or into stromal cells induced to proliferate in response to E2 and progesterone (P4), and the resulting sizes and structures of the luminal epithelial and stromal cell compartments were not altered compared with those of leukocyte replete controls. Depletion of CD11B⁺ myeloid cells failed to alter the density or pattern of distribution of uterine blood vessels, as identified by staining PECAM1-positive endothelial cells in the uterine stroma of E2- or E2 combined with P4 (E2P4)-treated ovariectomized mice. These experiments support the interpretation that macrophages are dispensable to regulation of proliferative events induced by steroid hormones in the cycling and early pregnant mouse uterus to establish the epithelial, stromal, and vascular architecture which is critical for normal reproductive competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison S Care
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Wendy V Ingman
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia School of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Woodville, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lachlan M Moldenhauer
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melinda J Jasper
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Daikoku T, Ogawa Y, Terakawa J, Ogawa A, DeFalco T, Dey SK. Lactoferrin-iCre: a new mouse line to study uterine epithelial gene function. Endocrinology 2014; 155:2718-24. [PMID: 24823394 PMCID: PMC4060188 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Transgenic animal models are valuable for studying gene function in various tissue compartments. Mice with conditional deletion of genes in the uterus using the Cre-loxP system serve as powerful tools to study uterine biology. The uterus is comprised of 3 major tissue types: myometrium, stroma, and epithelium. Proliferation and differentiation in each uterine cell type are differentially regulated by ovarian hormones, resulting in spatiotemporal control of gene expression. Therefore, examining gene function in each uterine tissue type will provide more meaningful information regarding uterine biology during pregnancy and disease states. Although currently available Cre mouse lines have been very useful in exploring functions of specific genes in uterine biology, overlapping expression of these Cre lines in more than 1 tissue type and in other reproductive organs sometimes makes interpretation of results difficult. In this article, we report the generation of a new iCre knock-in mouse line, in which iCre is expressed from endogenous lactoferrin (Ltf) promoter. Ltf-iCre mice primarily direct recombination in the uterine epithelium in adult females and in immature females after estrogen treatment. These mice will allow for specific interrogation of gene function in the mature uterine epithelium, providing a helpful tool to uncover important aspects of uterine biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229-3039
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Diverse roles of prostaglandins in blastocyst implantation. ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:968141. [PMID: 24616654 PMCID: PMC3925584 DOI: 10.1155/2014/968141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandins (PGs), derivatives of arachidonic acid, play an indispensable role in embryo implantation. PGs have been reported to participate in the increase in vascular permeability, stromal decidualization, blastocyst growth and development, leukocyte recruitment, embryo transport, trophoblast invasion, and extracellular matrix remodeling during implantation. Deranged PGs syntheses and actions will result in implantation failure. This review summarizes up-to-date literatures on the role of PGs in blastocyst implantation which could provide a broad perspective to guide further research in this field.
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Wang HH, Chen HS, Li HB, Zhang H, Mei LY, He CF, Wang XW, Men MC, Jiang L, Liao XB, Wu H, Feng Y. Identification and functional analysis of a novel mutation in the SOX10 gene associated with Waardenburg syndrome type IV. Gene 2014; 538:36-41. [PMID: 24440785 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Revised: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Waardenburg syndrome type IV (WS4) is a rare genetic disorder, characterized by auditory-pigmentary abnormalities and Hirschsprung disease. Mutations of the EDNRB gene, EDN3 gene, or SOX10 gene are responsible for WS4. In the present study, we reported a case of a Chinese patient with clinical features of WS4. In addition, the three genes mentioned above were sequenced in order to identify whether mutations are responsible for the case. We revealed a novel nonsense mutation, c.1063C>T (p.Q355*), in the last coding exon of SOX10. The same mutation was not found in three unaffected family members or 100 unrelated controls. Then, the function and mechanism of the mutation were investigated in vitro. We found both wild-type (WT) and mutant SOX10 p.Q355* were detected at the expected size and their expression levels are equivalent. The mutant protein also localized in the nucleus and retained the DNA-binding activity as WT counterpart; however, it lost its transactivation capability on the MITF promoter and acted as a dominant-negative repressor impairing function of the WT SOX10.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Han Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital and the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China; Province Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Critical Diseases, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hong-Sheng Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Province Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Critical Diseases, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hai-Bo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Ling-Yun Mei
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Province Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Critical Diseases, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Chu-Feng He
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Province Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Critical Diseases, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xing-Wei Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Province Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Critical Diseases, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Mei-Chao Men
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Lu Jiang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; Province Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Critical Diseases, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xin-Bin Liao
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yong Feng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China; Province Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Critical Diseases, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China.
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Hata M, Yamanegi K, Yamada N, Ohyama H, Yukitatsu Y, Nakasho K, Okamura H, Terada N. Estrogen decreases the expression of claudin-5 in vascular endothelial cells in the murine uterus. Endocr J 2014; 61:705-15. [PMID: 24759004 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej13-0442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin and claudin-5 are major components of the adherens and tight junctions of vascular endothelial cells, respectively, and decreases in their expression are associated with increases in endothelial paracellular permeability. In the uterus, estrogen induces endometrial edema. However, the in vivo effect of estrogen on endothelial paracellular permeability is unknown. Therefore, we studied the expression of VE-cadherin and claudin-5 in vascular endothelial cells in murine uteri stimulated by estrogen or progesterone. Ovariectomized mature mice were injected with estradiol-17β (1 μg/mouse) or progesterone (1 mg/mouse) at intervals of 24 hours for 6 days. The frozen transverse sections of the uteri of these mice and untreated mice were stained for CD31 (vascular endothelial cell marker) plus VE-cadherin or claudin-5 using a double-immunofluorescence method. Then, the percentages of VE-cadherin- or claudin-5-positive vessels among CD31-positive vessels were examined in the uterine endometria. VE-cadherin and claudin-5 were expressed in most CD31-positive vessels in the endometria of the untreated mice. Progesterone did not affect the expression of both VE-cadherin and claudin-5 and estradiol-17β also did not affect the VE-cadherin expression, but estradiol-17β significantly decreased the claudin-5 expression. This decreasing effect of estradiol-17β was detected from 24 hours later when the water content per a uterus significantly increased. The present study indicates that estrogen, but not progesterone, decreases the expression of claudin-5 in vascular endothelial cells in the murine uterine endometrium from 24 hours later, suggesting that the decrease in the claudin-5 expression contributes to the endometrial edema late after the estrogen stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Hata
- Department of Pathology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya 663-8501, Japan
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Winterhager E, Gellhaus A, Blois SM, Hill LA, Barr KJ, Kidder GM. Decidual angiogenesis and placental orientation are altered in mice heterozygous for a dominant loss-of-function Gja1 (connexin43) mutation. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:111. [PMID: 24048574 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.111690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexin43 (CX43), encoded by Gja1 in the mouse, is highly expressed in decidual cells and is known to be important for the transformation of stromal cells into the compact decidua and for neoangiogenesis. Here we investigated if the dominant Gja1(Jrt) mutation encoding CX43(G60S) in mice, which results in a phenotype resembling oculodentodigital dysplasia in humans, has an impact on decidualization, angiogenesis, and implantation. We found a reduced mean weight of fetuses at Gestational Day 17.5 in dams carrying this mutation, with the growth deficiency being independent of fetal genotype. Although the mutant implantation sites exhibited a reduction in CX43 protein, with most immunoreactivity being cytoplasmic, the decidua was morphologically intact at Embryonic Days 5.5 to 7.5. However, the mutation resulted in enhanced and irregular angiogenesis and an increased level of expression of the angiogenic factor-encoding genes Vegfa, Flt1, Kdr, and Fgf2 as well as the prolactin-related gene Prl6a. Moreover, immunolocalization of VEGFA, FLT1, and KDR revealed a homogeneous distribution pattern in the mesometrial as well as antimesometrial decidua of the mutants. Most obviously, uterine NK cells are drastically diminished in the mesometrial decidua of the mutant mice. Invasion of ectoplacental cone cells was disoriented, and placentation was established more laterally in the implantation chambers. It was concluded that the CX43(G60S) mutant impairs control of decidual angiogenesis, leading to dysmorphic placentation and fetal growth restriction. This phenomenon could contribute to the reduced fetal weights and viability of pups born of Gja1(Jrt)/+ dams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Winterhager
- Department of Molecular Biology, University Clinics Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Yamashita S, Kudo A, Kawakami H, Okada Y. Mechanisms of Angiogenic Suppression in Uteri Exposed to Diethylstilbestrol Neonatally in the Mouse1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:116. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.106443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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Kasai M, Ichimura T, Kawamura N, Sumikura T, Matsuda M, Asano C, Sumi T, Ishiko O. Prediction of the shrinking rate of uterine leiomyoma nodules using needle biopsy specimens. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:440-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2011] [Revised: 05/07/2012] [Accepted: 05/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Matsubara Y, Matsubara K. Estrogen and progesterone play pivotal roles in endothelial progenitor cell proliferation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2012; 10:2. [PMID: 22252173 PMCID: PMC3395836 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-10-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been previously suggested that angiogenesis occurs during the menstrual cycle. Moreover, a rise in uterine blood flow is largely maintained by vasodilatation and substantial increases in angiogenesis. It is known that estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) are involved in angiogenesis. Recently, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) were found to be involved in neovascularization; however, their roles in uterine neovascularization have not been well characterized. We hypothesized that E2- or P4-mediated EPC proliferation plays important roles in uterine neovascularization during the menstrual cycle. METHODS The number of EPCs in peripheral blood from subjects in the menstrual phase (n=12), follicular phase (n=8), and luteal phase (n=16), was measured using flow cytometry. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were cultured for seven days with or without 17beta-estradiol (E2beta) or P4, followed by assessment of EPC proliferation based upon the uptake of acetylated low density lipoprotein (LDL) and lectin. The expression of estrogen receptor (ER) or progesterone receptor (PR) in EPCs was also evaluated using real-time PCR. RESULTS E2beta and P4 significantly increased the proliferation of EPCs derived from the peripheral blood of subjects in menstrual phase, but not subjects in the luteal phase. In addition, the expression level of ERalpha was markedly higher than ERbeta in EPCs derived from women in menstrual phase. CONCLUSIONS EPC proliferation is induced during the menstrual phase and proliferation can be affected by estrogen through ERalpha activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Matsubara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ehime Prefectural Niihama Hospital, Hongo, Niihama, Ehime, 792-0042 Japan
| | - Keiichi Matsubara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ehime Prefectural Niihama Hospital, Hongo, Niihama, Ehime, 792-0042 Japan
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Abstract
After decades of research, the mechanism by which estrogens stimulate the proliferation of epithelial cells in the endometrium and mammary gland, and in the carcinomas that arise in those tissues, is still not understood. Cells do not proliferate in response to 17β-estradiol (E2) alone, and although it is widely recognized that growth factors play a role in E2's proliferative effect, exactly how they are involved is unclear. It has long been known that the proliferation of endometrial epithelial cells is preceded by dramatic increases in blood flow and microvascular permeability, filling the subepithelial stroma with plasma and the proteins it contains, such as IGF-I, which is known to synergize with E2 in the induction of cell proliferation. The hyperpermeability is caused by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is rapidly induced by E2, via the transcription factors hypoxia-inducible factor 1 and estrogen receptor α, in luminal epithelial cells in vivo. As we recently showed, VEGF is also strongly induced in endometrial cancer cells in vitro when excessive degradation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, caused by the abnormally high oxygen level to which cultured cells are exposed, is prevented. Putting these facts together, we now propose a new model of E2-induced proliferation in which VEGF-induced vascular hyperpermeability plays an essential role. E2 first induces the expression by endometrial epithelial cells of VEGF, which then acts in a paracrine manner to induce interendothelial cell gaps in subepithelial blood vessels, through which plasma and the proteins therein enter the adjacent stroma. Plasma carries even more E2, which circulates bound to proteins, and IGF-l, which together drive epithelial cells completely through the cell cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Koos
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201-1559, USA.
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Straub RH, Cutolo M, Fleck M. Rheumatoid Arthritis Recapitulates Events Relevant in Blastocyst Implantation and Embryogenesis: A Pathogenetic Theory. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2011; 41:382-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2011.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2011] [Revised: 04/05/2011] [Accepted: 04/18/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Daikoku T, Cha J, Sun X, Tranguch S, Xie H, Fujita T, Hirota Y, Lydon J, DeMayo F, Maxson R, Dey SK. Conditional deletion of Msx homeobox genes in the uterus inhibits blastocyst implantation by altering uterine receptivity. Dev Cell 2011; 21:1014-25. [PMID: 22100262 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2011.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
An effective bidirectional communication between an implantation-competent blastocyst and the receptive uterus is a prerequisite for mammalian reproduction. The blastocyst will implant only when this molecular cross-talk is established. Here we show that the muscle segment homeobox gene (Msh) family members Msx1 and Msx2, which are two highly conserved genes critical for epithelial-mesenchymal interactions during development, also play crucial roles in embryo implantation. Loss of Msx1/Msx2 expression correlates with altered uterine luminal epithelial cell polarity and affects E-cadherin/β-catenin complex formation through the control of Wnt5a expression. Application of Wnt5a in vitro compromised blastocyst invasion and trophoblast outgrowth on cultured uterine epithelial cells. The finding that Msx1/Msx2 genes are critical for conferring uterine receptivity and readiness to implantation could have clinical significance, because compromised uterine receptivity is a major cause of pregnancy failure in IVF programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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Biyiksiz PC, Filiz S, Vural B. Is sildenafil citrate affect endometrial receptivity? An immunohistochemical study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2011; 27:767-74. [PMID: 21190420 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2010.540601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors aimed to investigate the effect of sildenafil citrate (Sc) on expressions of β(3) integrin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is taking part in endometrium receptivity in implantation window period in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) performed rats. In this study, Wistar albino female rats were used and were divided into four groups as control, COH, Sc, and COH + Sc groups. They were sacrificed on the third, fourth, and fifth day of pregnancy, uteruses were resected, and uteri sections were stained with immunohistochemical method and evaluated. β(3) integrin immunoreactivity was most intensely observed in the endometrial glandular epithelium (GE) and stromal cells in the Sc group on the third day, whereas immunoreactivity was most intensely detected in the luminal epithelium (LE), GE, and stromal cells in the Sc group on the fourth day. VEGF immunoreactivity was most intensely observed in the endometrial LE in the Sc group on the third day, in the Sc and COH + Sc groups on the fourth day, and in the COH + Sc group on the fifth day. Our results indicated that Sc plays a role in both implantation and decidualization by affecting β(3) integrin and VEGF expressions in implantation window period in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pelin Costur Biyiksiz
- Department of Histology & Embryology, Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Kohan-Ghadr H, Fecteau G, Smith L, Murphy B, Lefebvre R. Endocrine profiles of somatic nuclear transfer-derived pregnancies in dairy cattle. Theriogenology 2011; 76:911-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2010] [Revised: 03/16/2011] [Accepted: 04/22/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Daikoku T, Jackson L, Besnard V, Whitsett J, Ellenson LH, Dey SK. Cell-specific conditional deletion of Pten in the uterus results in differential phenotypes. Gynecol Oncol 2011; 122:424-9. [PMID: 21570712 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2011.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 04/14/2011] [Accepted: 04/17/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endometrial cancer (EMC) is the most common gynecological malignancy. The etiology and the cell types that are conducive to EMC are not completely understood, provoking further studies. Our objective was to determine whether deletion of Pten specifically in the uterine stroma and myometrium induces cancer or manifests different phenotypes. METHODS Pten(Amhr2(d/d)) mice with conditional deletion of Pten in the mouse uterine stroma and myometrium, but not in the epithelium, were generated by mating floxed Pten mice and anti-Mullerian hormone type 2 receptor (Amhr2)-Cre mice. The phenotypes were compared between Pten(f/f) and Pten(Amhr2(d/d)) uteri. RESULTS We show that conditional deletion of Pten in the mouse uterine stroma and myometrium, but not in the epithelium, fails to generate EMC even at the age of 5 months. Surprisingly Pten deletion by Amhr2-Cre transformed a large number of myometrial cells into adipocytes with lipid accumulation, possibly a result of increased levels of SREBP1 and PPARγ which regulate adipose differentiation. CONCLUSIONS These results provide evidence that deletion of Pten specifically in the stroma and myometrium does not result in EMC in female mice examined up to 5 months of age but alters the myocytes to adipocytes and mimics histologic similarities with lipoleiomyomas in humans, raising the possibility of using this mouse model to further explore the cause of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA.
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Guo Q, Minami N, Mori N, Nagasaka M, Ito O, Kurosawa H, Kanazawa M, Kohzuki M. Effects of Estradiol, Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor and Exercise Training on Exercise Capacity and Skeletal Muscle in Old Female Rats. Clin Exp Hypertens 2010; 32:76-83. [DOI: 10.3109/10641960902993046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Nothnick WB, Healy C, Hong X. Steroidal regulation of uterine miRNAs is associated with modulation of the miRNA biogenesis components Exportin-5 and Dicer1. Endocrine 2010; 37:265-73. [PMID: 20852728 PMCID: PMC2940060 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-009-9293-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules which post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression. We have previously demonstrated that within the uterus, miRNA expression is under steroidal control and that disruption of Dicer1, the enzyme which generates mature miRNAs, leads to abnormalities in the development and function of the female reproductive tract. Despite the apparent importance of miRNAs and the enzymes which lead to their generation, little to no information exists on the mechanisms which regulate the expression of this system in the female reproductive tract. The objective of the current study was to examine steroidal regulation of the miRNAs biogenesis enzymes, Drosha, Dgcr8, Exportin-5 and Dicer1 in the mouse uterus. The results of this study indicate that estrogen and progesterone significantly increased Exportin-5 mRNA expression while only progesterone increased Dicer1 expression. We conclude from these studies that the miRNA biogenesis components Drosha, Dgcr8, Exportin-5 and Dicer1 are expressed in the mouse uterus and that Exportin-5 and Dicer1 appear to be the major steroid regulated components in the miRNA biogenesis pathway. These observations suggest that in addition to steroids modulating miRNA expression at the level of transcription, they may also influence miRNA expression by regulating the expression of the miRNA biogenesis components necessary for their processing to the mature cytoplasmic form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren B Nothnick
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
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Sun X, Jackson L, Dey SK, Daikoku T. In pursuit of leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor-5 regulation and function in the uterus. Endocrinology 2009; 150:5065-73. [PMID: 19797400 PMCID: PMC2775985 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor (LGR)-5 is a recently identified marker of stem cells in adult intestinal epithelium and hair follicles. Because of this characteristic, we studied the status of Lgr5 expression in the mouse uterus under various conditions. Lgr5 is highly expressed in the uterine epithelium of immature mice and is dramatically down-regulated after the mice resume estrous cycles. Surprisingly, whereas its expression is up-regulated in uteri of ovariectomized mice, the expression is down-regulated by estrogen and progesterone via their cognate nuclear receptors, estrogen receptor-alpha and progesterone receptor, respectively. Using a mouse endometrial cancer model, we also found that Lgr5 is highly expressed in the epithelium during the initial stages of tumorigenesis but is remarkably down-regulated in fully developed tumors. Lgr5 is a downstream target of Wnt signaling in the intestine. Genetic evidence shows that either excessive or absence of Wnt signaling dampens Lgr5 expression in the uterus. Collectively, our results show that Lgr5 expression in the mouse uterine epithelium is unique and dynamically regulated under various physiological and pathological states of the uterus, suggesting that this orphan receptor has important functions in uterine biology. However, identifying definitive uterine function of LGR5 will require further investigation using conditional deletion of uterine Lgr5 because systemic deletion of this gene is neonatally lethal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Sun
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
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