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Arrowsmith S. Multiple pregnancies, the myometrium and the role of mechanical factors in the timing of labour. Curr Res Physiol 2023; 6:100105. [PMID: 38107788 PMCID: PMC10724211 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2023.100105] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple pregnancy remains a relatively common occurrence, but it is associated with increased risks of adverse outcomes for the mother and her babies and presents unique challenges to healthcare providers. This review will briefly discuss multiple pregnancies, their aetiology and their problems, including preterm birth, before reviewing the processes leading to normal labour onset and how they may be different in a multiple pregnancy. The mechanisms by which mechanical factors i.e., uterine distension or 'stretch' contribute to uterine excitability and the timing of labour onset will be the major focus, and how over distention may pre-dispose multiple pregnancies to preterm birth. This includes current thinking around the role of mechano (stretch) sensitive ion channels in the myometrium and changes to other important regulators of excitability and contraction which have been identified from studies using in vitro and in vivo models of uterine stretch. Physiological stimuli arising from the fetus(es) and placenta(s) will also be discussed. In reviewing what we know about the myometrium in multiple pregnancy in humans, the focus will be on twin pregnancy as it is the most common type of multiple pregnancy and has been the most studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Arrowsmith
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK
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2
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Nicholson CJ, Xing Y, Lee S, Liang S, Mohan S, O'Rourke C, Kang J, Morgan KG. Ageing causes an aortic contractile dysfunction phenotype by targeting the expression of members of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:1456-1465. [PMID: 35181997 PMCID: PMC8899171 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway is a well-known regulator of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, but it also serves as a regulator of caldesmon, which negatively regulates vascular contractility. This study examined whether aortic contractile function requires ERK activation and if this activation is regulated by ageing. Biomechanical experiments revealed that contractile responses to the alpha1-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine are attenuated specifically in aged mice, which is associated with downregulation of ERK phosphorylation. ERK inhibition attenuates phenylephrine-induced contractility, indicating that the contractile tone is at least partially ERK-dependent. To explore the mechanisms of this age-related downregulation of ERK phosphorylation, we transfected microRNAs, miR-34a and miR-137 we have previously shown to increase with ageing and demonstrated that in A7r5 cells, both miRs downregulate the expression of Src and paxillin, known regulators of ERK signalling, as well as ERK phosphorylation. Further studies in aortic tissues transfected with miRs show that miR-34a but not miR-137 has a negative effect on mRNA levels of Src and paxillin. Furthermore, ERK phosphorylation is decreased in aortic tissue treated with the Src inhibitor PP2. Increases in miR-34a and miR-137 with ageing downregulate the expression of Src and paxillin, leading to impaired ERK signalling and aortic contractile dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Nicholson
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yi Xing
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sophie Lee
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephanie Liang
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shivani Mohan
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caitlin O'Rourke
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua Kang
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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Zhou J, Que Y, Pan L, Li X, Zhu C, Jin L, Li S. Supervillin Contributes to LPS-induced Inflammatory Response in THP-1 Cell-derived Macrophages. Inflammation 2021; 45:356-371. [PMID: 34480249 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-021-01551-7] [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: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Supervillin (SVIL) is an actin-binding and membrane-associated protein, which belongs to villin/gelsolin family. It has been reported that SVIL was involved in the regulation of macrophages' movement and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) increased the SVIL mRNA expression in neutrophils, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. This work investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms of LPS regulating SVIL expression in macrophages and hence the possible role of SVIL in LPS-induced inflammation. We found that in THP-1-derived macrophages, LPS obviously increased SVIL mRNA and protein expression. Inhibition of TLR4 by Resatorvid (Res) remarkably reversed the LPS-induced SVIL expression. Additionally, inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling pathway (by U0126 or GDC-0994) and NF-κB (by BAY) significantly reduced the LPS-induced SVIL expression. Interestingly, down-regulation of SVIL by SVIL-specific shRNAs significantly attenuated the expression of IL-6, IL-1β & TNF-α induced by LPS at both mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, we also observed that SVIL knockdown decreased the proportion of cells in G2/M phase and increased the proportion of cells in S & G0-1 phase of THP-1 derived macrophages, but did not influence the cell viability. Taken together, we demonstrated that LPS induced the expression of SVIL via activating TLR4/NF-κB and ERK1/2 MAPK pathways, and SVIL participated in the inflammatory response of LPS-induced IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α upregulation in macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Dadao 101, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yuhui Que
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Dadao 101, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Lihua Pan
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Dadao 101, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xu Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Dadao 101, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Chao Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Dadao 101, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Lai Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Dadao 101, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Shengnan Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Dadao 101, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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Pütz S, Barthel LS, Frohn M, Metzler D, Barham M, Pryymachuk G, Trunschke O, Lubomirov LT, Hescheler J, Chalovich JM, Neiss WF, Koch M, Schroeter MM, Pfitzer G. Caldesmon ablation in mice causes umbilical herniation and alters contractility of fetal urinary bladder smooth muscle. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:212279. [PMID: 34115104 PMCID: PMC8203487 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The actin-, myosin-, and calmodulin-binding protein caldesmon (CaD) is expressed in two splice isoforms: h-CaD, which is an integral part of the actomyosin domain of smooth muscle cells, and l-CaD, which is widely expressed and is involved in many cellular functions. Despite extensive research for many years, CaD's in vivo function has remained elusive. To explore the role of CaD in smooth muscle contraction in vivo, we generated a mutant allele that ablates both isoforms. Heterozygous animals were viable and had a normal life span, but homozygous mutants died perinatally, likely because of a persistent umbilical hernia. The herniation was associated with hypoplastic and dysmorphic abdominal wall muscles. We assessed mechanical parameters in isometrically mounted longitudinal strips of E18.5 urinary bladders and in ring preparations from abdominal aorta using wire myography. Ca2+ sensitivity was higher and relaxation rate was slower in Cald1−/− compared with Cald1+/+ skinned bladder strips. However, we observed no change in the content and phosphorylation of regulatory proteins of the contractile apparatus and myosin isoforms known to affect these contractile parameters. Intact fibers showed no difference in actin and myosin content, regardless of genotype, although KCl-induced force tended to be lower in homozygous and higher in heterozygous mutants than in WTs. Conversely, in skinned fibers, myosin content and maximal force were significantly lower in Cald1−/− than in WTs. In KO abdominal aortas, resting and U46619 elicited force were lower than in WTs. Our results are consistent with the notion that CaD impacts smooth muscle function dually by (1) acting as a molecular brake on contraction and (2) maintaining the structural integrity of the contractile machinery. Most importantly, CaD is essential for resolution of the physiological umbilical hernia and ventral body wall closure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Pütz
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lisa Sophie Barthel
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Marina Frohn
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Doris Metzler
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mohammed Barham
- Institute of Anatomy I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Galyna Pryymachuk
- Institute of Anatomy I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver Trunschke
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lubomir T Lubomirov
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jürgen Hescheler
- Institute of Neurophysiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Joseph M Chalovich
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Wolfram F Neiss
- Institute of Anatomy I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Koch
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mechthild M Schroeter
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gabriele Pfitzer
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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5
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Tong M, Smith AH, Abrahams VM. Activated Neutrophils Propagate Fetal Membrane Inflammation and Weakening through ERK and Neutrophil Extracellular Trap-Induced TLR-9 Signaling. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:1039-1045. [PMID: 33472905 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2001268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth is associated with significant neonatal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Chorioamnionitis, inflammation of the fetal membranes (FMs), is a major risk factor and is characterized by neutrophil infiltration. However, the role of neutrophils at the FMs remains unclear. We recently reported that FMs exposed to bacterial LPS recruited more neutrophils compared with resting FMs and activated them to degranulate and release reactive oxygen species, chemokines/cytokines, and neutrophil extracellular traps. We posit that under resting conditions, neutrophils play a protective surveillance role, whereas during infection/inflammation, they induce FM tissue injury. To test this, human FM explants were exposed to neutrophil conditioned media (CM). We demonstrate that CM from neutrophils exposed to resting FM-CM did not affect FM viability or function. Conversely, CM from neutrophils activated by LPS-stimulated FM-CM significantly increased FM secretion of inflammatory IL-6, IL-8, GRO-α, and the markers of membrane weakening, MMP-9 and PGE2 This FM response was partially mediated by ERK signaling and neutrophil extracellular traps through the activation of the DNA sensor, TLR-9. Thus, neutrophils recruited by FMs during infection can propagate FM inflammation and weakening, acting in a feed-forward mechanism to propagate tissue injury at the maternal-fetal interface, increasing the risk of premature FM rupture and preterm birth in women with intrauterine infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mancy Tong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Abigail H Smith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Vikki M Abrahams
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
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Srinivasan G, Parida S, Pavithra S, Panigrahi M, Sahoo M, Singh TU, Madhu CL, Manickam K, Shyamkumar TS, Kumar D, Mishra SK. Leptin receptor stimulation in late pregnant mouse uterine tissue inhibits spontaneous contractions by increasing NO and cGMP. Cytokine 2020; 137:155341. [PMID: 33128919 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The adipokine, leptin exerts inhibitory effect on both spontaneous and oxytocin-induced contractions in myometrium. However, the mechanisms involved in leptin-induced effect are not clear. In the present study, we studied the altered characteristics of uterine contractions in the presence of leptin and the possible mechanisms of its effect in late pregnant (18.5 day) mouse uterus. We conducted functional, biochemical and molecular biology studies to demonstrate the mechanism of leptin-induced response. Leptin exerted an inhibitory response (Emax 40.5 ± 3.99%) on basal uterine contractions. The extent of inhibition was less than that obtained with known uterine relaxants, salbutamol (Emax103 ± 8.66%) and BRL-37344 (Emax 84.79 ± 8.12%). Leptin-induced uterine response was inhibited by leptin receptor antagonist SHLA and JAK-STAT pathway inhibitor, AG-490. The relaxant response was also subdued by NO-cGMP-PK-G pathway blockers L-NAME, 1400W, ODQ and KT-5823. Further, leptin enhanced the levels of NO and cGMP in uterine tissues. Also, SHLA, AG-490 and a combination of 1400 W and L-NAME prevented leptin-induced increase in NO. Similar effect was observed on cGMP levels in presence of leptin and SHLA. However, leptin did not influence CaCl2-induced response in potassium-depolarized tissues. We also detected leptin receptor protein in late pregnant mouse uterus located in endometrial luminal epithelium and myometrial layers. Real-time PCR studies revealed significantly higher expression of short forms of the receptor (ObRa and ObRc) in comparison to the long form (ObRb). In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that leptin inhibits mouse uterine contraction by stimulating short forms of the leptin receptors and activating NO pathway in a JAK-STAT-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Srinivasan
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - Subhashree Parida
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India.
| | - S Pavithra
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - Manjit Panigrahi
- Division of Animal Genetics and Breeding, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - Monalisa Sahoo
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - Thakur Uttam Singh
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - C L Madhu
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - Kesavan Manickam
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - T S Shyamkumar
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - Santosh K Mishra
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
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7
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Kajuluri LP, Li Y, Morgan KG. The uterine myocyte, contractile machinery and proteins of the myometrium and their relationship to the dynamic nature of myometrial function. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2019.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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8
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Xie Y, Perrino BA. Quantitative in situ proximity ligation assays examining protein interactions and phosphorylation during smooth muscle contractions. Anal Biochem 2019; 577:1-13. [PMID: 30981700 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2019.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Antibody-based in situ proximity ligation assays (isPLA) have the potential to study protein phosphorylation and protein interactions with spatial resolution in intact tissues. However, the application of isPLA at the tissue level is limited by a lack of appropriate positive and negative controls and the difficulty in accounting for changes in tissue shape. Here we demonstrate a set of experimental and computational approaches using gastric fundus smooth muscles to improve the validity of quantitative isPLA. Appropriate positive and negative biological controls and PLA technical controls were selected to ensure experimental rigor. To account for changes in morphology between relaxed and contracted smooth muscles, target PLA spots were normalized to smooth muscle myosin light chain 20 PLA spots or the cellular cross-sectional areas. We describe the computational steps necessary to filter out false-positive improperly sized spots and set the thresholds for counting true positive PLA spots to quantify the PLA signals. We tested our approach by examining protein phosphorylation and protein interactions in smooth muscle myofilament Ca2+ sensitization pathways from resting and contracted gastric fundus smooth muscles. In conclusion, our tissue-level isPLA method enables unbiased quantitation of protein phosphorylation and protein-protein interactions in intact smooth muscle tissues, suggesting the potential for quantitative isPLA applications in other types of intact tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeming Xie
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada Reno, School of Medicine, MS 0352, 1664 N Virginia St, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Brian A Perrino
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada Reno, School of Medicine, MS 0352, 1664 N Virginia St, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.
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9
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Misleading Westerns: Common Quantification Mistakes in Western Blot Densitometry and Proposed Corrective Measures. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:5214821. [PMID: 30800670 PMCID: PMC6360618 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5214821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Densitometry data generated for Western blots are commonly used to compare protein abundance between samples. In the last decade, it has become apparent that assumptions underpinning these comparisons are often violated in studies reporting Western blot data in the literature. These violations can lead to erroneous interpretations of data and may contribute to poor reproducibility of research. We assessed the reliability of Western blot data obtained to study human myometrial tissue proteins. We ran dilution series of protein lysates to explore the linearity of densitometry data. Proteins analysed included αSMA, HSP27, ERK1/2, and GAPDH. While ideal densitometry data are directly proportional to protein abundance, our data confirm that densitometry data often deviate from this ideal, in which case they can fit nonproportional linear or hyperbolic mathematical models and can reach saturation. Nonlinear densitometry data were observed when Western blots were detected using infrared fluorescence or chemiluminescence, and under different SDS-PAGE conditions. We confirm that ghosting artefacts associated with overabundance of proteins of interest in Western blots can skew findings. We also confirm that when data to be normalised are not directly proportional to protein abundance, it is a mistake to use the normalisation technique of dividing densitometry data from the protein-of-interest with densitometry data from loading control protein(s), as this can cause the normalised data to be unusable for making comparisons. Using spiked proteins in a way that allowed us to control the total protein amount per lane, while only changing the amount of spiked proteins, we confirm that nonlinearity and saturation of densitometry data, and errors introduced from normalisation processes, can occur in routine assays that compare equal amounts of lysate. These findings apply to all Western blot studies, and we highlight quality control checks that should be performed to make Western blot data more quantitative.
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Choi C, Thi Thao Tran N, Van Ngu T, Park SW, Song MS, Kim SH, Bae YU, Ayudthaya PDN, Munir J, Kim E, Baek MJ, Song S, Ryu S, Nam KH. Promotion of tumor progression and cancer stemness by MUC15 in thyroid cancer via the GPCR/ERK and integrin-FAK signaling pathways. Oncogenesis 2018; 7:85. [PMID: 30420637 PMCID: PMC6232104 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-018-0094-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the fifth most common cancer diagnosed in women worldwide. Notwithstanding advancements in the prognosis and treatment of thyroid cancer, 10–20% of thyroid cancer patients develops chemotherapeutic resistance and experience relapse. According to previous reports and TCGA database, MUC15 (MUCIN 15) upregulation is highly correlated with thyroid cancer progression. However, the role of MUC15 in tumor progression and metastasis is unclear. This study aimed to investigate factors mediating cancer stemness in thyroid cancer. MUC15 plays an important role in sphere formation, as an evident from the expression of stemness markers including SOX2, KLF4, ALDH1A3, and IL6. Furthermore, ectopic expression of MUC15 activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling via G-protein–coupled receptor (GPCR)/cyclic AMP (cAMP) and integrin/focal adhesion kinase pathways. Interestingly, ectopic expression of MUC15 did not affect RAF/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)-mediated ERK activation. The present findings may provide novel insights into the development of diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic applications of MUC15 in thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheolwon Choi
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Nguyen Thi Thao Tran
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Trinh Van Ngu
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Sae Woong Park
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
| | - Min Suk Song
- Department of Life Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Korea
| | - Sung Hyun Kim
- Department of Physiology, Kyung Hee University, School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun-Ui Bae
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | | | - Javaria Munir
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Eunbit Kim
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Moo-Jun Baek
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Chonan, Korea
| | - Sujung Song
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Seongho Ryu
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Med-bioscience (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea.
| | - Kee-Hyun Nam
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea.
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11
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Copley Salem C, Ulrich C, Quilici D, Schlauch K, Buxton ILO, Burkin H. Mechanical strain induced phospho-proteomic signaling in uterine smooth muscle cells. J Biomech 2018; 73:99-107. [PMID: 29661501 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical strain associated with the expanding uterus correlates with increased preterm birth rates. Mechanical signals result in a cascading network of protein phosphorylation events. These signals direct cellular activities and may lead to changes in contractile phenotype and calcium signaling. In this study, the complete phospho-proteome of uterine smooth muscle cells subjected to mechanical strain for 5 min was compared to un-strained controls. Statistically significant, differential phosphorylation events were annotated by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis to elucidate mechanically induced phosphorylation networks. Mechanical strain leads to the direct activation of ERK1/2, HSPB1, and MYL9, in addition to phosphorylation of PAK2, vimentin, DOCK1, PPP1R12A, and PTPN11 at previously unannotated sites. These results suggest a novel network reaction to mechanical strain and reveal proteins that participate in the activation of contractile mechanisms leading to preterm labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Copley Salem
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, United States
| | - Craig Ulrich
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, United States
| | - David Quilici
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Mick Hitchcock Proteomics Center, United States; University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, United States
| | - Karen Schlauch
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, United States
| | - Iain L O Buxton
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, United States
| | - Heather Burkin
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, United States.
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12
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Yin Z, He W, Li Y, Li D, Li H, Yang Y, Wei Z, Shen B, Wang X, Cao Y, Khalil RA. Adaptive reduction of human myometrium contractile activity in response to prolonged uterine stretch during term and twin pregnancy. Role of TREK-1 channel. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 152:252-263. [PMID: 29577872 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Quiescence of myometrium contractile activity allows uterine expansion to accommodate the growing fetus and prevents preterm labor particularly during excessive uterine stretch in multiple pregnancy. However, the mechanisms regulating uterine response to stretch are unclear. We tested the hypothesis that prolonged uterine stretch is associated with decreased myometrium contractile activity via activation of TWIK-related K+ channel (TREK-1). Pregnant women at different gestational age (preterm and term) and uterine stretch (singleton and twin pregnancy) were studied, and uterine strips were isolated for measurement of contractile activity and TREK-1 channel expression/activity. Both oxytocin- and KCl-induced contraction were reduced in term vs preterm pregnancy and in twin vs singleton pregnancy. Oxytocin contraction was reduced in uterine segments exposed to 8 g stretch compared to control tissues under 2 g basal tension. TREK-1 mRNA expression and protein levels were augmented in Singleton-Term vs Singleton-Preterm, and in uterine strips exposed to 8 g stretch. The TREK-1 activator arachidonic acid reduced oxytocin contraction in preterm and term, singleton and twin pregnant uterus. The TREK-1 blocker l-methionine enhanced oxytocin contraction in Singleton-Term and twin pregnant uterus, and reversed the decreases in contraction in uterine strips exposed to prolonged stretch. Carboprost-induced uterine contraction was also reduced by arachidonic acid and enhanced by l-methionine. Thus, myometrium contraction decreases with gestational age and uterine expansion in twin pregnancy. The results suggest that prolonged stretch enhances the expression/activity of TREK-1 channel, leading to decreased myometrium contractile activity and maintained healthy term pregnancy particularly in multiple pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongzhi Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenzhu He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bing Shen
- Department of Physiology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Raouf A Khalil
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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Aye ILMH, Moraitis AA, Stanislaus D, Charnock-Jones DS, Smith GCS. Retosiban Prevents Stretch-Induced Human Myometrial Contractility and Delays Labor in Cynomolgus Monkeys. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:1056-1067. [PMID: 29293998 PMCID: PMC5868409 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-02195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Context Stretch of the myometrium promotes its contractility and is believed to contribute to the control of parturition at term and to the increased risk of preterm birth in multiple pregnancies. Objective To determine the effects of the putative oxytocin receptor (OTR) inverse agonist retosiban on (1) the contractility of human myometrial explants and (2) labor in nonhuman primates. Design Human myometrial biopsies were obtained at planned term cesarean, and explants were exposed to stretch in the presence and absence of a range of drugs, including retosiban. The in vivo effects of retosiban were determined in cynomolgus monkeys. Results Prolonged mechanical stretch promoted myometrial extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation. Moreover, stretch-induced stimulation of myometrial contractility was prevented by ERK1/2 inhibitors. Retosiban (10 nM) prevented stretch-induced stimulation of myometrial contractility and phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of retosiban on stretch-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation was prevented by coincubation with a 100-fold excess of a peptide OTR antagonist, atosiban. Compared with vehicle-treated cynomolgus monkeys, treatment with oral retosiban (100 to 150 days of gestational age) reduced the risk of spontaneous delivery (hazard ratio = 0.07, 95% confidence interval 0.01 to 0.60, P = 0.015). Conclusions The OTR acts as a uterine mechanosensor, whereby stretch increases myometrial contractility through agonist-free activation of the OTR. Retosiban prevents this through inverse agonism of the OTR and, in vivo, reduced the likelihood of spontaneous labor in nonhuman primates. We hypothesize that retosiban may be an effective preventative treatment of preterm birth in high-risk multiple pregnancies, an area of unmet clinical need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irving L M H Aye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research, Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alexandros A Moraitis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research, Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Dinesh Stanislaus
- Department of Reproductive Toxicology, GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia Navy Yard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - D Stephen Charnock-Jones
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research, Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon C S Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research, Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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14
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Lindsay LA, Dowland SN, Murphy CR. Uterine focal adhesions are retained at implantation after rat ovarian hyperstimulation. Reproduction 2016; 152:753-763. [PMID: 27651522 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is an essential component of IVF techniques to ensure proliferation and development of multiple ovarian follicles, but the effects of these hormones on the endometrium are largely unknown. During normal pregnancy in rats, there are significant changes in the basal plasma membrane of uterine epithelial cells (UECs) at the time of receptivity, including loss of focal adhesions. This enables the UECs to be removed from the implantation chamber surrounding the blastocyst, thus allowing invasion into the underlying stroma. This study investigated the influence of ovarian hyperstimulation (OH) on the basal plasma membrane of UECs during early pregnancy in the rat. Immunofluorescence results demonstrate the presence of paxillin, talin, integrin β1 and phosphorylated FAK (Y397FAK) in the basal portion of UECs at the time of implantation in OH pregnancy. TEM analysis demonstrated a flattened basal lamina and the presence of focal adhesions on the basal surface at this time in OH pregnancy. Significantly low full-length paxillin, high paxillin δ and integrin β1 were seen at the time of implantation in OH compared with those in normal pregnancy. The increase in paxillin δ suggests that these cells are less mobile, whereas the increase in integrin β1 and Y397FAK suggests the retention of a stable FA complex. Taken together with the increase in morphological focal adhesions, this represents a cell type that is stable and less easily removed for blastocyst implantation. This may be one mechanism explaining lower implantation rates after fresh embryo transfers compared with frozen cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Lindsay
- School of Medical Sciences (Anatomy and Histology)The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samson N Dowland
- School of Medical Sciences (Anatomy and Histology)The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- School of Medical Sciences (Anatomy and Histology)The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Brozovich FV, Nicholson CJ, Degen CV, Gao YZ, Aggarwal M, Morgan KG. Mechanisms of Vascular Smooth Muscle Contraction and the Basis for Pharmacologic Treatment of Smooth Muscle Disorders. Pharmacol Rev 2016; 68:476-532. [PMID: 27037223 PMCID: PMC4819215 DOI: 10.1124/pr.115.010652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 298] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The smooth muscle cell directly drives the contraction of the vascular wall and hence regulates the size of the blood vessel lumen. We review here the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which agonists, therapeutics, and diseases regulate contractility of the vascular smooth muscle cell and we place this within the context of whole body function. We also discuss the implications for personalized medicine and highlight specific potential target molecules that may provide opportunities for the future development of new therapeutics to regulate vascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- F V Brozovich
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts (C.J.N., Y.Z.G., M.A., K.G.M.); Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (F.V.B.); and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria (C.V.D.)
| | - C J Nicholson
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts (C.J.N., Y.Z.G., M.A., K.G.M.); Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (F.V.B.); and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria (C.V.D.)
| | - C V Degen
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts (C.J.N., Y.Z.G., M.A., K.G.M.); Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (F.V.B.); and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria (C.V.D.)
| | - Yuan Z Gao
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts (C.J.N., Y.Z.G., M.A., K.G.M.); Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (F.V.B.); and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria (C.V.D.)
| | - M Aggarwal
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts (C.J.N., Y.Z.G., M.A., K.G.M.); Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (F.V.B.); and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria (C.V.D.)
| | - K G Morgan
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts (C.J.N., Y.Z.G., M.A., K.G.M.); Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (F.V.B.); and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria (C.V.D.)
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16
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Preparation and Affinity-Purification of Supervillin Isoform 4 (SV4) Specific Polyclonal Antibodies. Protein J 2016; 35:107-14. [DOI: 10.1007/s10930-016-9658-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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17
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Colinas O, Moreno-Domínguez A, Zhu HL, Walsh EJ, Pérez-García MT, Walsh MP, Cole WC. α5-Integrin-mediated cellular signaling contributes to the myogenic response of cerebral resistance arteries. Biochem Pharmacol 2015; 97:281-91. [PMID: 26278977 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2015.08.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The myogenic response of resistance arterioles and small arteries involving constriction in response to intraluminal pressure elevation and dilation on pressure reduction is fundamental to local blood flow regulation in the microcirculation. Integrins have garnered considerable attention in the context of initiating the myogenic response, but evidence indicative of mechanotransduction by integrin adhesions, for example established changes in tyrosine phosphorylation of key adhesion proteins, has not been obtained to substantiate this interpretation. Here, we evaluated the role of integrin adhesions and associated cellular signaling in the rat cerebral arterial myogenic response using function-blocking antibodies against α5β1-integrins, pharmacological inhibitors of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Src family kinase (SFK), an ultra-high-sensitivity western blotting technique, site-specific phosphoprotein antibodies to quantify adhesion and contractile filament protein phosphorylation, and differential centrifugation to determine G-actin levels in rat cerebral arteries at varied intraluminal pressures. Pressure-dependent increases in the levels of phosphorylation of FAK (FAK-Y397, Y576/Y577), SFK (SFK-Y416; Y527 phosphorylation was reduced), vinculin-Y1065, paxillin-Y118 and phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C-γ1 (PLCγ1)-Y783 were detected. Treatment with α5-integrin function-blocking antibodies, FAK inhibitor FI-14 or SFK inhibitor SU6656 suppressed the changes in adhesion protein phosphorylation, and prevented pressure-dependent phosphorylation of the myosin targeting subunit of myosin light chain phosphatase (MYPT1) at T855 and 20kDa myosin regulatory light chains (LC20) at S19, as well as actin polymerization that are necessary for myogenic constriction. We conclude that mechanotransduction by integrin adhesions and subsequent cellular signaling play a fundamental role in the cerebral arterial myogenic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaia Colinas
- Smooth Muscle Research Group, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Alejandro Moreno-Domínguez
- Smooth Muscle Research Group, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Hai-Lei Zhu
- Smooth Muscle Research Group, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Emma J Walsh
- Smooth Muscle Research Group, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - M Teresa Pérez-García
- Department of Physiology, Instituto de Biología y Genética Molecular, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - Michael P Walsh
- Smooth Muscle Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - William C Cole
- Smooth Muscle Research Group, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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18
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Saphirstein RJ, Gao YZ, Lin QQ, Morgan KG. Cortical actin regulation modulates vascular contractility and compliance in veins. J Physiol 2015; 593:3929-41. [PMID: 26096914 DOI: 10.1113/jp270845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Most cardiovascular research focuses on arterial mechanisms of disease, largely ignoring venous mechanisms. Here we examine ex vivo venous stiffness, spanning tissue to molecular levels, using biomechanics and magnetic microneedle technology, and show for the first time that venous stiffness is regulated by a molecular actin switch within the vascular smooth muscle cell in the wall of the vein. This switch connects the contractile apparatus within the cell to adhesion structures and facilitates stiffening of the vessel wall, regulating blood flow return to the heart. These studies also demonstrate that passive stiffness, the component of total stiffness not attributable to vascular smooth muscle activation, is severalfold lower in venous tissue than in arterial tissue. We show here that the activity of the smooth muscle cells plays a dominant role in determining total venous stiffness and regulating venous return. The literature on arterial mechanics is extensive, but far less is known about mechanisms controlling mechanical properties of veins. We use here a multi-scale approach to identify subcellular sources of venous stiffness. Portal vein tissue displays a severalfold decrease in passive stiffness compared to aortic tissues. The α-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine (PE) increased tissue stress and stiffness, both attenuated by cytochalasin D (CytoD) and PP2, inhibitors of actin polymerization and Src activity, respectively. We quantify, for the first time, cortical cellular stiffness in freshly isolated contractile vascular smooth muscle cells using magnetic microneedle technology. Cortical stiffness is significantly increased by PE and CytoD inhibits this increase but, surprisingly, PP2 does not. No detectable change in focal adhesion size, measured by immunofluorescence of FAK and zyxin, accompanies the PE-induced changes in cortical stiffness. Probing with phospho-specific antibodies confirmed activation of FAK/Src and ERK pathways and caldesmon phosphorylation. Thus, venous tissue stiffness is regulated both at the level of the smooth muscle cell cortex, via cortical actin polymerization, and by downstream smooth muscle effectors of Src/ERK signalling pathways. These findings identify novel potential molecular targets for the modulation of venous capacitance and venous return in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuan Z Gao
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Qian Qian Lin
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Spinazzola JM, Smith TC, Liu M, Luna EJ, Barton ER. Gamma-sarcoglycan is required for the response of archvillin to mechanical stimulation in skeletal muscle. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:2470-81. [PMID: 25605665 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss of gamma-sarcoglycan (γ-SG) induces muscle degeneration and signaling defects in response to mechanical load, and its absence is common to both Duchenne and limb girdle muscular dystrophies. Growing evidence suggests that aberrant signaling contributes to the disease pathology; however, the mechanisms of γ-SG-mediated mechanical signaling are poorly understood. To uncover γ-SG signaling pathway components, we performed yeast two-hybrid screens and identified the muscle-specific protein archvillin as a γ-SG and dystrophin interacting protein. Archvillin protein and message levels were significantly upregulated at the sarcolemma of murine γ-SG-null (gsg(-/-)) muscle but delocalized in dystrophin-deficient mdx muscle. Similar elevation of archvillin protein was observed in human quadriceps muscle lacking γ-SG. Reintroduction of γ-SG in gsg(-/-) muscle by rAAV injection restored archvillin levels to that of control C57 muscle. In situ eccentric contraction of tibialis anterior (TA) muscles from C57 mice caused ERK1/2 phosphorylation, nuclear activation of P-ERK1/2 and stimulus-dependent archvillin association with P-ERK1/2. In contrast, TA muscles from gsg(-/-) and mdx mice exhibited heightened P-ERK1/2 and increased nuclear P-ERK1/2 localization following eccentric contractions, but the archvillin-P-ERK1/2 association was completely ablated. These results position archvillin as a mechanically sensitive component of the dystrophin complex and demonstrate that signaling defects caused by loss of γ-SG occur both at the sarcolemma and in the nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelle M Spinazzola
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Dental Medicine, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, and
| | - Tara C Smith
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA and
| | - Elizabeth J Luna
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Elisabeth R Barton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Dental Medicine, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, and
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20
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Hirata H, Gupta M, Vedula SRK, Lim CT, Ladoux B, Sokabe M. Actomyosin bundles serve as a tension sensor and a platform for ERK activation. EMBO Rep 2014; 16:250-7. [PMID: 25550404 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201439140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tensile forces generated by stress fibers drive signal transduction events at focal adhesions. Here, we report that stress fibers per se act as a platform for tension-induced activation of biochemical signals. The MAP kinase, ERK is activated on stress fibers in a myosin II-dependent manner. In myosin II-inhibited cells, uniaxial stretching of cell adhesion substrates restores ERK activation on stress fibers. By quantifying myosin II- or mechanical stretch-mediated tensile forces in individual stress fibers, we show that ERK activation on stress fibers correlates positively with tensile forces acting on the fibers, indicating stress fibers as a tension sensor in ERK activation. Myosin II-dependent ERK activation is also observed on actomyosin bundles connecting E-cadherin clusters, thus suggesting that actomyosin bundles, in general, work as a platform for tension-dependent ERK activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Hirata
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mukund Gupta
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Chwee Teck Lim
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Benoit Ladoux
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore Institut Jacques Monod (IJM), CNRS UMR 7592 Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Masahiro Sokabe
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore Mechanobiology Laboratory, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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21
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Smooth muscle 22α facilitates angiotensin II-induced signaling and vascular contraction. J Mol Med (Berl) 2014; 93:547-58. [PMID: 25515236 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-014-1240-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2014] [Revised: 11/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Smooth muscle 22α (SM22α) is involved in stress fiber formation and enhances contractility in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In many cases, SM22α acts as an adapter protein to assemble signaling complexes and regulate signaling, but whether SM22α regulates contractile signaling induced by angiotensin II (AngII) remains unclear. To address this issue, we established a hypertension model of Sm22α(-/-) mice, and demonstrated that hypertension induced by AngII was attenuated in Sm22α(-/-) mice. A decreased vasoconstriction was observed in aortic rings from Sm22α(-/-) mice. Furthermore, loss of SM22α resulted in a reduced contractile response to AngII in VSMCs in vitro. The phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) induced by AngII was impaired following depletion of SM22α, in parallel with a reduced contractility. The decay of ERK1/2 activity was associated with increased expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 3 (MKP3). Inhibition of MKP3 activity rescued ERK1/2 activity. SM22α depletion caused an enhanced interaction of MKP3 with ERK1/2, and a reduced ubiquitination and degradation of MKP3. Knockdown of SM22α extended the half-life of MKP3. In conclusion, SM22α promotes AngII-induced contraction by maintenance of ERK1/2 signaling cascades through facilitating ubiquitination and degradation of MKP3. KEY MESSAGE The vasoconstriction is attenuated in aortic rings from Sm22α(-/-) mice. MKP3 mediates dephosphorylation of ERK1/2 in AngII-induced VSMC contraction. SM22α inhibits the interaction of ERK1/2 with MKP3. SM22α promotes ubiquitination and degradation of MKP3. SM22α facilitates AngII-induced contraction by maintenance of ERK1/2 signaling.
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Liu YS, Lee OK. In search of the pivot point of mechanotransduction: mechanosensing of stem cells. Cell Transplant 2014; 23:1-11. [PMID: 24439034 DOI: 10.3727/096368912x659925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the ability to self-renew and to differentiate into diverse specialized cell types; hence, they have great potential in tissue engineering and cell therapies. In addition to biochemical regulation, the physical properties of the microenvironments, such as scaffold topography, substrate stiffness, and mechanical forces, including fluid shear stress, compression, and tensile strain, can also regulate the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. Upon physical stimuli, cytoskeleton rearrangements are expected to counterbalance the extracellular mechanical forces, trigger signaling cascades, and eventually cause epigenetic modifications. This article mainly focuses on the mechanosensing, which is the upstream event of stem cell mechanotransduction and the downstream one of physical stimuli. Putative mechanosensors such as ion channels, integrins, and cell membrane as well as primary cilia are discussed. Because mechanical environment is an important stem cell niche, identification of mechanosensors not only can elucidate the mechanisms of mechanotransduction and fate commitments but also bring new prospects of the mechanical control as well as drug development for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Shiuan Liu
- Stem Cell Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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23
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Gao YZ, Saphirstein RJ, Yamin R, Suki B, Morgan KG. Aging impairs smooth muscle-mediated regulation of aortic stiffness: a defect in shock absorption function? Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 307:H1252-61. [PMID: 25128168 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00392.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Increased aortic stiffness is an early and independent biomarker of cardiovascular disease. Here we tested the hypothesis that vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) contribute significantly to aortic stiffness and investigated the mechanisms involved. The relative contributions of VSMCs, focal adhesions (FAs), and matrix to stiffness in mouse aorta preparations at optimal length and with confirmed VSMC viability were separated by the use of small-molecule inhibitors and activators. Using biomechanical methods designed for minimal perturbation of cellular function, we directly quantified changes with aging in aortic material stiffness. An alpha adrenoceptor agonist, in the presence of N(G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) to remove interference of endothelial nitric oxide, increases stiffness by 90-200% from baseline in both young and old mice. Interestingly, increases are robustly suppressed by the Src kinase inhibitor PP2 in young but not old mice. Phosphotyrosine screening revealed, with aging, a biochemical signature of markedly impaired agonist-induced FA remodeling previously associated with Src signaling. Protein expression measurement confirmed a decrease in Src expression with aging. Thus we report here an additive model for the in vitro biomechanical components of the mouse aortic wall in which 1) VSMCs are a surprisingly large component of aortic stiffness at physiological lengths and 2) regulation of the VSMC component through FA signaling and hence plasticity is impaired with aging, diminishing the aorta's normal shock absorption function in response to stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Z Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts; and Department of Health Sciences, Sargent College, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert J Saphirstein
- Department of Health Sciences, Sargent College, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rina Yamin
- Department of Health Sciences, Sargent College, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bela Suki
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts; and
| | - Kathleen G Morgan
- Department of Health Sciences, Sargent College, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
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Chaemsaithong P, Madan I, Romero R, Than NG, Tarca AL, Draghici S, Bhatti G, Yeo L, Mazor M, Kim CJ, Hassan SS, Chaiworapongsa T. Characterization of the myometrial transcriptome in women with an arrest of dilatation during labor. J Perinat Med 2013; 41:665-81. [PMID: 23893668 PMCID: PMC4183453 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2013-0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The molecular basis of failure to progress in labor is poorly understood. This study was undertaken to characterize the myometrial transcriptome of patients with an arrest of dilatation (AODIL). STUDY DESIGN Human myometrium was prospectively collected from women in the following groups: (1) spontaneous term labor (TL; n=29) and (2) arrest of dilatation (AODIL; n=14). Gene expression was characterized using Illumina® HumanHT-12 microarrays. A moderated Student's t-test and false discovery rate adjustment were used for analysis. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) of selected genes was performed in an independent sample set. Pathway analysis was performed on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway database using Pathway Analysis with Down-weighting of Overlapping Genes (PADOG). The MetaCore knowledge base was also searched for pathway analysis. RESULTS (1) Forty-two differentially expressed genes were identified in women with an AODIL; (2) gene ontology analysis indicated enrichment of biological processes, which included regulation of angiogenesis, response to hypoxia, inflammatory response, and chemokine-mediated signaling pathway. Enriched molecular functions included transcription repressor activity, heat shock protein (Hsp) 90 binding, and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity; (3) MetaCore analysis identified immune response chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) signaling, muscle contraction regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity in endothelial cells, and triiodothyronine and thyroxine signaling as significantly overrepresented (false discovery rate <0.05); (4) qRT-PCR confirmed the overexpression of Nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS3); hypoxic ischemic factor 1A (HIF1A); Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2); angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4); ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1, motif 9 (ADAMTS9); G protein-coupled receptor 4 (GPR4); metallothionein 1A (MT1A); MT2A; and selectin E (SELE) in an AODIL. CONCLUSION The myometrium of women with AODIL has a stereotypic transcriptome profile. This disorder has been associated with a pattern of gene expression involved in muscle contraction, an inflammatory response, and hypoxia. This is the first comprehensive and unbiased examination of the molecular basis of an AODIL.
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Basha ME, Chang S, Burrows LJ, Lassmann J, Wein AJ, Moreland RS, Chacko S. Effect of estrogen on molecular and functional characteristics of the rodent vaginal muscularis. J Sex Med 2013; 10:1219-30. [PMID: 23438289 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vaginal atrophy is a consequence of menopause; however, little is known concerning the effect of a decrease in systemic estrogen on vaginal smooth muscle structure and function. As the incidence of pelvic floor disorders increases with age, it is important to determine if estrogen regulates the molecular composition and contractility of the vaginal muscularis. AIM The goal of this study was to determine the effect of estrogen on molecular and functional characteristics of the vaginal muscularis utilizing a rodent model of surgical menopause. METHODS Three- to 4-month old Sprague-Dawley rats underwent sham laparotomy (Sham, N = 18) or ovariectomy (Ovx, N = 39). Two weeks following surgery, animals received a subcutaneous osmotic pump containing vehicle (Sham, Ovx) or 17β-estradiol (Ovx). Animals were euthanized 1 week later, and the proximal vagina was collected for analysis of contractile protein expression and in vitro studies of contractility. Measurements were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc analysis (α = 0.05). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Protein and mRNA transcript expression levels of contractile proteins, in vitro measurements of vaginal contractility. RESULTS Ovariectomy decreased the expression of carboxyl-terminal myosin heavy chain isoform (SM1) and h-caldesmon and reduced the amplitude of contraction of the vaginal muscularis in response to KCl. Estradiol replacement reversed these changes. No differences were detected in the % vaginal muscularis, mRNA transcript expression of amino-terminal MHC isoforms, l-caldesmon expression, and maximal velocity of shortening. CONCLUSION Systemic estrogen replacement restores functional and molecular characteristics of the vaginal muscularis of ovariectomized rats. Our results indicate that menopause is associated with changes in the vaginal muscularis, which may contribute to the increased incidence of pelvic floor disorders with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen E Basha
- Department of Human Science, School of Nursing and Health Studies, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
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DePasquale JA. Tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor triggers rodlet cell discharge in sunfish scale epidermis cultures. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Min J, Reznichenko M, Poythress RH, Gallant CM, Vetterkind S, Li Y, Morgan KG. Src modulates contractile vascular smooth muscle function via regulation of focal adhesions. J Cell Physiol 2012; 227:3585-92. [PMID: 22287273 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Src is a known regulator of focal adhesion turnover in migrating cells; but, in contrast, Src is generally assumed to play little role in differentiated, contractile vascular smooth muscle (dVSM). The goal of the present study was to determine if Src-family kinases regulate focal adhesion proteins and how this might affect contractility of non-proliferative vascular smooth muscle. We demonstrate here, through the use of phosphotyrosine screening, deconvolution microscopy imaging, and differential centrifugation, that the activity of Src family kinases in aorta is regulated by the alpha agonist and vasoconstrictor phenylephrine, and leads to focal adhesion protein phosphorylation and remodeling in dVSM. Furthermore, Src inhibition via morpholino knockdown of Src or by the small molecule inhibitor PP2 prevents phenylephrine-induced adhesion protein phosphorylation, markedly slows the tissue's ability to contract, and decreases steady state contractile force amplitude. Significant vasoconstrictor-induced and Src-dependent phosphorylation of Cas pY-165, FAK pY-925, paxillin pY-118, and Erk1/2 were observed. However, increases in FAK 397 phosphorylation were not seen, demonstrating differences between cells in tissue versus migrating, proliferating cells. We show here that Src, in a cause and effect manner, regulates focal adhesion protein function and, consequently, modulates contractility during the action of a vasoconstrictor. These data point to the possibility that vascular focal adhesion proteins may be useful drug discovery targets for novel therapeutic approaches to cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Min
- Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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29
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Abstract
There is a dialogue between the developing conceptus (embryo-fetus and associated placental membranes) and maternal uterus which must be established during the peri-implantation period for pregnancy recognition signaling, implantation, regulation of gene expression by uterine epithelial and stromal cells, placentation and exchange of nutrients and gases. The uterus provide a microenvironment in which molecules secreted by uterine epithelia or transported into the uterine lumen represent histotroph required for growth and development of the conceptus and receptivity of the uterus to implantation. Pregnancy recognition signaling mechanisms sustain the functional lifespan of the corpora lutea (CL) which produce progesterone, the hormone of pregnancy essential for uterine functions that support implantation and placentation required for a successful outcome of pregnancy. It is within the peri-implantation period that most embryonic deaths occur due to deficiencies attributed to uterine functions or failure of the conceptus to develop appropriately, signal pregnancy recognition and/or undergo implantation and placentation. With proper placentation, the fetal fluids and fetal membranes each have unique functions to ensure hematotrophic and histotrophic nutrition in support of growth and development of the fetus. The endocrine status of the pregnant female and her nutritional status are critical for successful establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. This review addresses the complexity of key mechanisms that are characteristic of successful reproduction in sheep and pigs and gaps in knowledge that must be the subject of research in order to enhance fertility and reproductive health of livestock species.
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Thiele T, Iuga C, Janetzky S, Schwertz H, Gesell Salazar M, Fürll B, Völker U, Greinacher A, Steil L. Early storage lesions in apheresis platelets are induced by the activation of the integrin αIIbβ₃ and focal adhesion signaling pathways. J Proteomics 2012; 76 Spec No.:297-315. [PMID: 22634086 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2012.04.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Production and storage of platelet concentrates (PC) induce protein changes in platelets leading to impaired platelet function. This study aimed to identify signaling pathways involved in the development of early platelet storage lesions in apheresis-PCs stored in plasma or additive solution (PAS). Apheresis-PCs from four donors were stored in plasma or in PAS at 22°C (n=4 each). Platelets were analyzed at day 0 (production day) and after 1, 6 and 9 days of storage. Platelet response to agonists (TRAP, collagen, ADP) and to hypotonic shock decreased, CD62P expression increased in both storage media over time. Using DIGE 1550 protein spots were monitored and compared to baseline values at day 0. Platelets in plasma displayed changes in 352 spots (166/day 1, 263/day 6 and 201/day 9); in PAS 325 spots changed (202/day 1, 221/day 6, 200/day 9). LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis of 405 platelet proteins revealed 32 proteins changed during storage in plasma (9/day 1, 15/day 6 and 26/day 9) and 28 in PAS (5/day 1, 20/day 6, 26/day 9). Ingenuity pathway analysis found integrin-αII(b)β(3) and focal adhesion signaling pathways involved in early alterations, being confirmed by Western blotting. Corresponding mRNAs in platelets were identified by next generation sequencing for 84 changed proteins. Integrin-αII(b)β(3) and focal adhesion signaling cause irreversible early storage lesions in apheresis platelets. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Integrated omics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Thiele
- Institut für Immunologie und Transfusionsmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Germany.
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Paramanik V, Thakur MK. Estrogen receptor β and its domains interact with casein kinase 2, phosphokinase C, and N-myristoylation sites of mitochondrial and nuclear proteins in mouse brain. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:22305-16. [PMID: 22566700 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.351262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The localization of estrogen receptor (ER)β in mitochondria suggests ERβ-dependent regulation of genes, which is poorly understood. Here, we analyzed the ERβ interacting mitochondrial as well as nuclear proteins in mouse brain using pull-down assay and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectroscopy (MALDI-MS). In the case of mitochondria, ERβ interacted with six proteins of 35-152 kDa, its transactivation domain (TAD) interacted with four proteins of 37-172 kDa, and ligand binding domain (LBD) interacted with six proteins of 37-161 kDa. On the other hand, in nuclei, ERβ interacted with seven proteins of 30-203 kDa, TAD with ten proteins of 31-160 kDa, and LBD with fourteen proteins of 42-179 kDa. For further identification, these proteins were cleaved by trypsin into peptides and analyzed by MALDI-MS using mascot search engine, immunoprecipitation, immunoblotting, and far-Western blotting. To find the consensus binding motifs in interacting proteins, their unique tryptic peptides were analyzed by the motif scan software. All the interacting proteins were found to contain casein kinase (CK) 2, phosphokinase (PK)C phosphorylation, and N-myristoylation sites. These were further confirmed by peptide pull-down assays using specific mutations in the interacting sites. Thus, the present findings provide evidence for the interaction of ERβ with specific mitochondrial and nuclear proteins through consensus CK2, PKC phosphorylation, and N-myristoylation sites, and may represent an essential step toward designing selective ER modulators for regulating estrogen-mediated signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Paramanik
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Centre of Advanced Study, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, India
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Chim SSC, Lee WS, Ting YH, Chan OK, Lee SWY, Leung TY. Systematic identification of spontaneous preterm birth-associated RNA transcripts in maternal plasma. PLoS One 2012; 7:e34328. [PMID: 22496790 PMCID: PMC3320630 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0034328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2011] [Accepted: 02/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spontaneous preterm birth (SPB, before 37 gestational weeks) is a major cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. Studies on SPB have been hampered by the limited availability of markers for SPB in predelivery clinical samples that can be easily compared with gestational age-matched normal controls. We hypothesize that SPB involves aberrant placental RNA expression, and that such RNA transcripts can be detected in predelivery maternal plasma samples, which can be compared with gestational age-matched controls. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Using gene expression microarray to profile essentially all human genes, we observed that 426 probe signals were changed by >2.9-fold in the SPB placentas, compared with the spontaneous term birth (STB) placentas. Among the genes represented by those probes, we observed an over-representation of functions in RNA stabilization, extracellular matrix binding, and acute inflammatory response. Using RT-quantitative PCR, we observed differences in the RNA concentrations of certain genes only between the SPB and STB placentas, but not between the STB and term elective cesarean delivery placentas. Notably, 36 RNA transcripts were observed at placental microarray signals higher than a threshold, which indicated the possibility of their detection in maternal plasma. Among them, the IL1RL1 mRNA was tested in plasma samples taken from 37 women. It was detected in 6 of 10 (60%) plasma samples collected during the presentation of preterm labor (≤32.9 weeks) in women eventually giving SPB, but was detected in only 1 of 27 (4%) samples collected during matched gestational weeks from women with no preterm labor (Fisher exact test, p = 0.00056). CONCLUSION We have identified 36 SPB-associated RNA transcripts, which are possibly detectable in maternal plasma. We have illustrated that the IL1RL1 mRNA was more frequently detected in predelivery maternal plasma samples collected from women resulting in SPB than the gestational-age matched controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen S C Chim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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ABRAMS J, DAVULURI G, SEILER C, PACK M. Smooth muscle caldesmon modulates peristalsis in the wild type and non-innervated zebrafish intestine. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2012; 24:288-99. [PMID: 22316291 PMCID: PMC3919438 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2011.01844.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high molecular weight isoform of the actin-binding protein Caldesmon (h-CaD) regulates smooth muscle contractile function by modulating cross-bridge cycling of myosin heads. The normal inhibitory activity of h-CaD is regulated by the enteric nervous system; however, the role of h-CaD during intestinal peristalsis has never been studied. METHODS We identified a zebrafish paralog of the human CALD1 gene that encodes an h-CaD isoform expressed in intestinal smooth muscle. We examined the role of h-CaD during intestinal peristalsis in zebrafish larvae by knocking down the h-CaD protein using an antisense morpholino oligonucleotide. We also developed transgenic zebrafish that express inhibitory peptides derived from the h-CaD myosin and actin-binding domains, and examined their effect on peristalsis in wild-type zebrafish larvae and sox10 (colourless) mutant larvae that lack enteric nerves. KEY RESULTS Genomic analyses identified two zebrafish Caldesmon paralogs. The cald1a ortholog encoded a high molecular weight isoform generated by alternative splicing whose intestinal expression was restricted to smooth muscle. Propulsive intestinal peristalsis was increased in wild-type zebrafish larvae by h-CaD knockdown and by expression of transgenes encoding inhibitory myosin and actin-binding domain peptides. Peristalsis in the non-innervated intestine of sox10 (colourless) larvae was partially restored by h-CaD knockdown and expression of the myosin-binding peptide. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Disruption of the normal inhibitory function of h-CaD enhances intestinal peristalsis in both wild-type zebrafish larvae and mutant larvae that lack enteric nerves, thus confirming a physiologic role for regulation of smooth muscle contraction at the actin filament.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. ABRAMS
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School
of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - G. DAVULURI
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School
of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - C. SEILER
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School
of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - M. PACK
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School
of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology,
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Lehman W, Morgan KG. Structure and dynamics of the actin-based smooth muscle contractile and cytoskeletal apparatus. J Muscle Res Cell Motil 2012; 33:461-9. [PMID: 22311558 DOI: 10.1007/s10974-012-9283-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The thin filaments of differentiated smooth muscle cells are composed of actin and tropomyosin isoforms and numerous ancillary actin-binding proteins that assemble together into distinct thin filament classes. These different filament classes are segregated in smooth muscle cells into structurally and functionally separated contractile and cytoskeletal cellular domains. Typically, thin filaments in smooth muscle cells have been considered to be relatively stable structures like those in striated cells. However, recent efforts have shown that smooth muscle thin filaments indeed are dynamic and that remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton, in particular, regulates smooth muscle function. Thus, the cytoskeleton of differentiated smooth muscle cells appears to function midway between that of less dynamic striated muscle cells and that of very plastic proliferative cells such as fibroblasts. Michael and Kate Bárány keenly followed and participated in some of these studies, consistent with their broad interest in actin function and smooth muscle mechanisms. As a way of honoring the memory of these two pioneer members of the muscle research community, we review data on distribution and remodeling of thin filaments in smooth muscle cells, one of the many research topics that intrigued them.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Lehman
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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White BG, MacPhee DJ. Distension of the uterus induces HspB1 expression in rat uterine smooth muscle. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2011; 301:R1418-26. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00272.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The uterine musculature, or myometrium, demonstrates tremendous plasticity during pregnancy under the influences of the endocrine environment and mechanical stresses. Expression of the small stress protein heat shock protein B1 (HspB1) has been reported to increase dramatically during late pregnancy, a period marked by myometrial hypertrophy caused by fetal growth-induced uterine distension. Thus, using unilaterally pregnant rat models and ovariectomized nonpregnant rats with uteri containing laminaria tents to induce uterine distension, we examined the effect of uterine distension on myometrial HspB1 expression. In unilaterally pregnant rats, HspB1 mRNA and Ser15-phosphorylated HspB1 (pSer15 HspB1) protein expression were significantly elevated in distended gravid uterine horns at days 19 and 23 (labor) of gestation compared with nongravid horns. Similarly, pSer15 HspB1 protein in situ was only readily detectable in the distended horns compared with the nongravid horns at days 19 and 23; however, pSer15 HspB1 was primarily detectable in situ at day 19 in membrane-associated regions, while it had primarily a cytoplasmic localization in myometrial cells at day 23. HspB1 mRNA and pSer15 HspB1 protein expression were also markedly increased in ovariectomized nonpregnant rat myometrium distended for 24 h with laminaria tents compared with empty horns. Therefore, uterine distension plays a major role in the stimulation of myometrial HspB1 expression, and increased expression of this small stress protein could be a mechanoadaptive response to the increasing uterine distension that occurs during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. G. White
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - D. J. MacPhee
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
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Dey T, Mann MC, Goldmann WH. Comparing mechano-transduction in fibroblasts deficient of focal adhesion proteins. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2011; 413:541-4. [PMID: 21924239 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2011.08.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mechano-transduction was studied in wildtype and focal adhesion (FA) protein-deficient mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Using a cell stretcher, we determined the effect of stretch on cell morphology, apoptosis, and phosphorylation of ERK(1/2). After 20% cyclic, uniaxial stretch, FA-deficient MEFs showed morphological changes and levels of apoptosis of the order: focal adhesion kinase>p130Cas>vinculin compared to wildtype cells. ERK(1/2) phosphorylation peaked in wildtype cells at around 10 min, and in all FA-deficient cells at around 5 min. The relative change in strain energy of FA-deficient cells compared to wildtype cells was of the order: vinculin>FAK>p130Cas. Taken together, FAK and p130Cas are more important in the stretch-mediated downstream signaling and cell survival pathway, while vinculin is more critical in maintaining cell contractility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuli Dey
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Paul J, Maiti K, Read M, Hure A, Smith J, Chan EC, Smith R. Phasic phosphorylation of caldesmon and ERK 1/2 during contractions in human myometrium. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21542. [PMID: 21738699 PMCID: PMC3128072 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2010] [Accepted: 06/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human myometrium develops phasic contractions during labor. Phosphorylation of caldesmon (h-CaD) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) has been implicated in development of these contractions, however the phospho-regulation of these proteins is yet to be examined during periods of both contraction and relaxation. We hypothesized that protein phosphorylation events are implicated in the phasic nature of myometrial contractions, and aimed to examine h-CaD and ERK 1/2 phosphorylation in myometrium snap frozen at specific stages, including; (1) prior to onset of contractions, (2) at peak contraction and (3) during relaxation. We aimed to compare h-CaD and ERK 1/2 phosphorylation in vitro against results from in vivo studies that compared not-in-labor (NIL) and laboring (L) myometrium. Comparison of NIL (n = 8) and L (n = 8) myometrium revealed a 2-fold increase in h-CaD phosphorylation (ser-789; P = 0.012) during onset of labor in vivo, and was associated with significantly up-regulated ERK2 expression (P = 0.022), however no change in ERK2 phosphorylation was observed (P = 0.475). During in vitro studies (n = 5), transition from non-contracting tissue to tissue at peak contraction was associated with increased phosphorylation of both h-CaD and ERK 1/2. Furthermore, tissue preserved at relaxation phase exhibited diminished levels of h-CaD and ERK 1/2 phosphorylation compared to tissue preserved at peak contraction, thereby producing a phasic phosphorylation profile for h-CaD and ERK 1/2. h-CaD and ERK 1/2 are phosphorylated during myometrial contractions, however their phospho-regulation is dynamic, in that h-CaD and ERK 1/2 are phosphorylated and dephosphorylated in phase with contraction and relaxation respectively. Comparisons of NIL and L tissue are at risk of failing to detect these changes, as L samples are not necessarily preserved in the midst of an active contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Paul
- Faculty of Health, Mothers and Babies Research Centre, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.
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Maiti K, Paul JW, Read M, Chan EC, Riley SC, Nahar P, Smith R. G-1-activated membrane estrogen receptors mediate increased contractility of the human myometrium. Endocrinology 2011; 152:2448-55. [PMID: 21427217 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens are key mediators of increased uterine contractility at labor. We sought to determine whether membrane-associated estrogen receptors, such as the recently described seven-transmembrane receptor G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30), mediated some of this effect. Using human myometrium obtained at term cesarean section before or after the onset of labor, we demonstrated the presence of GPR30 mRNA and protein using quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting. GPR30 receptor was localized to the cell membrane and often colocalized with calveolin-1. Using the specific estrogen membrane receptor agonist G-1 and myometrial explants, we showed that membrane receptor activation led to phosphorylation of MAPK and the actin-modifying small heat shock protein 27. Using myometrial strips incubated with G-1 or vehicle we demonstrated that estrogen membrane receptor activation increased the myometrial contractile response to oxytocin. These data suggest that activation of the plasma membrane estrogen receptor GPR30 likely participates in the physiology of the human myometrium during pregnancy and identifies it as a potential target to modify uterine activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Maiti
- Mothers & Babies Research Centre/Endocrine Unit, Faculty of Health/School of Medicine & Public Health, The University of Newcastle & John Hunter Hospital, New Soth Wales, Australia.
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Mittal P, Romero R, Tarca AL, Draghici S, Nhan-Chang CL, Chaiworapongsa T, Hotra J, Gomez R, Kusanovic JP, Lee DC, Kim CJ, Hassan SS. A molecular signature of an arrest of descent in human parturition. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2011; 204:177.e15-33. [PMID: 21284969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2010.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2010] [Revised: 08/18/2010] [Accepted: 09/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to identify the molecular basis of an arrest of descent. STUDY DESIGN Human myometrium was obtained from women in term labor (TL; n = 29) and arrest of descent (AODes; n = 21). Gene expression was characterized using Illumina HumanHT-12 microarrays. A moderated Student t test and false discovery rate adjustment were applied for analysis. Confirmatory quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunoblot were performed in an independent sample set. RESULTS Four hundred genes were differentially expressed between women with an AODes compared with those with TL. Gene Ontology analysis indicated enrichment of biological processes and molecular functions related to inflammation and muscle function. Impacted pathways included inflammation and the actin cytoskeleton. Overexpression of hypoxia inducible factor-1a, interleukin -6, and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 in AODes was confirmed. CONCLUSION We have identified a stereotypic pattern of gene expression in the myometrium of women with an arrest of descent. This represents the first study examining the molecular basis of an arrest of descent using a genome-wide approach.
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Abstract
The association between multiple pregnancy and preterm labour is well-established, with >50% of multiple births delivering before 37 weeks. However, there remains limited understanding of the factors predisposing to early delivery of twins. Physiological stimuli to the onset of parturition, including stretch, placental corticotrophin-releasing hormone and lung maturity factors, may be stronger in multiple pregnancies due to the increased fetal and placental mass. Pathological processes including infection and cervical insufficiency also have a role. Treatments that prevent preterm birth in singleton pregnancies, such as progesterone and cervical cerclage appear to be ineffective in multiple pregnancies. This article reviews aspects of preterm birth in twins and higher order multiples including epidemiology, prediction and prevention of preterm labour and potential mechanisms controlling onset of parturition. Evidence relating to the management of labour in preterm and term multiples is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Stock
- University of Edinburgh Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Room S7129, Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Little France, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK.
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Mittal P, Romero R, Tarca AL, Gonzalez J, Draghici S, Xu Y, Dong Z, Nhan-Chang CL, Chaiworapongsa T, Lye S, Kusanovic JP, Lipovich L, Mazaki-Tovi S, Hassan SS, Mesiano S, Kim CJ. Characterization of the myometrial transcriptome and biological pathways of spontaneous human labor at term. J Perinat Med 2010; 38:617-43. [PMID: 20629487 PMCID: PMC3097097 DOI: 10.1515/jpm.2010.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS to characterize the transcriptome of human myometrium during spontaneous labor at term. METHODS myometrium was obtained from women with (n=19) and without labor (n=20). Illumina HumanHT-12 microarrays were utilized. Moderated t-tests and false discovery rate adjustment of P-values were applied. Real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed for a select set of differentially expressed genes in a separate set of samples. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot were utilized to confirm differential protein production in a third sample set. RESULTS 1) Four hundred and seventy-one genes were differentially expressed; 2) gene ontology analysis indicated enrichment of 103 biological processes and 18 molecular functions including: a) inflammatory response; b) cytokine activity; and c) chemokine activity; 3) systems biology pathway analysis using signaling pathway impact analysis indicated six significant pathways: a) cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction; b) Jak-STAT signaling; and c) complement and coagulation cascades; d) NOD-like receptor signaling pathway; e) systemic lupus erythematosus; and f) chemokine signaling pathway; 4) qRT-PCR confirmed over-expression of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase-2, heparin binding epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor, chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL2/MCP1), leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor, subfamily A member 5, interleukin (IL)-8, IL-6, chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 6 (CXCL6/GCP2), nuclear factor of kappa light chain gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor zeta, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) and decreased expression of FK506 binding-protein 5 and aldehyde dehydrogenase in labor; 5) IL-6, CXCL6, CCL2 and SOCS3 protein expression was significantly higher in the term labor group compared to the term not in labor group. CONCLUSIONS myometrium of women in spontaneous labor at term is characterized by a stereotypic gene expression pattern consistent with over-expression of the inflammatory response and leukocyte chemotaxis. Differential gene expression identified with microarray was confirmed with qRT-PCR using an independent set of samples. This study represents an unbiased description of the biological processes involved in spontaneous labor at term based on transcriptomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Mittal
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Juan Gonzalez
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sorin Draghici
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Zhong Dong
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Chia-Ling Nhan-Chang
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephen Lye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Juan Pedro Kusanovic
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Leonard Lipovich
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Shali Mazaki-Tovi
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sonia S. Hassan
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sam Mesiano
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Chong Jai Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, USA,Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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