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Zhu Z, Huang Y, Song Y, Lu J, Hu L, Chen X. LncRNA MALAT1 Knockdown Alleviates Fibrogenic Response in Human Endometrial Stromal Cells Via the miR-22-3p/TGFβR1/Smad2/3 Pathway. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01445-z. [PMID: 39154131 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) resulting from irreversible fibrotic repair of endometrium is the main cause of secondary infertility in women, and current therapeutic approaches to IUA are limited. Increasing evidence has suggested the important role of competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) in IUA pathologies. This study aimed to investigate the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1)-associated ceRNA in IUA development. We harvested endometrial tissues from patients with or without IUA and extracted endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) from normal endometrial tissues. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) was used to induce fibrosis in ESCs. The expression of transforming growth factor β receptor 1 (TGFβR1), α-smooth muscle actin, phosphorylated suppressor of mother against decapentaplegic (p-Smad)2/3, collagen type I alpha 1, MALAT1, and microRNA (miR)-22-3p in endometrial tissues and ESCs was measured by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) or western blotting. Pearson's correlation analysis was conducted to assess the correlation between miR-22-3p expression or TGFβR1 and MALAT1 expression in endometrial tissues. The expression of TGFβR1 in ESCs was also evaluated by immunofluorescence staining. The location of MALAT1 was examined by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to verify the binding relationship between MALAT1 or TGFβR1 and miR-22-3p. Cell viability was assessed via cell counting kit-8 assays. Our findings revealed that lncRNA MALAT1 and TGFβR1 were upregulated while miR-22-3p was downregulated in IUA endometrial tissues or TGF-β1-stimulated ESCs, and lncRNA MALAT1 expression was negatively correlated with miR-22-3p expression while being positively correlated with TGFβR1 expression in IUA endometrial tissues. Additionally, lncRNA MALAT1 was mainly located in the cytoplasm of ESCs and directly targeted miR-22-3p to regulate TGFβR1 expression. Moreover, knockdown of lncRNA MALAT1 exerted anti-fibrotic effects on ESCs by targeting miR-22-3p, and miR-22-3p overexpression inhibited the fibrosis of ESCs by binding to TGFβR1 3'untranslated region. Collectively, lncRNA MALAT1 promotes endometrial fibrosis by sponging miR-22-3p to regulate TGFβR1 and Smad2/3, and inhibition of MALAT1 may represent a promising therapeutic option for suppressing endometrial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyan Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Song
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Jingquan Lu
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Lina Hu
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China.
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Aloway JA, Ruteshouser EC, Huff V, Behringer RR. Generation of a Wt1 conditional deletion, nuclear red fluorescent protein reporter allele in the mouse. Differentiation 2024; 138:100791. [PMID: 38941819 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2024.100791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
A Wt1 conditional deletion, nuclear red fluorescent protein (RFP) reporter allele was generated in the mouse by gene targeting in embryonic stem cells. Upon Cre-mediated recombination, a deletion allele is generated that expresses RFP in a Wt1-specific pattern. RFP expression was detected in embryonic and adult tissues known to express Wt1, including the kidney, mesonephros, and testis. In addition, RFP expression and WT1 co-localization was detected in the adult uterine stroma and myometrium, suggesting a role in uterine function. Crosses with Wnt7a-Cre transgenic mice that express Cre in the Müllerian duct epithelium activate Wt1-directed RFP expression in the epithelium of the oviduct but not the stroma and myometrium of the uterus. This new mouse strain should be a useful resource for studies of Wt1 function and marking Wt1-expressing cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jace A Aloway
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Genetics and Epigenetics Program, MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - E Cristy Ruteshouser
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Vicki Huff
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Genetics and Epigenetics Program, MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Genetics and Epigenetics Program, MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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Wu J, Fan L, Li L, Zhang Y, Tian Y, Jiang Z, Liu Z, Lu D, Dai Y. Integrated analysis of endometrial stromal cell long noncoding RNA and mRNA expression profiles associated with TGF-β1-induced fibrosis. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:952-955. [PMID: 38639033 PMCID: PMC11214950 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jianhong Wu
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Linyuan Fan
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Lin Li
- Central LaboratoryBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Yudi Zhang
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Yucui Tian
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Ziwen Jiang
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Zhaohui Liu
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Dan Lu
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
| | - Yinmei Dai
- Department of GynecologyBeijing Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Maternal and Child Health Care HospitalBeijing100026China
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Ulrich ND, Vargo A, Ma Q, Shen YC, Hannum DF, Gurczynski SJ, Moore BB, Schon S, Lieberman R, Shikanov A, Marsh EE, Fazleabas A, Li JZ, Hammoud SS. Cellular heterogeneity and dynamics of the human uterus in healthy premenopausal women. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.07.583985. [PMID: 38559249 PMCID: PMC10979868 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.07.583985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The human uterus is a complex and dynamic organ whose lining grows, remodels, and regenerates in every menstrual cycle or upon tissue damage. Here we applied single-cell RNA sequencing to profile more the 50,000 uterine cells from both the endometrium and myometrium of 5 healthy premenopausal individuals, and jointly analyzed the data with a previously published dataset from 15 subjects. The resulting normal uterus cell atlas contains more than 167K cells representing the lymphatic endothelium, blood endothelium, stromal, ciliated epithelium, unciliated epithelium, and immune cell populations. Focused analyses within each major cell type and comparisons with subtype labels from prior studies allowed us to document supporting evidence, resolve naming conflicts, and to propose a consensus annotation system of 39 subtypes. We release their gene expression centroids, differentially expressed genes, and mRNA patterns of literature-based markers as a shared community resource. We find many subtypes show dynamic changes over different phases of the cycle and identify multiple potential progenitor cells: compartment-wide progenitors for each major cell type, transitional cells that are upstream of other subtypes, and potential cross-lineage multipotent stromal progenitors that may be capable of replenishing the epithelial, stromal, and endothelial compartments. When compared to the healthy premenopausal samples, a postpartum and a postmenopausal uterus sample revealed substantially altered tissue composition, involving the rise or fall of stromal, endothelial, and immune cells. The cell taxonomy and molecular markers we report here are expected to inform studies of both basic biology of uterine function and its disorders. SIGNIFICANCE We present single-cell RNA sequencing data from seven individuals (five healthy pre-menopausal women, one post-menopausal woman, and one postpartum) and perform an integrated analysis of this data alongside 15 previously published scRNA-seq datasets. We identified 39 distinct cell subtypes across four major cell types in the uterus. By using RNA velocity analysis and centroid-centroid comparisons we identify multiple computationally predicted progenitor populations for each of the major cell compartments, as well as potential cross-compartment, multi-potent progenitors. While the function and interactions of these cell populations remain to be validated through future experiments, the markers and their "dual characteristics" that we describe will serve as a rich resource to the scientific community. Importantly, we address a significant challenge in the field: reconciling multiple uterine cell taxonomies being proposed. To achieve this, we focused on integrating historical and contemporary knowledge across multiple studies. By providing detailed evidence used for cell classification we lay the groundwork for establishing a stable, consensus cell atlas of the human uterus.
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Abstract
The uterine lining (endometrium) regenerates repeatedly over the life span as part of its normal physiology. Substantial portions of the endometrium are shed during childbirth (parturition) and, in some species, menstruation, but the tissue is rapidly rebuilt without scarring, rendering it a powerful model of regeneration in mammals. Nonetheless, following some assaults, including medical procedures and infections, the endometrium fails to regenerate and instead forms scars that may interfere with normal endometrial function and contribute to infertility. Thus, the endometrium provides an exceptional platform to answer a central question of regenerative medicine: Why do some systems regenerate while others scar? Here, we review our current understanding of diverse endometrial disruption events in humans, nonhuman primates, and rodents, and the associated mechanisms of regenerative success and failure. Elucidating the determinants of these disparate repair processes promises insights into fundamental mechanisms of mammalian regeneration with substantial implications for reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire J Ang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Taylor D Skokan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
| | - Kara L McKinley
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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Oh JE, Kwon S, Byun H, Song H, Lim HJ. Repopulation of autophagy-deficient stromal cells with autophagy-intact cells after repeated breeding in uterine mesenchyme-specific Atg7 knockout mice. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2023; 50:170-176. [PMID: 37643830 PMCID: PMC10477416 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.05876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autophagy is highly active in ovariectomized mice experiencing hormone deprivation, especially in the uterine mesenchyme. Autophagy is responsible for the turnover of vasoactive factors in the uterus, which was demonstrated in anti-Müllerian hormone receptor type 2 receptor (Amhr2)-Cre-driven autophagy-related gene 7 (Atg7) knockout (Amhr-Cre/Atg7f/f mice). In that study, we uncovered a striking difference in the amount of sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) accumulation between virgin mice and breeder mice with the same genotype. Herein, we aimed to determine whether repeated breeding changed the composition of mesenchymal cell populations in the uterine stroma. METHODS All female mice used in this study were of the same genotype. Atg7 was deleted by Amhr2 promoter-driven Cre recombinase in the uterine stroma and myometrium, except for a triangular stromal region on the mesometrial side. Amhr-Cre/Atg7f/f female mice were divided into two groups: virgin mice with no mating history and aged between 11 and 12 months, and breeder mice with at least 6-month breeding cycles with multiple pregnancies and aged around 12 months. The uteri were used for Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS SQSTM1 accumulation, representing Atg7 deletion and halted autophagy, was much higher in virgin mice than in breeders. Breeders showed reduced accumulation of several vasoconstrictive factors, which are potential autophagy targets, in the uterus, suggesting that the uterine stroma was repopulated with autophagy-intact cells during repeated pregnancies. CONCLUSION Multiple pregnancies seem to have improved the uterine environment by replacing autophagy-deficient cells with autophagy-intact cells, providing evidence of cell mixing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Eun Oh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sojung Kwon
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunji Byun
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjung Jade Lim
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Dickson MJ, Gruzdev A, DeMayo FJ. iCre recombinase expressed in the anti-Müllerian hormone receptor 2 gene causes global genetic modification in the mouse†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:575-583. [PMID: 36721982 PMCID: PMC10106842 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetically engineered mice are widely used to study the impact of altered gene expression in vivo. Within the reproductive tract, the Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) mouse model is used to ablate genes in ovarian granulosa and uterine stromal cells. There are reports of Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) inducing recombination in non-target tissues. We hypothesized the inefficiency or off-target Cre action in Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) mice is due to lack of recombination in every cell that expresses Amhr2. To investigate, we created a new targeted knock-in mouse model, Amhr2-iCre(Fjd), by inserting a codon-optimized improved Cre (iCre) into exon 1 of the Amhr2 gene. Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)/+ males were mated with females that contain a lox-stop-lox cassette in the Sun1 gene so when DNA recombination occurs, SUN1-sfGFP fusion protein is expressed in a peri-nuclear pattern. In adult Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)/+ Sun1LsL/+ mice, Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)-mediated genetic recombination was apparent in uterine epithelial, stromal, and myometrial cells, while Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr)/+ Sun1LsL/+ females demonstrated inter-mouse variability of Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) activity in uterine cells. Fluorescence was observed in Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)-positive mice at post-natal Day 1, indicating global genetic recombination, while fluorescence of individual Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr)-positive pups varied. To determine the developmental stage that genetic recombination first occurs, Sun1LsL/LsL females were super-ovulated and mated with Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr)/+ or Amhr2(iCre/+)Fjd males, then putative zygotes were collected and cultured. In the four-cell embryo, Amhr2-iCre(Fjd) and Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) activities were apparent in 100% and 25-100% of cells, respectively. In conclusion, Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) or Amhr2-iCre(Fjd) driven by the Amhr2 promoter is active in the early embryo and can lead to global genetic modification, rendering this transgenic mouse model ineffective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie J Dickson
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Artiom Gruzdev
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, NC, USA
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Kriseman ML, Tang S, Liao Z, Jiang P, Parks SE, Cope DI, Yuan F, Chen F, Masand RP, Castro PD, Ittmann MM, Creighton CJ, Tan Z, Monsivais D. SMAD2/3 signaling in the uterine epithelium controls endometrial cell homeostasis and regeneration. Commun Biol 2023; 6:261. [PMID: 36906706 PMCID: PMC10008566 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04619-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The regenerative potential of the endometrium is attributed to endometrial stem cells; however, the signaling pathways controlling its regenerative potential remain obscure. In this study, genetic mouse models and endometrial organoids are used to demonstrate that SMAD2/3 signaling controls endometrial regeneration and differentiation. Mice with conditional deletion of SMAD2/3 in the uterine epithelium using Lactoferrin-iCre develop endometrial hyperplasia at 12-weeks and metastatic uterine tumors by 9-months of age. Mechanistic studies in endometrial organoids determine that genetic or pharmacological inhibition of SMAD2/3 signaling disrupts organoid morphology, increases the glandular and secretory cell markers, FOXA2 and MUC1, and alters the genome-wide distribution of SMAD4. Transcriptomic profiling of the organoids reveals elevated pathways involved in stem cell regeneration and differentiation such as the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and retinoic acid signaling (RA) pathways. Therefore, TGFβ family signaling via SMAD2/3 controls signaling networks which are integral for endometrial cell regeneration and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya L Kriseman
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Peixin Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sydney E Parks
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dominique I Cope
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fengju Chen
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ramya P Masand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Patricia D Castro
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michael M Ittmann
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zhi Tan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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A re-appraisal of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) in endometrial epithelial remodeling. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 391:393-408. [PMID: 36401092 PMCID: PMC9889438 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03711-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) is a mechanism of endometrial epithelial regeneration. It is also implicated in adenocarcinoma and endometriosis. Little is known about this process in normal uterine physiology. Previously, using pregnancy and menses-like mouse models, MET occurred only as an epithelial damage/repair mechanism. Here, we hypothesized that MET also occurs in other physiological endometrial remodeling events, outside of damage/repair, such as during the estrous cycle and adenogenesis (gland development). To investigate this, Amhr2-Cre-YFP/GFP mesenchyme-specific reporter mice were used to track the fate of mesenchymal-derived (MD) cells. Using EpCAM (epithelial marker), EpCAM+YFP+ MD-epithelial cells were identified in all stages of the estrous cycle except diestrus, in both postpartum and virgin mice. EpCAM+YFP+ MD-epithelial cells comprised up to 80% of the epithelia during estrogen-dominant proestrus and significantly declined to indistinguishable from control uteri in diestrus, suggesting MET is hormonally regulated. MD-epithelial cells were also identified during postnatal epithelial remodeling. MET occurred immediately after birth at postnatal day (P) 0.5 with EpCAM+GFP+ cells ranging from negligible (0.21%) to 82% of the epithelia. EpCAM+GFP+ MD-epithelial cells declined during initiation of adenogenesis (P8, avg. 1.75%) and then increased during gland morphogenesis (P14, avg. 10%). MD-epithelial cells expressed markers in common with non-MD-epithelial cells (e.g., EpCAM, FOXA2, ESR1, PGR). However, MD-epithelial cells were differentially regulated postnatally and in adults, suggesting a functional distinction in the two populations. We conclude that MET occurs not only as an epithelial damage/repair mechanism but also during other epithelial remodeling events, which to our knowledge has not been demonstrated in other tissues.
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Chen K, Zheng S, Fang F. Endometrial Stem Cells and Their Applications in Intrauterine Adhesion. Cell Transplant 2023; 32:9636897231159561. [PMID: 36891869 PMCID: PMC9998408 DOI: 10.1177/09636897231159561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), resulting from pregnancy or nonpregnant uterine trauma, is one of the major causes of abnormal menstruation, infertility, or repeated pregnancy loss. Although a few methods, including hysteroscopy and hormone therapy, are routinely used for its diagnosis and treatment, they cannot restore tissue regeneration. Stem cells, which have self-renewal and tissue regeneration abilities, have been proposed as a promising therapy for patients with severe IUAs. In this review, we summarize the origin and features of endometrium-associated stem cells and their applications in the treatment of IUAs based on animal models and human clinical trials. We expect that this information will help to elucidate the underlying mechanism for tissue regeneration and to improve the design of stem cell-based therapies for IUAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Shengxia Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Kirkwood PM, Gibson DA, Shaw I, Dobie R, Kelepouri O, Henderson NC, Saunders PTK. Single-cell RNA sequencing and lineage tracing confirm mesenchyme to epithelial transformation (MET) contributes to repair of the endometrium at menstruation. eLife 2022; 11:e77663. [PMID: 36524724 PMCID: PMC9873258 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium experiences repetitive cycles of tissue wounding characterised by piecemeal shedding of the surface epithelium and rapid restoration of tissue homeostasis. In this study, we used a mouse model of endometrial repair and three transgenic lines of mice to investigate whether epithelial cells that become incorporated into the newly formed luminal epithelium have their origins in one or more of the mesenchymal cell types present in the stromal compartment of the endometrium. Using scRNAseq, we identified a novel population of PDGFRb + mesenchymal stromal cells that developed a unique transcriptomic signature in response to endometrial breakdown/repair. These cells expressed genes usually considered specific to epithelial cells and in silico trajectory analysis suggested they were stromal fibroblasts in transition to becoming epithelial cells. To confirm our hypothesis we used a lineage tracing strategy to compare the fate of stromal fibroblasts (PDGFRa+) and stromal perivascular cells (NG2/CSPG4+). We demonstrated that stromal fibroblasts can undergo a mesenchyme to epithelial transformation and become incorporated into the re-epithelialised luminal surface of the repaired tissue. This study is the first to discover a novel population of wound-responsive, plastic endometrial stromal fibroblasts that contribute to the rapid restoration of an intact luminal epithelium during endometrial repair. These findings form a platform for comparisons both to endometrial pathologies which involve a fibrotic response (Asherman's syndrome, endometriosis) as well as other mucosal tissues which have a variable response to wounding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe M Kirkwood
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Douglas A Gibson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Isaac Shaw
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Ross Dobie
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Olympia Kelepouri
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Neil C Henderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Philippa TK Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
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12
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Jia S, Wilbourne J, Crossen MJ, Zhao F. Morphogenesis of the female reproductive tract along antero-posterior and dorso-ventral axes is dependent on Amhr2+ mesenchyme in mice†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1477-1489. [PMID: 36130202 PMCID: PMC9752753 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphogenesis of the female reproductive tract is regulated by the mesenchyme. However, the identity of the mesenchymal lineage that directs the morphogenesis of the female reproductive tract has not been determined. Using in vivo genetic cell ablation, we identified Amhr2+ mesenchyme as an essential mesenchymal population in patterning the female reproductive tract. After partial ablation of Amhr2+ mesenchymal cells, the oviduct failed to develop its characteristic coiling due to decreased epithelial proliferation and tubule elongation during development. The uterus displayed a reduction in size and showed decreased cellular proliferation in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments. More importantly, in the uterus, partial ablation of Amhr2+ mesenchyme caused abnormal lumen shape and altered the direction of its long axis from the dorsal-ventral axis to the left-right axis (i.e., perpendicular to the dorsal-ventral axis). Despite these morphological defects, epithelia underwent normal differentiation into secretory and ciliated cells in the oviduct and glandular epithelial cells in the uterus. These results demonstrated that Amhr2+ mesenchyme can direct female reproductive tract morphogenesis by regulating epithelial proliferation and lumen shape without affecting the differentiation of epithelial cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Jia
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jillian Wilbourne
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - McKenna J Crossen
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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13
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Zhao F, Grimm SA, Jia S, Yao HHC. Contribution of the Wolffian duct mesenchyme to the formation of the female reproductive tract. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac182. [PMID: 36204418 PMCID: PMC9523451 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract develops from its embryonic precursor, the Müllerian duct. In close proximity to the Müllerian duct lies the precursor for the male reproductive tract, the Wolffian duct, which is eliminated in the female embryo during sexual differentiation. We discovered that a component of the Wolffian duct, its mesenchyme, is not eliminated after sexual differentiation. Instead, the Wolffian duct mesenchyme underwent changes in transcriptome and chromatin accessibility from male tract to female tract identity, and became a unique mesenchymal population in the female reproductive tract with localization and transcriptome distinct from the mesenchyme derived from the Müllerian duct. Partial ablation of the Wolffian duct mesenchyme stunted the growth of the fetal female reproductive tract in ex vivo organ culture. These findings reveal a new fetal origin of mesenchymal tissues for female reproductive tract formation and reshape our understanding of sexual differentiation of reproductive tracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Zhao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Sara A Grimm
- Integrative Bioinformatics Support Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Shua Jia
- Present address: Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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14
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Ganieva U, Schneiderman S, Bu P, Beaman K, Dambaeva S. IL-22 regulates endometrial regeneration by enhancing tight junctions and orchestrating extracellular matrix. Front Immunol 2022; 13:955576. [PMID: 36091010 PMCID: PMC9453595 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.955576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterine endometrium uniquely regenerates after menses, postpartum, or after breaks in the uterine layer integrity throughout women’s lives. Direct cell–cell contacts ensured by tight and adherens junctions play an important role in endometrial integrity. Any changes in these junctions can alter the endometrial permeability of the uterus and have an impact on the regeneration of uterine layers. Interleukin 22 (IL-22) is a cytokine that is recognized for its role in epithelial regeneration. Moreover, it is crucial in controlling the inflammatory response in mucosal tissues. Here, we studied the role of IL-22 in endometrial recovery after inflammation-triggered abortion. Fecundity of mice was studied in consecutive matings of the same animals after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (10 µg per mouse)-triggered abortion. The fecundity rate after the second mating was substantially different between IL-22 knockout (IL-22−/−) (9.1%) and wild-type (WT) (71.4%) mice (p < 0.05), while there was no difference between the groups in the initial mating, suggesting that IL-22 deficiency might be associated with secondary infertility. A considerable difference was observed between IL-22−/− and WT mice in the uterine clearance following LPS-triggered abortion. Gross examination of the uteri of IL-22−/− mice revealed non-viable fetuses retained inside the horns (delayed clearance). In contrast, all WT mice had completed abortion with total clearance after LPS exposure. We also discovered that IL-22 deficiency is associated with a decreased expression of tight junctions (claudin-2 and claudin-10) and cell surface pathogen protectors (mucin-1). Moreover, IL-22 has a role in the remodeling of the uterine tissue in the inflammatory environment by regulating epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers called E- and N-cadherin. Therefore, IL-22 contributes to the proper regeneration of endometrial layers after inflammation-triggered abortion. Thus, it might have a practical significance to be utilized as a treatment option postpartum (enhanced regeneration function) and in secondary infertility caused by inflammation (enhanced barrier/protector function).
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Affiliation(s)
- Umida Ganieva
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sylvia Schneiderman
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Pengli Bu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Kenneth Beaman
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Svetlana Dambaeva
- Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology, and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Svetlana Dambaeva,
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15
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Endometrial stem/progenitor cells: Properties, origins, and functions. Genes Dis 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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16
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Ludke A, Hatta K, Yao A, Li RK. Uterus: A Unique Stem Cell Reservoir Able to Support Cardiac Repair via Crosstalk among Uterus, Heart, and Bone Marrow. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142182. [PMID: 35883625 PMCID: PMC9324611 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical evidence suggests that the prevalence of cardiac disease is lower in premenopausal women compared to postmenopausal women and men. Although multiple factors contribute to this difference, uterine stem cells may be a major factor, as a high abundance of these cells are present in the uterus. Uterine-derived stem cells have been reported in several studies as being able to contribute to cardiac neovascularization after injury. However, our studies uniquely show the presence of an “utero-cardiac axis”, in which uterine stem cells are able to home to cardiac tissue to promote tissue repair. Additionally, we raise the possibility of a triangular relationship among the bone marrow, uterus, and heart. In this review, we discuss the exchange of stem cells across different organs, focusing on the relationship that exists between the heart, uterus, and bone marrow. We present increasing evidence for the existence of an utero-cardiac axis, in which the uterus serves as a reservoir for cardiac reparative stem cells, similar to the bone marrow. These cells, in turn, are able to migrate to the heart in response to injury to promote healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ludke
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada; (A.L.); (K.H.); (A.Y.)
| | - Kota Hatta
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada; (A.L.); (K.H.); (A.Y.)
| | - Alina Yao
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada; (A.L.); (K.H.); (A.Y.)
| | - Ren-Ke Li
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada; (A.L.); (K.H.); (A.Y.)
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-416-581-7492
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17
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An in vitro comparison of antimicrobial efficacy and cytotoxicity between povidone-iodine and chlorhexidine for treating clinical endometritis in dairy cows. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271274. [PMID: 35802692 PMCID: PMC9269917 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the in vitro antimicrobial effects of chlorhexidine (CHX) and povidone-iodine (PI) on clinical isolates of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Trueperella pyogenes (T. pyogenes) from the vaginal discharge of dairy cows, as well as to compare the cytotoxicity effects of CHX and PI on bovine endometrial epithelial cells (BEnEpC). In Experiment 1, 12 E. coli and 10 T. pyogenes were isolated from the vaginal discharge of cows with a uterine infection. The MIC and MBC against CHX and PI were analyzed in vitro. In Experiment 2, the cytotoxicity effects of CHX and PI on BEnEpC were analyzed using a Viability/Cytotoxicity Kit, wound scratch healing assay, and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes (IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α). In Experiment 1, the MIC and MBC values of CHX against E. coli were 0.0002% and 0.0002 to 0.00025%, respectively. The MIC and MBC values of PI were 1.25 to 2.5% and 1.25 to 5%, respectively. For T. pyogenes, the MIC and MBC values of CHX were 0.00002%. The MIC and MBC values of PI were 1.25%. In Experiment 2, the cell viability significantly decreased, and wound closures were significantly inhibited after treatment with ≥ 0.002% CHX and ≥ 0.025% PI. The expression of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α significantly increased after treatment with PI. Only IL-6 showed a significant increase after cells were treated with 0.00002% and 0.0002% CHX. The results suggested that both CHX and PI had high antibacterial effects. However, veterinarians and farmers should be aware of their cytotoxicity, which decrease viability of endometrial epithelial cells and inhibit wound healing in vitro.
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18
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Zhang L, Long W, Xu W, Chen X, Zhao X, Wu B. Digital Cell Atlas of Mouse Uterus: From Regenerative Stage to Maturational Stage. Front Genet 2022; 13:847646. [PMID: 35669188 PMCID: PMC9163836 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.847646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrium undergoes repeated repair and regeneration during the menstrual cycle. Previous attempts using gene expression data to define the menstrual cycle failed to come to an agreement. Here we used single-cell RNA sequencing data of C57BL/6J mice uteri to construct a novel integrated cell atlas of mice uteri from the regenerative endometrium to the maturational endometrium at the single-cell level, providing a more accurate cytological-based elucidation for the changes that occurred in the endometrium during the estrus cycle. Based on the expression levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, differentially expressed genes, and gene ontology terms, we delineated in detail the transitions of epithelial cells, stromal cells, and immune cells that happened during the estrus cycle. The transcription factors that shaped the differentiation of the mononuclear phagocyte system had been proposed, being Mafb, Irf7, and Nr4a1. The amounts and functions of immune cells varied sharply in two stages, especially NK cells and macrophages. We also found putative uterus tissue-resident macrophages and identified potential endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (high expression of Cd34, Pdgfrb, Aldh1a2) in vivo. The cell atlas of mice uteri presented here would improve our understanding of the transitions that occurred in the endometrium from the regenerative endometrium to the maturational endometrium. With the assistance of a normal cell atlas as a reference, we may identify morphologically unaffected abnormalities in future clinical practice. Cautions would be needed when adopting our conclusions, for the limited number of mice that participated in this study may affect the strength of our conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyi Zhang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention & Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenying Long
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Wanwan Xu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Xiuying Chen
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhao
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Bingbing Wu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
- *Correspondence: Bingbing Wu,
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19
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Cousins FL, Filby CE, Gargett CE. Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells–Their Role in Endometrial Repair and Regeneration. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:811537. [PMID: 36304009 PMCID: PMC9580754 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.811537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a remarkable tissue, undergoing ~450 cycles of proliferation, differentiation, shedding (menstruation), repair, and regeneration over a woman's reproductive lifespan. Post-menstrual repair is an extremely rapid and scar-free process, with re-epithelialization of the luminal epithelium completed within 48 h of initiation of shedding. Following menstruation, the functionalis grows from the residual basalis layer during the proliferative phase under the influence of rising circulating estrogen levels. The regenerative capacity of the endometrium is attributed to stem/progenitor cells which reside in both the epithelial and stromal cell compartments of the basalis layer. Finding a definitive marker for endometrial epithelial progenitors (eEPCs) has proven difficult. A number of different markers have been suggested as putative progenitor markers including, N-cadherin, SSEA-1, AXIN2, SOX-9 and ALDH1A1, some of which show functional stem cell activity in in vitro assays. Each marker has a unique location(s) in the glandular epithelium, which has led to the suggestion that a differentiation hierarchy exists, from the base of epithelial glands in the basalis to the luminal epithelium lining the functionalis, where epithelial cells express different combinations of markers as they differentiate and move up the gland into the functionalis away from the basalis niche. Perivascular endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) can be identified by co-expression of PDGFRβ and CD146 or by a single marker, SUSD2. This review will detail the known endometrial stem/progenitor markers; their identity, location and known interactions and hierarchy across the menstrual cycle, in particular post-menstrual repair and estrogen-driven regeneration, as well as their possible contributions to menstruation-related disorders such as endometriosis and regeneration-related disorder Asherman's syndrome. We will also highlight new techniques that allow for a greater understanding of stem/progenitor cells' role in repair and regeneration, including 3D organoids, 3D slice cultures and gene sequencing at the single cell level. Since mouse models are commonly used to study menstruation, repair and regeneration we will also detail the mouse stem/progenitor markers that have been investigated in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Fiona L. Cousins
| | - Caitlin E. Filby
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Caroline E. Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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20
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Kirkwood PM, Shaw IW, Saunders PTK. Mechanisms of Scarless Repair at Time of Menstruation: Insights From Mouse Models. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:801843. [PMID: 36304046 PMCID: PMC9580659 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.801843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a remarkable tissue which may experience up to 400 cycles of hormone-driven proliferation, differentiation and breakdown during a woman's reproductive lifetime. During menstruation, when the luminal portion of tissue breaks down, it resembles a bloody wound with piecemeal shedding, exposure of underlying stroma and a strong inflammatory reaction. In the absence of pathology within a few days the integrity of the tissue is restored without formation of a scar and the endometrium is able to respond appropriately to subsequent endocrine signals in preparation for establishment of pregnancy if fertilization occurs. Understanding mechanisms regulating scarless repair of the endometrium is important both for design of therapies which can treat conditions where this is aberrant (heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, Asherman's syndrome) as well as to provide new information that might allow us to reduce fibrosis and scar formation in other tissues. Menstruation only occurs naturally in species that exhibit spontaneous stromal cell decidualization during the fertile cycle such as primates (including women) and the Spiny mouse. To take advantage of genetic models and detailed time course analysis, mouse models of endometrial shedding/repair involving hormonal manipulation, artificial induction of decidualization and hormone withdrawal have been developed and refined. These models are useful in modeling dynamic changes across the time course of repair and have recapitulated key features of endometrial repair in women including local hypoxia and immune cell recruitment. In this review we will consider the evidence that scarless repair of endometrial tissue involves changes in stromal cell function including mesenchyme to epithelial transition, epithelial cell proliferation and multiple populations of immune cells. Processes contributing to endometrial fibrosis (Asherman's syndrome) as well as scarless repair of other tissues including skin and oral mucosa are compared to that of menstrual repair.
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21
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Tempest N, Hill CJ, Maclean A, Marston K, Powell SG, Al-Lamee H, Hapangama DK. Novel microarchitecture of human endometrial glands: implications in endometrial regeneration and pathologies. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:153-171. [PMID: 34875046 PMCID: PMC8888994 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human endometrium remains a poorly understood tissue of the female reproductive tract. The superficial endometrial functionalis, the site of embryo implantation, is repeatedly shed with menstruation, and the stem cell-rich deeper basalis is postulated to be responsible for the regeneration of the functionalis. Two recent manuscripts have demonstrated the 3D architecture of endometrial glands. These manuscripts have challenged and replaced the prevailing concept that these glands end in blind pouches in the basalis layer that contain stem cells in crypts, as in the intestinal mucosa, providing a new paradigm for endometrial glandular anatomy. This necessitates re-evaluation of the available evidence on human endometrial regeneration in both health and disease in the context of this previously unknown endometrial glandular arrangement. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this review is to determine if the recently discovered glandular arrangement provides plausible explanations for previously unanswered questions related to human endometrial biology. Specifically, it will focus on re-appraising the theories related to endometrial regeneration, location of stem/progenitor cells and endometrial pathologies in the context of this recently unravelled endometrial glandular organization. SEARCH METHODS An extensive literature search was conducted from inception to April 2021 using multiple databases, including PubMed/Web of Science/EMBASE/Scopus, to select studies using keywords applied to endometrial glandular anatomy and regeneration, and the references included in selected publications were also screened. All relevant publications were included. OUTCOMES The human endometrial glands have a unique and complex architecture; branched basalis glands proceed in a horizontal course adjacent to the myometrium, as opposed to the non-branching, vertically coiled functionalis glands, which run parallel to each other as is observed in intestinal crypts. This complex network of mycelium-like, interconnected basalis glands is demonstrated to contain endometrial epithelial stem cells giving rise to single, non-branching functionalis glands. Several previous studies that have tried to confirm the existence of epithelial stem cells have used methodologies that prevent sampling of the stem cell-rich basalis. More recent findings have provided insight into the efficient regeneration of the human endometrium, which is preferentially evolved in humans and menstruating upper-order primates. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The unique physiological organization of the human endometrial glandular element, its relevance to stem cell activity and scarless endometrial regeneration will inform reproductive biologists and clinicians to direct their future research to determine disease-specific alterations in glandular anatomy in a variety of endometrial pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Tempest
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Christopher J Hill
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alison Maclean
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kathleen Marston
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Simon G Powell
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Hannan Al-Lamee
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dharani K Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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22
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Tal R, Kisa J, Abuwala N, Kliman HJ, Shaikh S, Chen AY, Lyu F, Taylor HS. Bone marrow-derived progenitor cells contribute to remodeling of the postpartum uterus. Stem Cells 2021; 39:1489-1505. [PMID: 34224633 PMCID: PMC9313624 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial stem/progenitor cells play a role in postpartum uterine tissue regeneration, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. While circulating bone marrow (BM)-derived cells (BMDCs) contribute to nonhematopoietic endometrial cells, the contribution of BMDCs to postpartum uterus remodeling is unknown. We investigated the contribution of BMDCs to the postpartum uterus using 5-fluorouracil-based nongonadotoxic BM transplant from green fluorescent protein (GFP) donors into wild-type C57BL/6J female mice. Flow cytometry showed an influx of GFP+ cells to the uterus immediately postpartum accounting for 28.7% of total uterine cells, followed by a rapid decrease to prepregnancy levels. The majority of uterine GFP+ cells were CD45+ leukocytes, and the proportion of nonhematopoietic CD45-GFP+ cells peaked on postpartum day (PPD) 1 (17.5%). Immunofluorescence colocalization of GFP with CD45 pan-leukocyte and F4/80 macrophage markers corroborated these findings. GFP+ cells were found mostly in subepithelial stromal location. Importantly, GFP+ cytokeratin-positive epithelial cells were found within the luminal epithelium exclusively on PPD1, demonstrating direct contribution to postpartum re-epithelialization. A subset (3.2%) of GFP+ cells were CD31+CD45- endothelial cells, and found integrated within blood vessel endothelium. Notably, BM-derived GFP+ cells demonstrated preferential proliferation (PCNA+) and apoptosis (TUNEL+) on PPD1 vs resident GFP- cells, suggesting an active role for BMDCs in rapid tissue turnover. Moreover, GFP+ cells gradually acquired cell senescence together with decreased proliferation throughout the postpartum. In conclusion, BM-derived progenitors were found to have a novel nonhematopoietic cellular contribution to postpartum uterus remodeling. This contribution may have an important functional role in physiological as well as pathological postpartum endometrial regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshef Tal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jacqueline Kisa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Nafeesa Abuwala
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Harvey J Kliman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Shafiq Shaikh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Alice Y Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Fang Lyu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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23
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Abstract
Uniquely among adult tissues, the human endometrium undergoes cyclical shedding, scar-free repair and regeneration during a woman's reproductive life. Therefore, it presents an outstanding model for study of such processes. This Review examines what is known of endometrial repair and regeneration following menstruation and parturition, including comparisons with wound repair and the influence of menstrual fluid components. We also discuss the contribution of endometrial stem/progenitor cells to endometrial regeneration, including the importance of the stem cell niche and stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles. Finally, we comment on the value of endometrial epithelial organoids to extend our understanding of endometrial development and regeneration, as well as therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois A Salamonsen
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jennifer C Hutchison
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 25-31 Wright St, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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24
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Lee B, Shin H, Oh JE, Park J, Park M, Yang SC, Jun JH, Hong SH, Song H, Lim HJ. An autophagic deficit in the uterine vessel microenvironment provokes hyperpermeability through deregulated VEGFA, NOS1, and CTNNB1. Autophagy 2021; 17:1649-1666. [PMID: 32579471 PMCID: PMC8354601 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2020.1778292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus undergoes vascular changes during the reproductive cycle and pregnancy. Steroid hormone deprivation induces macroautophagy/autophagy in major uterine cell types. Herein, we explored the functions of uterine autophagy using the Amhr2-Cre-driven atg7 deletion model. Deletion of Atg7 was confirmed by functional deficit of autophagy in uterine stromal, myometrial, and vascular smooth muscle cells, but not in endothelial cells. atg7d/d uteri exhibited enhanced stromal edema accompanied by dilation of blood vessels. Ovariectomized atg7d/d uteri showed decreased expression of endothelial junction-related proteins, such as CTNNB1/beta-catenin, with increased vascular permeability, and increased expression of VEGFA and NOS1. Nitric oxide (NO) was shown to mediate VEGFA-induced vascular permeability by targeting CTNNB1. NO involvement in maintaining endothelial junctional stability in atg7d/d uteri was confirmed by the reduction in extravasation following treatment with a NOS inhibitor. We also showed that atg7d/d uterine phenotype improved the fetal weight:placental weight ratio, which is one of the indicators of assessing the status of preeclampsia. We showed that autophagic deficit in the uterine vessel microenvironment provokes hyperpermeability through the deregulation of VEGFA, NOS1, and CTNNB1.Abbreviations: ACTA2: actin, alpha 2, smooth muscle, aortic; Amhr2: anti-Mullerian hormone type 2 receptor; ANGPT1: angiopoietin 1; ATG: autophagy-related; CDH5: cadherin 5; CLDN5: claudin 5; COL1A1: collagen, type I, alpha 1; CSPG4/NG2: chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4; CTNNB1: catenin (cadherin associated protein), beta 1; DES: desmin; EDN1: endothelin 1; EDNRB: endothelin receptor type B; F3: coagulation factor III; KDR/FLK1/VEGFR2: kinase insert domain protein receptor; LYVE1: lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1; MAP1LC3B: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MCAM/CD146: melanoma cell adhesion molecule; MYL2: myosin, light polypeptide 2, regulatory, cardiac, slow; MYLK: myosin, light polypeptide kinase; NOS1/nNOS: nitric oxide synthase 1, neuronal; NOS2/iNOS: nitric oxide synthase 2, inducible; NOS3/eNOS: nitric oxide synthase 3, endothelial cell; OVX: ovariectomy; PECAM1/CD31: platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1; POSTN: periostin, osteoblast specific factor; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TEK/Tie2: TEK receptor tyrosine kinase; TJP1/ZO-1: tight junction protein 1; TUBB1, tubulin, beta 1 class VI; USC: uterine stromal cell; VEGFA: vascular endothelial growth factor A; VSMC: vascular smooth muscle cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bora Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyejin Shin
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Oh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaekyoung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Seung Chel Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jin-Hyun Jun
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Eulji University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Eulji Medi-Bio Research Institute, Graduate School, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seok-Ho Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Kangwon-do, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Hyunjung Jade Lim
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
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25
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Ghosh A, Syed SM, Kumar M, Carpenter TJ, Teixeira JM, Houairia N, Negi S, Tanwar PS. In Vivo Cell Fate Tracing Provides No Evidence for Mesenchymal to Epithelial Transition in Adult Fallopian Tube and Uterus. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107631. [PMID: 32402291 PMCID: PMC8094408 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) is thought to be involved in the maintenance, repair, and carcinogenesis of the fallopian tube (oviduct) and uterine epithelium. However, conclusive evidence for the conversion of mesenchymal cells to epithelial cells in these organs is lacking. Using embryonal cell lineage tracing with reporters driven by mesenchymal cell marker genes of the female reproductive tract (AMHR2, CSPG4, and PDGFRβ), we show that these reporters are also expressed by some oviductal and uterine epithelial cells at birth. These mesenchymal reporter-positive epithelial cells are maintained in adult mice across multiple pregnancies, respond to ovarian hormones, and form organoids. However, no labeled epithelial cells are present in any oviductal or uterine epithelia when mesenchymal cell labeling was induced in adult mice. Organoids developed from mice labeled in adulthood were also negative for mesenchymal reporters. Collectively, our work found no definitive evidence of MET in the adult fallopian tube and uterine epithelium. Mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) is postulated to be involved in the maintenance and regeneration of the epithelium of female reproductive organs. Here, Ghosh et al. report no definitive evidence of MET in the adult epithelium of oviduct and uterus using in vivo cell lineage tracing and organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnab Ghosh
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Shafiq M Syed
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Manish Kumar
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Tyler J Carpenter
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Jose M Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Nathaniel Houairia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Sumedha Negi
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Pradeep S Tanwar
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia.
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26
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Cousins FL, Pandoy R, Jin S, Gargett CE. The Elusive Endometrial Epithelial Stem/Progenitor Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:640319. [PMID: 33898428 PMCID: PMC8063057 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.640319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium undergoes approximately 450 cycles of proliferation, differentiation, shedding and regeneration over a woman's reproductive lifetime. The regenerative capacity of the endometrium is attributed to stem/progenitor cells residing in the basalis layer of the tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells have been extensively studied in the endometrium, whereas endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells have remained more elusive. This review details the discovery of human and mouse endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells. It highlights recent significant developments identifying putative markers of these epithelial stem/progenitor cells that reveal their in vivo identity, location in both human and mouse endometrium, raising common but also different viewpoints. The review also outlines the techniques used to identify epithelial stem/progenitor cells, specifically in vitro functional assays and in vivo lineage tracing. We will also discuss their known interactions and hierarchy and known roles in endometrial dynamics across the menstrual or estrous cycle including re-epithelialization at menses and regeneration of the tissue during the proliferative phase. We also detail their potential role in endometrial proliferative disorders such as endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ronald Pandoy
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Shiying Jin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Caroline E. Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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27
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de Miguel-Gómez L, López-Martínez S, Francés-Herrero E, Rodríguez-Eguren A, Pellicer A, Cervelló I. Stem Cells and the Endometrium: From the Discovery of Adult Stem Cells to Pre-Clinical Models. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030595. [PMID: 33800355 PMCID: PMC7998473 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult stem cells (ASCs) were long suspected to exist in the endometrium. Indeed, several types of endometrial ASCs were identified in rodents and humans through diverse isolation and characterization techniques. Putative stromal and epithelial stem cell niches were identified in murine models using label-retention techniques. In humans, functional methods (clonogenicity, long-term culture, and multi-lineage differentiation assays) and stem cell markers (CD146, SUSD2/W5C5, LGR5, NTPDase2, SSEA-1, or N-cadherin) facilitated the identification of three main types of endogenous endometrial ASCs: stromal, epithelial progenitor, and endothelial stem cells. Further, exogenous populations of stem cells derived from bone marrow may act as key effectors of the endometrial ASC niche. These findings are promoting the development of stem cell therapies for endometrial pathologies, with an evolution towards paracrine approaches. At the same time, promising therapeutic alternatives based on bioengineering have been proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía de Miguel-Gómez
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Sara López-Martínez
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
| | - Emilio Francés-Herrero
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Adolfo Rodríguez-Eguren
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- IVIRMA Rome Parioli, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Cervelló
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-963-903-305
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28
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Tatebayashi R, Nakamura S, Minabe S, Furusawa T, Abe R, Kajisa M, Morita Y, Ohkura S, Kimura K, Matsuyama S. Gene-expression profile and postpartum transition of bovine endometrial side population cells†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:850-860. [PMID: 33438005 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab004] [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: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of bovine endometrial regeneration after parturition remains unclear. Here, we hypothesized that bovine endometrial stem/progenitor cells participate in the postpartum regeneration of the endometrium. Flow cytometry analysis identified the presence of side population (SP) cells among endometrial stromal cells. Endometrial SP cells were shown to differentiate into osteoblasts and adipocytes. RNA-seq data showed that the gene expression pattern was different between bovine endometrial SP cells and main population cells. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis identified the enrichment of stemness genes in SP cells. Significantly (false discovery rate < 0.01) upregulated genes in SP cells contained several stem cell marker genes. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of the upregulated genes in SP cells showed enrichment of terms related to RNA metabolic process and transcription. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of upregulated genes in SP cells revealed enrichment of signaling pathways associated with maintenance and differentiation of stem/progenitor cells. The terms involved in TCA cycles were enriched in GO and KEGG pathway analysis of downregulated genes in SP cells. These results support the assumption that bovine endometrial SP cells exhibit characteristics of somatic stem/progenitor cells. The ratio of SP cells to endometrial cells was lowest on days 9-11 after parturition, which gradually increased thereafter. SP cells were shown to differentiate into epithelial cells. Collectively, these results suggest that bovine endometrial SP cells were temporarily reduced immediately after calving possibly due to their differentiation to provide new endometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoki Tatebayashi
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Sho Nakamura
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime, Japan
| | - Shiori Minabe
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Furusawa
- Division of Animal Sciences, Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ryoya Abe
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Miki Kajisa
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Morita
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan.,Asian Satellite Campuses Institute, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ohkura
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Koji Kimura
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Shuichi Matsuyama
- Laboratory of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
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29
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Wu J, Jin L, Zhang Y, Duan A, Liu J, Jiang Z, Huang L, Chen J, Liu Z, Lu D, Dai Y. LncRNA HOTAIR promotes endometrial fibrosis by activating TGF-β1/Smad pathway. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2020; 52:1337-1347. [PMID: 33313721 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmaa120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Homeobox transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) is a long non-coding RNA associated with a number of fibrosis-related diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the specific role of HOTAIR in the development of endometrial fibrosis and to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying this process. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to determine the expression levels of HOTAIR in samples of intrauterine adhesion (IUA) tissue and in endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) that had been treated with transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). Additionally, we transfected ESCs with either overexpression plasmid (pcDNA-HOTAIR) or silencing construct (si-HOTAIR) and then treated these cells with TGF-β1. We then performed RT-qPCR and western blot analysis, along with cell proliferation and apoptosis assays, to investigate the effects of HOTAIR on the transdifferentiation of ESCs into myofibroblasts. The results showed that the expression levels of HOTAIR were significantly elevated in IUA tissue and in ESCs that had been treated with TGF-β1. The overexpression of HOTAIR had a pro-fibrotic effect on ESCs, while the silencing of HOTAIR exerted an anti-fibrotic effect. Most importantly, the protein expression levels of p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 were significantly upregulated in TGF-β1-treated ESCs transfected with pcDNA-HOTAIR and were downregulated after transfection with si-HOTAIR constructs. These data indicate that HOTAIR promotes endometrial fibrosis by activating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, suggesting that the inhibition of HOTAIR may represent a promising therapeutic option for suppressing endometrial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhong Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Lingge Jin
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Yudi Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Aihong Duan
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Juhong Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Ziwen Jiang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Liang Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Zhaohui Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Dan Lu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Yinmei Dai
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
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30
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Guo SW. Cancer-associated mutations in endometriosis: shedding light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:423-449. [PMID: 32154564 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological disease. Thus, it came as a complete surprise when it was reported recently that the majority of deep endometriosis lesions harbour somatic mutations and a sizeable portion of them contain known cancer-associated mutations (CAMs). Four more studies have since been published, all demonstrating the existence of CAMs in different subtypes of endometriosis. While the field is still evolving, the confirmation of CAMs has raised many questions that were previously overlooked. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A comprehensive overview of CAMs in endometriosis has been produced. In addition, with the recently emerged understanding of the natural history of endometriotic lesions as well as CAMs in normal and apparently healthy tissues, this review attempts to address the following questions: Why has there been such a wild discrepancy in reported mutation frequencies? Why does ectopic endometrium have a higher mutation rate than that of eutopic endometrium? Would the presence of CAMs in endometriotic lesions increase the risk of cancer to the bearers? Why do endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart? What clinical implications, if any, do the CAMs have for the bearers? Do these CAMs tell us anything about the pathogenesis and/or pathophysiology of endometriosis? SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was searched, from its inception to September 2019, for all papers in English using the term 'endometriosis and CAM', 'endometriosis and cancer-driver mutation', 'somatic mutations', 'fibrosis', 'fibrosis and epigenetic', 'CAMs and tumorigenesis', 'somatic mutation and normal tissues', 'oestrogen receptor and fibrosis', 'oxidative stress and fibrosis', 'ARID1A mutation', and 'Kirsten rat sarcoma mutation and therapeutics'. All retrieved papers were read and, when relevant, incorporated into the review results. OUTCOMES Seven papers that identified CAMs in endometriosis using various sequencing methods were retrieved, and their results were somewhat different. Yet, it is apparent that those using microdissection techniques and more accurate sequencing methods found more CAMs, echoing recent discoveries that apparently healthy tissues also harbour CAMs as a result of the replicative aging process. Hence endometriotic lesions, irrespective of subtype, if left intact, would generate CAMs as part of replicative aging, oxidative stress and perhaps other factors yet to be identified and, in some rare cases, develop cancer. The published data still are unable to paint a clear picture on pathogenesis of endometriosis. However, since endometriotic epithelial cells have a higher turnover than their stromal counterpart due to cyclic bleeding, and since the endometriotic stromal component can be formed by refresh influx of mesenchymal cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, mesothelial-mesenchymal transition and other processes as well as recruitment of bone-marrow-derived stem cells and outflow due to smooth muscle metaplasia, endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart. The epithelial and stromal cellular components develop in a dependent and co-evolving manner. Genes involved in CAMs are likely to be active players in lesional fibrogenesis, and hyperestrogenism and oxidative stress are likely drivers of both CAMs and fibrogenesis. Finally, endometriotic lesions harbouring CAMs would conceivably be more refractory to medical treatment, due, in no small part, to their high fibrotic content and reduced vascularity and cellularity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The accumulating data on CAMs in endometriosis have shed new light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of endometriosis. They also suggest new challenges in management. The distinct yet co-evolving developmental trajectories of endometriotic stroma and epithelium underscore the importance of the lesional microenvironment and ever-changing cellular identity. Mutational profiling of normal endometrium from women of different ages and reproductive history is needed in order to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis. Moreover, one area that has conspicuously received scant attention is the epigenetic landscape of ectopic, eutopic and normal endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
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31
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Fu DJ, De Micheli AJ, Bidarimath M, Ellenson LH, Cosgrove BD, Flesken-Nikitin A, Nikitin AY. Cells expressing PAX8 are the main source of homeostatic regeneration of adult mouse endometrial epithelium and give rise to serous endometrial carcinoma. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:dmm047035. [PMID: 32998907 PMCID: PMC7648606 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.047035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans and mice have cyclical regeneration of the endometrial epithelium. It is expected that such regeneration is ensured by tissue stem cells, but their location and hierarchy remain debatable. A number of recent studies have suggested the presence of stem cells in the mouse endometrial epithelium. At the same time, it has been reported that this tissue can be regenerated by stem cells of stromal/mesenchymal or bone marrow cell origin. Here, we describe a single-cell transcriptomic atlas of the main cell types of the mouse uterus and epithelial subset transcriptome and evaluate the contribution of epithelial cells expressing the transcription factor PAX8 to the homeostatic regeneration and malignant transformation of adult endometrial epithelium. According to lineage tracing, PAX8+ epithelial cells are responsible for long-term maintenance of both luminal and glandular epithelium. Furthermore, multicolor tracing shows that individual glands and contiguous areas of luminal epithelium are formed by clonal cell expansion. Inactivation of the tumor suppressor genes Trp53 and Rb1 in PAX8+ cells, but not in FOXJ1+ cells, leads to the formation of neoplasms with features of serous endometrial carcinoma, one of the most aggressive types of human endometrial malignancies. Taken together, our results show that the progeny of single PAX8+ cells represents the main source of regeneration of the adult endometrial epithelium. They also provide direct experimental genetic evidence for the key roles of the P53 and RB pathways in the pathogenesis of serous endometrial carcinoma and suggest that PAX8+ cells represent the cell of origin of this neoplasm.
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MESH Headings
- Aging
- Animals
- Cell Proliferation
- Disease Models, Animal
- Endometrial Neoplasms/genetics
- Endometrial Neoplasms/pathology
- Endometrium/pathology
- Epithelial Cells/metabolism
- Epithelial Cells/pathology
- Epithelium/metabolism
- Epithelium/pathology
- Female
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Homeostasis
- Immunophenotyping
- Integrases/metabolism
- Mice, Transgenic
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/genetics
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/pathology
- PAX8 Transcription Factor/genetics
- PAX8 Transcription Factor/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Regeneration
- Uterus/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Dah-Jiun Fu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrea J De Micheli
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Cornell Stem Cell Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Mallikarjun Bidarimath
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Lora H Ellenson
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Benjamin D Cosgrove
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Cornell Stem Cell Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrea Flesken-Nikitin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Alexander Yu Nikitin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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32
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Yin M, Zhou HJ, Lin C, Long L, Yang X, Zhang H, Taylor H, Min W. CD34 +KLF4 + Stromal Stem Cells Contribute to Endometrial Regeneration and Repair. Cell Rep 2020; 27:2709-2724.e3. [PMID: 31141693 PMCID: PMC6548470 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.04.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The regenerative capacity of the human endometrium requires a population of local stem cells. However, the phenotypes, locations, and origin of these cells are still unknown. In a mouse menstruation model, uterine stromal SM22α+-derived CD34+KLF4+ stem cells are activated and integrate into the regeneration area, where they differentiate and incorporate into the endometrial epithelium; this process is correlated with enhanced protein SUMOylation in CD34+KLF4+ cells. Mice with a stromal SM22α-specific SENP1 deletion (SENP1smKO) exhibit accelerated endometrial repair in the regeneration model and develop spontaneous uterine hyperplasia. Mechanistic studies suggest that SENP1 deletion induces SUMOylation of ERα, which augments ERα transcriptional activity and proliferative signaling in SM22α+CD34+KLF4+ cells. These cells then transdifferentiate to the endometrial epithelium. Our study reveals that CD34+KLF4+ stromal-resident stem cells directly contribute to endometrial regeneration, which is regulated through SENP1-mediated ERα suppression. The regenerative capacity of the human endometrium requires a population of local stem cells. Here, Yin et al. show that uterine stromal SM22α+CD34+KLF4+ stem cells are activated by ERα SUMOylation and integrate into the regeneration area, where they differentiate and incorporate into the endometrial epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Yin
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Huanjiao Jenny Zhou
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Caixia Lin
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Lingli Long
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiaolei Yang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Hugh Taylor
- Department of Comparative Medicine and Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Wang Min
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Kim O, Park EY, Klinkebiel DL, Pack SD, Shin YH, Abdullaev Z, Emerson RE, Coffey DM, Kwon SY, Creighton CJ, Kwon S, Chang EC, Chiang T, Yatsenko AN, Chien J, Cheon DJ, Yang-Hartwich Y, Nakshatri H, Nephew KP, Behringer RR, Fernández FM, Cho CH, Vanderhyden B, Drapkin R, Bast RC, Miller KD, Karpf AR, Kim J. In vivo modeling of metastatic human high-grade serous ovarian cancer in mice. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008808. [PMID: 32497036 PMCID: PMC7297383 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is responsible for 90% of human cancer mortality, yet it remains a challenge to model human cancer metastasis in vivo. Here we describe mouse models of high-grade serous ovarian cancer, also known as high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), the most common and deadliest human ovarian cancer type. Mice genetically engineered to harbor Dicer1 and Pten inactivation and mutant p53 robustly replicate the peritoneal metastases of human HGSC with complete penetrance. Arising from the fallopian tube, tumors spread to the ovary and metastasize throughout the pelvic and peritoneal cavities, invariably inducing hemorrhagic ascites. Widespread and abundant peritoneal metastases ultimately cause mouse deaths (100%). Besides the phenotypic and histopathological similarities, mouse HGSCs also display marked chromosomal instability, impaired DNA repair, and chemosensitivity. Faithfully recapitulating the clinical metastases as well as molecular and genomic features of human HGSC, this murine model will be valuable for elucidating the mechanisms underlying the development and progression of metastatic ovarian cancer and also for evaluating potential therapies. Rarely does an experimental model fully replicate the clinical metastases of a human malignancy. Faithfully representing the clinical metastases of human high-grade serous ovarian cancer with complete penetrance, coupled with histopathological, molecular, and genomic similarities, these mouse models, particularly one harboring mutant p53, will be vital to elucidating the underlying pathogenesis of human ovarian cancer. In-depth understanding of the development and progression of ovarian cancer is crucial to medical advances in the early detection, effective treatment, and prevention of ovarian cancer. Also, these robust mouse models, as well as cell lines established from the mouse primary and metastatic tumors, will serve as useful preclinical tools to evaluate therapeutic target genes and new therapies in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Eun Young Park
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - David L. Klinkebiel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Svetlana D. Pack
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yong-Hyun Shin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Zied Abdullaev
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Robert E. Emerson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Donna M. Coffey
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Houston Methodist and Weill Cornell Medical College, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sun Young Kwon
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Chad J. Creighton
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sanghoon Kwon
- Research and Development Center, Bioway Inc, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Edmund C. Chang
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Theodore Chiang
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Alexander N. Yatsenko
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jeremy Chien
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Dong-Joo Cheon
- Department of Regenerative and Cancer Cell Biology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States of America
| | - Yang Yang-Hartwich
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Harikrishna Nakshatri
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Kenneth P. Nephew
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Richard R. Behringer
- Departments of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Facundo M. Fernández
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Chi-Heum Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Barbara Vanderhyden
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ronny Drapkin
- Penn Ovarian Cancer Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Robert C. Bast
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Kathy D. Miller
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Adam R. Karpf
- Eppley Institute for Cancer Research, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Jaeyeon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Syed SM, Tanwar PS. Axin2 + endometrial stem cells: the source of endometrial regeneration and cancer. Mol Cell Oncol 2020; 7:1729681. [PMID: 32391423 DOI: 10.1080/23723556.2020.1729681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Menstruation is one of the basic but poorly understood life processes in primates during which females shed inner uterine lining every month only to be completely regenerated back within a week. The definitive evidence for the existence and/or identity of stem cells responsible for this process has remained elusive for more than six decades now. Recently, we reported Axin2, a classical Wnt reporter gene, as a marker for endometrial stem cells that also serve as the cells of origin for endometrial cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shafiq M Syed
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Pradeep S Tanwar
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
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Owusu-Akyaw A, Krishnamoorthy K, Goldsmith LT, Morelli SS. The role of mesenchymal-epithelial transition in endometrial function. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:114-133. [PMID: 30407544 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human uterine endometrium undergoes significant remodeling and regeneration on a rapid and repeated basis, after parturition, menstruation, and in some cases, injury. The ability of the adult endometrium to undergo cyclic regeneration and differentiation/decidualization is essential for successful human reproduction. Multiple key physiologic functions of the endometrium require the cells of this tissue to transition between mesenchymal and epithelial phenotypes, processes known as mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although MET/EMT processes have been widely characterized in embryonic development and in the context of malignancy, mounting evidence demonstrates the importance of MET/EMT in allowing the endometrium the phenotypic and functional flexibility necessary for successful decidualization, regeneration/re-epithelialization and embryo implantation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the observations concerning MET and EMT and their regulation in physiologic uterine functions, specifically in the context of endometrial regeneration, decidualization and embryo implantation. SEARCH METHODS Using variations of the search terms 'mesenchymal-epithelial transition', 'mesenchymal-epithelial transformation', 'epithelial-mesenchymal transition', 'epithelial-mesenchymal transformation', 'uterus', 'endometrial regeneration', 'endometrial decidualization', 'embryo implantation', a search of the published literature between 1970 and 2018 was conducted using the PubMed database. In addition, we searched the reference lists of all publications included in this review for additional relevant original studies. OUTCOMES Multiple studies demonstrate that endometrial stromal cells contribute to the regeneration of both the stromal and epithelial cell compartments of the uterus, implicating a role for MET in mechanisms responsible for endometrial regeneration and re-epithelialization. During decidualization, endometrial stromal cells undergo morphologic and functional changes consistent with MET in order to accommodate embryo implantation. Under the influence of estradiol, progesterone and multiple other factors, endometrial stromal fibroblasts acquire epithelioid characteristics, such as expanded cytoplasm and rough endoplasmic reticulum required for greater secretory capacity, rounded nuclei, increased expression of junctional proteins which allow for increased cell-cell communication, and a reorganized actin cytoskeleton. During embryo implantation, in response to both maternal and embryonic-derived signals, the maternal luminal epithelium as well as the decidualized stromal cells acquire the mesenchymal characteristics of increased migration/motility, thus undergoing EMT in order to accommodate the invading trophoblast. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Overall, the findings support important roles for MET/EMT in multiple endometrial functions required for successful reproduction. The endometrium may be considered a unique wound healing model, given its ability to repeatedly undergo repair without scarring or loss of function. Future studies to elucidate how MET/EMT mechanisms may contribute to scar-free endometrial repair will have considerable potential to advance studies of wound healing mechanisms in other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amma Owusu-Akyaw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Kavitha Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Laura T Goldsmith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Sara S Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
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Li JM, Liao CC, Huang HC, Lin CL, Lo HY, Hsiang CY, Ho TY. Regulation effect and mechanism of Sheng-Hua-Tang on female reproductive system: From experimental transcriptomic analysis to clinical applications. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 249:112431. [PMID: 31783136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sheng-Hua-Tang (SHT) is commonly used to treat female illnesses, especially postpartum conditioning. However, its effects and mechanisms on female reproductive system remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of SHT on female brain-ovary-uterus axis from bench to clinic. MATERIALS AND METHODS Mice were administrated SHT (200 mg/kg) orally for seven consecutive days. Brain, ovary, and uterus tissues were then collected for microarray analysis. A nationwide database analysis and a pilot randomized, open-label clinical trial were further applied to evaluate the clinical application and effects of SHT on postpartum women. RESULTS Microarray analysis showed that oral administration of SHT induced a cascade reaction of gene expression, with 17, 883, and 1592 genes were significantly regulated by SHT in brain, ovary, and uterus, respectively. Population-based analysis of one million subjects in Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database between 1997 and 2013 showed that SHT was commonly used in menstrual disorders in female population, especially dysmenorrhea, abnormal uterine bleeding, and variation of menstrual cycle. Clinical trial on postpartum women showed that oral administration SHT for one week alleviated uterine contraction pain and breast swelling pain. Furthermore, Mmp2, Mmp3, Mmp9, Mmp11, Mmp15, Oxtr, Plrl, and Tph2 gene expression affected by SHT in mice were correlated with clinical effects of SHT in human subjects. CONCLUSION This report provided the scientific evidences of mechanisms and clinical efficacies of SHT. Moreover, our findings might afford insights for clinical doctors in terms of SHT prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Miao Li
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan; Department of Chinese Medicine, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, 50008, Taiwan.
| | - Chung-Chih Liao
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Hui-Chi Huang
- Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Li Lin
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan; College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Hsin-Yi Lo
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Yun Hsiang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Tin-Yun Ho
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan; Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan.
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Wang X, Wang C, Cong J, Bao H, Liu X, Hao C. Regenerative Potential of Menstrual Blood-Derived Stem Cells and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor in Endometrial Injury. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e919251. [PMID: 32112554 PMCID: PMC7063849 DOI: 10.12659/msm.919251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometrial regeneration is essential for normal endometrial function; however, it is unclear whether and how menstrual blood-derived stem cells (MenSCs) and platelet-derived growth factor (PGDF) are associated with this phenomenon. The present study explored this topic. Material/Methods EM-E6/E7/hTERT cells were divided into 5 groups: control group, NC group, PDGF group, MenSCs group, and PDGF+MenSCs group. The effects of MenSCs and PDGF on cell proliferation, invasion, and microvascular formation of endometrial epithelium were investigated by CCK-8, Transwell, and tube formation assays, respectively. Mouse endometrial injury models were established and mice were randomly divided into control, model, PDGF, MenSCs, and PDGF+MenSCs groups. Pathological change was examined with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Microvessel formation of endometrial epithelium was estimated by detecting the expression of CD34 protein with immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. Western blot analysis was used to detect the activation of Akt and Bad proteins in endometrial tissue. Results MenSCs, PDGF, and the combination treatments significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of endometrial epithelium compared to the control and NC group. The combination of MenSCs and PDGF remarkably promoted re-epithelialization and endometrial repair. IHC staining analysis showed significant increases in CD34 expression of the endometrial tissue following treatment with PDGF and MenSCs. The combination treatments also markedly enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt and Bad in endometrial tissue. Conclusions These results suggest that MenSCs and PDGF may be candidate substances for endometrial injury repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrong Wang
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Chengde Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Jianxiang Cong
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Hongchu Bao
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Cuifang Hao
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
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YÜKSEL H, ZAFER E. Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-020-00278-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Lv CX, Duan H, Wang S, Gan L, Xu Q. Exosomes Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Proliferation of Allogeneic Endometrial Stromal Cells. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1372-1381. [PMID: 32006246 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00165-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) have been proposed as an ideal source for cell-based therapy to promote endometrial repair and regeneration. Furthermore, increasing evidence has indicated that UCMSC-derived exosomes (UCMSC-exos) act as important paracrine mediators to recapitulate the features of MSCs and may play a vital role in this process. UCMSCs and human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were isolated and characterized. ESCs were cocultured with UCMSCs and further assessed by flow cytometry and EdU incorporation assays. UCMSC-exos were extracted by differential ultracentrifugation and identified by western blots, transmission electron microscopy, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. The internalization of UCMSC-exos by ESCs was observed under a confocal microscope. ESCs were treated with UCMSC-exos at different concentrations and for different durations, with cell viability evaluated by CCK-8 assays. The cell cycle analysis showed that the percentage of ESCs in S phase significantly increased after coculture with UCMSCs, whereas it significantly decreased after inhibition of UCMSC-exo secretions. EdU incorporation assays also showed a similar trend. The isolated UCMSC-exos had a typical cup-shaped morphology with a monolayer membrane, expressed the specific exosomal markers Alix, CD63, and TSG101 and were approximately 60 to 200 nm in diameter. The PKH26-labeled UCMSC-exos were incorporated into ESCs. Moreover, UCMSC-exos enhanced the cell growth and viability of ESCs in a dose-dependent manner, and the effects occurred in a short period of time. UCMSC-exos promote the proliferation of ESCs in a dose-dependent manner; thus, they could be used as a potential treatment to promote endometrial repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Xiao Lv
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Gan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Moon S, Lee OH, Lee S, Lee J, Park H, Park M, Chang EM, Park KH, Choi Y. STK3/4 Expression Is Regulated in Uterine Endometrial Cells during the Estrous Cycle. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121643. [PMID: 31847471 PMCID: PMC6952811 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterus is dynamically regulated in response to various signaling triggered by hormones during the estrous cycle. The Hippo signaling pathway is known as an important signaling for regulating cellular processes during development by balancing between cell growth and apoptosis. Serine/threonine protein kinase 3/4 (STK3/4) is a key component of the Hippo signaling network. However, the regulation of STK3/4-Hippo signaling in the uterus is little known. In this study, we investigated the regulation and expression of STK3/4 in the uterine endometrium during the estrous cycle. STK3/4 expression was dynamically regulated in the uterus during the estrous cycle. STK3/4 protein expression was gradually increased from the diestrus stage and reached the highest in the estrus stage. STK3/4 was exclusively localized in the luminal and glandular epithelial cells of the uterus, and phosphorylated STK3/4 was also increased at the estrus stage. Moreover, the increase of STK3/4 expression in uteri was induced by administration of estradiol, but not by progesterone injection in ovariectomized mice. Pretreatment with an estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780 reduced estrogen-induced STK3/4 expression and its phosphorylation. The estrogen-induced STK3/4 expression was related to the increase in phosphorylation of downstream targets including LATS1/2 and YAP. These findings suggest that STK3/4-Hippo signaling acts a novel signaling pathway in the uterine epithelium and STK3/4-Hippo is one of key molecules for connecting between the estrogen downstream signaling pathway and the Hippo signaling pathway leading to regulate dynamic uterine epithelium during the estrous cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohyeon Moon
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.M.); (J.L.); (H.P.)
| | - Ok-Hee Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do 13488, Korea; (O.-H.L.); (S.L.); (K.-H.P.)
| | - Sujin Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do 13488, Korea; (O.-H.L.); (S.L.); (K.-H.P.)
| | - Jihyun Lee
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.M.); (J.L.); (H.P.)
| | - Haeun Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.M.); (J.L.); (H.P.)
| | - Miseon Park
- Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul 06135, Korea; (M.P.); (E.M.C.)
| | - Eun Mi Chang
- Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul 06135, Korea; (M.P.); (E.M.C.)
| | - Keun-Hong Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do 13488, Korea; (O.-H.L.); (S.L.); (K.-H.P.)
| | - Youngsok Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.M.); (J.L.); (H.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-450-3969
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Bipotent stem cells support the cyclical regeneration of endometrial epithelium of the murine uterus. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:6848-6857. [PMID: 30872480 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1814597116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrial epithelium of the uterus regenerates periodically. The cellular source of newly regenerated endometrial epithelia during a mouse estrous cycle or a human menstrual cycle is presently unknown. Here, I have used single-cell lineage tracing in the whole mouse uterus to demonstrate that epithelial stem cells exist in the mouse uterus. These uterine epithelial stem cells provide a resident cellular supply that fuels endometrial epithelial regeneration. They are able to survive cyclical uterine tissue loss and persistently generate all endometrial epithelial lineages, including the functionally distinct luminal and glandular epithelia, to maintain uterine cycling. The uterine epithelial stem cell population also supports the regeneration of uterine endometrial epithelium post parturition. The 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine pulse-chase experiments further reveal that this stem cell population may reside in the intersection zone between luminal and glandular epithelial compartments. This tissue distribution allows these bipotent uterine epithelial stem cells to bidirectionally differentiate to maintain homeostasis and regeneration of mouse endometrial epithelium under physiological conditions. Thus, uterine function over the reproductive lifespan of a mouse relies on stem cell-maintained rhythmic endometrial regeneration.
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Mucenski ML, Mahoney R, Adam M, Potter AS, Potter SS. Single cell RNA-seq study of wild type and Hox9,10,11 mutant developing uterus. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4557. [PMID: 30872674 PMCID: PMC6418183 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40923-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterus is a remarkable organ that must guard against infections while maintaining the ability to support growth of a fetus without rejection. The Hoxa10 and Hoxa11 genes have previously been shown to play essential roles in uterus development and function. In this report we show that the Hoxa9,10,11, Hoxc9,10,11, Hoxd9,10,11 genes play a redundant role in the formation of uterine glands. In addition, we use single cell RNA-seq to create a high resolution gene expression atlas of the developing wild type mouse uterus. Cell types and subtypes are defined, for example dividing endothelial cells into arterial, venous, capillary, and lymphatic, while epithelial cells separate into luminal and glandular subtypes. Further, a surprising heterogeneity of stromal and myocyte cell types are identified. Transcription factor codes and ligand/receptor interactions are characterized. We also used single cell RNA-seq to globally define the altered gene expression patterns in all developing uterus cell types for two Hox mutants, with 8 or 9 mutant Hox genes. The mutants show a striking disruption of Wnt signaling as well as the Cxcl12/Cxcr4 ligand/receptor axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Mucenski
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Robert Mahoney
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Mike Adam
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Andrew S Potter
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - S Steven Potter
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
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43
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Activin-like kinase 5 (ALK5) inactivation in the mouse uterus results in metastatic endometrial carcinoma. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:3883-3892. [PMID: 30655341 PMCID: PMC6397539 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1806838116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The rising incidence of endometrial cancer in the United States and worldwide can be partially attributed to elevated rates of obesity in the population. Although hysterectomy is an effective treatment for early endometrial cancer, medical interventions are required in advanced cases with metastatic disease or for women wishing to preserve fertility. Here, we present a mouse model with conditional inactivation of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) receptor, activin-like kinase 5 (Alk5), that develops estrogen-dependent endometrial adenocarcinoma with distant lung metastases. We anticipate that this mouse will be a useful preclinical model for testing novel therapies for endometrial cancer and for understanding the mechanisms that control endometrial regeneration in the postpartum uterus. The endometrial lining of the uterine cavity is a highly dynamic tissue that is under the continuous control of the ovarian steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Endometrial adenocarcinoma arises from the uncontrolled growth of the endometrial glands, which is typically associated with unopposed estrogen action and frequently occurs in older postmenopausal women. The incidence of endometrial cancer among younger women has been rising due to increasing rates of obesity, a major risk factor for the disease. The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) family is a highly conserved group of proteins with roles in cellular differentiation, proliferation, and cancer. Inactivating mutations in the genes encoding the TGFβ cell surface receptors (TGFBR1/ALK5 and TGFBR2) have been detected in various human cancers, indicating that a functional TGFβ signaling pathway is required for evading tumorigenesis. In this study, we present a mouse model with conditional inactivation of activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) in the mouse uterus using progesterone receptor cre (“Alk5 cKO”) that develops endometrial adenocarcinoma with metastasis to the lungs. The cancer and metastatic lung nodules are estrogen dependent and retain estrogen receptor α (ERα) reactivity, but have decreased levels of progesterone receptor (PR) protein. The endometrial tumors develop only in Alk5 cKO mice that are mated to fertile males, indicating that TGFβ-mediated postpartum endometrial repair is critical for endometrial function. Overall, these studies indicate that TGFβ signaling through TGFBR1/ALK5 in the endometrium is required for endometrial homeostasis, tumor suppression, and postpartum endometrial regeneration.
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Patterson AL, George JW, Chatterjee A, Carpenter T, Wolfrum E, Pru JK, Teixeira JM. Label-Retaining, Putative Mesenchymal Stem Cells Contribute to Murine Myometrial Repair During Uterine Involution. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:1715-1728. [PMID: 30328770 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine remodeling during pregnancy is a fundamental, dynamic process required for successful propagation of eutherian species. The uterus can increase in size up to 40-fold during pregnancy, which is largely attributed to expansion of the myometrium by hyperplasia and hypertrophy. After pregnancy, the uterus repairs the remodeled or "damaged" tissue during uterine involution (INV). Little is known about this repair process, particularly the role of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize putative mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells in the murine myometrium using a combination of label retention and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) marker expression and a pregnancy and uterine INV model. Tet-off transgenic mice with the Cre-lox system were used to specifically label mesenchymal cells (ie, myometrial and endometrial stromal cells) within the uterus while avoiding other cell types (eg, epithelial, immune, and endothelial cells) to identify slowly dividing cells and assess their stem cell qualities. We identified myometrial label-retaining cells (LRCs) that persisted for at least 3 months, expressed CD146 and CD140b (MSC markers), and proliferated at a higher rate during uterine INV compared with nonlabeled cells. The LRCs did not appear to express either estrogen receptor alpha or progesterone receptor, nor did the number of LRCs change at different estrous stages or in response to exogenous estradiol or progesterone administration, suggesting that LRCs were not involved in normal estrous cycling. The results from this study provide important insight into putative stem/progenitor cells in the myometrium and their possible role in uterine physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Patterson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Jitu W George
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Anindita Chatterjee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Tyler Carpenter
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Emily Wolfrum
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - James K Pru
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
| | - Jose M Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
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Kim J, Park EY, Kim O, Schilder JM, Coffey DM, Cho CH, Bast RC. Cell Origins of High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10110433. [PMID: 30424539 PMCID: PMC6267333 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10110433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian cancer, also known as high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), is the most common and deadliest type of ovarian cancer. HGSC appears to arise from the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum. As most HGSC cases present with widespread peritoneal metastases, it is often not clear where HGSC truly originates. Traditionally, the ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) was long believed to be the origin of HGSC. Since the late 1990s, the fallopian tube epithelium has emerged as a potential primary origin of HGSC. Particularly, serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC), a noninvasive tumor lesion formed preferentially in the distal fallopian tube epithelium, was proposed as a precursor for HGSC. It was hypothesized that STIC lesions would progress, over time, to malignant and metastatic HGSC, arising from the fallopian tube or after implanting on the ovary or peritoneum. Many clinical studies and several mouse models support the fallopian tube STIC origin of HGSC. Current evidence indicates that STIC may serve as a precursor for HGSC in high-risk women carrying germline BRCA1 or 2 mutations. Yet not all STIC lesions appear to progress to clinical HGSCs, nor would all HGSCs arise from STIC lesions, even in high-risk women. Moreover, the clinical importance of STIC remains less clear in women in the general population, in which 85–90% of all HGSCs arise. Recently, increasing attention has been brought to the possibility that many potential precursor or premalignant lesions, though composed of microscopically—and genetically—cancerous cells, do not advance to malignant tumors or lethal malignancies. Hence, rigorous causal evidence would be crucial to establish that STIC is a bona fide premalignant lesion for metastatic HGSC. While not all STICs may transform into malignant tumors, these lesions are clearly associated with increased risk for HGSC. Identification of the molecular characteristics of STICs that predict their malignant potential and clinical behavior would bolster the clinical importance of STIC. Also, as STIC lesions alone cannot account for all HGSCs, other potential cellular origins of HGSC need to be investigated. The fallopian tube stroma in mice, for instance, has been shown to be capable of giving rise to metastatic HGSC, which faithfully recapitulates the clinical behavior and molecular aspect of human HGSC. Elucidating the precise cell(s) of origin of HGSC will be critical for improving the early detection and prevention of ovarian cancer, ultimately reducing ovarian cancer mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeyeon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
- Indiana University Melvin & Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Eun Young Park
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Olga Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Jeanne M Schilder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
- Indiana University Melvin & Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Donna M Coffey
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Houston Methodist and Weill Cornell Medical College, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Chi-Heum Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu 41931, Korea.
| | - Robert C Bast
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Endometrial Stem Cells in Farm Animals: Potential Role in Uterine Physiology and Pathology. Bioengineering (Basel) 2018; 5:bioengineering5030075. [PMID: 30231577 PMCID: PMC6163755 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering5030075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is an accessible source of mesenchymal stem cells. Most investigations of endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) have been conducted in humans. In animals, particularly in livestock, eMSC research is scarce. Such cells have been described in the bovine, ovine, caprine, porcine, and equine endometrium. Here we provide the state of the art of eMSCs in farm animals with a focus on the bovine species. In bovines, eMSCs have been identified during the phases of the estrous cycle, during which their functionality and the presence of eMSC-specific markers has been shown to change. Moreover, postpartum inflammation related to endometritis affects the presence and functionality of eMSCs, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) may be the mediator of such changes. We demonstrated that exposure to PGE2 in vitro modifies the transcriptomic profile of eMSCs, showing its potential role in the fate of stem cell activation, migration, and homing during pathological uterine inflammation in endometritis and in healthy puerperal endometrium. Farm animal research on eMSCs can be of great value in translational research for certain uterine pathologies and for immunomodulation of local responses to pathogens, hormones, and other substances. Further research is necessary in areas such as in vivo location of the niches and their immunomodulatory and anti-infective properties.
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47
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Inside the Endometrial Cell Signaling Subway: Mind the Gap(s). Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092477. [PMID: 30134622 PMCID: PMC6164241 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cells perceive and respond to their microenvironment forming the basis of endometrial homeostasis. Errors in endometrial cell signaling are responsible for a wide spectrum of endometrial pathologies ranging from infertility to cancer. Intensive research over the years has been decoding the sophisticated molecular means by which endometrial cells communicate to each other and with the embryo. The objective of this review is to provide the scientific community with the first overview of key endometrial cell signaling pathways operating throughout the menstrual cycle. On this basis, a comprehensive and critical assessment of the literature was performed to provide the tools for the authorship of this narrative review summarizing the pivotal components and signaling cascades operating during seven endometrial cell fate “routes”: proliferation, decidualization, implantation, migration, breakdown, regeneration, and angiogenesis. Albeit schematically presented as separate transit routes in a subway network and narrated in a distinct fashion, the majority of the time these routes overlap or occur simultaneously within endometrial cells. This review facilitates identification of novel trajectories of research in endometrial cellular communication and signaling. The meticulous study of endometrial signaling pathways potentiates both the discovery of novel therapeutic targets to tackle disease and vanguard fertility approaches.
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48
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The ERM family member Merlin is required for endometrial gland morphogenesis. Dev Biol 2018; 442:301-314. [PMID: 30118662 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of endometrial gland formation or function can cause female infertility. Formation of endometrial glands via tubulogenesis of luminal epithelial cells requires the establishment and maintenance of cell polarity and cell adhesion. The FERM domain-containing protein Merlin coordinates epithelial cell polarity and cell adhesion and is critical for epithelial tissue function in the skin and kidney. We now demonstrate a requirement for Merlin in endometrial gland development. Conditional deletion of Merlin in the endometrium results in female infertility caused by the absence of gland formation. Interestingly, we observed glandular epithelial markers within discrete groups of cells in the Merlin-deficient luminal epithelium. Wnt signaling, a pathway necessary for endometrial gland development is maintained in Merlin-deficient endometrium, suggesting the glandular fate program is active. Instead, we observe increased levels of apical actin and markers indicative of high membrane tension on the basal surface of the Merlin-deficient luminal epithelium. These findings suggest that the structural integrity of the luminal epithelium during gland formation is required for appropriate endometrial tubulogenesis and tissue function. Moreover, our work implicates Merlin-dependent regulation of mechanical tension in the proper formation of endometrial gland architecture and function.
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Nguyen HPT, Xiao L, Deane JA, Tan KS, Cousins FL, Masuda H, Sprung CN, Rosamilia A, Gargett CE. N-cadherin identifies human endometrial epithelial progenitor cells by in vitro stem cell assays. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2254-2268. [PMID: 29040564 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is there a specific surface marker that identifies human endometrial epithelial progenitor cells with adult stem cell activity using in vitro assays? SUMMARY ANSWER N-cadherin isolates clonogenic, self-renewing human endometrial epithelial progenitor cells with high proliferative potential that differentiate into cytokeratin+ gland-like structures in vitro and identifies their location in some cells of gland profiles predominantly in basalis endometrium adjacent to the myometrium. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Human endometrium contains a small population of clonogenic, self-renewing epithelial cells with high proliferative potential that differentiate into large gland-like structures, but their identity and location is unknown. Stage-specific embryonic antigen-1 (SSEA-1) distinguishes the epithelium of basalis from functionalis and is a marker of human post-menopausal (Post-M) endometrial epithelium. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Prospective observational study of endometrial epithelial cells obtained from hysterectomy samples taken from 50 pre-menopausal (Pre-M) and 24 Post-M women, of which 4 were from women who had taken daily estradiol valerate 2 mg/day for 8 weeks prior. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Gene profiling was used to identify differentially expressed surface markers between fresh EpCAM (Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule)-magnetic bead-selected basalis-like epithelial cells from Post-M endometrium compared with predominantly functionalis epithelial cells from Pre-M endometrium and validated by qRT-PCR. In vitro clonogenicity and self-renewal assays were used to assess the stem/progenitor cell properties of magnetic bead-sorted N-cadherin+ and N-cadherin- epithelial cells. The cellular identity, location and phenotype of N-cadherin+ cells was assessed by dual colour immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy for cytokeratin, proliferative status (Ki-67), ERα, SSEA-1, SOX9 and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers on full thickness human endometrium. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE CDH2 (N-cadherin gene) was one of 11 surface molecules highly expressed in Post-M compared to Pre-M endometrial epithelial cells. N-cadherin+ cells comprise a median 16.7% (n = 8) and 20.2% (n = 5) of Pre-M endometrial epithelial cells by flow cytometry and magnetic bead sorting, respectively. N-cadherin+ epithelial cells from Pre-M endometrium were more clonogenic than N-cadherin- cells (n = 12, P = 0.003), underwent more population doublings (n = 7), showed greater capacity for serial cloning (n = 7) and differentiated into cytokeratin+ gland-like organoids. N-cadherin immunolocalised to the lateral and apical membrane of epithelial cells in the bases of glands in the basalis of Pre-M endometrium and Post-M gland profiles, co-expressing cytokeratin, ERα but not SSEA-1 or SOX9, which localized on gland profiles proximal to N-cadherin+ cells. N-cadherin+ cells were quiescent (Ki-67-) in the basalis and in Post-M endometrial glands and co-localized with EMT markers vimentin and E-cadherin. LARGE SCALE DATA The raw and processed data files from the gene microarray have been deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information Gene Expression Omnibus data set with accession number GSE35221. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a descriptive study in human endometrium only using in vitro stem cell assays. The differential ability of N-cadherin+ and N-cadherin-cells to generate endometrial glands in vivo was not determined. A small number of uterine tissues analysed contained adenomyosis for which N-cadherin has been implicated in epithelial-EMT. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS A new marker enriching for human endometrial epithelial progenitor cells identifies a different and potentially more primitive cell population than SSEA-1, suggesting a potential hierarchy of epithelial differentiation in the basalis. Using N-cadherin as a marker, the molecular and cellular characteristics of epithelial progenitor cells and their role in endometrial proliferative disorders including endometriosis, adenomyosis and thin dysfunctional endometrium can be investigated. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by Cancer Council Victoria grant 491079 (C.E.G.) and Australian National Health and Medical Research Council grants 1021127 (C.E.G.), 1085435 (C.E.G., J.A.D.), 145780 and 288713 (C.N.S.), RD Wright Career Development Award 465121 (C.E.G.), Senior Research Fellowship 1042298 (C.E.G.), the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support and an Australian Postgraduate Award (HPTN), and China Council Scholarship (L.X.). The authors have nothing to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong P T Nguyen
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - L Xiao
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - James A Deane
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Ker-Sin Tan
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Fiona L Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Hirotaka Masuda
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Keio University, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Carl N Sprung
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Disease, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Anna Rosamilia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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50
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Vue Z, Gonzalez G, Stewart CA, Mehra S, Behringer RR. Volumetric imaging of the developing prepubertal mouse uterine epithelium using light sheet microscopy. Mol Reprod Dev 2018. [PMID: 29543367 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial or uterine glands secrete substances essential for uterine receptivity to the embryo, implantation, conceptus survival, and growth. Adenogenesis is the process of gland formation within the stroma of the uterus. In the mouse, uterine gland formation initiates at postnatal day (P) 5. Uterine gland morphology is poorly understood because it is primarily based on two-dimensional (2D) histology. To more fully describe uterine gland morphogenesis, we generated three-dimensional (3D) models of postnatal uterine glands from P0 to P21, based on volumetric imaging using light sheet microscopy. At birth (P0), there were no glands. At P8, we found bud- and teardrop-shaped epithelial invaginations. By P11, the forming glands were elongated epithelial tubes. By P21, the elongated tubes had a sinuous morphology. These morphologies are homogeneously distributed along the anterior-posterior axis of the uterus. To facilitate uterine gland analyses, we propose a novel 3D staging system of uterine gland morphology during development in the prepubertal mouse. We define five uterine gland stages: Stage 1: bud; Stage 2: teardrop; Stage 3: elongated; Stage 4: sinuous; and Stage 5: primary branches. This staging system provides a standardized key to assess and quantify prepubertal uterine gland morphology that can be used for studies of uterine gland development and pathology. In addition, our studies suggest that gland formation initiation occurs during P8 and P11. However, between P11 and P21 gland formation initiation stops and all glands elongate and become sinuous. We also found that the mesometrial epithelium develops a unique morphology we term the uterine rail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zer Vue
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Gabriel Gonzalez
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - C Allison Stewart
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Shyamin Mehra
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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