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Raja Xavier JP, Rianna C, Hellwich E, Nikolou I, Lankapalli AK, Brucker SY, Singh Y, Lang F, Schäffer TE, Salker MS. Excessive endometrial PlGF- Rac1 signalling underlies endometrial cell stiffness linked to pre-eclampsia. Commun Biol 2024; 7:530. [PMID: 38704457 PMCID: PMC11069541 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06220-7] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell stiffness is regulated by dynamic interaction between ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) and p21 protein-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) proteins, besides other biochemical and molecular regulators. In this study, we investigated how the Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) changes endometrial mechanics by modifying the actin cytoskeleton at the maternal interface. We explored the global effects of PlGF in endometrial stromal cells (EnSCs) using the concerted approach of proteomics, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Proteomic analysis shows PlGF upregulated RhoGTPases activating proteins and extracellular matrix organization-associated proteins in EnSCs. Rac1 and PAK1 transcript levels, activity, and actin polymerization were significantly increased with PlGF treatment. AFM further revealed an increase in cell stiffness with PlGF treatment. The additive effect of PlGF on actin polymerization was suppressed with siRNA-mediated inhibition of Rac1, PAK1, and WAVE2. Interestingly, the increase in cell stiffness by PlGF treatment was pharmacologically reversed with pravastatin, resulting in improved trophoblast cell invasion. Taken together, aberrant PlGF levels in the endometrium can contribute to an altered pre-pregnancy maternal microenvironment and offer a unifying explanation for the pathological changes observed in conditions such as pre-eclampsia (PE).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carmela Rianna
- Institute of Applied Physics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Emily Hellwich
- Institute of Applied Physics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Iliana Nikolou
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Sara Y Brucker
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yogesh Singh
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Florian Lang
- Department of Physiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tilman E Schäffer
- Institute of Applied Physics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Madhuri S Salker
- Department of Women's Health, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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2
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Schalich KM, Koganti PP, Castillo JM, Reiff OM, Cheong SH, Selvaraj V. The uterine secretory cycle: recurring physiology of endometrial outputs that setup the uterine luminal microenvironment. Physiol Genomics 2024; 56:74-97. [PMID: 37694291 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00035.2023] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Conserved in female reproduction across all mammalian species is the estrous cycle and its regulation by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, a collective of intersected hormonal events that are crucial for ensuring uterine fertility. Nonetheless, knowledge of the direct mediators that synchronously shape the uterine microenvironment for successive yet distinct events, such as the transit of sperm and support for progressive stages of preimplantation embryo development, remain principally deficient. Toward understanding the timed endometrial outputs that permit luminal events as directed by the estrous cycle, we used Bovidae as a model system to uniquely surface sample and study temporal shifts to in vivo endometrial transcripts that encode for proteins destined to be secreted. The results revealed the full quantitative profile of endometrial components that shape the uterine luminal microenvironment at distinct phases of the estrous cycle (estrus, metestrus, diestrus, and proestrus). In interpreting this comprehensive log of stage-specific endometrial secretions, we define the "uterine secretory cycle" and extract a predictive understanding of recurring physiological actions regulated within the uterine lumen in anticipation of sperm and preimplantation embryonic stages. This repetitive microenvironmental preparedness to sequentially provide operative support was a stable intrinsic framework, with only limited responses to sperm or embryos if encountered in the lumen within the cyclic time period. In uncovering the secretory cycle and unraveling realistic biological processes, we present novel foundational knowledge of terminal effectors controlled by the HPG axis to direct a recurring sequence of vital functions within the uterine lumen.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study unravels the recurring sequence of changes within the uterus that supports vital functions (sperm transit and development of preimplantation embryonic stages) during the reproductive cycle in female Ruminantia. These data present new systems knowledge in uterine reproductive physiology crucial for setting up in vitro biomimicry and artificial environments for assisted reproduction technologies for a range of mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasey M Schalich
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
| | - Prasanthi P Koganti
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
| | - Juan M Castillo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Veterinary College, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
| | - Olivia M Reiff
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
| | - Soon Hon Cheong
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Veterinary College, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
| | - Vimal Selvaraj
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States
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Guo X, Wang CC, Chung JPW, Li TC, Chen X. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), placental growth factor (PlGF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in serum from women undergoing frozen embryo transfer. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:987-997. [PMID: 35243939 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2040749] [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: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1 are three main angiogenic factors which play significant roles in embryo implantation. However, the relationship between serum expressions of VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1 and pregnancy outcomes has not been fully illustrated. In this study, serum specimens were collected precisely on day 7 after the LH surge in a natural non-conception cycle from 38 infertile patients who underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET) treatment. ELISA was used to determine the concentrations of VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1. Serum levels of VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1 were compared between patients who conceived (n=25) and who did not (n=13). Correlation and linear regression analyses were used to investigate the correlations of serum angiogenic factors and β-hCG MoM levels in the pregnant group. The results demonstrated that no significant difference was found in serum VEGFA, PlGF or IGF-1 concentration between pregnant and non-pregnant women. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between IGF-1 concentration and β-hCG level in pregnant participants (rs = 0.490, p = 0.013). In conclusion, serum IGF-1 level correlated positively with β-hCG level in pregnant women, which may provide information on the prognostic value of IGF-1 in this group of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Jacqueline Pui Wah Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, PR China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
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Kiezun M, Dobrzyn K, Kiezun J, Kaminski T, Smolinska N. Chemerin affects the expression of angiogenesis-related factors in the porcine endometrium during early pregnancy and the oestrous cycle: an in vitro study. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:692-707. [PMID: 37955271 DOI: 10.1071/rd23148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The appropriate course of angiogenesis in the endometrium is crucial for pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Very little is known about the factors linking vessel formation and immune system functioning. AIMS We hypothesised that chemerin, an adipokine known for its involvement in the regulation of energy balance and immunological functions, may act as a potent regulator of endometrial angiogenesis during early pregnancy in pigs. METHODS Porcine endometrial tissue explants were obtained from pregnant pigs on days 10-11, 12-13, 15-16 and 27-28, and on days 10-12 of the oestrous cycle. The explants were in vitro cultured for 24h in the presence of chemerin (100, 200ng/mL) or in medium alone (control). We evaluated the in vitro effect of chemerin on the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factors A-D (VEGF-A-D), placental growth factor (PlGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and angiopoietin 1 and 2 (ANG-1, ANG-2) with the ELISA method. The protein abundance of angiogenesis-related factor receptors, VEGF receptors 1-3 (VEGFR1-3), FGF receptors 1 and 2 (FGFR1-2) and ANG receptor (TIE2) was evaluated with the Western blot (WB) method. We also analysed the influence of chemerin on the phosphorylation of AMPK using WB. KEY RESULTS We found that in the studied endometrial samples, chemerin up-regulated the secretion of VEGF-A, VEGF-B and PlGF, and protein expression of VEGFR3. The adipokine caused a decrease in VEGF-C, VEGF-D and ANG-1 release. Chemerin effect on bFGF and ANG-2 secretion, and protein content of VEGFR1, VEGFR2, FGFR1, FGFR2 and TIE2 were dependent on the stage of pregnancy. Chemerin was found to down-regulate AMPK phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS The obtained in vitro results suggest that chemerin could be an important factor in the early pregnant uterus by its influence on angiogenic factors' secretion and signalling. IMPLICATIONS The obtained results on the role of chemerin in the process of endometrial angiogenesis may, in the long term perspective, contribute to the elaboration of more effective methods of modifying reproductive processes and maintaining energy homeostasis in farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kiezun
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| | - Kamil Dobrzyn
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego Street 5, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| | - Jacek Kiezun
- Department of Human Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Warszawska St. 30, Olsztyn 10-082, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Kaminski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| | - Nina Smolinska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
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Alves AR, Dias MF, Silvestre M. Endometrial fluid biomarkers and their potential as predictors of successful embryo implantation. Biomedicine (Taipei) 2023; 13:1-8. [PMID: 37937060 PMCID: PMC10627212 DOI: 10.37796/2211-8039.1413] [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: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Embryo implantation is a complex biological process which requires synchronized dialogue between the receptive endometrium and the blastocyst. The endometrium, however, is only receptive to embryo implantation for a very short period. Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a major challenge in assisted reproductive techniques mainly due to impaired receptivity, but there is still a need for a reliable and valid clinical test to assess endometrial receptiveness, especially at embryo transfer time. The aim of this review is to investigate what is currently known about the contribution of endometrial fluid (EF) to endometrial receptivity by identifying its potential biomarkers. Methods This study involved an extensive search of the electronic databases PubMed and Cochrane, covering the period from 2011 to 2022. A combination of Medical Subject Headings with the terms 'endometrial fluid' and 'embryo implantation' was used. Results Several different proteins presented in the endometrial cavity fluid have been described but the most consistent as potential biomarkers were Proprotein Convertase 6 (PC6), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), PIGF (Placental growth factor), β3 integrin, Colony Stimulating Factor-3 (CSF-3), Leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), glycodelin and extracellular vesicles (EVs). Conclusions Strong indicators support the use of uterine fluid collection as a non-invasive tool for receptivity assessment. Therefore, it could improve outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R. Alves
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra,
Portugal
| | - Margarida F. Dias
- Gynecology Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Gynecology Department, Hospital and University Centre of Coimbra,
Portugal
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Dogne N, Wadhwani R, Ahirwar N, Chellaiyan VG, Britto J, Singh A. Association of Umbilical Cord Coiling and Medical Disorders of Pregnancy: a Cross-Sectional Study. MAEDICA 2023; 18:227-231. [PMID: 37588824 PMCID: PMC10427083 DOI: 10.26574/maedica.2023.18.2.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The coiling of the umbilical vessels develops by about 28 days post-conception and is present in about 95% of foetuses by around nine weeks of conception. Umbilical coiling (UC) is associated with many maternal and fetal outcomes. The present study attempts to assess any associations between medical disorders of pregnancy with umbilical cord coiling. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gandhi Medical College δ Sultania Zanana Hospital, Bhopal, India, from January to December 2020. A total of 300 obstetric mothers were included in the study. Coiling of the umbilical cord numbers and pattern and umbilical coiling index was assessed at the time of delivery. Medical disorders such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension and thyroid disorders during pregnancy were evaluated at the time of delivery. Data was entered and analysed with Epi info software. Results:Gestational diabetes mellitus was seen in hyper-coiled and normocoiled, but not also in hypocoiled UC. Hypothyroidism with GDM was seen only in hypocoiled UC. A significant association was seen with selected endocrinal medical problems with umbilical cord coiling (P value <0.05). The most common blood pressure-related disorder identified in the present study is eclampsia (66.66%). Gestational hypertension was seen only in hypocoiled UC coiling. Conclusion:The most common endocrine disorder associated with umbilical cord coiling was gestational diabetes in hyper coiled and normocoiled UC. Hypocoiling and normocoiling have been found in medical disorders of pregnancy. Multicentric studies are required to identify the relationship between endocrine and blood pressure-related disorders and umbilical coiling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalini Dogne
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal, MP, India
| | - Rekha Wadhwani
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal, MP, India
| | - Neetu Ahirwar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal, MP, India
| | - Vinoth Gnana Chellaiyan
- Department of Community Medicine, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Kelembakkam, Kancheepuram district, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Jennifer Britto
- Department of Community Medicine, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Kelembakkam, Kancheepuram district, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Abhay Singh
- Department of Community Medicine, AIIMS Raebareli, UP, India
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7
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González López R, Contreras Caro Del Castillo DA, Valdez Magaña G, Sarmiento Silva RE, Martínez Castañeda FE, Trujillo Ortega ME. Expression and localization of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptors in the pig uterus during peri-implantation and determination of the in vitro effect of the angiogenesis inhibitor SU5416 on VEGF system expression. Theriogenology 2023; 207:49-60. [PMID: 37269596 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.017] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to determine endometrial mRNA expression and uterine protein localization of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 during the estrous cycle and peri-implantation period in sows. Uterine tissues were collected from pregnant sows on days 12, 14, 16, and 18 after artificial insemination and from non-pregnant animals on days 2 and 12 of the estrous cycle (day 0 = day of estrus). Using immunohistochemistry, a positive signal for VEGF and its receptor VEGFR2 was found in uterine luminal epithelial cells, endometrial glands, stroma, blood vessels, and myometrium. A VEGFR1 signal was only found in endometrial and myometrial blood vessels and stroma. By day 18 of gestation, the mRNA expression levels of VEGF, VEGFR1, and VEGFR2 were higher than those observed on days 2 and 12 of the estrous cycle and on days 12, 14, and 16 of gestation. Then, a primary culture of sow endometrial epithelial cells was established to define the potential of the selective inhibition of VEGFR2 after treatment with inhibitor SU5416 and determine its effects on the expression pattern of the VEGF system. The endometrial epithelial cells treated with SU5416 showed a dose-dependent decrease in VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 mRNA expression. The present study provides additional evidence on the importance of the VEGF system during peri-implantation, as well as on the specific inhibitory activity of SU5416 in epithelial cells, which, as demonstrated, express the protein and mRNA of VEGF and its receptors VEGFR1 and VEGFR2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo González López
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | | | - Griselda Valdez Magaña
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Rosa Elena Sarmiento Silva
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | | | - María Elena Trujillo Ortega
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Chang R, Dai J, Wang L, Liu H, Jiang H, Liu X, Jiang L, He F, Hu L. PlGF/FLT-1 deficiency leads to reduced STAT3-C/EBPβ signaling and aberrant polarization in decidual macrophages during early spontaneous abortion. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1061949. [PMID: 37033974 PMCID: PMC10074254 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1061949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionDysregulated macrophage polarization (excessive M1-like or limited M2-like macrophages) in the early decidua contributes to allogeneic fetal rejection and thus early spontaneous abortion. However, the modulators of M1/M2 balance at the early maternal-fetal interface remain mostly unknown.MethodsFirst-trimester decidual tissues were collected from normal pregnant women undergoing elective pregnancy terminations and patients with spontaneous abortion. We measured the expression of placental growth factor (PlGF) and Fms-like-tyrosine-kinase receptor 1 (FLT-1), and characterized the profiles of macrophages in decidua. Notably, we investigated the effect of recombinant human PlGF (rhPlGF) on decidual macrophages (dMös) from normal pregnancy and revealed the underlying mechanisms both in vitro and in vivo.ResultsThe downregulated expression of PlGF/ FLT-1 may result in spontaneous abortion by inducing the M1-like deviation of macrophages in human early decidua. Moreover, the CBA/J×DBA/2 abortion-prone mice displayed a lower FLT-1 expression in uterine macrophages than did CBA/J×BALB/c control pregnant mice. In in vitro models, rhPlGF treatment was found to drive the M2-like polarization of dMös via the STAT3/CEBPB signaling pathway. These findings were further supported by a higher embryo resorption rate and uterine macrophage dysfunction in Pgf knockout mice, in addition to the reduced STAT3 transcription and C/EBPâ expression in uterine macrophages.DiscussionPlGF plays a key role in early pregnancy maintenance by skewing dMös toward an M2-like phenotype via the FLT-1-STAT3-C/EBP â signaling pathway. Excitingly, our results highlight a rationale that PlGF is a promising target to prevent early spontaneous abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqi Chang
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Joint International Research Lab for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
- Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingcong Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huanhuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linying Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fan He
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Joint International Research Lab for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
- Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Fan He, ; Lina Hu,
| | - Lina Hu
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Joint International Research Lab for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
- Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Fan He, ; Lina Hu,
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Association between Obstetric Complications and Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents or Intravitreal Corticosteroids. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12091374. [PMID: 36143159 PMCID: PMC9501719 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12091374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This nationwide population-based cohort study aimed to describe the use of intravitreal injections (IVTs) of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents and corticosteroids in pregnant women in France and to report on the incidence of obstetric and neonatal complications. All pregnant women in France who received any anti-VEGF or corticosteroid IVT during pregnancy or in the month preceding pregnancy from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2018 were identified in the national medico-administrative databases. Between 2009 and 2018, there were 5,672,921 IVTs performed in France. Among these IVTs, 228 anti-VEGF or corticosteroid IVTs were administered to 139 women during their pregnancy or in the month preceding their pregnancy. Spontaneous abortion or the medical termination of pregnancy occurred in 10 women (16.1%) who received anti-VEGF agents and in one (3.1%) of the women who received corticosteroids (p = 0.09). This is the first national cohort study of pregnant women treated with anti-VEGF or corticosteroid IVTs. We found a high incidence of obstetric complications in pregnant women treated with anti-VEGF or corticosteroid IVTs but could not demonstrate a statistically significant association between the intravitreal agents and these complications. These agents should continue to be used with great caution in pregnant women.
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Kadoura S, Alhalabi M, Nattouf AH. Follicular fluid PlGF and IVF/ICSI outcomes among PCOS and normo-ovulatory women using different controlled hyperstimulation protocols: A prospective case-control study. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 79:104096. [PMID: 35860057 PMCID: PMC9289487 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Kadoura
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
- Corresponding author.
| | - Marwan Alhalabi
- Department of Embryology and Reproductive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Orient Hospital, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
| | - Abdul Hakim Nattouf
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
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11
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Du X, He X, Liu Q, Di R, Liu Q, Chu M. Comparative Transcriptomics Reveals the Key lncRNA and mRNA of Sunite Sheep Adrenal Gland Affecting Seasonal Reproduction. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:816241. [PMID: 35464356 PMCID: PMC9024317 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.816241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis plays an important role in the growth and development of mammals. Recently, lncRNA transcripts have emerged as an area of importance in sheep photoperiod and seasonal estrus studies. This research aims to identify lncRNA and mRNA that are differentially expressed in the sheep adrenal gland in long (LP) or short (SP) photoperiods using transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis based on the OVX + E2 (Bilateral ovariectomy and estradiol-implanted) model. We found significant differences in the expression of lncRNAs in LP42 (where LP is for 42 days) vs. SP-LP42 (where SP is for 42 days followed by LP for 42 days) (n = 304), SP42 (where SP is for 42 days) vs. SP-LP42 (n = 1,110) and SP42 vs. LP42 (n = 928). Cluster analysis and enrichment analysis identified SP42 vs. LP42 as a comparable group of interest and found the following candidate genes related to reproductive phenotype: FGF16, PLGF, CDKN1A, SEMA7A, EDG1, CACNA1C and ADCY5. FGF16 (Up-regulated lncRNA MSTRG.242136 and MSTRG.236582) is the only up-regulated gene that is closely related to oocyte maturation. However, EDG1 (Down-regulated lncRNA MSTRG.43609) and CACNA1C may be related to precocious puberty in sheep. PLGF (Down-regulated lncRNA MSTRG.146618 and MSTRG.247208) and CDKN1A (Up-regulated lncRNA MSTRG.203610 and MSTRG.129663) are involved in the growth and differentiation of placental and retinal vessels, and SEMA7A (Up-regulated lncRNA MSTRG.250579) is essential for the development of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. These results identify novel candidate genes that may regulate sheep seasonality and may lead to new methods for the management of sheep reproduction. This study provides a basis for further explanation of the basic molecular mechanism of the adrenal gland, but also provides a new idea for a comprehensive understanding of seasonal estrus characteristics in Sunite sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Du
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qingqing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Mingxing Chu
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Gao X, Yao X, Li X, Liang Y, Liu Z, Wang Z, Li K, Li Y, Zhang G, Wang F. Roles of WNT6 in Sheep Endometrial Epithelial Cell Cycle Progression and Uterine Glands Organogenesis. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8120316. [PMID: 34941843 PMCID: PMC8708052 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8120316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterus, as part of the female reproductive tract, is essential for embryo survival and in the maintenance of multiple pregnancies in domestic animals. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of WNT6 on Hu sheep endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) and uterine glands (UGs) in Hu sheep, with high prolificacy rates. In the present study, Hu sheep with different fecundity, over three consecutive pregnancies, were divided into two groups: high prolificacy rate group (HP, litter size = 3) and low prolificacy rate group (LP, litter size = 1). A comparative analysis of the endometrial morphology was performed by immunofluorescence. RNA-seq was used to analyze the gene’s expression in endometrium of HP and LP Hu sheep, providing a candidate gene, which was investigated in EECs and organoid culture. Firstly, higher density of UGs was found in the HP Hu sheep groups (p < 0.05). The RNA-seq data revealed the importance of the WNT signaling pathway and WNT6 gene in Hu sheep endometrium. Functionally, WNT6 could promote the cell cycle progression of EECs via WNT/β-catenin signal and enhance UGs organogenesis. Taken together, WNT6 is a crucial regulator for sheep endometrial development; this finding may offer a new insight into understanding the regulatory mechanism of sheep prolificacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Gao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yaxu Liang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zifei Liu
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhibo Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Kang Li
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yingqi Li
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Guomin Zhang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.G.); (X.Y.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (Z.L.); (Z.W.); (K.L.); (Y.L.); (G.Z.)
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-025-84395381
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Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Human Embryo Implantation: Clinical Implications. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020253. [PMID: 33578823 PMCID: PMC7916576 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well-known angiogenic factor that plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes. VEGF also contributes to the process of embryo implantation by enhancing embryo development, improving endometrial receptivity, and facilitating the interactions between the developing embryo and the endometrium. There is a correlation between the alteration of VEGF expression and reproductive failure, including recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriage (RM). In order to clarify the role of VEGF in embryo implantation, we reviewed recent literature concerning the expression and function of VEGF in the reproductive system around the time of embryo implantation and we provide a summary of the findings reported so far. We also explored the effects and the possible underlying mechanisms of action of VEGF in embryo implantation.
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PlGF Immunological Impact during Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228714. [PMID: 33218096 PMCID: PMC7698813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the mother’s immune system has to tolerate the persistence of paternal alloantigens without affecting the anti-infectious immune response. Consequently, several mechanisms aimed at preventing allograft rejection, occur during a pregnancy. In fact, the early stages of pregnancy are characterized by the correct balance between inflammation and immune tolerance, in which proinflammatory cytokines contribute to both the remodeling of tissues and to neo-angiogenesis, thus, favoring the correct embryo implantation. In addition to the creation of a microenvironment able to support both immunological privilege and angiogenesis, the trophoblast invades normal tissues by sharing the same behavior of invasive tumors. Next, the activation of an immunosuppressive phase, characterized by an increase in the number of regulatory T (Treg) cells prevents excessive inflammation and avoids fetal immuno-mediated rejection. When these changes do not occur or occur incompletely, early pregnancy failure follows. All these events are characterized by an increase in different growth factors and cytokines, among which one of the most important is the angiogenic growth factor, namely placental growth factor (PlGF). PlGF is initially isolated from the human placenta. It is upregulated during both pregnancy and inflammation. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the immunomodulatory effects of PlGF during pregnancy, warranting that both innate and adaptive immune cells properly support the early events of implantation and placental development. Furthermore, we highlight how an alteration of the immune response, associated with PlGF imbalance, can induce a hypertensive state and lead to the pre-eclampsia (PE).
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Gurner KH, Truong TT, Harvey AJ, Gardner DK. A combination of growth factors and cytokines alter preimplantation mouse embryo development, foetal development and gene expression profiles. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 26:953-970. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Within the maternal tract, the preimplantation embryo is exposed to an array of growth factors (GFs) and cytokines, most of which are absent from culture media used in clinical IVF. Whilst the addition of individual GFs and cytokines to embryo culture media can improve preimplantation mouse embryo development, there is a lack of evidence on the combined synergistic effects of GFs and cytokines on embryo development and further foetal growth. Therefore, in this study, the effect of a combined group of GFs and cytokines on mouse preimplantation embryo development and subsequent foetal development and gene expression profiles was investigated. Supplementation of embryo culture media with an optimised combination of GFs and cytokines (0.05 ng/ml vascular endothelial GF, 1 ng/ml platelet-derived GF, 0.13 ng/ml insulin-like GF 1, 0.026 ng/ml insulin-like GF 2 and 1 ng/ml granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) had no effect on embryo morphokinetics but significantly increased trophectoderm cell number (P = 0.0002) and total cell number (P = 0.024). Treatment with this combination of GFs and cytokines also significantly increased blastocyst outgrowth area (P < 0.05) and, following embryo transfer, increased foetal weight (P = 0.027), crown-rump length (P = 0.017) and overall morphological development (P = 0.027). RNA-seq analysis of in vitro derived foetuses identified concurrent alterations to the transcriptional profiles of liver and placental tissues compared with those developed in vivo, with greater changes observed in the GF and cytokine treated group. Together these data highlight the importance of balancing the actions of such factors for the regulation of normal development and emphasise the need for further studies investigating this prior to clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn H Gurner
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Thi T Truong
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Alexandra J Harvey
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - David K Gardner
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia
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Gao X, Yao X, Wang Z, Li X, Li X, An S, Wei Z, Zhang G, Wang F. Long non-coding RNA366.2 controls endometrial epithelial cell proliferation and migration by upregulating WNT6 as a ceRNA of miR-1576 in sheep uterus. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194606. [PMID: 32679187 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important regulatory role in mammalian fecundity. Currently, most studies are primarily concentrated on ovarian lncRNAs, ignoring the influence of uterine lncRNAs on the fecundity of female sheep. In this study, we found a higher density of uterine glands and endometrial microvessel density (MVD) in high prolificacy group of Hu sheep compared to low prolificacy groups (p < 0.05) as well as an increased level of serum placental growth factor (PLGF). Hundreds of differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs were identified in Hu sheep with different fecundity by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and their targets were enriched in some signaling pathways involved in endometrial functions, such as the estrogen signaling pathway, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, oxytocin signaling pathway, and Wnt signaling pathway. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms of competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of lncRNA366.2-miR-1576- WNT6 were determined by bioinformatics analysis. Functionally, our results indicated that lncRNA366.2 promoted endometrial epithelial cell (EEC) proliferation, migration, and growth factor expression by sponging miR-1576 to upregulate WNT6 expression and activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Taken together, our research indicated the regulatory mechanism of the lncRNA366.2-miR-1576-WNT6 in EEC proliferation and migration. Furthermore, this study provides a new theoretical reference for the identification of candidate genes related to fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Gao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhibo Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiaohe Li
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Shiyu An
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zongyou Wei
- Taicang Animal Husbandry and Veterinary station, Taicang 215400, China
| | - Guomin Zhang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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Hendrix MLE, Bons JAP, Alers NO, Severens-Rijvers CAH, Spaanderman MEA, Al-Nasiry S. Maternal vascular malformation in the placenta is an indicator for fetal growth restriction irrespective of neonatal birthweight. Placenta 2019; 87:8-15. [PMID: 31520871 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To study the association between placental pathology and neonatal birthweight and outcomes, and whether a combination of first trimester biomarkers and fetal growth velocity can predict placental lesions. METHODS The presence of maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM) lesions (Amsterdam criteria) was recorded in a retrospective cohort of singleton pregnancies in the Maastricht University Medical Centre, 2011-2018. First trimester maternal characteristics and PAPP-A, PlGF and sFlt-1 levels were collected. Fetal growth velocities were calculated (mm/week) from 20 to 32 weeks for abdominal circumference, biparietal diameter, head circumference and femur length. Data were compared between neonates with 'small for gestational age' (SGA < p10) and different categories of 'appropriate for gestational age (AGA)': AGAp10-30, AGAp30-50 and AGA > p50 (reference), using one-way ANOVA and post hoc test. RESULTS There were significantly more MVM lesions in the SGA group (94.6% p < .0001), but also in the AGAp10-30 (67.3% p < .0001) and AGAp30-50 (41.6% p = 0.002), compared to the reference AGA group (19.3%). The prediction of MVM for a 20% false-positive rate, with maternal characteristics was25.2%. The addition of birthweight percentile gave a prediction of 51.7% for MVM. However adding placental biomarkers and fetal growth velocities (instead of birthweight percentile) to the maternal characteristics, gave a prediction of 81.8% (PPV 49.5%, NPV 53.7%). DISCUSSION Placental MVM lesions correlated inversely with birthweight even in AGA neonates, and was associated with slower fetal growth and more adverse outcome in SGA neonates. A combination of first trimester biomarkers and fetal growth velocity had good prediction of placental MVM lesions, as an indicator of fetal growth restriction irrespective of neonatal weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L E Hendrix
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, GROW School of Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - J A P Bons
- Central Diagnostic Laboratory, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht (MUMC+), The Netherlands
| | - N O Alers
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, GROW School of Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - C A H Severens-Rijvers
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - M E A Spaanderman
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, GROW School of Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - S Al-Nasiry
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, GROW School of Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Shahid S, Khalid E, Fatima SS, Khan GM. Evaluation of soluble TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (sTWEAK) levels to predict preeclampsia in early weeks of pregnancy. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 234:165-170. [PMID: 30708268 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Soluble tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (sTWEAK) is linked to endothelial dysfunction; a key factor in pre-eclamptic pathogenesis. This study aimed to compare sTWEAK levels during pregnancy to assess for its prognostic ability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty three high risk pregnant women were followed up from 12 weeks of gestation till term. Serum levels of sTWEAK and platelet derived growth factor (PlGF), blood pressure, serum glucose, uric acid, urea/creatinine and liver function tests were measured. Subjects were stratified according to the ACOG criteria as women who developed PE, or PIH or remained normotensive at term. A negative control group of normotensive healthy pregnant women (n = 17) was also recruited for comparison. RESULTS Baseline sTWEAK levels were lower (4.03 ± 0.37 ng/dl) in HR cohort that developed PE and further reduced at term (1.93 ± 0.23 ng/dl) as compared to HR subjects who remained normotensive and negative control group (30.53 ± 0.79 ng/dl; p < 0.01). Likewise PlGF levels were significantly lower (74.22 ± 10.11 pg/ml) in HR cohort that developed PE (p = 0.013). At term 39.68% (n = 22) HR subjects with low sTWEAK developed PIH and 34.92% (n = 24) developed PE. In terms of high risk characteristics observed in the HR group; 73% of the subjects were multiparous, whereas 26.98% reported to have developed PE in previous pregnancies. CONCLUSION sTWEAK levels at early pregnancy weeks were found to be low in high risk females who developed PE at follow up versus normotensive pregnant women. Baseline TWEAK might serve as an independent variable for prediction of pre-eclampsia; however longitudinal studies with larger sample size are required to ascertain the causal relation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Shahid
- Department of Physiology, Sir Syed College of Medical Sciences for Girls, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Erum Khalid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taj Medical Complex, Hamdard University, Pakistan
| | - Syeda Sadia Fatima
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Ghulam Mustafa Khan
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical Science Institute, Karachi, Pakistan
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Antoniotti GS, Coughlan M, Salamonsen LA, Evans J. Obesity associated advanced glycation end products within the human uterine cavity adversely impact endometrial function and embryo implantation competence. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:654-665. [PMID: 29471449 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do obese levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) within the uterine cavity detrimentally alter tissue function in embryo implantation and placental development? SUMMARY ANSWER Obese levels of AGEs activate inflammatory signaling (p65 NFκB) within endometrial epithelial cells and alter their function, cause endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in endometrial stromal cells and impair decidualization, compromise implantation of blastocyst mimics and inhibit trophoblast invasion. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Obese women experience a higher incidence of infertility, recurrent miscarriage and pregnancy complications compared with lean women. Oocyte donation cycles suggest a detrimental uterine environment plays a role in these outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Uterine lavage and tissues from lean (BMI 19.5-24.9, n = 17) and obese (BMI > 30, n = 16) women examined. Cell culture experiments utilizing human endometrial epithelial, trophectoderm and trophoblast cell lines and primary human stromal cells used to examine the functional impact of obese levels of AGEs. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Levels of AGEs examined within uterine lavage assessed by ELISA to determine differences between lean and obese women. Expression and localization of AGEs, receptor for AGEs (RAGE) and NFκB within endometrial tissues obtained from lean and obese women determined by immunohistochemistry. Endometrial epithelial cells (ECC-1), primary human stromal cells and trophoblast cells (HTR8-SVneo) treated with lean (2000 nmol/mol lysine) or obese (8000 nmol/mol lysine) uterine levels of AGEs and p65 NFκB (western immunoblot), real-time adhesion, proliferation migration and invasion (xCelligence real-time cell function analysis), decidualization (cell morphology and prolactin release), ER stress (western immunoblot for p-PERK) determined. Co-cultures of endometrial epithelial cells and blastocyst mimics (trophectoderm spheroids) similarly treated with lean or obese uterine levels of AGEs to determine their impact on embryo implantation. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE AGEs were significantly elevated (P = 0.004) within the obese (6503.59 μmol/mol lysine) versus lean (2165.88 μmol/mol lysine) uterine cavity (uterine lavage) with increased immunostaining for AGEs, RAGE and NFkB within obese endometrial tissues during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. Obese uterine levels of AGEs inhibited adhesion and proliferation of endometrial epithelial (ECC-1) cells compared to treatment with lean uterine levels of AGEs. Obese uterine AGE levels impacted primary human endometrial stromal cell decidualization and activated ER stress within these cells. Obese uterine levels of AGEs also inhibited trophectodermal spheroid adhesion to hormonally primed endometrial epithelial cells and trophoblast cell line HTR8/SV-neo invasion. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Mechanistic studies are performed in vitro and may not completely recapitulate cell function in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These data corroborate clinical data suggesting the presence of an altered uterine environment in obese women and demonstrate that elevated uterine levels of AGEs within these women may detrimentally impact endometrial function, embryo implantation and placental development. Uterine AGE assessment in infertility work up may prove useful in determining underlying causes of infertility. AGEs can be targeted pharmacologically and such treatments may prove effective in improving reproductive complications experience by obese women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Supported by NHMRC Fellowship (#1002028 to L.A.S.), and the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program. MTC is supported by a JDRF Australia Clinical Research Network Career Development Award. The authors have declared that no conflict of interest exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella S Antoniotti
- The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Scenic Boulevard, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Melinda Coughlan
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Current opinions on PlGF and sFlt-1 as reliable markers for preeclampsia. GINECOLOGIA.RO 2019. [DOI: 10.26416/gine.26.4.2019.2707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Olaya-C M, Garrido M, Hernandez-Losa J, Sesé M, Ayala-Ramirez P, Somoza R, Vargas MJ, Ramón Y Cajal S. The umbilical cord, preeclampsia and the VEGF family. Int J Womens Health 2018; 10:783-795. [PMID: 30568515 PMCID: PMC6276640 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s174734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The VEGF family has been identified as abnormal in preeclampsia (PE). Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are major contributors to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide; likewise, umbilical cord anatomical abnormalities (UCAA) are linked to poor neonatal outcomes. Based on the relationship described between PE and UCAA and the role of the VEGF family in PE, this study explored VEGF expression in placental and UC tissued from patients with PE and with UCAA. Methods We performed an observational, analytical study on placentas, comparing protein and mRNA expression in four groups: patients with PE, patients with UC abnormalities, patients with both, and patients with none of them. Using immunohistochemistry, we studied VEGF A, VEGF R1 (FLT1), MMP1, and PLGF. With quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction we described mRNA expression of PLGF, VEGF and sFLT1, and sFLT1/PLGF ratio. Results Forty newborns were included. Sixty-seven percent of mothers and 45% of newborns developed no complications. Immunohistochemistry was performed on UC and placental disc paraffin-embedded tissue; in the latter, the mRNA of the VEGF family was also measured. Statistically significant differences were observed among different expressions in both HDP and UCAA groups. Interestingly, the UCAA group exhibited lower levels of sFLT1 and VEGF-A in comparison with other groups, with significant P-value for sFLT1 (P=0000.1). Conclusion The origin of UCAA abnormalities and their relation with HDP are still unknown. VEGF family alterations could be involved in both. This study provides the first approach related to molecules linked to UCAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Olaya-C
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana - Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogota, Colombia,
| | - Marta Garrido
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Hernandez-Losa
- Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Marta Sesé
- Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Paola Ayala-Ramirez
- Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Rosa Somoza
- Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Magda Jimena Vargas
- Department of Pathology, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana - Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Santiago Ramón Y Cajal
- Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia.,Institute of Human Genetics, The Medical School, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
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Assessment of potential biomarkers of pre-receptive and receptive endometrium in uterine fluid and a functional evaluation of the potential role of CSF3 in fertility. Cytokine 2018; 111:222-229. [PMID: 30195213 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2018.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The endometrium lines a women's uterus becoming receptive, and allowing embryo implantation to occur, for just a few days during the post-ovulatory mid-secretory phase of each menstrual cycle. We investigated whether concentrations of proposed receptivity biomarkers (VEGF, IL8, FGF2, CSF3 sFlt-1, sGP130 and PlGF) secreted by the endometrium into the uterine cavity and forming the microenvironment for embryo implantation is altered among a population of age-matched women with unexplained (idiopathic) infertility compared to fertile women during the receptive mid-secretory phase (n = 16 fertile, 18 infertile) and the prior pre-receptive early secretory phase (n = 19 fertile, 18 infertile) of their cycle. In the mid-secretory cohort significantly elevated concentrations of five biomarkers; PlGF (p = 0.001), IL8 (p = 0.004), sGP130 (p = 0.009), sFlt-1 (p = 0.021), and CSF3 (p = 0.029) was present in uterine fluid of infertile women during the mid-secretory phase, but only CSF3 was significantly elevated in the pre-receptive early secretory phase (p = 0.006). In vitro studies of glycosylated and non-glycosylated forms of CSF3 at representative fertile (20 ng/mL) and infertile (70 ng/mL) effects on endometrium and embryo behaviour were performed. Non-glycosylated CSF3 at fertile concentrations significantly (p < 0.001) elevated endometrial epithelial cell proliferation however chronic treatment or elevated (infertile) concentrations of CSF3 in glycosylated form abrogated the positive effects. Both forms of CSF3 increased trophoblast cell invasion (p < 0.001) regardless of concentration. Mouse embryo outgrowth was significantly (p < 0.01) increased at fertile but not at infertile concentrations. The study confirmed potential utility of five biomarkers of endometrial receptivity for future application in the mid-secretory phase while highlighting CSF3 is elevated in the earlier pre-receptive phase. Our data provides evidence that CSF3 acts on both human endometrium and embryo in a manner that is concentration and glycosylation dependent.
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Parks JC, McCallie BR, Patton AL, Al-Safi ZA, Polotsky AJ, Griffin DK, Schoolcraft WB, Katz-Jaffe MG. The impact of infertility diagnosis on embryo-endometrial dialogue. Reproduction 2018; 155:543-552. [PMID: 29636406 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Initial stages of implantation involve bi-directional molecular crosstalk between the blastocyst and endometrium. This study investigated an association between infertility etiologies, specifically advanced maternal age (AMA) and endometriosis, on the embryo-endometrial molecular dialogue prior to implantation. Co-culture experiments were performed with endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) and cryopreserved day 5 blastocysts (n = 41 ≥ Grade 3BB) donated from patients presenting with AMA or endometriosis, compared to fertile donor oocyte controls. Extracellular vesicles isolated from co-culture supernatant were analyzed for miRNA expression and revealed significant alterations correlating to AMA or endometriosis. Specifically, AMA resulted in 16 miRNAs with increased expression (P ≤ 0.05) and strong evidence for negative regulation toward 206 target genes. VEGFA, a known activator of cell adhesion, displayed decreased expression (P ≤ 0.05), validating negative regulation by 4 of these increased miRNAs: miR-126; 150; 29a; 29b (P ≤ 0.05). In endometriosis patients, a total of 10 significantly altered miRNAs displayed increased expression compared to controls (miR-7b; 9; 24; 34b; 106a; 191; 200b; 200c; 342-3p; 484) (P ≤ 0.05), targeting 1014 strong evidence-based genes. Three target genes of miR-106a (CDKN1A, E2F1 and RUNX1) were independently validated. Functional annotation analysis of miRNA-target genes revealed enriched pathways for both infertility etiologies, including disrupted cell cycle regulation and proliferation (P ≤ 0.05). These extracellular vesicle-bound secreted miRNAs are key transcriptional regulators in embryo-endometrial dialogue and may be prospective biomarkers of implantation success. One of the limitations of this study is that it was a stimulated, in vitro model and therefore may not accurately reflect the in-vivo environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason C Parks
- Colorado Center for Reproductive MedicineLone Tree, Colorado, USA .,University of KentCanterbury, UK
| | - Blair R McCallie
- Colorado Center for Reproductive MedicineLone Tree, Colorado, USA.,University of KentCanterbury, UK
| | - Alyssa L Patton
- Colorado Center for Reproductive MedicineLone Tree, Colorado, USA
| | - Zain A Al-Safi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Alex J Polotsky
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Accelerated growth of hemangioblastoma in pregnancy: the role of proangiogenic factors and upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) in a non-oxygen-dependent pathway. Neurosurg Rev 2017; 42:209-226. [DOI: 10.1007/s10143-017-0910-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 09/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Placental growth factor and pre-eclampsia. J Hum Hypertens 2017; 31:782-786. [PMID: 29115294 PMCID: PMC5680413 DOI: 10.1038/jhh.2017.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) is an increasingly important molecule in the prediction, diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia. It has pro-angiogenic effects on the feto-placental circulation and supports trophoblast growth. Mechanisms by which PlGF expression is regulated continue to be investigated. Low circulating PlGF precedes the manifestation of clinical disease in pre-eclamptic pregnancies and intrauterine growth restriction. This suggests that low PlGF is a marker of abnormal placentation, but it remains uncertain whether this is a cause or consequence. Prediction of pre-eclampsia using PlGF is promising and may assist in the targeting of resources to women at highest risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Promisingly, experimental animal models of pre-eclampsia have been successfully treated with supplemental PlGF. Treatment of pre-eclampsia with PlGF is a potential therapeutic option requiring further exploration. This review focuses specifically on the role of PlGF in normal and pathological placental development and in the clinical management of pre-eclampsia.
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