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Placental Models for Evaluation of Nanocarriers as Drug Delivery Systems for Pregnancy Associated Disorders. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10050936. [PMID: 35625672 PMCID: PMC9138319 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated disorders affect around 20% of pregnancies each year around the world. The risk associated with pregnancy therapeutic management categorizes pregnant women as “drug orphan” patients. In the last few decades, nanocarriers have demonstrated relevant properties for controlled drug delivery, which have been studied for pregnancy-associated disorders. To develop new drug dosage forms it is mandatory to have access to the right evaluation models to ensure their usage safety and efficacy. This review exposes the various placental-based models suitable for nanocarrier evaluation for pregnancy-associated therapies. We first review the current knowledge about nanocarriers as drug delivery systems and how placenta can be used as an evaluation model. Models are divided into three categories: in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo placental models. We then examine the recent studies using those models to evaluate nanocarriers behavior towards the placental barrier and which information can be gathered from these results. Finally, we propose a flow chart on the usage and the combination of models regarding the nanocarriers and nanoparticles studied and the intended therapeutic strategy.
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SMITH DD, COSTANTINE MM. The role of statins in the prevention of preeclampsia. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S1171-S1181. [PMID: 32818477 PMCID: PMC8237152 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a common hypertensive disorder of pregnancy associated with considerable neonatal and maternal morbidities and mortalities. However, the exact cause of preeclampsia remains unknown; it is generally accepted that abnormal placentation resulting in the release of soluble antiangiogenic factors, coupled with increased oxidative stress and inflammation, leads to systemic endothelial dysfunction and the clinical manifestations of the disease. Statins have been found to correct similar pathophysiological pathways that underlie the development of preeclampsia. Pravastatin, specifically, has been reported in various preclinical and clinical studies to reverse the pregnancy-specific angiogenic imbalance associated with preeclampsia, to restore global endothelial health, and to prevent oxidative and inflammatory injury. Human studies have found a favorable safety profile for pravastatin, and more recent evidence does not support the previous teratogenic concerns surrounding statins in pregnancy. With reassuring and positive findings from pilot studies and strong biological plausibility, statins should be investigated in large clinical randomized-controlled trials for the prevention of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin D. SMITH
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
| | - Maged M. COSTANTINE
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
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Mendoza M, Ferrer-Oliveras R, Bonacina E, Garcia-Manau P, Rodo C, Carreras E, Alijotas-Reig J. Evaluating the Effect of Pravastatin in Early-Onset Fetal Growth Restriction: A Nonrandomized and Historically Controlled Pilot Study. Am J Perinatol 2021; 38:1472-1479. [PMID: 32615618 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1713651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze the effect of pravastatin on angiogenic factors, feto-maternal Doppler findings and pregnancy outcomes in women with early-onset fetal growth restriction (FGR) treated with pravastatin compared with nontreated controls. STUDY DESIGN This was a pilot study conducted between March 2016 and September 2017. Women with single pregnancies and FGR diagnosed at ≤ 28 weeks of gestation were offered 40 mg of pravastatin daily. Doppler progression, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PlGF) values, and pregnancy outcomes were assessed and compared with consecutive historical controls. Controls were matched to treated women for gestational age, maternal characteristics, maternal and obstetric history, Doppler severity classification, and angiogenic factors at diagnosis. The sFlt-1/PlGF was measured in maternal serum at two different times: before pravastatin was started (ratio M0) and during pravastatin treatment (ratio M1). Doppler severity was classified into four categories: normal, mild, moderate, and severe. RESULTS A total of 38 women were enrolled in this study. No differences were observed in baseline characteristics between groups. However, when compared with the ratio M0, M1 was increased by a median (interquartile range) of 67.0 (-34.8 to 197.3) in the control group but decreased by a median (interquartile range) of -10.1 (-53.1 to -0.07) in the pravastatin treated group (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in Doppler progression throughout pregnancy. Median interval from diagnosis to delivery was extended by 16.5 days, the median newborn birthweight was increased from 1,040 to 1,300 g, and the number of women with preeclampsia decreased from 9 (47.4%) to 6 (31.6%) in treated women; however, these trends were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION In women with early-onset FGR, treatment with pravastatin 40 mg daily was associated with significant improvement in the angiogenic profile. Additionally, median pregnancy duration and median birthweight increased and the incidence of PE was reduced in treated women. Nevertheless, since this pilot study was underpowered, none of these differences were statistically significant. KEY POINTS · Pravastatin improves sFlt-1/PlGF in FGR.. · Pregnancy duration tended to be greater in treated women.. · Birthweight tended to be greater in treated women..
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Affiliation(s)
- Manel Mendoza
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Ferrer-Oliveras
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Erika Bonacina
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo Garcia-Manau
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlota Rodo
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Carreras
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Alijotas-Reig
- Department of Medicine, Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Murrieta-Coxca JM, Aengenheister L, Schmidt A, Markert UR, Buerki-Thurnherr T, Morales-Prieto DM. Addressing microchimerism in pregnancy by ex vivo human placenta perfusion. Placenta 2021; 117:78-86. [PMID: 34773744 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The physical connection of mother and offspring during pregnancy allows the bi-directional exchange of a small number of cells through the placenta. These cells, which can persist long-term in the recipient individual are genetically foreign to it and therefore fulfill the principle of microchimerism. Over the last years, pioneer research on microchimeric cells revealed their role in immune adaptation during pregnancy and priming of tolerogenic responses in the progeny. However, the mechanisms involved in cell transfer across the placenta barrier remain poorly investigated. In this review, we summarize the evidence of fetomaternal microchimerism, propose a mechanism for cell trafficking through the placenta and discuss the different models and techniques available for its analysis. Likewise, we aim to generate interest in the use of ex vivo placenta perfusion to investigate microchimerism in physiological and pathological settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leonie Aengenheister
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Astrid Schmidt
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Udo R Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
| | - Tina Buerki-Thurnherr
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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Sharma A, Sah N, Kannan S, Kannan RM. Targeted drug delivery for maternal and perinatal health: Challenges and opportunities. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 177:113950. [PMID: 34454979 PMCID: PMC8544131 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pre-existing conditions at reproductive age, and complications arising during pregnancy can be detrimental to maternal and fetal health. Current therapies to combat obstetric disorders are limited due to the inherent complexity of pregnancy, and can have harmful effects on developing fetus. Emerging research shows intricate signaling between the cells from mother and fetus at maternal-fetal interface, providing unique opportunities for interventions specifically targeted to the mother, fetus, or placenta. Advancements in nanotechnology, stem-cell biology and gene therapy have resulted in target-specific treatments with promising results in pre-clinical maternal and fetal disorder models. Comprehensive understanding of the effect of physicochemical properties of delivery systems on their uptake, retention and accumulation across placenta will help in the better diagnosis and treatment of perinatal disorders. This review describes the factors leading to obstetric complications along with their effect on pregnancy outcomes, and discusses key targeted therapeutic strategies for addressing conditions related to maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Sharma
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Nirnath Sah
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Sujatha Kannan
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore MD, 21205, USA
| | - Rangaramanujam M Kannan
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore MD, 21205, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD, 21218, USA.
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Zhao J, Chow RP, McLeese RH, Hookham MB, Lyons TJ, Yu JY. Modelling preeclampsia: a comparative analysis of the common human trophoblast cell lines. FASEB Bioadv 2021; 3:23-35. [PMID: 33521587 PMCID: PMC7805545 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2020-00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia remains a challenge without an effective therapy. Evidence supports targetability of soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1) and soluble endoglin (sEng), which are released excessively from the placenta under ischemic and hypoxic stresses. We compared four trophoblast cell lines, BeWo, Jar, Jeg‐3, and HTR‐8/SVneo, in order to identify a suitable model for drug screening. Cultured trophoblasts were exposed to 1% oxygen vs. normoxia for 24‐48 hr; human umbilical vein and aortic endothelial cells were included for comparison. Supernatant sFlt‐1 and sEng concentrations were measured by ELISA, and sFlt‐1 mRNA expression determined by RT‐PCR. Cellular responses to experimental therapeutics were explored. All four trophoblast lines secreted sEng, which did not increase by hypoxia. BeWo, Jar, and Jeg‐3 exhibited significantly enhanced expression of sFlt‐1 i13 and e15a mRNA in response to hypoxia; however, only BeWo released a detectable level of sFlt‐1 protein, which was doubled by hypoxia. In contrast, hypoxia decreased sFlt‐1 mRNA expression and protein release in HTR‐8/SVneo, similarly to endothelial cells. The cellular mechanism involved HIFα. BeWo responded to representative agents similarly to human primary placental tissues in the literature. These data support that the BeWo‐hypoxia model mimics a key pathogenic mechanism of preeclampsia and has potential value for translational drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawu Zhao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK
| | - Rebecca P Chow
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Department of Medicine Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC USA
| | - Rebecca H McLeese
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Department of Medicine Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC USA
| | - Michelle B Hookham
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK
| | - Timothy J Lyons
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Department of Medicine Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC USA
| | - Jeremy Y Yu
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Department of Medicine Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC USA
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Pastor-Fernández I, Collantes-Fernández E, Jiménez-Pelayo L, Ortega-Mora LM, Horcajo P. Modeling the Ruminant Placenta-Pathogen Interactions in Apicomplexan Parasites: Current and Future Perspectives. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:634458. [PMID: 33553293 PMCID: PMC7859336 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.634458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii are one of the main concerns of the livestock sector as they cause important economic losses in ruminants due to the reproductive failure. It is well-known that the interaction of these parasites with the placenta determines the course of infection, leading to fetal death or parasite transmission to the offspring. However, to advance the development of effective vaccines and treatments, there are still important gaps on knowledge on the placental host-parasite interactions that need to be addressed. Ruminant animal models are still an indispensable tool for providing a global view of the pathogenesis, lesions, and immune responses, but their utilization embraces important economic and ethics restrictions. Alternative in vitro systems based on caruncular and trophoblast cells, the key cellular components of placentomes, have emerged in the last years, but their use can only offer a partial view of the processes triggered after infection as they cannot mimic the complex placental architecture and neglect the activity of resident immune cells. These drawbacks could be solved using placental explants, broadly employed in human medicine, and able to preserve its cellular architecture and function. Despite the availability of such materials is constrained by their short shelf-life, the development of adequate cryopreservation protocols could expand their use for research purposes. Herein, we review and discuss existing (and potential) in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo ruminant placental models that have proven useful to unravel the pathogenic mechanisms and the host immune responses responsible for fetal death (or protection) caused by neosporosis and toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Pilar Horcajo
- Animal Health and Zoonoses (SALUVET) Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Costa IN, Ribeiro M, Silva Franco P, da Silva RJ, de Araújo TE, Milián ICB, Luz LC, Guirelli PM, Nakazato G, Mineo JR, Mineo TWP, Barbosa BF, Ferro EAV. Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles Can Control Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Both Human Trophoblast Cells and Villous Explants. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:623947. [PMID: 33552033 PMCID: PMC7858645 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.623947] [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: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine plus folinic acid is the conventional treatment for congenital toxoplasmosis. However, this classical treatment presents teratogenic effects and bone marrow suppression. In this sense, new therapeutic strategies are necessary to reduce these effects and improve the control of infection. In this context, biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNp-Bio) appear as a promising alternative since they have antimicrobial, antiviral, and antiparasitic activity. The purpose of this study to investigate the action of AgNp-Bio in BeWo cells, HTR-8/SVneo cells and villous explants and its effects against Toxoplasma gondii infection. Both cells and villous explants were treated with different concentrations of AgNp-Bio or combination of sulfadiazine + pyrimethamine (SDZ + PYZ) in order to verify the viability. After, cells and villi were infected and treated with AgNp-Bio or SDZ + PYZ in different concentrations to ascertain the parasite proliferation and cytokine production profile. AgNp-Bio treatment did not reduce the cell viability and villous explants. Significant reduction was observed in parasite replication in both cells and villous explants treated with silver nanoparticles and classical treatment. The AgNp-Bio treatment increased of IL-4 and IL-10 by BeWo cells, while HTR8/SVneo cells produced macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and IL-4. In the presence of T. gondii, the treatment induced high levels of MIF production by BeWo cells and IL-6 by HTR8SV/neo. In villous explants, the AgNp-Bio treatment downregulated production of IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 after infection. In conclusion, AgNp-Bio can decrease T. gondii infection in trophoblast cells and villous explants. Therefore, this treatment demonstrated the ability to reduce the T. gondii proliferation with induction of inflammatory mediators in the cells and independent of mediators in chorionic villus which we consider the use of AgNp-Bio promising in the treatment of toxoplasmosis in BeWo and HTR8/SVneo cell models and in chorionic villi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idessania Nazareth Costa
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology of Neglected Diseases and Cancer, Center of Biological Sciences, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Mayara Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Priscila Silva Franco
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Rafaela José da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Thádia Evelyn de Araújo
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Iliana Claudia Balga Milián
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Luana Carvalho Luz
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Pâmela Mendonça Guirelli
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Gerson Nakazato
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology of Neglected Diseases and Cancer, Center of Biological Sciences, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Tiago W. P. Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Bellisa Freitas Barbosa
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
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Pravastatin Promotes Endothelial Colony-Forming Cell Function, Angiogenic Signaling and Protein Expression In Vitro. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10020183. [PMID: 33419165 PMCID: PMC7825508 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is a primary feature of several cardiovascular diseases. Endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) represent a highly proliferative subtype of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), which are involved in neovascularization and vascular repair. Statins are known to improve the outcome of cardiovascular diseases via pleiotropic effects. We hypothesized that treatment with the 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl–coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor pravastatin increases ECFCs’ functional capacities and regulates the expression of proteins which modulate endothelial health in a favourable manner. Umbilical cord blood derived ECFCs were incubated with different concentrations of pravastatin with or without mevalonate, a key intermediate in cholesterol synthesis. Functional capacities such as migration, proliferation and tube formation were addressed in corresponding in vitro assays. mRNA and protein levels or phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and endoglin (Eng) were analyzed by real time PCR or immunoblot, respectively. Proliferation, migration and tube formation of ECFCs were enhanced after pravastatin treatment, and AKT- and eNOS-phosphorylation were augmented. Further, expression levels of HO-1, VEGF-A and PlGF were increased, whereas expression levels of sFlt-1 and Eng were decreased. Pravastatin induced effects were reversible by the addition of mevalonate. Pravastatin induces beneficial effects on ECFC function, angiogenic signaling and protein expression. These effects may contribute to understand the pleiotropic function of statins as well as to provide a promising option to improve ECFCs’ condition in cell therapy in order to ameliorate endothelial dysfunction.
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Liu Z, Zhang F, Zhao L, Zhang X, Li Y, Liu L. Protective Effect of Pravastatin on Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Regulation of the miR-93/Nrf2/ARE Signal Pathway. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2020; 14:3853-3864. [PMID: 33061292 PMCID: PMC7519819 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s251726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This research intended to study the mechanism of pravastatin in myocardial ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury. Patients and Methods Altogether 70 male rats were selected and grouped into Sham operation group (Sham group), ischemia reperfusion group (I/R group), pravastatin pretreatment group (I/R+P group), I/R+miR-93-mimics, I/R+P+miR-93-mimics, I/R+Nrf2 siRNA, and I/R+P+Nrf2 siRNA group. The myocardial function of each group was detected. Results Myocardial I/R injury could lead to abnormal myocardial enzyme activity, inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress. However, pravastatin could significantly inhibit the activity of myocardial enzymes, alleviate inflammatory reaction and inhibit oxidative stress reaction, thus playing a protective role. Furthermore, cell experiments showed that pravastatin can alleviate the injury of H9C2 myocardial cells caused by I/R, inhibit the apoptosis of myocardial cells, and lead to a significant reduction in pro-apoptotic genes Bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9 transcription levels, an obvious increase in anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2, and an increase in cell activity. After I/R induced injury, miR-93 level was significantly up-regulated and Nrf2 level was down-regulated. Over-expression of miR-93 or inhibition of Nrf2 expression would lead to further aggravation of I/R myocardial injury, increase the apoptosis rate of cells and decrease the activity of myocardial cells. Pravastatin administration could inhibit miR-93, activate and promote Nrf2 in myocardial tissue, and promote protein expression of downstream regulatory genes HO-1 and NQO1. In the I/R model, pravastatin was given. Over-expression of miR-93 or silencing Nrf2 could reverse the therapeutic effect of pravastatin on I/R. Conclusion Pravastatin acts as a protector on myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury by regulating miR-93/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Xinxiang Central Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Fucheng Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Xinxiang Central Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lipei Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Xinxiang Central Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueping Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Xinxiang Central Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yibo Li
- Department of Cardiology, Xinxiang Central Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Xinxiang Central Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
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Kumasawa K, Iriyama T, Nagamatsu T, Osuga Y, Fujii T. Pravastatin for preeclampsia: From animal to human. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 46:1255-1262. [PMID: 32485787 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is characterized by the emergence of hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of pregnancy, and it threatens both maternal and fetal lives if it proceeds unabated. Despite numerous studies, thus far the only fundamental therapy for preeclampsia is termination of pregnancy, leading to preterm birth. Furthermore, preeclamptic women are reported to be at risk for cardiovascular diseases for 10 years after delivery. Therefore, preventative and therapeutic strategies for preeclampsia are required. Recently, statins have been reported to improve the regeneration of vascular endothelium, and pravastatin has attracted attention as a potential preventative or therapeutic candidate for preeclampsia. Pravastatin has been demonstrated to have preventative effects in preeclampsia model mice, and a large volume of human data from pregnant women taking statins supports the safety of these drugs. Moreover, small clinical trials have reported that pravastatin has strong preventative or therapeutic effects on preeclampsia and it has the potential to improve the prognosis of pregnant women, fetuses and neonates affected by this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichi Kumasawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Iriyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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de Araújo TE, Milián ICB, de Souza G, da Silva RJ, Rosini AM, Guirelli PM, Franco PS, Barbosa BF, Ferro EAV, da Costa IN. Experimental models of maternal-fetal interface and their potential use for nanotechnology applications. Cell Biol Int 2020; 44:36-50. [PMID: 31469205 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the placenta regulates the transfer of oxygen, nutrients, and residual products between the maternal and fetal bloodstreams and is a key determinant of fetal exposure to xenobiotics from the mother. To study the disposition of substances through the placenta, various experimental models are used, especially the perfused placenta, placental villi explants, and cell lineage models. In this context, nanotechnology, an area of study that is on the rise, enables the creation of particles on nanometric scales capable of releasing drugs aimed at specific tissues. An important reason for furthering the studies on transplacental transfer is to explore the potential of nanoparticles (NPs), in new delivery strategies for drugs that are specifically aimed at the mother, the placenta, or the fetus and that involve less toxicity. Due to the fact that the placental barrier is essential for the interaction between the maternal and fetal organisms as well as the possibility of NPs being used in the treatment of various pathologies, the aim of this review is to present the main experimental models used in studying the maternal-fetal interaction and the action of NPs in the placental environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thádia Evelyn de Araújo
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Iliana Claudia Balga Milián
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Guilherme de Souza
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Rafaela José da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Monteiro Rosini
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Pâmela Mendonça Guirelli
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Priscila Silva Franco
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Bellisa Freitas Barbosa
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Idessania Nazareth da Costa
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil.,Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Pathological Sciences, Center of Biological Sciences, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
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Pánczél Z, Kukor Z, Supák D, Kovács B, Kecskeméti A, Czizel R, Djurecz M, Alasztics B, Csomó KB, Hrabák A, Valent S. Pravastatin induces NO synthesis by enhancing microsomal arginine uptake in healthy and preeclamptic placentas. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:426. [PMID: 31747921 PMCID: PMC6868828 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2507-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pravastatin, a known inducer of endothelial nitric-oxide synthase (eNOS) was demonstrated in human placenta, however the exact mechanism of it's action is not fully understood. Since placental NO (nitric oxide) synthesis is of primary importance in the regulation of placental blood flow, we aimed to clarify the effects of pravastatin on healthy (n = 6) and preeclamptic (n = 6) placentas (Caucasian participants). METHODS The eNOS activity of human placental microsomes was determined by the conversion rate of C14 L-arginine into C14 L-citrulline with or without pravastatin and Geldanamycin. Phosphorylation of eNOS (Ser1177) was investigated by Western blot. Microsomal arginine uptake was measured by a rapid filtration method. RESULTS Pravastatin significantly increased total eNOS activity in healthy (28%, p<0.05) and preeclamptic placentas (32%, p<0.05) using 1 mM Ca2+ promoting the dissociation of a eNOS from it's inhibitor caveolin. Pravastatin and Geldanamycin (Hsp90 inhibitor) cotreatment increased microsomal eNOS activity. Pravastatin treatment had no significant effects on Ser1177 phosphorylation of eNOS in either healthy or preeclamptic placentas. Pravastatin induced arginine uptake of placental microsomes in both healthy (38%, p < 0.05) and preeclamptic pregnancies (34%, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This study provides a novel mechanism of pravastatin action on placental NO metabolism. Pravastatin induces the placental microsomal arginine uptake leading to the rapid activation of eNOS independently of Ser1177 phosphorylation. These new findings may contribute to better understanding of preeclampsia and may also have a clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zita Pánczél
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 78/A, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Kukor
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary.
| | - Dorina Supák
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 78/A, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
| | - Bence Kovács
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 78/A, Budapest, 1088, Hungary.,Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - András Kecskeméti
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 78/A, Budapest, 1088, Hungary.,Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Rita Czizel
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Magdolna Djurecz
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Bálint Alasztics
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 78/A, Budapest, 1088, Hungary.,Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Benedek Csomó
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - András Hrabák
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 37-47, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Sándor Valent
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 78/A, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
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Placental Origins of Preeclampsia: Potential Therapeutic Targets. Curr Med Sci 2019; 39:190-195. [PMID: 31016509 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-019-2018-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in obstetrics worldwide. No effective treatments to reduce its incidence and severity in clinical practice are currently available. A variety of hypotheses have been generated aiming to explain the origins of PE, notably being the genetic predispositions and placental dysfunction. As regard to placental dysfunction, much progress has been made in basic research and several potential therapeutic targets have been identified. This review will discuss in detail the potential therapeutic targets in PE models including uteroplacental blood flow, oxidative stress, vasoactive factors and inflammation/immune response, and introduce the evolving technologies for placental research nowadays.
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Huai J, Yang Z, Yi YH, Wang GJ. Different Effects of Pravastatin on Preeclampsia-like Symptoms in Different Mouse Models. Chin Med J (Engl) 2018; 131:461-470. [PMID: 29451152 PMCID: PMC5830832 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.225058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pravastatin (Pra) exerts protective effects on preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a multifactorial and pathogenic pathway syndrome. The present study compared the effects of Pra on clinical manifestations of preeclampsia in different pathogenic pathways. Methods Two different preeclampsia-like mouse models used in this study were generated with Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) and used lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from day 7 of gestation, respectively. Pra treatment was administered on day 2 after the models were established in each group (L-NAME + Pra, LPS + Pra, and Control + Pra, n = 8) or normal saline (NS) for the control group (L-NAME + NS, LPS + NS, and Control + NS, n = 8). Maternal weight, serum lipids, the histopathological changes, and lipid deposition in the liver and placenta were observed. The pregnancy outcomes were compared. The blood pressure analysis was carried out on repeated measurements of variance. Student's t-test was used for comparing the two groups. The enumeration data were compared by Chi-square test. Results The mean arterial pressure (MAP) and 24-h urinary protein in the L-NAME + NS and LPS + NS groups were significantly higher than the Control + NS group (F = 211.05 and 309.92 for MAP, t = 6.63 and 8.63 for 24-h urinary protein; all P < 0.05) and reduced in the L-NAME + Pra group as compared to the L-NAME + NS group (F = 208.60 for MAP, t = 6.77 for urinary protein; both P < 0.05). Urinary protein was decreased in the LPS + Pra group as compared to the LPS + NS group (t = 5.33; P < 0.05), whereas MAP had no statistical significance (F = 3.37; P > 0.05). Compared to the Control + NS group, the placental efficiency in the L-NAME + NS and LPS + NS groups decreased significantly (t = 3.09 and 2.89, respectively; both P < 0.05); however, no significant difference was observed in L-NAME + Pra and LPS + Pra groups (t = 1.37 and 0.58, respectively; both P > 0.05). Free fatty acid was elevated in the L-NAME + NS group as compared to the Control + NS group (t = 3.99; P < 0.05) at day 18 of pregnancy and decreased in the L-NAME + Pra group as compared to the L-NAME + NS group (t = 3.28; P < 0.05); however, no significant change was observed in the LPS model (F = 0.32; P > 0.05). Conclusion This study suggested that Pra affected the clinical manifestations differently in preeclampsia-like mouse models generated in various pathogenic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Huai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China, china
| | - Zi Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China, china
| | - Yan-Hong Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China, china
| | - Guang-Jiao Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China, china
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16
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Abstract
Importance We have performed a systematic search to summarize the role of statins for preventing and treating severe preeclampsia. Objective The aim of this study was to examine whether pravastatin is a useful and safe alternative for treating preeclampsia during pregnancy. Evidence Acquisition A systematic MEDLINE (PubMed) search was performed (1979 to June 2017), which was restricted to articles published in English, using the relevant key words of "statins," "pregnancy," "preeclampsia," "obstetrical antiphospholipid syndrome," and "teratogenicity." Results The initial search provided 296 articles. Finally, 146 articles were related to the use of statins during pregnancy, regarding their effect on the fetus and the treatment of preeclampsia. Ten studies were related to in vitro studies, 25 in animals, and 24 in humans (13 case report series and 11 cohort studies). We found 84 studies on reviews of such guidelines on cardiovascular disease (35 studies), use of statins in the antiphospholipid syndrome (25 studies), statin's specific use during pregnancy (13 studies), or preeclampsia treatment (11 studies). Conclusions Although the studies are of poor quality, the rate of major congenital abnormalities in the newborn exposed to statins during pregnancy is no higher than the expected when compared with overall risk population. The review shows a potential beneficial role of statins in preventing and treating severe preeclampsia that needs to be evaluated through well-designed clinical trials. Relevance This update could influence positively the clinical practice, giving an alternative therapy for clinicians who treat preeclampsia, particularly in severe cases.
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Yang MY, Diao ZY, Wang ZY, Yan GJ, Zhao GF, Zheng MM, Dai AY, Dai YM, Hu YL. Pravastatin alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced placental TLR4 over-activation and promotes uterine arteriole remodeling without impairing rat fetal development. J Biomed Res 2018; 32:288-297. [PMID: 30008464 PMCID: PMC6117606 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.32.20180039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is associated with over-activation of the innate immune system in the placenta, in which toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an essential part. With their potent anti-inflammatory effects, statins have been suggested as potential prevention or treatment of preeclampsia, although evidence remains inadequate. Herewith, we investigated whether pravastatin could ameliorate preeclampsia-like phenotypes in a previously established lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced rat preeclampsia model, through targeting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. The results showed that pravastatin reduced the blood pressure [maximum decline on gestational day (GD) 12, (101.33±2.49) mmHg vs. (118.3±1.37) mmHg, P<0.05] and urine protein level [maximum decline on GD9, (3,726.23±1,572.86)μg vs. (1,991.03±609.37)μg, P<0.05], which were elevated following LPS administration. Pravastatin also significantly reduced the rate of fetal growth restriction in LPS-treated rats (34.10% vs. 8.99%, P<0.05). Further pathological analyses suggested a restoration of normal spiral artery remodeling in preeclampsia rats by pravastatin treatment. These effects of pravastatin were associated with decreased TLR4/NF-κB protein levels in the placenta and IL-6/MCP-1 levels in serum. Additionally, no obvious abnormalities in fetal liver, brain, and kidney were found after administration of pravastatin. These results provide supportive evidence for use of pravastatin in preventing preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Yi Yang
- Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Zhen-Yu Diao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Zhi-Yin Wang
- Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Gui-Jun Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Guang-Feng Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Ming-Ming Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - An-Yi Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Yi-Min Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Ya-Li Hu
- Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the current data on maternal cardiovascular adaptation in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia. RECENT FINDINGS Defective placentation causes early-onset preeclampsia, a disease entity that is considered more or less distinct from late-onset preeclampsia. The latter has been attributed as 'maternal' preeclampsia. There are inconsistencies with the placental origins hypothesis, especially when considering the lack of a causative association with abnormal placental histology or impaired fetal growth. An alternative explanation is that placental dysfunction is secondary to maternal cardiovascular maladaptation in pregnancy. The concept that placental dysfunction is secondary to a maternal disorder is not new when one considers the clinical similarities between preeclampsia and gestational diabetes - both pregnancy-specific conditions that are cured by birth. It is accepted that gestational diabetes develops when the maternal pancreas is unable to manage the increasing glucose load of pregnancy. It is now apparent that pregnancy presents a substantial cardiovascular load on the maternal heart, and that cardiovascular dysfunction precedes the disorder, predominates in the clinical syndrome and persists for several decades postpartum. It is time to consider the evidence that failure of the maternal cardiovascular system to adapt to pregnancy may well be the primary mechanism leading to secondary placental dysfunction in preeclampsia. SUMMARY Many of the existing paradoxes of preeclampsia challenge the placental origin hypothesis and are explained if one considered preeclampsia to be a cardiovascular syndrome.
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Jurisic A, Jurisic Z, Lefkou E, Pombo J, Girardi G. Pravastatin and-L-arginine combination improves umbilical artery blood flow and neonatal outcomes in dichorionic twin pregnancies through an nitric oxide-dependent vasorelaxant effect. Vascul Pharmacol 2018; 110:64-70. [PMID: 29879462 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The increase in fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality associated with twin pregnancies correlates with an increased risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Although the pathogenesis of IUGR is unclear and thus management remains a major challenge, feto-placental blood vessels are compromised, and altered umbilical blood flow is observed. In this pilot observational study we investigated the effects of pravastatin plus l-arginine on umbilical artery (umb art) blood flow. Between 2013 and 2016, five women received daily doses l-arginine and pravastatin when an umb art pulsatility index above limits for gestational age was observed and concerns about selective growth restrictions arose. All patients showed selective absent or reversed end-diastolic umbilical artery Doppler flow (AREDV) associated with increased perinatal mortality. Pravastatin (PRAV) plus l-arginine (l-Arg) treatment diminished umb art resistance significantly and allowed pregnancy to continue. No signs of acidosis or hypoxia, normal cardiotocography tracing, normal fetal movement and fetal weight gain were observed in the twins that showed abnormal umb art Dopplers. All neonates were born around 33 weeks (median 33 weeks, IQR [31.4-33.0]), thus diminishing substantially the chances for any prematurity-associated adverse neonatal outcomes. The infants now show normal growth and development. In in vitro studies, pravastatin induced relaxation of aortic rings. Murine studies identified were performed to investigate the mechanism behind PRAV+L-Arg beneficial effects. A nitric oxide (NO)-dependent synergistic vasorelaxant effect of PRAV+L-Arg was demonstrated using aortic rings. Increased levels of placental NO and increased synthesis of eNOS in placental endothelial cells were observed in mice treated with PRAV+L-Arg compared to untreated mice and mice treated with PRAV- or L-Arg alone. This study suggests that PRAV plus L-Arg might be a good therapeutic option to improve blood flow in umbilical arteries prolonging pregnancy and improving pregnancy outcomes in twins. A RCT should be organized to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Jurisic
- University of Belgrade Medical School, Narodni Front University Hospital, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | | | - Joaquim Pombo
- Division of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Guillermina Girardi
- Division of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, United Kingdom.
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Brownbill P, Sebire N, McGillick EV, Ellery S, Murthi P. Ex Vivo Dual Perfusion of the Human Placenta: Disease Simulation, Therapeutic Pharmacokinetics and Analysis of Off-Target Effects. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1710:173-189. [PMID: 29197003 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7498-6_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years ex vivo dual perfusion of the human placental lobule is seeing an international renaissance in its application to understanding fetal health and development. Here, we discuss the methods and uses of this technique in the evaluation of (1) vascular function, (2) transplacental clearance, (3) hemodynamic and oxygenation changes associated with pregnancy complications on placental structure and function, and (4) placental toxicology and post-perfusion evaluation of tissue architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Brownbill
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
- St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
| | - Neil Sebire
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Erin V McGillick
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Stacey Ellery
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Padma Murthi
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Valero L, Alhareth K, Gil S, Simasotchi C, Roques C, Scherman D, Mignet N, Fournier T, Andrieux K. Assessment of dually labelled PEGylated liposomes transplacental passage and placental penetration using a combination of two ex-vivo human models: the dually perfused placenta and the suspended villous explants. Int J Pharm 2017; 532:729-737. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.07.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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22
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Girardi G. Pravastatin to treat and prevent preeclampsia. Preclinical and clinical studies. J Reprod Immunol 2017; 124:15-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Abstract
Placental dysfunction underlies major obstetric diseases such as pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR). Whilst there has been a little progress in prophylaxis, there are still no treatments for placental dysfunction in normal obstetric practice. However, a combination of increasingly well-described in vitro systems for studying the human placenta, together with the availability of more appropriate animal models of pre-eclampsia and FGR, has facilitated a recent surge in work aimed at repurposing drugs and therapies, developed for other conditions, as treatments for placental dysfunction. This review: (1) highlights potential candidate drug targets in the placenta - effectors of improved uteroplacental blood flow, anti-oxidants, heme oxygenase induction, inhibition of HIF, induction of cholesterol synthesis pathways, increasing insulin-like growth factor II availability; (2) proposes an experimental pathway for taking a potential drug or treatment for placental dysfunction from concept through to early phase clinical trials, utilizing techniques for studying the human placenta in vitro and small animal models, particularly the mouse, for in vivo studies; (3) describes the data underpinning sildenafil citrate and adenovirus expressing vascular endothelial growth as potential treatments for placental dysfunction and summarizes recent research on other potential treatments. The importance of sharing information from such studies even when no effect is found, or there is an adverse outcome, is highlighted. Finally, the use of adenoviral vectors or nanoparticle carriers coated with homing peptides to selectively target drugs to the placenta is highlighted: such delivery systems could improve efficacy and reduce the side effects of treating the dysfunctional placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin P Sibley
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research CentreDivision of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- St Mary's HospitalCentral Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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