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Dai Y, Itai T, Pei G, Yan F, Chu Y, Jiang X, Weinberg SM, Mukhopadhyay N, Marazita ML, Simon LM, Jia P, Zhao Z. DeepFace: Deep-learning-based framework to contextualize orofacial-cleft-related variants during human embryonic craniofacial development. HGG ADVANCES 2024; 5:100312. [PMID: 38796699 PMCID: PMC11193024 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2024.100312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are among the most common human congenital birth defects. Previous multiethnic studies have identified dozens of associated loci for both cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) and cleft palate alone (CP). Although several nearby genes have been highlighted, the "casual" variants are largely unknown. Here, we developed DeepFace, a convolutional neural network model, to assess the functional impact of variants by SNP activity difference (SAD) scores. The DeepFace model is trained with 204 epigenomic assays from crucial human embryonic craniofacial developmental stages of post-conception week (pcw) 4 to pcw 10. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the predicted and actual values for 12 epigenetic features achieved a median range of 0.50-0.83. Specifically, our model revealed that SNPs significantly associated with OFCs tended to exhibit higher SAD scores across various variant categories compared to less related groups, indicating a context-specific impact of OFC-related SNPs. Notably, we identified six SNPs with a significant linear relationship to SAD scores throughout developmental progression, suggesting that these SNPs could play a temporal regulatory role. Furthermore, our cell-type specificity analysis pinpointed the trophoblast cell as having the highest enrichment of risk signals associated with OFCs. Overall, DeepFace can harness distal regulatory signals from extensive epigenomic assays, offering new perspectives for prioritizing OFC variants using contextualized functional genomic features. We expect DeepFace to be instrumental in accessing and predicting the regulatory roles of variants associated with OFCs, and the model can be extended to study other complex diseases or traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Dai
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Toshiyuki Itai
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Guangsheng Pei
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Fangfang Yan
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yan Chu
- Center for Secure Artificial Intelligence for Healthcare, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaoqian Jiang
- Center for Secure Artificial Intelligence for Healthcare, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Seth M Weinberg
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Department of Human Genetics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Nandita Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Mary L Marazita
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Department of Human Genetics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Clinical and Translational Science Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lukas M Simon
- Therapeutic Innovation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Peilin Jia
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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2
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Azagury M, Buganim Y. Unlocking trophectoderm mysteries: In vivo and in vitro perspectives on human and mouse trophoblast fate induction. Dev Cell 2024; 59:941-960. [PMID: 38653193 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.029] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the pursuit of inducing the trophoblast stem cell (TSC) state has gained prominence as a compelling research objective, illuminating the establishment of the trophoblast lineage and unlocking insights into early embryogenesis. In this review, we examine how advancements in diverse technologies, including in vivo time course transcriptomics, cellular reprogramming to TSC state, chemical induction of totipotent stem-cell-like state, and stem-cell-based embryo-like structures, have enriched our insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that define the mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC states. We delve into disparities between mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC fate establishment, with a special emphasis on the intriguing role of pluripotency in this context. Additionally, we re-evaluate recent findings concerning the potential of totipotent-stem-like cells and embryo-like structures to fully manifest the trophectoderm/trophoblast lineage's capabilities. Lastly, we briefly discuss the potential applications of induced TSCs in pregnancy-related disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meir Azagury
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Yosef Buganim
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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3
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Anvar Z, Chakchouk I, Sharif M, Mahadevan S, Su L, Anikar S, Naini FA, Utama AB, Van den Veyver IB. Comparison of Four Protocols for In Vitro Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells into Trophoblast Lineages by BMP4 and Dual Inhibition of Activin/Nodal and FGF2 Signaling. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:173-189. [PMID: 37658178 PMCID: PMC10784360 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01334-5] [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: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) cultured in media containing bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4; B) differentiate into trophoblast-like cells. Supplementing media with inhibitors of activin/nodal signaling (A83-01) and of fibroblast growth factor 2 (PD173074) suppresses mesoderm and endoderm formation and improves specification of trophoblast-like lineages, but with variable effectiveness. We compared differentiation in four BMP4-containing media: mTeSR1-BMP4 only, mTeSR1-BAP, basal medium with BAP (basal-BAP), and a newly defined medium, E7-BAP. These media variably drive early differentiation towards trophoblast-like lineages with upregulation of early trophoblast markers CDX2 and KRT7 and downregulation of pluripotency markers (OCT4 and NANOG). As expected, based on differences between media in FGF2 and its inhibitors, downregulation of mesendoderm marker EOMES was variable between media. By day 7, only hESCs grown in E7-BAP or basal-BAP expressed HLA-G protein, indicating the presence of cells with extravillous trophoblast characteristics. Expression of HLA-G and other differentiation markers (hCG, KRT7, and GCM1) was highest in basal-BAP, suggesting a faster differentiation in this medium, but those cultures were more inhomogeneous and still expressed some endodermal and pluripotency markers. In E7-BAP, HLA-G expression increased later and was lower. There was also a low but maintained expression of some C19MC miRNAs, with more CpG hypomethylation of the ELF5 promoter, suggesting that E7-BAP cultures differentiate slower along the trophoblast lineage. We conclude that while all protocols drive differentiation into trophoblast lineages with varying efficiency, they have advantages and disadvantages that must be considered when selecting a protocol for specific experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Anvar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Imen Chakchouk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Momal Sharif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sangeetha Mahadevan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Li Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Swathi Anikar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fatemeh Alavi Naini
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Ignatia B Van den Veyver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, 1250 Moursund Street, Room 1025.14, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Liu X, Wang G, Huang H, Lv X, Si Y, Bai L, Wang G, Li Q, Yang W. Exploring maternal-fetal interface with in vitro placental and trophoblastic models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1279227. [PMID: 38033854 PMCID: PMC10682727 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1279227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta, being a temporary organ, plays a crucial role in facilitating the exchange of nutrients and gases between the mother and the fetus during pregnancy. Any abnormalities in the development of this vital organ not only lead to various pregnancy-related disorders that can result in fetal injury or death, but also have long-term effects on maternal health. In vitro models have been employed to study the physiological features and molecular regulatory mechanisms of placental development, aiming to gain a detailed understanding of the pathogenesis of pregnancy-related diseases. Among these models, trophoblast stem cell culture and organoids show great promise. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current mature trophoblast stem cell models and emerging organoid models, while also discussing other models in a systematic manner. We believe that this knowledge will be valuable in guiding further exploration of the complex maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlu Liu
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Emergency, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Haiqin Huang
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Lv
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Yanru Si
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Lixia Bai
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Guohui Wang
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Qinghua Li
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Weiwei Yang
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
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5
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Naama M, Buganim Y. Human trophoblast stem cell-state acquisition from pluripotent stem cells and somatic cells. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2023; 81:102084. [PMID: 37451165 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2023.102084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
For an extended period of time, research on human embryo implantation and early placentation was hindered by ethical limitation and lack of appropriate in vitro models. Recently, an explosion of new research has significantly expanded our knowledge of early human trophoblast development and facilitated the derivation and culture of self-renewing human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs). Multiple approaches have been undertaken in efforts to derive and understand hTSCs, including from blastocysts, early trophoblast tissue, and, more recently, from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) and somatic cells. In this concise review, we summarize recent advances in derivation of hTSCs, with a focus on derivation from naive and primed hPSCs, as well as via reprogramming of somatic cells into induced hTSCs. Each of these methods harbors distinct advantages and setbacks, which are discussed. Finally, we briefly explore the possibility of the existence of trophectoderm-like hTSCs corresponding to earlier, preimplantation trophoblast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moriyah Naama
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Yosef Buganim
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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6
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Zorzan I, Betto RM, Rossignoli G, Arboit M, Drusin A, Corridori C, Martini P, Martello G. Chemical conversion of human conventional PSCs to TSCs following transient naive gene activation. EMBO Rep 2023; 24:e55235. [PMID: 36847616 PMCID: PMC10074076 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202255235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In human embryos, naive pluripotent cells of the inner cell mass (ICM) generate epiblast, primitive endoderm and trophectoderm (TE) lineages, whence trophoblast cells derive. In vitro, naive pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) retain this potential and efficiently generate trophoblast stem cells (TSCs), while conventional PSCs form TSCs at low efficiency. Transient histone deacetylase and MEK inhibition combined with LIF stimulation is used to chemically reset conventional to naive PSCs. Here, we report that chemical resetting induces the expression of both naive and TSC markers and of placental imprinted genes. A modified chemical resetting protocol allows for the fast and efficient conversion of conventional PSCs into TSCs, entailing shutdown of pluripotency genes and full activation of the trophoblast master regulators, without induction of amnion markers. Chemical resetting generates a plastic intermediate state, characterised by co-expression of naive and TSC markers, after which cells steer towards one of the two fates in response to the signalling environment. The efficiency and rapidity of our system will be useful to study cell fate transitions and to generate models of placental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Zorzan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | | | - Mattia Arboit
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Drusin
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Martini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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7
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Karvas RM, David L, Theunissen TW. Accessing the human trophoblast stem cell state from pluripotent and somatic cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:604. [PMID: 36434136 PMCID: PMC9702929 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04549-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Trophoblasts are specialized epithelial cells that perform critical functions during blastocyst implantation and mediate maternal-fetal communication during pregnancy. However, our understanding of human trophoblast biology remains limited since access to first-trimester placental tissue is scarce, especially between the first and fourth weeks of development. Moreover, animal models inadequately recapitulate unique aspects of human placental physiology. In the mouse system, the isolation of self-renewing trophoblast stem cells has provided a valuable in vitro model system of placental development, but the derivation of analogous human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) has remained elusive until recently. Building on a landmark study reporting the isolation of bona fide hTSCs from blastocysts and first-trimester placental tissues in 2018, several groups have developed methods to derive hTSCs from pluripotent and somatic cell sources. Here we review the biological and molecular properties that define authentic hTSCs, the trophoblast potential of distinct pluripotent states, and methods for inducing hTSCs in somatic cells by direct reprogramming. The generation of hTSCs from pluripotent and somatic cells presents exciting opportunities to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of human placental development and the etiology of pregnancy-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan M Karvas
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Laurent David
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CR2TI, UMR 1064, 44000, Nantes, France.
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CNRS, Biocore, US 016, UAR 3556, 44000, Nantes, France.
| | - Thorold W Theunissen
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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Cox BJ, Naismith K. Here and there a trophoblast, a transcriptional evaluation of trophoblast cell models. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:584. [PMID: 36346530 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04589-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
A recent explosion of methods to produce human trophoblast and stem cells (hTSCs) is fuelling a renewed interest in this tissue. The trophoblast is critical to reproduction by facilitating implantation, maternal physiological adaptations to pregnancy and the growth of the fetus through transport of nutrients between the mother and fetus. More broadly, the trophoblast has phenotypic properties that make it of interest to other fields. Its angiogenic and invasive properties are similar to tumours and could identify novel drug targets, and its ability to regulate immunological tolerance of the allogenic fetus could lead to improvements in transplantations. Within this review, we integrate and assess transcriptomic data of cell-based models of hTSC alongside in vivo samples to identify the utility and applicability of these models. We also integrate single-cell RNA sequencing data sets of human blastoids, stem cells and embryos to identify how these models may recapitulate early trophoblast development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Cox
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, MS 3360, Toronto, ON, M6J2J2, Canada. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Kendra Naismith
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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9
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Delamination of trophoblast-like syncytia from the amniotic ectodermal analogue in human primed embryonic stem cell-based differentiation model. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110973. [PMID: 35732132 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human primed embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are known to be converted to cells with several trophoblast properties, but it has remained controversial whether this phenomenon represents the inherent differentiation competence of human primed ESCs to trophoblast lineages. In this study, we report that chemical blockage of ACTIVIN/NODAL and FGF signals is sufficient to steer human primed ESCs into GATA3-expressing cells that give rise to placental hormone-producing syncytia analogous to syncytiotrophoblasts of the post-implantation stage of the human embryo. Despite their cytological similarity to syncytiotrophoblasts, these syncytia arise from the non-trophoblastic differentiation trajectory that recapitulates amniogenesis. These results provide insights into the possible extraembryonic differentiation pathway that is unique in primate embryogenesis.
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10
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Transcription factor networks in trophoblast development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:337. [PMID: 35657505 PMCID: PMC9166831 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04363-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The placenta sustains embryonic development and is critical for a successful pregnancy outcome. It provides the site of exchange between the mother and the embryo, has immunological functions and is a vital endocrine organ. To perform these diverse roles, the placenta comprises highly specialized trophoblast cell types, including syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast. The coordinated actions of transcription factors (TFs) regulate their emergence during development, subsequent specialization, and identity. These TFs integrate diverse signaling cues, form TF networks, associate with chromatin remodeling and modifying factors, and collectively determine the cell type-specific characteristics. Here, we summarize the general properties of TFs, provide an overview of TFs involved in the development and function of the human trophoblast, and address similarities and differences to their murine orthologs. In addition, we discuss how the recent establishment of human in vitro models combined with -omics approaches propel our knowledge and transform the human trophoblast field.
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Kobayashi N, Okae H, Hiura H, Kubota N, Kobayashi EH, Shibata S, Oike A, Hori T, Kikutake C, Hamada H, Kaji H, Suyama M, Bortolin-Cavaillé ML, Cavaillé J, Arima T. The microRNA cluster C19MC confers differentiation potential into trophoblast lineages upon human pluripotent stem cells. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3071. [PMID: 35654791 PMCID: PMC9163035 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30775-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The first cell fate commitment during mammalian development is the specification of the inner cell mass and trophectoderm. This irreversible cell fate commitment should be epigenetically regulated, but the precise mechanism is largely unknown in humans. Here, we show that naïve human embryonic stem (hES) cells can transdifferentiate into trophoblast stem (hTS) cells, but primed hES cells cannot. Our transcriptome and methylome analyses reveal that a primate-specific miRNA cluster on chromosome 19 (C19MC) is active in naïve hES cells but epigenetically silenced in primed ones. Moreover, genome and epigenome editing using CRISPR/Cas systems demonstrate that C19MC is essential for hTS cell maintenance and C19MC-reactivated primed hES cells can give rise to hTS cells. Thus, we reveal that C19MC activation confers differentiation potential into trophoblast lineages on hES cells. Our findings are fundamental to understanding the epigenetic regulation of human early development and pluripotency. Little is known about the epigenetic mechanisms of the first cell fate commitment in humans. Here, the authors show that activation of the miRNA cluster C19MC confers differentiation potential into trophoblast lineages on human embryonic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norio Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
| | - Hitoshi Hiura
- Department of Bioscience, Faculty of Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, 156-8502, Japan
| | - Naoto Kubota
- Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Eri H Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Shun Shibata
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Akira Oike
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hori
- Department of Biomechanics, Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, 101-0062, Japan
| | - Chie Kikutake
- Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Hamada
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kaji
- Department of Biomechanics, Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, 101-0062, Japan
| | - Mikita Suyama
- Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Marie-Line Bortolin-Cavaillé
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental biology department (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | - Jérôme Cavaillé
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental biology department (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
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12
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Abstract
Treatment with bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) in human primed pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) for generating trophoblast lineage cells has sparked debate that the resulting cells are closer to amnion lineage cells rather than trophoblast. This study reports that trophoblast stem-like cells (TSLCs) can be generated from human primed PSCs by a short-term treatment of BMP4 without amnion lineage marker expression. In addition, we describe that TSLCs are self-renewing in long-term culture and bipotent as they can differentiate into functional extravillous trophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts. We propose an alternative method to generate an available model for studying human placental development from human primed PSCs. The placenta is a transient but important multifunctional organ crucial for healthy pregnancy for both mother and fetus. Nevertheless, limited access to human placenta samples and the paucity of a proper in vitro model system have hampered our understanding of the mechanisms underlying early human placental development and placenta-associated pregnancy complications. To overcome these constraints, we established a simple procedure with a short-term treatment of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) in trophoblast stem cell culture medium (TSCM) to convert human primed pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) to trophoblast stem-like cells (TSLCs). These TSLCs show not only morphology and global gene expression profiles comparable to bona fide human trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) but also long-term self-renewal capacity with bipotency that allows the cells to differentiate into functional extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) and syncytiotrophoblasts (ST). These indicate that TSLCs are equivalent to genuine human TSCs. Our data suggest a straightforward approach to make human TSCs directly from preexisting primed PSCs and provide a valuable opportunity to study human placenta development and pathology from patients with placenta-related diseases.
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13
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Genomic imprinting in human placentation. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12490. [DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
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14
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Burton GJ, Turco MY. Joan Hunt Senior award lecture: New tools to shed light on the 'black box' of pregnancy. Placenta 2021; 125:54-60. [PMID: 34952691 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Correct establishment of the placenta is critical to the success of a pregnancy, but many of the key events take place during or shortly after implantation and are inaccessible for study. This inaccessibility, coupled with the lack of a suitable preclinical animal model, means that knowledge of human early placental development and function is extremely limited. Hence, the first trimester is often referred to as the 'black box' of pregnancy. However, recent advances in the derivation of trophoblast stem cells and organoid cultures of the trophoblast and endometrium are opening new opportunities for basic and translational research, providing for the first time cells that faithfully replicate their tissue of origin and proliferate and differentiate in culture in a stable and reproducible manner. These cells are valuable new tools for investigating cell-lineage differentiation and maternal-fetal interactions, but become even more powerful when combined with advances in bioengineering, microfabrication and microfluidic technologies. Assembloids of the endometrium comprising various cell types as model systems to investigate events at implantation, and placentas-on-a-chip for the study of nutrient transfer or drug screening are just two examples. This is a rapidly advancing field that may usher in more personalised approaches to infertility and pregnancy complications. Many of the developments are still at the proof-of-principle phase, but with continued refinement they are likely to shed important light on events that are fundamental to our reproduction as individuals and as a species, yet for ethical reasons are hidden from view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham J Burton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Margherita Y Turco
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
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15
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Sheridan MA, Zhao X, Fernando RC, Gardner L, Perez-Garcia V, Li Q, Marsh SGE, Hamilton R, Moffett A, Turco MY. Characterization of primary models of human trophoblast. Development 2021; 148:272500. [PMID: 34651188 PMCID: PMC8602945 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Two recently developed models, trophoblast organoids and trophoblast stem cells (TSCs), are useful tools to further the understanding of human placental development. Both differentiate from villous cytotrophoblast (VCT) to either extravillous trophoblast (EVT) or syncytiotrophoblast (SCT). Here, we compare the transcriptomes and miRNA profiles of these models to identify which trophoblast they resemble in vivo. Our findings indicate that TSCs do not readily undergo SCT differentiation and closely resemble cells at the base of the cell columns from where EVT derives. In contrast, organoids are similar to VCT and undergo spontaneous SCT differentiation. A defining feature of human trophoblast is that VCT and SCT are human leukocyte antigen (HLA) null, whereas EVT expresses HLA-C, -G and -E molecules. We find that trophoblast organoids retain these in vivo characteristics. In contrast, TSCs express classical HLA-A and HLA-B molecules, and maintain their expression after EVT differentiation, with upregulation of HLA-G. Furthermore, HLA expression in TSCs differs when grown in 3D rather than in 2D, suggesting that mechanical cues are important. Our results can be used to select the most suitable model for the study of trophoblast development, function and pathology. Summary: Characterization of trophoblast organoids and trophoblast stem cells as exciting models of human placentation enables the selection of the most suitable system to address specific research questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Sheridan
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Department of Physiology, Neuroscience and Development, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Ridma C Fernando
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Lucy Gardner
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Vicente Perez-Garcia
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Eduardo Primo Yúfera, Valencia 46012, Spain
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.,Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Steven G E Marsh
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2QG, UK.,UCL Cancer Institute, Royal Free Campus, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Russell Hamilton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Margherita Y Turco
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
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16
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Karvas RM, McInturf S, Zhou J, Ezashi T, Schust DJ, Roberts RM, Schulz LC. Use of a human embryonic stem cell model to discover GABRP, WFDC2, VTCN1 and ACTC1 as markers of early first trimester human trophoblast. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:425-440. [PMID: 32359161 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Human placental development during early pregnancy is poorly understood. Many conceptuses are lost at this stage. It is thought that preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction and other placental syndromes that manifest later in pregnancy may originate early in placentation. Thus, there is a need for models of early human placental development. Treating human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) with BMP4 (bone morphogenic protein 4) plus A83-01 (ACTIVIN/NODAL signaling inhibitor) and PD173074 (fibroblast growth factor 2 or FGF2 signaling inhibitor) (BAP conditions) induces differentiation to the trophoblast lineage (hESCBAP), but it is not clear which stage of trophoblast differentiation these cells resemble. Here, comparison of the hESCBAP transcriptome to those of trophoblasts from human blastocysts, trophoblast stem cells and placentas collected in the first-third trimester of pregnancy by principal component analysis suggests that hESC after 8 days BAP treatment most resemble first trimester syncytiotrophoblasts. To further test this hypothesis, transcripts were identified that are expressed in hESCBAP but not in cultures of trophoblasts isolated from term placentas. Proteins encoded by four genes, GABRP (gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor subunit Pi), WFDC2 (WAP four-disulfide core domain 2), VTCN1 (V-set domain containing T-cell activation inhibitor 1) and ACTC1 (actin alpha cardiac muscle 1), immunolocalized to placentas at 4-9 weeks gestation, and their expression declined with gestational age (R2 = 0.61-0.83). None are present at term. Expression was largely localized to syncytiotrophoblast of both hESCBAP cells and placental material from early pregnancy. WFDC2, VTCN1 and ACTC1 have not previously been described in placenta. These results support the hypothesis that hESCBAP represent human trophoblast analogous to that of early first trimester and are a tool for discovery of factors important to this stage of placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan M Karvas
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Samuel McInturf
- Division of Plant Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Toshihiko Ezashi
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Danny J Schust
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - R Michael Roberts
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Biochemistry University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Laura C Schulz
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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17
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Jaremek A, Jeyarajah MJ, Jaju Bhattad G, Renaud SJ. Omics Approaches to Study Formation and Function of Human Placental Syncytiotrophoblast. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:674162. [PMID: 34211975 PMCID: PMC8240757 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.674162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper development of the placenta is vital for pregnancy success. The placenta regulates exchange of nutrients and gases between maternal and fetal blood and produces hormones essential to maintain pregnancy. The placental cell lineage primarily responsible for performing these functions is a multinucleated entity called syncytiotrophoblast. Syncytiotrophoblast is continuously replenished throughout pregnancy by fusion of underlying progenitor cells called cytotrophoblasts. Dysregulated syncytiotrophoblast formation disrupts the integrity of the placental exchange surface, which can be detrimental to maternal and fetal health. Moreover, various factors produced by syncytiotrophoblast enter into maternal circulation, where they profoundly impact maternal physiology and are promising diagnostic indicators of pregnancy health. Despite the multifunctional importance of syncytiotrophoblast for pregnancy success, there is still much to learn about how its formation is regulated in normal and diseased states. ‘Omics’ approaches are gaining traction in many fields to provide a more holistic perspective of cell, tissue, and organ function. Herein, we review human syncytiotrophoblast development and current model systems used for its study, discuss how ‘omics’ strategies have been used to provide multidimensional insights into its formation and function, and highlight limitations of current platforms as well as consider future avenues for exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Jaremek
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Mariyan J Jeyarajah
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Gargi Jaju Bhattad
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
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18
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Guo G, Stirparo GG, Strawbridge SE, Spindlow D, Yang J, Clarke J, Dattani A, Yanagida A, Li MA, Myers S, Özel BN, Nichols J, Smith A. Human naive epiblast cells possess unrestricted lineage potential. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:1040-1056.e6. [PMID: 33831366 PMCID: PMC8189439 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Classic embryological experiments have established that the early mouse embryo develops via sequential lineage bifurcations. The first segregated lineage is the trophectoderm, essential for blastocyst formation. Mouse naive epiblast and derivative embryonic stem cells are restricted accordingly from producing trophectoderm. Here we show, in contrast, that human naive embryonic stem cells readily make blastocyst trophectoderm and descendant trophoblast cell types. Trophectoderm was induced rapidly and efficiently by inhibition of ERK/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Nodal signaling. Transcriptome comparison with the human embryo substantiated direct formation of trophectoderm with subsequent differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast, cytotrophoblast, and downstream trophoblast stem cells. During pluripotency progression lineage potential switches from trophectoderm to amnion. Live-cell tracking revealed that epiblast cells in the human blastocyst are also able to produce trophectoderm. Thus, the paradigm of developmental specification coupled to lineage restriction does not apply to humans. Instead, epiblast plasticity and the potential for blastocyst regeneration are retained until implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Guo
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.
| | - Giuliano Giuseppe Stirparo
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Stanley E Strawbridge
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Daniel Spindlow
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Jian Yang
- Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health (GIBH), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - James Clarke
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Anish Dattani
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Ayaka Yanagida
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Meng Amy Li
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Sam Myers
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Buse Nurten Özel
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Jennifer Nichols
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK.
| | - Austin Smith
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QR, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.
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19
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Posfai E, Lanner F, Mulas C, Leitch HG. All models are wrong, but some are useful: Establishing standards for stem cell-based embryo models. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1117-1141. [PMID: 33979598 PMCID: PMC8185978 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Detailed studies of the embryo allow an increasingly mechanistic understanding of development, which has proved of profound relevance to human disease. The last decade has seen in vitro cultured stem cell-based models of embryo development flourish, which provide an alternative to the embryo for accessible experimentation. However, the usefulness of any stem cell-based embryo model will be determined by how accurately it reflects in vivo embryonic development, and/or the extent to which it facilitates new discoveries. Stringent benchmarking of embryo models is thus an important consideration for this growing field. Here we provide an overview of means to evaluate both the properties of stem cells, the building blocks of most embryo models, as well as the usefulness of current and future in vitro embryo models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Posfai
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden; Ming Wai Lau Center for Reparative Medicine, Stockholm node, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carla Mulas
- Wellcome - MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Harry G Leitch
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; Centre for Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
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20
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Two distinct trophectoderm lineage stem cells from human pluripotent stem cells. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100386. [PMID: 33556374 PMCID: PMC7948510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The trophectoderm layer of the blastocyst-stage embryo is the precursor for all trophoblast cells in the placenta. Human trophoblast stem (TS) cells have emerged as an attractive tool for studies on early trophoblast development. However, the use of TS cell models is constrained by the limited genetic diversity of existing TS cell lines and restrictions on using human fetal tissue or embryos needed to generate additional lines. Here we report the derivation of two distinct stem cell types of the trophectoderm lineage from human pluripotent stem cells. Analogous to villous cytotrophoblasts in vivo, the first is a CDX2- stem cell comparable with placenta-derived TS cells—they both exhibit identical expression of key markers, are maintained in culture and differentiate under similar conditions, and share high transcriptome similarity. The second is a CDX2+ stem cell with distinct cell culture requirements, and differences in gene expression and differentiation, relative to CDX2- stem cells. Derivation of TS cells from pluripotent stem cells will significantly enable construction of in vitro models for normal and pathological placental development.
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21
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Liu Y, Zhang Y, Cui J. Recognized trophoblast-like cells conversion from human embryonic stem cells by BMP4 based on convolutional neural network. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 99:39-47. [PMID: 33249234 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The use of models of stem cell differentiation to trophoblastic cells provides an effective perspective for understanding the early molecular events in the establishment and maintenance of human pregnancy. In combination with the newly developed deep learning technology, the automated identification of this process can greatly accelerate the contribution to relevant knowledge. Based on the transfer learning technique, we used a convolutional neural network to distinguish the microscopic images of Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) from differentiated trophoblast -like cells (TBL). To tackle the problem of insufficient training data, the strategies of data augmentation were used. The results showed that the convolutional neural network could successfully recognize trophoblast cells and stem cells automatically, but could not distinguish TBL from the immortalized trophoblast cell lines in vitro (JEG-3 and HTR8-SVneo). We compare the recognition effect of the commonly used convolutional neural network, including DenseNet, VGG16, VGG19, InceptionV3, and Xception. This study extends the deep learning technique to trophoblast cell phenotype classification and paves the way for automatic bright-field microscopic image analysis of trophoblast cells in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Gynecological Oncology Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University Translational Medicine Platform, Zhengzhou University, China.
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University Translational Medicine Platform, Zhengzhou University, China
| | - Jinquan Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory for Gynecological Oncology Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University Translational Medicine Platform, Zhengzhou University, China.
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22
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Cinkornpumin JK, Kwon SY, Guo Y, Hossain I, Sirois J, Russett CS, Tseng HW, Okae H, Arima T, Duchaine TF, Liu W, Pastor WA. Naive Human Embryonic Stem Cells Can Give Rise to Cells with a Trophoblast-like Transcriptome and Methylome. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 15:198-213. [PMID: 32619492 PMCID: PMC7363941 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) readily differentiate to somatic or germ lineages but have impaired ability to form extra-embryonic lineages such as placenta or yolk sac. Here, we demonstrate that naive hESCs can be converted into cells that exhibit the cellular and molecular phenotypes of human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) derived from human placenta or blastocyst. The resulting "transdifferentiated" hTSCs show reactivation of core placental genes, acquisition of a placenta-like methylome, and the ability to differentiate to extravillous trophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts. Modest differences are observed between transdifferentiated and placental hTSCs, most notably in the expression of certain imprinted loci. These results suggest that naive hESCs can differentiate to extra-embryonic lineage and demonstrate a new way of modeling human trophoblast specification and placental methylome establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sin Young Kwon
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Yixin Guo
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, International Campus, Zhejiang University, 718 East Haizhou Road, Haining 314400, China
| | - Ishtiaque Hossain
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Jacinthe Sirois
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada; The Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Colleen S Russett
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Hsin-Wei Tseng
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Centre, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Centre, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Thomas F Duchaine
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada; The Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Wanlu Liu
- Department of Orthopedic of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China; Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, International Campus, Zhejiang University, 718 East Haizhou Road, Haining 314400, China
| | - William A Pastor
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada; The Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada.
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23
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Jain A, Tuteja G. TissueEnrich: Tissue-specific gene enrichment analysis. Bioinformatics 2020; 35:1966-1967. [PMID: 30346488 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/bty890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY RNA-Seq data analysis results in lists of genes that may have a similar function, based on differential gene expression analysis or co-expression network analysis. While tools have been developed to identify biological processes that are enriched in the genes sets, there remains a need for tools that identify enrichment of tissue-specific genes. Therefore, we developed TissueEnrich, a tool that calculates tissue-specific gene enrichment in an input gene set. We demonstrated that TissueEnrich can assign tissue identities to single cell clusters and differentiated embryonic stem cells. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION The TissueEnrich web application is freely available at http://tissueenrich.gdcb.iastate.edu/. The R package is available through Bioconductor at https://bioconductor.org/packages/TissueEnrich. Both the web application and R package are for non-profit academic use under the MIT license. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Jain
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.,Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Geetu Tuteja
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.,Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
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24
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Hadjantonakis AK, Siggia ED, Simunovic M. In vitro modeling of early mammalian embryogenesis. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2020; 13:134-143. [PMID: 32440574 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic embryology endeavors to use stem cells to recapitulate the first steps of mammalian development that define the body axes and first stages of fate assignment. Well-engineered synthetic systems provide an unparalleled assay to disentangle and quantify the contributions of individual tissues as well as the molecular components driving embryogenesis. Experiments using a mixture of mouse embryonic and extra-embryonic stem cell lines show a surprising degree of self-organization akin to certain milestones in the development of intact mouse embryos. To further advance the field and extend the mouse results to human, it is crucial to develop a better control of the assembly process as well as to establish a deeper understanding of the developmental state and potency of cells used in experiments at each step of the process. We review recent advances in the derivation of embryonic and extraembryonic stem cells, and we highlight recent efforts in reconstructing the structural and signaling aspects of embryogenesis in three-dimensional tissue cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Katerina Hadjantonakis
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Eric D Siggia
- Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Mijo Simunovic
- Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia Univerisity, 116 and Broadway, New York, NY 10025
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25
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Zhong H, Ren Z, Wang X, Miao K, Ni W, Meng Y, Lu L, Wang C, Liu W, Deng CX, Xu RH, Chen G. Stagewise keratinocyte differentiation from human embryonic stem cells by defined signal transduction modulators. Int J Biol Sci 2020; 16:1450-1462. [PMID: 32210732 PMCID: PMC7085224 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.44414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Keratinocyte is the predominant cell type in the epidermis of skin, and it provides the protective barrier function for the body. Various signaling pathways have been implicated in keratinocyte differentiation in animal models; However, their temporal regulation and interactions are still to be explored in pluripotent stem cell models. In this report, we use human embryonic stem cells to demonstrate that epidermal ectoderm and subsequent keratinocyte cell fate can be determined step by step under the regulation of defined factors. The inhibition of TGFβ initiates ectodermal lineage differentiation, and the activation of BMP pathway drives epidermal TP63 expression. Meanwhile, the timely activation of WNT pathway suppresses extraembryonic lineage, and promotes epidermal cell fate. With further specification by NOTCH inhibition, more than 90% of cells become TP63-positive stage Ⅱ keratinocytes. Finally, stage Ⅲ keratinocytes are produced under defined hypo-calcium keratinocyte culture conditions, and are further matured in mouse xenograft model. This study not only establishes an in vitro platform to study keratinocyte cell fate determination, but also provides an efficient protocol to produce keratinocytes for disease models and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhong
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Zhili Ren
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Kai Miao
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Wenjun Ni
- Department of Urology Surgery, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519000, China
| | - Ya Meng
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519000, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519000, China.,Center of Interventional radiology, Zhuhai People's Hospital, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519000, China
| | - Chunming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau.,Bioimaging and Stem Cell Core Facility, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Ren-He Xu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Guokai Chen
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau.,Bioimaging and Stem Cell Core Facility, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
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26
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Knöfler M, Haider S, Saleh L, Pollheimer J, Gamage TKJB, James J. Human placenta and trophoblast development: key molecular mechanisms and model systems. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:3479-3496. [PMID: 31049600 PMCID: PMC6697717 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03104-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 347] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal placentation is considered as an underlying cause of various pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction, the latter increasing the risk for the development of severe disorders in later life such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Despite their importance, the molecular mechanisms governing human placental formation and trophoblast cell lineage specification and differentiation have been poorly unravelled, mostly due to the lack of appropriate cellular model systems. However, over the past few years major progress has been made by establishing self-renewing human trophoblast stem cells and 3-dimensional organoids from human blastocysts and early placental tissues opening the path for detailed molecular investigations. Herein, we summarize the present knowledge about human placental development, its stem cells, progenitors and differentiated cell types in the trophoblast epithelium and the villous core. Anatomy of the early placenta, current model systems, and critical key regulatory factors and signalling cascades governing placentation will be elucidated. In this context, we will discuss the role of the developmental pathways Wingless and Notch, controlling trophoblast stemness/differentiation and formation of invasive trophoblast progenitors, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Knöfler
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Sandra Haider
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Leila Saleh
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Pollheimer
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Teena K J B Gamage
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanna James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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27
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Roberts RM, Ezashi T, Sheridan MA, Yang Y. Specification of trophoblast from embryonic stem cells exposed to BMP4. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:212-224. [PMID: 29579154 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Trophoblast (TB) comprises the outer cell layers of the mammalian placenta that make direct contact with the maternal uterus and, in species with a highly invasive placenta, maternal blood. It has its origin as trophectoderm, a single epithelial layer of extra-embryonic ectoderm that surrounds the embryo proper at the blastocyst stage of development. Here, we briefly compare the features of TB specification and determination in the mouse and the human. We then review research on a model system that has been increasingly employed to study TB emergence, namely the BMP4 (bone morphogenetic protein-4)-directed differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (ESCd), and discuss why outcomes using it have proved so uneven. We also examine the controversial aspects of this model, particularly the issue of whether or not the ESCd represents TB at all. Our focus here has been to explore similarities and potential differences between the phenotypes of ESCd, trophectoderm, placental villous TB, and human TB stem cells. We then explore the role of BMP4 in the differentiation of human pluripotent cells to TB and suggest that it converts the ESC into a totipotent state that is primed for TB differentiation when self-renewal is blocked. Finally we speculate that the TB formed from ESC is homologous to the trophectoderm-derived, invasive TB that envelopes the implanting conceptus during the second week of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Michael Roberts
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Toshihiko Ezashi
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Megan A Sheridan
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
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28
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Soares MJ, Varberg KM, Iqbal K. Hemochorial placentation: development, function, and adaptations. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:196-211. [PMID: 29481584 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Placentation is a reproductive adaptation that permits fetal growth and development within the protected confines of the female reproductive tract. Through this important role, the placenta also determines postnatal health and susceptibility to disease. The hemochorial placenta is a prominent feature in primate and rodent development. This manuscript provides an overview of the basics of hemochorial placental development and function, provides perspectives on major discoveries that have shaped placental research, and thoughts on strategies for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Soares
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA and the Center for Perinatal Research, Children΄s Research Institute, Children΄s Mercy, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Kaela M Varberg
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
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29
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Genome-wide identification of enhancer elements in the placenta. Placenta 2018; 79:72-77. [PMID: 30268337 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Normal placental development is essential for a healthy pregnancy, and is contingent upon tight spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression. One level of transcriptional control is via enhancer elements in the genome. Enhancers are distal cis-regulatory elements that can impact gene expression regardless of their position or orientation. The study of enhancers in the placenta is usually focused on one or two at a time, and the simultaneous identification of all enhancers has been limited. However, such a holistic approach is necessary if we are to gain a systems-level understanding of gene expression regulation in the placenta. Here, we review current methods for genome-scale enhancer identification, as well as studies that have applied those techniques in the placenta, with the aim of guiding future research.
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30
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Syrett CM, Sierra I, Berry CL, Beiting D, Anguera MC. Sex-Specific Gene Expression Differences Are Evident in Human Embryonic Stem Cells and During In Vitro Differentiation of Human Placental Progenitor Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:1360-1375. [PMID: 29993333 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is a short-lived tissue required for embryonic growth and survival, and it is fetal derived. Fetal sex influences gestation, and many sexual dimorphic diseases have origins in utero. There is sex-biased gene expression in third-trimester human placentas, yet the origin of sex-specific expression is unknown. Here, we used an in vitro differentiation model to convert human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) into trophoblastic progenitor cells of the first-trimester placenta, which will eventually become mature extravillous trophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts. We observed significant sex differences in transcriptomic profiles of hESCs and trophoblastic progenitors, and also with the differentiation process itself. Male cells had higher dosage of X/Y gene pairs relative to female samples, supporting functions for Y-linked genes beyond spermatogenesis in the hESCs and in the early placenta. Female-specific differentiation altered the expression of several thousand genes compared with male cells, and female cells specifically upregulated numerous autosomal genes with known roles in trophoblast function. Sex-biased upregulation of cellular pathways during trophoblast differentiation was also evident. This study is the first to identify sex differences in trophoblastic progenitor cells of the first-trimester human placenta, and reveal early origins for sexual dimorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille M Syrett
- 1 Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Isabel Sierra
- 1 Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Corbett L Berry
- 2 Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Daniel Beiting
- 2 Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- 1 Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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31
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Soares MJ, Iqbal K, Kozai K. Hypoxia and Placental Development. Birth Defects Res 2018; 109:1309-1329. [PMID: 29105383 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hemochorial placentation is orchestrated through highly regulated temporal and spatial decisions governing the fate of trophoblast stem/progenitor cells. Trophoblast cell acquisition of specializations facilitating invasion and uterine spiral artery remodeling is a labile process, sensitive to the environment, and represents a process that is vulnerable to dysmorphogenesis in pathologic states. Hypoxia is a signal guiding placental development, and molecular mechanisms directing cellular adaptations to low oxygen tension are integral to trophoblast cell differentiation and placentation. Hypoxia can also be used as an experimental tool to investigate regulatory processes controlling hemochorial placentation. These developmental processes are conserved in mouse, rat, and human placentation. Consequently, elements of these developmental events can be modeled and hypotheses tested in trophoblast stem cells and in genetically manipulated rodents. Hypoxia is also a consequence of a failed placenta, yielding pathologies that can adversely affect maternal adjustments to pregnancy, fetal health, and susceptibility to adult disease. The capacity of the placenta for adaptation to environmental challenges highlights the importance of its plasticity in safeguarding a healthy pregnancy. Birth Defects Research 109:1309-1329, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Soares
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas.,Fetal Health Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's Mercy, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Keisuke Kozai
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
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32
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Liu Y, Ding D, Liu H, Sun X. The accessible chromatin landscape during conversion of human embryonic stem cells to trophoblast by bone morphogenetic protein 4. Biol Reprod 2018; 96:1267-1278. [PMID: 28430877 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) exposed to the growth factor bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) in the absence of FGF2 have been used as a model to study the development of placental development. However, little is known about the cis-regulatory mechanisms underlying this important process. In this study, we used the public available chromatin accessibility data of hESC H1 cells and BMP4-induced trophoblast (TB) cell lines to identify DNase I hypersensitive sites (DHSs) in the two cell lines, as well as the transcription factor (TF) binding sites within the DHSs. By comparing read profiles in H1 and TB, we identified 17 472 TB-specific DHSs. The TB-specific DHSs are enriched in terms of "blood vessel" and "trophectoderm," consisting of TF motifs family: Leucine Zipper, Helix-Loop-Helix, GATA, and ETS. To validate differential expression of the TFs binding to these motifs, we analyzed public available RNA-seq and microarray data in the same context. Finally, by integrating the protein-protein interaction data, we constructed a TF network for placenta development and identified top 20 key TFs through centrality analysis in the network. Our results indicate BMP4-induced TB system provided an invaluable model for the study of TB development and highlighted novel candidate genes in placenta development in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Dewu Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, P.R. China.,Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Chizhou College, Chizhou, P.R. China
| | - Hongde Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, P.R. China
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33
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Chang CW, Wakeland AK, Parast MM. Trophoblast lineage specification, differentiation and their regulation by oxygen tension. J Endocrinol 2018; 236:R43-R56. [PMID: 29259074 PMCID: PMC5741095 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Development of the early embryo takes place under low oxygen tension. Under such conditions, the embryo implants and the trophectoderm, the outer layer of blastocyst, proliferate, forming the cytotrophoblastic shell, the early placenta. The cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) are the so-called epithelial 'stem cells' of the placenta, which, depending on the signals they receive, can differentiate into either extravillous trophoblast (EVT) or syncytiotrophoblast (STB). EVTs anchor the placenta to the uterine wall and remodel maternal spiral arterioles in order to provide ample blood supply to the growing fetus. STBs arise through CTB fusion, secrete hormones necessary for pregnancy maintenance and form a barrier across which nutrient and gas exchange can take place. The bulk of EVT differentiation occurs during the first trimester, before the onset of maternal arterial blood flow into the intervillous space of the placenta, and thus under low oxygen tension. These conditions affect numerous signaling pathways, including those acting through hypoxia-inducible factor, the nutrient sensor mTOR and the endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced unfolded protein response pathway. These pathways are known to be involved in placental development and disease, and specific components have even been identified as directly involved in lineage-specific trophoblast differentiation. Nevertheless, much controversy surrounds the role of hypoxia in trophoblast differentiation, particularly with EVT. This review summarizes previous studies on this topic, with the intent of integrating these results and synthesizing conclusions that resolve some of the controversy, but then also pointing to remaining areas, which require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Wen Chang
- Department of PathologyUniversity of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Anna K Wakeland
- Department of PathologyUniversity of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Mana M Parast
- Department of PathologyUniversity of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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34
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Jain A, Ezashi T, Roberts RM, Tuteja G. Deciphering transcriptional regulation in human embryonic stem cells specified towards a trophoblast fate. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17257. [PMID: 29222466 PMCID: PMC5722916 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17614-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Differentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESC) continue to provide a model for studying early trophoblast cells (TB), but many questions have been raised regarding their true identity. Therefore, we carried out a global and unbiased analysis on previously published transcriptomic profiles for hESC differentiated to TB by means of bone morphogenetic protein-4 and inhibitors of activin A and fibroblast growth factor-2 signaling (BAP treatment). Our results confirm that BAP treated hESC (ESCd) lack a mesoderm signature and are a subtype of placental cells unlike those present at term. ESCd display a high level of expression of genes implicated in migration and invasion compared to commonly used, immortalized TB cell lines and primary cells from term placenta. Co-expression network analysis also identified gene modules involved in cell migration and adhesion, processes that are likely critical during the beginning stages of placentation. Finally, protein-protein interaction analysis predicted several additional genes that may play important roles in early stages of placental development. Together, our analyses provide novel insights into the transcriptional programs that are active in ESCd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Jain
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.,Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Toshihiko Ezashi
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - R Michael Roberts
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Geetu Tuteja
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA. .,Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
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35
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Latos PA, Hemberger M. From the stem of the placental tree: trophoblast stem cells and their progeny. Development 2017; 143:3650-3660. [PMID: 27802134 DOI: 10.1242/dev.133462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) retain the capacity to self-renew indefinitely and harbour the potential to differentiate into all trophoblast subtypes of the placenta. Recent studies have shown how signalling cascades integrate with transcription factor circuits to govern the fine balance between TSC self-renewal and differentiation. In addition, breakthroughs in reprogramming strategies have enabled the generation of TSCs from fibroblasts, opening up exciting new avenues that may allow the isolation of this stem cell type from other species, notably humans. Here, we review these recent advances in light of their importance for understanding placental pathologies and developing personalised medicine approaches for pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Anna Latos
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Myriam Hemberger
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK .,Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
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36
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Koel M, Võsa U, Krjutškov K, Einarsdottir E, Kere J, Tapanainen J, Katayama S, Ingerpuu S, Jaks V, Stenman UH, Lundin K, Tuuri T, Salumets A. Optimizing bone morphogenic protein 4-mediated human embryonic stem cell differentiation into trophoblast-like cells using fibroblast growth factor 2 and transforming growth factor-β/activin/nodal signalling inhibition. Reprod Biomed Online 2017. [PMID: 28647356 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that human embryonic stem cells (hESC) can be differentiated into trophoblast-like cells if exposed to bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) and/or inhibitors of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)/activin/nodal signalling pathways. The goal of this study was to investigate how the inhibitors of these pathways improve the efficiency of hESC differentiation when compared with basic BMP4 treatment. RNA sequencing was used to analyse the effects of all possible inhibitor combinations on the differentiation of hESC into trophoblast-like cells over 12 days. Genes differentially expressed compared with untreated cells were identified at seven time points. Additionally, expression of total human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) and its hyperglycosylated form (HCG-H) were determined by immunoassay from cell culture media. We showed that FGF2 inhibition with BMP4 activation up-regulates syncytiotrophoblast-specific genes (CGA, CGB and LGALS16), induces several molecular pathways involved in embryo implantation and triggers HCG-H production. In contrast, inhibition of the TGF-β/activin/nodal pathway decreases the ability of hESC to form trophoblast-like cells. Information about the conditions needed for hESC differentiation toward trophoblast-like cells helps us to find an optimal model for studying the early development of human trophoblasts in normal and in complicated pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann Koel
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia; Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, and Centre for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.
| | - Urmo Võsa
- Estonian Genome Center, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kaarel Krjutškov
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia; Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, and Centre for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden; Molecular Neurology Research Program, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elisabet Einarsdottir
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, and Centre for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden; Molecular Neurology Research Program, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Kere
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, and Centre for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden; Molecular Neurology Research Program, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Shintaro Katayama
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, and Centre for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Sulev Ingerpuu
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Viljar Jaks
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia; Department of Biosciences, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Ulf-Hakan Stenman
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Karolina Lundin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Timo Tuuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia; Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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37
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Generation of inner ear organoids containing functional hair cells from human pluripotent stem cells. Nat Biotechnol 2017; 35:583-589. [PMID: 28459451 PMCID: PMC5462862 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Human inner ear tissue derived from pluripotent stem cells could provide a powerful platform for drug discovery or a source of sound- or motion-sensing cells for patients with hearing loss or balance dysfunction. Here we report a method for differentiating human pluripotent stem cells to inner ear organoids that harbor functional hair cells. Using a three-dimensional culture system, we modulate TGF, BMP, FGF, and Wnt signaling to generate multiple otic vesicle–like structures from a single stem-cell aggregate. Over two months, the vesicles develop into inner ear organoids with sensory epithelia that are innervated by sensory neurons. Additionally, using CRISPR/Cas9, we generate an ATOH1-2A-eGFP cell line to detect hair cell induction and demonstrate that derived hair cells exhibit electrophysiological properties similar to those of native sensory hair cells. Our culture system will be useful for elucidating mechanisms of human inner ear development and testing potential inner ear therapies.
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Wang J, Anguera MC. In Vitro Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells into Trophoblastic Cells. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28362386 DOI: 10.3791/55268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is the first organ to develop during embryogenesis and is required for the survival of the developing embryo. The placenta is comprised of various trophoblastic cells that differentiate from the extra-embryonic trophectoderm cells of the preimplantation blastocyst. As such, our understanding of the early differentiation events of the human placenta is limited because of ethical and legal restrictions on the isolation and manipulation of human embryogenesis. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are a robust model system for investigating human development and can also be differentiated in vitro into trophoblastic cells that express markers of the various trophoblast cell types. Here, we present a detailed protocol for differentiating hPSCs into trophoblastic cells using bone morphogenic protein 4 and inhibitors of the Activin/Nodal signaling pathways. This protocol generates various trophoblast cell types that can be transfected with siRNAs for investigating loss-of-function phenotypes or can be infected with pathogens. Additionally, hPSCs can be genetically modified and then differentiated into trophoblast progenitors for gain-of-function analyses. This in vitro differentiation method for generating human trophoblasts starting from hPSCs overcomes the ethical and legal restrictions of working with early human embryos, and this system can be used for a variety of applications, including drug discovery and stem cell research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianle Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania;
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Generation of trophoblast-like cells from the amnion in vitro: A novel cellular model for trophoblast development. Placenta 2017; 51:28-37. [PMID: 28292466 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.01.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high incidence of trophoblast-related diseases, the molecular mechanism of inadequate early trophoblast development is still unclear due to the lack of an appropriate cellular model in vitro. In the present study, we reprogrammed the amniotic cells to be induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) via a non-virus and non-integrated method and subsequently differentiated them into trophoblast-like cells by a modified BMP4 strategy in E6 medium. Compared with the previously studied trophoblast-like cells from ESCs, the iPSCs derived trophoblast-like cells behave similarly in terms of gene expression profiles and biofunctions. Also we confirmed the differentiating tendency from iPSCs to be syncytiotrophoblasts-like cells might be caused by inappropriate differentiating oxygen condition. Additionally, we preliminarily indicated in vitro "artificial" differentiation of iPSCs also undergoing a possible trophoblastic stem cell stage, as witnessed in vivo. In conclusion, we provided an in vitro cellular model to study early trophoblast development for specific individual, by using the feasible amnion.
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Baines K, Renaud S. Transcription Factors That Regulate Trophoblast Development and Function. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2017; 145:39-88. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Lee CQE, Gardner L, Turco M, Zhao N, Murray MJ, Coleman N, Rossant J, Hemberger M, Moffett A. What Is Trophoblast? A Combination of Criteria Define Human First-Trimester Trophoblast. Stem Cell Reports 2016; 6:257-72. [PMID: 26862703 PMCID: PMC4750161 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Controversy surrounds reports describing the derivation of human trophoblast cells from placentas and embryonic stem cells (ESC), partly due to the difficulty in identifying markers that define cells as belonging to the trophoblast lineage. We have selected criteria that are characteristic of primary first-trimester trophoblast: a set of protein markers, HLA class I profile, methylation of ELF5, and expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) from the chromosome 19 miRNA cluster (C19MC). We tested these criteria on cells previously reported to show some phenotypic characteristics of trophoblast: bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-treated human ESC and 2102Ep, an embryonal carcinoma cell line. Both cell types only show some, but not all, of the four trophoblast criteria. Thus, BMP-treated human ESC have not fully differentiated to trophoblast. Our study identifies a robust panel, including both protein and non-protein-coding markers that, in combination, can be used to reliably define cells as characteristic of early trophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Q E Lee
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK; Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto M5G 0A4, Canada.
| | - Lucy Gardner
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Margherita Turco
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Nancy Zhao
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Matthew J Murray
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Nicholas Coleman
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Janet Rossant
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto M5G 0A4, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Myriam Hemberger
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK; Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
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Gamage TK, Chamley LW, James JL. Stem cell insights into human trophoblast lineage differentiation. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 23:77-103. [PMID: 27591247 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human placenta is vital for fetal development, yet little is understood about how it forms successfully to ensure a healthy pregnancy or why this process is inadequate in 1 in 10 pregnancies, leading to miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction or preeclampsia. Trophoblasts are placenta-specific epithelial cells that maximize nutrient exchange. All trophoblast lineages are thought to arise from a population of trophoblast stem cells (TSCs). However, whilst the isolation of murine TSC has led to an explosion in understanding murine placentation, the isolation of an analogous human TSC has proved more difficult. Consequently, alternative methods of studying human trophoblast lineage development have been employed, including human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) and transformed cell lines; but what do these proxy models tell us about what is happening during early placental development? OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this systematic review, we evaluate current approaches to understanding human trophoblast lineage development in order to collate and refine these models and inform future approaches aimed at establishing human TSC lines. SEARCH METHODS To ensure all relevant articles were analysed, an unfiltered search of Pubmed, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science was conducted for 25 key terms on the 13th May 2016. In total, 47 313 articles were retrieved and manually filtered based on non-human, non-English, non-full text, non-original article and off-topic subject matter. This resulted in a total of 71 articles deemed relevant for review in this article. OUTCOMES Candidate human TSC populations have been identified in, and isolated from, both the chorionic membrane and villous tissue of the placenta, but further investigation is required to validate these as 'true' human TSCs. Isolating human TSCs from blastocyst trophectoderm has not been successful in humans as it was in mice, although recently the first reported TSC line (USFB6) was isolated from an eight-cell morula. In lieu of human TSC lines, trophoblast-like cells have been induced to differentiate from hESCs and iPS. However, differentiation in these model systems is difficult to control, culture conditions employed are highly variable, and the extent to which they accurately convey the biology of 'true' human TSCs remains unclear, particularly as a consensus has not been met among the scientific community regarding which characteristics a human TSC must possess. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Human TSC models have the potential to revolutionize our understanding of trophoblast differentiation, allowing us to make significant gains in understanding the underlying pathology of pregnancy disorders and to test potential therapeutic interventions on cell function in vitro. In order to do this, a collaborative effort is required to establish the criteria that define a human TSC to confirm the presence of human TSCs in both primary isolates and to determine how accurately trophoblast-like cells derived from current model systems reflect trophoblast from primary tissue. The in vitro systems currently used to model early trophoblast lineage formation have provided insights into early human placental formation but it is unclear whether these trophoblast-like cells are truly representative of primary human trophoblast. Consequently, continued refinement of current models, and standardization of culture protocols is essential to aid our ability to identify, isolate and propagate 'true' human TSCs from primary tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teena Kjb Gamage
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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Sarkar P, Mischler A, Randall SM, Collier TS, Dorman KF, Boggess KA, Muddiman DC, Rao BM. Identification of Epigenetic Factor Proteins Expressed in Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Trophoblasts and in Human Placental Trophoblasts. J Proteome Res 2016; 15:2433-44. [PMID: 27378238 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.5b01118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have been used to derive trophoblasts through differentiation in vitro. Intriguingly, mouse ESCs are prevented from differentiation to trophoblasts by certain epigenetic factor proteins such as Dnmt1, thus necessitating the study of epigenetic factor proteins during hESC differentiation to trophoblasts. We used stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture and quantitative proteomics to study changes in the nuclear proteome during hESC differentiation to trophoblasts and identified changes in the expression of 30 epigenetic factor proteins. Importantly, the DNA methyltransferases DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B were downregulated. Additionally, we hypothesized that nuclear proteomics of hESC-derived trophoblasts may be used for screening epigenetic factor proteins expressed by primary trophoblasts in human placental tissue. Accordingly, we conducted immunohistochemistry analysis of six epigenetic factor proteins identified from hESC-derived trophoblasts-DNMT1, DNMT3B, BAF155, BAF60A, BAF57, and ING5-in 6-9 week human placentas. Indeed, expression of these proteins was largely, though not fully, consistent with that observed in 6-9 week placental trophoblasts. Our results support the use of hESC-derived trophoblasts as a model for placental trophoblasts, which will enable further investigation of epigenetic factors involved in human trophoblast development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Karen F Dorman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Kim A Boggess
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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Yabe S, Alexenko AP, Amita M, Yang Y, Schust DJ, Sadovsky Y, Ezashi T, Roberts RM. Comparison of syncytiotrophoblast generated from human embryonic stem cells and from term placentas. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E2598-607. [PMID: 27051068 PMCID: PMC4868474 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1601630113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) readily commit to the trophoblast lineage after exposure to bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP-4) and two small compounds, an activin A signaling inhibitor and a FGF2 signaling inhibitor (BMP4/A83-01/PD173074; BAP treatment). During differentiation, areas emerge within the colonies with the biochemical and morphological features of syncytiotrophoblast (STB). Relatively pure fractions of mononucleated cytotrophoblast (CTB) and larger syncytial sheets displaying the expected markers of STB can be obtained by differential filtration of dispersed colonies through nylon strainers. RNA-seq analysis of these fractions has allowed them to be compared with cytotrophoblasts isolated from term placentas before and after such cells had formed syncytia. Although it is clear from extensive gene marker analysis that both ESC- and placenta-derived syncytial cells are trophoblast, each with the potential to transport a wide range of solutes and synthesize placental hormones, their transcriptome profiles are sufficiently dissimilar to suggest that the two cell types have distinct pedigrees and represent functionally different kinds of STB. We propose that the STB generated from human ESCs represents the primitive syncytium encountered in early pregnancy soon after the human trophoblast invades into the uterine wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichiro Yabe
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - Andrei P Alexenko
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - Mitsuyoshi Amita
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata, 990-9585, Japan
| | - Ying Yang
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - Danny J Schust
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - Yoel Sadovsky
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - Toshihiko Ezashi
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - R Michael Roberts
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211; Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
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James JL, Hurley DG, Gamage TKJB, Zhang T, Vather R, Pantham P, Murthi P, Chamley LW. Isolation and characterisation of a novel trophoblast side-population from first trimester placentae. Reproduction 2015; 150:449-62. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is responsible for all nutrient and gas exchange between mother and baby during pregnancy. The differentiation of specialised placental epithelial cells called trophoblasts is essential for placental function, but we understand little about how these populations arise. Mouse trophoblast stem cells have allowed us to understand many of the factors that regulate murine trophoblast lineage development, but the human placenta is anatomically very different from the mouse, and it is imperative to isolate a human trophoblast stem cell to understand human placental development. Here we have developed a novel methodology to isolate a Hoechst side-population of trophoblasts from early gestation placentae and compared their transcriptome to differentiated trophoblast populations (cytotrophoblasts and extravillous trophoblasts) using microarray technology. Side-population trophoblasts clustered as a transcriptomically distinct population but were more closely related to cytotrophoblasts than extravillous trophoblasts. Side-population trophoblasts up-regulated a number of genes characteristic of trophectoderm and murine trophoblast stem cells in comparison to cytotrophoblasts or extravillous trophoblasts and could be distinguished from both of these more mature populations by a unique set of 22 up-regulated genes, which were enriched for morphogenesis and organ development and the regulation of growth functions. Cells expressing two of these genes (LAMA2 and COL6A3) were distributed throughout the cytotrophoblast layer at the trophoblast/mesenchymal interface. Comparisons to previously published trophoblast progenitor populations suggest that the side-population trophoblasts isolated in this work are a novel human trophoblast population. Future work will determine whether these cells exhibit functional progenitor/stem cell attributes.
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Zdravkovic T, Nazor KL, Larocque N, Gormley M, Donne M, Hunkapillar N, Giritharan G, Bernstein HS, Wei G, Hebrok M, Zeng X, Genbacev O, Mattis A, McMaster MT, Krtolica A, Valbuena D, Simón C, Laurent LC, Loring JF, Fisher SJ. Human stem cells from single blastomeres reveal pathways of embryonic or trophoblast fate specification. Development 2015; 142:4010-25. [PMID: 26483210 PMCID: PMC4712832 DOI: 10.1242/dev.122846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Mechanisms of initial cell fate decisions differ among species. To gain insights into lineage allocation in humans, we derived ten human embryonic stem cell lines (designated UCSFB1-10) from single blastomeres of four 8-cell embryos and one 12-cell embryo from a single couple. Compared with numerous conventional lines from blastocysts, they had unique gene expression and DNA methylation patterns that were, in part, indicative of trophoblast competence. At a transcriptional level, UCSFB lines from different embryos were often more closely related than those from the same embryo. As predicted by the transcriptomic data, immunolocalization of EOMES, T brachyury, GDF15 and active β-catenin revealed differential expression among blastomeres of 8- to 10-cell human embryos. The UCSFB lines formed derivatives of the three germ layers and CDX2-positive progeny, from which we derived the first human trophoblast stem cell line. Our data suggest heterogeneity among early-stage blastomeres and that the UCSFB lines have unique properties, indicative of a more immature state than conventional lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Zdravkovic
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Kristopher L Nazor
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Nicholas Larocque
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Matthew Gormley
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Matthew Donne
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Nathan Hunkapillar
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | | | - Harold S Bernstein
- The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Grace Wei
- The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Matthias Hebrok
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Xianmin Zeng
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Olga Genbacev
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Aras Mattis
- The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Michael T McMaster
- The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | | | - Diana Valbuena
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (IVI), Parc Científic Universitat de València, 46980, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simón
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (IVI), Parc Científic Universitat de València, 46980, Valencia, Spain
| | - Louise C Laurent
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jeanne F Loring
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Susan J Fisher
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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Hue I, Evain-Brion D, Fournier T, Degrelle SA. Primary Bovine Extra-Embryonic Cultured Cells: A New Resource for the Study of In Vivo Peri-Implanting Phenotypes and Mesoderm Formation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127330. [PMID: 26070137 PMCID: PMC4466545 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to nourishing the embryo, extra-embryonic tissues (EETs) contribute to early embryonic patterning, primitive hematopoiesis, and fetal health. These tissues are of major importance for human medicine, as well as for efforts to improve livestock efficiency, but they remain incompletely understood. In bovines, EETs are accessible easily, in large amounts, and prior to implantation. We took advantage of this system to describe, in vitro and in vivo, the cell types present in bovine EETs at Day 18 of development. Specifically, we characterized the gene expression patterns and phenotypes of bovine extra-embryonic ectoderm (or trophoblast; bTC), endoderm (bXEC), and mesoderm (bXMC) cells in culture and compared them to their respective in vivo micro-dissected cells. After a week of culture, certain characteristics (e.g., gene expression) of the in vitro cells were altered with respect to the in vivo cells, but we were able to identify "cores" of cell-type-specific (and substrate-independent) genes that were shared between in vitro and in vivo samples. In addition, many cellular phenotypes were cell-type-specific with regard to extracellular adhesion. We evaluated the ability of individual bXMCs to migrate and spread on micro-patterns, and observed that they easily adapted to diverse environments, similar to in vivo EE mesoderm cells, which encounter different EE epithelia to form chorion, yolk sac, and allantois. With these tissue interactions, different functions arose that were detected in silico and corroborated in vivo at D21-D25. Moreover, analysis of bXMCs allowed us to identify the EE cell ring surrounding the embryonic disc (ED) at D14-15 as mesoderm cells, which had been hypothesized but not shown prior to this study. We envision these data will serve as a major resource for the future in the analysis of peri-implanting phenotypes in response to the maternal metabolism and contribute to subsequent studies of placental/fetal development in eutherians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Hue
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Danièle Evain-Brion
- INSERM, UMR-S1139, U767, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Thierry Fournier
- INSERM, UMR-S1139, U767, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Séverine A Degrelle
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France; INSERM, UMR-S1139, U767, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
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Heightened potency of human pluripotent stem cell lines created by transient BMP4 exposure. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E2337-46. [PMID: 25870291 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1504778112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) show epiblast-type pluripotency that is maintained with ACTIVIN/FGF2 signaling. Here, we report the acquisition of a unique stem cell phenotype by both human ES cells (hESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in response to transient (24-36 h) exposure to bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) plus inhibitors of ACTIVIN signaling (A83-01) and FGF2 (PD173074), followed by trypsin dissociation and recovery of colonies capable of growing on a gelatin substratum in standard medium for human PSCs at low but not high FGF2 concentrations. The self-renewing cell lines stain weakly for CDX2 and strongly for NANOG, can be propagated clonally on either Matrigel or gelatin, and are morphologically distinct from human PSC progenitors on either substratum but still meet standard in vitro criteria for pluripotency. They form well-differentiated teratomas in immune-compromised mice that secrete human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) into the host mouse and include small areas of trophoblast-like cells. The cells have a distinct transcriptome profile from the human PSCs from which they were derived (including higher expression of NANOG, LEFTY1, and LEFTY2). In nonconditioned medium lacking FGF2, the colonies spontaneously differentiated along multiple lineages, including trophoblast. They responded to PD173074 in the absence of both FGF2 and BMP4 by conversion to trophoblast, and especially syncytiotrophoblast, whereas an A83-01/PD173074 combination favored increased expression of HLA-G, a marker of extravillous trophoblast. Together, these data suggest that the cell lines exhibit totipotent potential and that BMP4 can prime human PSCs to a self-renewing alternative state permissive for trophoblast development. The results may have implications for regulation of lineage decisions in the early embryo.
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Sarkar P, Randall SM, Collier TS, Nero A, Russell TA, Muddiman DC, Rao BM. Activin/nodal signaling switches the terminal fate of human embryonic stem cell-derived trophoblasts. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:8834-48. [PMID: 25670856 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.620641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have been routinely treated with bone morphogenetic protein and/or inhibitors of activin/nodal signaling to obtain cells that express trophoblast markers. Trophoblasts can terminally differentiate to either extravillous trophoblasts or syncytiotrophoblasts. The signaling pathways that govern the terminal fate of these trophoblasts are not understood. We show that activin/nodal signaling switches the terminal fate of these hESC-derived trophoblasts. Inhibition of activin/nodal signaling leads to formation of extravillous trophoblast, whereas loss of activin/nodal inhibition leads to the formation of syncytiotrophoblasts. Also, the ability of hESCs to form bona fide trophoblasts has been intensely debated. We have examined hESC-derived trophoblasts in the light of stringent criteria that were proposed recently, such as hypomethylation of the ELF5-2b promoter region and down-regulation of HLA class I antigens. We report that trophoblasts that possess these properties can indeed be obtained from hESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shan M Randall
- the W. M. Keck FT-ICR Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, and
| | - Timothy S Collier
- the W. M. Keck FT-ICR Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, and
| | - Anthony Nero
- From the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
| | - Teal A Russell
- the Department of Biochemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695
| | - David C Muddiman
- the W. M. Keck FT-ICR Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, and
| | - Balaji M Rao
- From the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering,
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Abstract
Pluripotent cells in embryos are situated near the apex of the hierarchy of developmental potential. They are capable of generating all cell types of the mammalian body proper. Therefore, they are the exemplar of stem cells. In vivo, pluripotent cells exist transiently and become expended within a few days of their establishment. Yet, when explanted into artificial culture conditions, they can be indefinitely propagated in vitro as pluripotent stem cell lines. A host of transcription factors and regulatory genes are now known to underpin the pluripotent state. Nonetheless, how pluripotent cells are equipped with their vast multilineage differentiation potential remains elusive. Consensus holds that pluripotency transcription factors prevent differentiation by inhibiting the expression of differentiation genes. However, this does not explain the developmental potential of pluripotent cells. We have presented another emergent perspective, namely, that pluripotency factors function as lineage specifiers that enable pluripotent cells to differentiate into specific lineages, therefore endowing pluripotent cells with their multilineage potential. Here we provide a comprehensive overview of the developmental biology, transcription factors, and extrinsic signaling associated with pluripotent cells, and their accompanying subtypes, in vitro heterogeneity and chromatin states. Although much has been learned since the appreciation of mammalian pluripotency in the 1950s and the derivation of embryonic stem cell lines in 1981, we will specifically emphasize what currently remains unclear. However, the view that pluripotency factors capacitate differentiation, recently corroborated by experimental evidence, might perhaps address the long-standing question of how pluripotent cells are endowed with their multilineage differentiation potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle M. Loh
- Department of Developmental Biology and the Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California; Genome Institute of Singapore, Stem Cell & Regenerative Biology Group, Agency for Science, Technology & Research, Singapore; and Department of Medicine and the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bing Lim
- Department of Developmental Biology and the Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California; Genome Institute of Singapore, Stem Cell & Regenerative Biology Group, Agency for Science, Technology & Research, Singapore; and Department of Medicine and the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lay Teng Ang
- Department of Developmental Biology and the Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California; Genome Institute of Singapore, Stem Cell & Regenerative Biology Group, Agency for Science, Technology & Research, Singapore; and Department of Medicine and the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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