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Horvat Mercnik M, Schliefsteiner C, Sanchez-Duffhues G, Wadsack C. TGFβ signalling: a nexus between inflammation, placental health and preeclampsia throughout pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:442-471. [PMID: 38519450 PMCID: PMC11215164 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae007] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is a unique and pivotal organ in reproduction, controlling crucial growth and cell differentiation processes that ensure a successful pregnancy. Placental development is a tightly regulated and dynamic process, in which the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily plays a central role. This family of pleiotropic growth factors is heavily involved in regulating various aspects of reproductive biology, particularly in trophoblast differentiation during the first trimester of pregnancy. TGFβ signalling precisely regulates trophoblast invasion and the cell transition from cytotrophoblasts to extravillous trophoblasts, which is an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-like process. Later in pregnancy, TGFβ signalling ensures proper vascularization and angiogenesis in placental endothelial cells. Beyond its role in trophoblasts and endothelial cells, TGFβ signalling contributes to the polarization and function of placental and decidual macrophages by promoting maternal tolerance of the semi-allogeneic foetus. Disturbances in early placental development have been associated with several pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE) which is one of the severe complications. Emerging evidence suggests that TGFβ is involved in the pathogenesis of PE, thereby offering a potential target for intervention in the human placenta. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This comprehensive review aims to explore and elucidate the roles of the major members of the TGFβ superfamily, including TGFβs, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), activins, inhibins, nodals, and growth differentiation factors (GDFs), in the context of placental development and function. The review focusses on their interactions within the major cell types of the placenta, namely trophoblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, in both normal pregnancies and pregnancies complicated by PE throughout pregnancy. SEARCH METHODS A literature search was carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar, searching terms: 'TGF signalling preeclampsia', 'pregnancy TGF signalling', 'preeclampsia tgfβ', 'preeclampsia bmp', 'preeclampsia gdf', 'preeclampsia activin', 'endoglin preeclampsia', 'endoglin pregnancy', 'tgfβ signalling pregnancy', 'bmp signalling pregnancy', 'gdf signalling pregnancy', 'activin signalling pregnancy', 'Hofbauer cell tgfβ signalling', 'placental macrophages tgfβ', 'endothelial cells tgfβ', 'endothelium tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion Smad', 'trophoblast invasion bmp', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ', 'tgfβ preeclampsia', 'tgfβ placental development', 'TGFβ placental function', 'endothelial dysfunction preeclampsia tgfβ signalling', 'vascular remodelling placenta TGFβ', 'inflammation pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune response pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune tolerance pregnancy tgfβ', 'TGFβ pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy tregs', 'tgfβ pregnancy tregs', 'TGFβ placenta NK cells', 'TGFβ placenta tregs', 'NK cells preeclampsia', 'Tregs preeclampsia'. Only articles published in English until 2023 were used. OUTCOMES A comprehensive understanding of TGFβ signalling and its role in regulating interconnected cell functions of the main placental cell types provides valuable insights into the processes essential for successful placental development and growth of the foetus during pregnancy. By orchestrating trophoblast invasion, vascularization, immune tolerance, and tissue remodelling, TGFβ ligands contribute to the proper functioning of a healthy maternal-foetal interface. However, dysregulation of TGFβ signalling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE, where the shallow trophoblast invasion, defective vascular remodelling, decreased uteroplacental perfusion, and endothelial cell and immune dysfunction observed in PE, are all affected by an altered TGFβ signalling. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The dysregulation of TGFβ signalling in PE has important implications for research and clinical practice. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying mechanisms, including the role of different ligands and their regulation under pathophysiological conditions, in order to discover new therapeutic targets. Distinguishing between clinically manifested subtypes of PE and studying TGFβ signalling in different placental cell types holistically is an important first step. To put this knowledge into practice, pre-clinical animal models combined with new technologies are needed. This may also lead to improved human research models and identify potential therapeutic targets, ultimately improving outcomes for affected pregnancies and reducing the burden of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gonzalo Sanchez-Duffhues
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC), Tissue-Specific BMP Signalling ISPA-HUCA, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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Menon R, Richardson L, Kammala AK. New approach methods on the bench side to accelerate clinical trials during pregnancy. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2024:1-6. [PMID: 38739076 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2024.2353944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pregnant women are therapeutic orphans as they are excluded from clinical drug development and therapeutic trials. We identify limitations in conducting clinical trials and propose two 'New Approach Methods'(NAMs) to overcome them. AREAS COVERED NAMs have proven invaluable tools in basic and clinical research to understand human health and disease better, elucidate mechanisms, and study the efficacy and toxicity of therapeutics that have not been possible through animal-based methodologies. The lack of humanized experimental models of FMi and drugs that can safely and effectively cross FMi to reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy has hindered progress in the field of reproductive pharmacology. This report discusses two technological advancements in perinatal research and medicine to accelerate clinical trials during pregnancy. (1) We have developed a humanized microphysiologic system, an Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platform, to study FMi and their utility in pharmacological studies, and (2) use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as drug delivery vehicles that are immunologically inert and can cross the fetomaternal barriers. EXPERT OPINION We provide an overview of NAMs that can accelerate preclinical trials and develop drugs to cross the feto-maternal barriers to reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
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Saadeldin IM, Ehab S, Noreldin AE, Swelum AAA, Bang S, Kim H, Yoon KY, Lee S, Cho J. Current strategies using 3D organoids to establish in vitro maternal-embryonic interaction. J Vet Sci 2024; 25:e40. [PMID: 38834510 PMCID: PMC11156602 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.24004] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The creation of robust maternal-embryonic interactions and implantation models is important for comprehending the early stages of embryonic development and reproductive disorders. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture systems often fail to accurately mimic the highly complex in vivo conditions. The employment of three-dimensional (3D) organoids has emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these limitations in recent years. The advancements in the field of organoid technology have opened new avenues for studying the physiology and diseases affecting female reproductive tract. OBSERVATIONS This review summarizes the current strategies and advancements in the field of 3D organoids to establish maternal-embryonic interaction and implantation models for use in research and personalized medicine in assisted reproductive technology. The concepts of endometrial organoids, menstrual blood flow organoids, placental trophoblast organoids, stem cell-derived blastoids, and in vitro-generated embryo models are discussed in detail. We show the incorportaion of organoid systems and microfluidic technology to enhance tissue performance and precise management of the cellular surroundings. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This review provides insights into the future direction of modeling maternal-embryonic interaction research and its combination with other powerful technologies to interfere with this dialogue either by promoting or hindering it for improving fertility or methods for contraception, respectively. The merging of organoid systems with microfluidics facilitates the creation of sophisticated and functional organoid models, enhancing insights into organ development, disease mechanisms, and personalized medical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Islam Mohamed Saadeldin
- Comparative Medicine Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seif Ehab
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza 11341, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elsayed Noreldin
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, the Scientific Campus, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Ayman Abdel-Aziz Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Seonggyu Bang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Division in Biomedical Art, Department of Fine Art, Incheon Catholic University Graduate School, Incheon 21986, Korea
| | - Ki Young Yoon
- Department of Companion Animal, Shingu College, Seongnam 13174, Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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Kim M, Jang YJ, Lee M, Guo Q, Son AJ, Kakkad NA, Roland AB, Lee BK, Kim J. The transcriptional regulatory network modulating human trophoblast stem cells to extravillous trophoblast differentiation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1285. [PMID: 38346993 PMCID: PMC10861538 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45669-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
During human pregnancy, extravillous trophoblasts play crucial roles in placental invasion into the maternal decidua and spiral artery remodeling. However, regulatory factors and their action mechanisms modulating human extravillous trophoblast specification have been unknown. By analyzing dynamic changes in transcriptome and enhancer profile during human trophoblast stem cell to extravillous trophoblast differentiation, we define stage-specific regulators, including an early-stage transcription factor, TFAP2C, and multiple late-stage transcription factors. Loss-of-function studies confirm the requirement of all transcription factors identified for adequate differentiation, and we reveal that the dynamic changes in the levels of TFAP2C are essential. Notably, TFAP2C pre-occupies the regulatory elements of the inactive extravillous trophoblast-active genes during the early stage of differentiation, and the late-stage transcription factors directly activate extravillous trophoblast-active genes, including themselves as differentiation further progresses, suggesting sequential actions of transcription factors assuring differentiation. Our results reveal stage-specific transcription factors and their inter-connected regulatory mechanisms modulating extravillous trophoblast differentiation, providing a framework for understanding early human placentation and placenta-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mijeong Kim
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Yu Jin Jang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Muyoung Lee
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Qingqing Guo
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Albert J Son
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Nikita A Kakkad
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Abigail B Roland
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Bum-Kyu Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Jonghwan Kim
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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Chae SA, Du M, Zhu MJ, Son JS. Exercise enhances placental labyrinth trophoblast development by activation of PGC-1α and FNDC5/irisin†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:355-364. [PMID: 37934783 PMCID: PMC10873274 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad151] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental chorion/labyrinth trophoblasts are energy demanding which is met by the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Exercise enhances placental development and mitochondrial biogenesis, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. To address, female C57BL/6 J mice were randomly assigned into two groups: a control group and an exercise (EX) group. All animals were acclimated to treadmill exercise for 1 week before mating, but only the EX group was subjected to daily exercise during pregnancy from embryonic day (E) 1.5 to E16.5. Placenta were collected at E18.5 for biochemical and histochemical analyses, and primary trophoblast cells were isolated from the E18.5 placenta for further analyses. The data showed that exercise during pregnancy promoted the expression of syncytiotrophoblast cell markers, indicating trophoblast cell differentiation, which was closely associated with elevated mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism in the E18.5 placenta. In addition, exercise during pregnancy activated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1 α (PGC-1α), which was associated with upregulated placental α-ketoglutarate and the expression of isocitrate dehydrogenases and ten-eleven translocations, facilitating DNA demethylation of the Pgc1a promoter. Furthermore, exercise upregulated fibronectin type III domain containing 5 expression and the secretion of its cleaved form, irisin, which is known to activate PGC-1α. These data suggest that exercise-induced activation of PGC-1α, via epigenetic modifications, is responsible for promoting mitochondrial energy metabolism and chorion/labyrinth trophoblast development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Ah Chae
- Cell Biology Group, Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Min Du
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Mei-Jun Zhu
- School of Food Science, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jun Seok Son
- Nutrigenomics and Exercise Biology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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6
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Menon R, Muglia LJ, Levin LH. Review on new approach methods to gain insight into the feto-maternal interface physiology. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1304002. [PMID: 38098843 PMCID: PMC10720461 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1304002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-human animals represent a large and important feature in the history of biomedical research. The validity of their use, in terms of reproducible outcomes and translational confidence to the human situation, as well as ethical concerns surrounding that use, have been and remain controversial topics. Over the last 10 years, the communities developing microphysiological systems (MPS) have produced new approach method (NAMs) such as organoids and organs-on-a-chip. These alternative methodologies have shown indications of greater reliability and translatability than animal use in some areas, represent more humane substitutions for animals in these settings, and - with continued scientific effort - may change the conduct of basic research, clinical studies, safety testing, and drug development. Here, we present an introduction to these more human-relevant methodologies and suggest how a suite of pregnancy associated feto-maternal interface system-oriented NAMs may be integrated as reliable partial-/full animal replacements for investigators, significantly aid animal-/environmental welfare, and improve healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Louis J. Muglia
- The Burroughs Wellcome Fund, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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7
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Morey R, Bui T, Fisch KM, Horii M. Modeling placental development and disease using human pluripotent stem cells. Placenta 2023; 141:18-25. [PMID: 36333266 PMCID: PMC10148925 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Our current knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of placental epithelial cells, trophoblast, primarily came from the use of mouse trophoblast stem cells and tumor-derived or immortalized human trophoblast cell lines. This was mainly due to the difficulties in maintaining primary trophoblast in culture and establishing human trophoblast stem cell (hTSC) lines. However, in-depth characterization of these cellular models and in vivo human trophoblast have revealed significant discrepancies. For the past two decades, multiple groups have shown that human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) can be differentiated into trophoblast, and thus could be used as a model for normal and disease trophoblast differentiation. During this time, trophoblast differentiation protocols have evolved, enabling researchers to study cellular characteristics at trophectoderm (TE), trophoblast stem cells (TSC), syncytiotrophoblast (STB), and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) stages. Recently, several groups reported methods to derive hTSC from pre-implantation blastocyst or early gestation placenta, and trophoblast organoids from early gestation placenta, drastically changing the landscape of trophoblast research. These culture conditions have been rapidly applied to generate hPSC-derived TSC and trophoblast organoids. As a result of these technological advancements, the field's capacity to better understand trophoblast differentiation and their involvement in pregnancy related disease has greatly expanded. Here, we present in vitro models of human trophoblast differentiation, describing both primary and hPSC-derived TSC, maintained as monolayers and 3-dimensional trophoblast organoids, as a tool to study early placental development and disease in multiple settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Morey
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Tony Bui
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Kathleen M Fisch
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Mariko Horii
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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8
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Park JY, Lim H, Qin J, Lee LP. Creating mini-pregnancy models in vitro with clinical perspectives. EBioMedicine 2023; 95:104780. [PMID: 37657136 PMCID: PMC10480532 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last decade, organs-on-chips or organoids microphysiological analysis platforms (MAP) have garnered attention in the practical applications of disease models, drug discovery, and developmental biology. Research on pregnant women has firm limitations due to ethical issues; thus, remodelling human pregnancy in vitro is highly beneficial for treatment modality development via disease remodelling or drug monitoring. This review highlights current efforts in bioengineering devices to reproduce human pregnancy and emphasises the significant convergence of biology, engineering, and maternal-foetal medicine. First, we review recent achievements in culturing cells from tissues involved in pregnancy; specifically, trophoblasts from the placenta. Second, we highlight developments in the reconstitution of pregnancy-related female reproductive organs across several structural and functional interpretations. Last, we examine research on the fundamental comprehension of pregnancy-associated diseases to find bioengineering solutions. Recreating human pregnancy through an engineered model is naturally complex; nevertheless, challenges are inevitable to progress precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Yoon Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University, Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Republic of Korea; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Hosub Lim
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Luke P Lee
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea.
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Tang M, Li Q, Wan S, Chen Q, Feng S, You J, Wang W, Zhu Y. LncRNA landscape and associated ceRNA network in placental villus of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:57. [PMID: 37340405 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01107-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) is one of the most challenging conditions frustrates women of childbearing age profoundly. The gene expression patterns and biological characteristics of placental villus in patients with URSA remain largely unknown. The aim of our study was to identify potential lncRNAs as well as their action mechanisms in URSA. METHOD The ceRNA microarray was used to identify the mRNA and lncRNA expression profiles of URSA patients and normal pregnancy. Functional enrichment analyses for differentially expressed mRNAs in URSA were performed. Protein-protein interaction analysis of differentially expressed mRNAs was performed to identify hub genes and key modules. Subsequently, the co-dysregulated ceRNA network of URSA was established, and the enrichment analyses for the mRNAs in the ceRNA network was implemented. qRT-PCR was performed to validated the expression of key ENST00000429019 and mRNAs in URSA. RESULTS We found that URSA placental villus have distinct mRNA and lncRNA expression profiles through ceRNA microarray, with a total of 347 mRNAs and 361 lncRNAs differentially expressed compared with controls. The functional enrichment analysis revealed that ncRNA processing, DNA replication, cell cycle, apoptosis, cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, ECM-receptor interaction were the potentially disrupted pathways in URSA patients. Then we constructed a co-dysregulated ceRNA network and found differentially expressed mRNAs were regulated by a small fraction of hub lncRNAs. Finally, we found a key network of ENST00000429019 and three cell proliferation or apoptosis related key mRNAs (CDCA3, KIFC1, NCAPH), and validated their expression and regulation in tissue and cellular levels. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a key ceRNA network, which might take part in URSA and correlate with cell proliferation and apoptosis. Optimistically, this study may deepen our apprehensions about the underlying molecular and biological causes of URSA and provide an important theoretical basis for future therapeutic strategies for patients with URSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minyue Tang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Qingfang Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shan Wan
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Chen
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shujun Feng
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiali You
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yimin Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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Robellada‐Zárate CM, Luna‐Palacios JE, Caballero CAZ, Acuña‐González JP, Lara‐Pereyra I, González‐Azpeitia DI, Acuña‐González RJ, Moreno‐Verduzco ER, Flores‐Herrera H, Osorio‐Caballero M. First‐trimester plasma extracellular heat shock proteins levels and risk of preeclampsia. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:1206-1213. [PMID: 37002651 PMCID: PMC10148059 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) occurs annually in 8% of pregnancies. Patients without risk factors represent 10% of these. There are currently no first-trimester biochemical markers that accurately predict PE. An increase in serum 60- and 70-KDa extracellular heat shock proteins (eHsp) has been shown in patients who developed PE at 34 weeks. We sought to determine whether there is a relationship between first-trimester eHsp and the development of PE. This was a prospective cohort study performed at a third level hospital in Mexico City from 2019 to 2020. eHsp levels were measured during the first-trimester ultrasound in singleton pregnancies with no comorbidities. First-trimester eHsp levels and biochemical parameters of organ dysfunction were compared between patients who developed preeclampsia and those who did not. All statistical analyses and model of correlation (r) between eHsp and clinical parameter were performed using bootstrapping R-software. p-values <0.05 were considered significant. The final analysis included 41 patients. PE occurred in 11 cases. eHsp-60 and eHsp-70 were significantly higher at 12 weeks in patients who developed PE (p = 0.001), while eHsp-27 was significantly lower (p = 0.004). Significant differences in first-trimester eHsp concentration suggest that these are possible early biomarkers useful for the prediction of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Melina Robellada‐Zárate
- Departamento de Ginecología y Obstetricia Instituto Nacional de Perinatología “Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes” Ciudad de México Mexico
| | | | - Carlos Agustín Zapata Caballero
- Departamento de Ginecología y Obstetricia Instituto Nacional de Perinatología “Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes” Ciudad de México Mexico
| | - Juan Pablo Acuña‐González
- Departamento de Matemáticas, Facultad de Ciencias Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Ciudad de México Mexico
| | - Irlando Lara‐Pereyra
- Departamento de Ginecología, Hospital General de Zona 252 Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Atlacomulco Mexico
| | | | - Ricardo Josué Acuña‐González
- Departamento de Inmunobioquimica Instituto Nacional de Perinatología “Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes” Ciudad de México Mexico
| | - Elsa Romelia Moreno‐Verduzco
- Subdirección de Servicios Auxiliares de Diagnóstico Instituto Nacional de Perinatología “Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes” Ciudad de México Mexico
| | - Héctor Flores‐Herrera
- Departamento de Inmunobioquimica Instituto Nacional de Perinatología “Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes” Ciudad de México Mexico
| | - Mauricio Osorio‐Caballero
- Departamento de Salud Sexual y Reproductiva Instituto Nacional de Perinatología “Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes” Ciudad de México Mexico
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11
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Martínez N, Damiano AE. Aquaporins in Fetal Development. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1398:251-266. [PMID: 36717499 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7415-1_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Water homeostasis is essential for fetal growth, and it depends on the successful development of the placenta. Many aquaporins (AQPs) were identified from blastocyst stages to term placenta. In the last years, cytokines, hormones, second messengers, intracellular pH, and membrane proteins were found to regulate their expression and function in the human placenta and fetal membranes. Accumulated data suggest that these proteins may be involved not only in the maintenance of the amniotic fluid volume homeostasis but also in the development of the placenta and fetal organs. In this sense, dysregulation of placental AQPs is associated with gestational disorders. Thus, current evidence shows that AQPs may collaborate in cellular events including trophoblast migration and apoptosis. In addition, aquaglyceroporins are involved in energy metabolism as well as urea elimination across the placenta. In the last year, the presence of AQP9 in trophoblast mitochondria opened new hypotheses about its role in pregnancy. However, much further work is needed to understand the importance of these proteins in human pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Martínez
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO)-CONICET-Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alicia E Damiano
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO)-CONICET-Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Cátedra de Biología Celulary Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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12
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Richardson LS, K Kammala A, Costantine MM, Fortunato SJ, Radnaa E, Kim S, Taylor RN, Han A, Menon R. Testing of drugs using human feto-maternal interface organ-on-chips provide insights into pharmacokinetics and efficacy. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4574-4592. [PMID: 36322152 PMCID: PMC9682442 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00691j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: To improve preclinical drug testing during pregnancy, we developed multiple microfluidic organ-on-chip (OOC) devices that represent the structure, functions, and responses of the two feto-maternal interfaces (FMis) in humans (fetal membrane [FMi-OOC] and placenta [PLA-OOC]). This study utilized feto-maternal interface OOCs to test the kinetics and efficacy of drugs during pregnancy. Study design: The FMi-OOC contained amnion epithelial, mesenchymal, chorion trophoblast, and decidual cells. The PLA-OOC contained cytotrophoblasts (BeWo), syncytiotrophoblasts (BeWo + forskolin), and human umbilical vein endothelial cell lines. Therapeutic concentrations of either pravastatin or rosuvastatin (200 ng mL-1), a model drug for these experiments, were applied to either decidua (in FMi-OOC) and syncytiotrophoblasts (in PLA-OOC) chambers under normal and oxidative stress conditions (induced by cigarette smoke extract [CSE 1 : 25]) to evaluate maternal drug exposure during normal pregnancy or oxidative stress (OS) associated pathologies, respectively. We determined statin pharmacokinetics and metabolism (LC-MS/MS), drug-induced cytotoxicity (LDH assay), and efficacy to reduce OS-induced inflammation (multiplex cytokine assay). Results: Both OOCs mimicked two distinct human feto-maternal interfaces. The drugs tested permeated the maternal-fetal cell layers of the FMi-OOC and PLA-OOC within 4 hours and generated cell and time-specific statin metabolites from various cell types without causing any cytotoxicity. OS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines were effectively reduced by statins by increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine response across the FMi-OOC and PLA-OOC. Conclusion: Two distinct feto-maternal interface OOCs were developed, tested, and validated for their utility to conduct preclinical trials during pregnancy. We demonstrated that the placenta and fetal membranes-decidual interface both are able to transport and metabolize drugs and that the safety and efficacy of a drug can be determined using the anatomical structures recreated on OOCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren S Richardson
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
| | - Ananth K Kammala
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
| | - Maged M Costantine
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stephen J Fortunato
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
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13
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Cindrova-Davies T, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. Human placental development and function. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 131:66-77. [PMID: 35393235 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is a transient fetal organ that plays a critical role in the health and wellbeing of both the fetus and its mother. Functionally, the placenta sustains the growth of the fetus as it facilitates delivery of oxygen and nutrients and removal of waste products. Not surprisingly, defective early placental development is the primary cause of common disorders of pregnancy, including recurrent miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, pre-eclampsia and stillbirth. Adverse pregnancy conditions will also affect the life-long health of the fetus via developmental programming[1]. Despite its critical importance in reproductive success and life-long health, our understanding of placental development is not extensive, largely due to ethical limitations to studying early or chronological placental development, lack of long-term in vitro models, or comparative animal models. In this review, we examine current knowledge of early human placental development, discuss the critical role of the maternal endometrium and of the fetal-maternal dialogue in pregnancy success, and we explore the latest models of trophoblast and endometrial stem cells. In addition, we discuss the role of oxygen in placental formation and function, how nutrient delivery is mediated during the periods of histotrophic nutrition (uptake of uterine secretions) and haemotrophic nutrition (exchange between the maternal and fetal circulations), and how placental endocrine function facilitates fetal growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Cindrova-Davies
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
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14
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Induction of human trophoblast stem cells. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:2760-2783. [PMID: 36241723 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00744-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cell reprogramming has allowed unprecedented access to human development, from virtually any genome. However, reprogramming yields pluripotent stem cells that can differentiate into all cells that form a fetus, but not extraembryonic annexes. Therefore, a cellular model allowing study of placental development from a broad genomic repertoire is lacking. Here, we describe an optimized protocol to reprogram somatic cells into human induced trophoblast stem cells (hiTSCs) and convert pluripotent stem cells into human converted TSCs (hcTSCs). This protocol enables much-needed genome-specific placental disease modeling. We also detail extravillous trophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast differentiation protocols from hiTSCs and hcTSCs, a necessary step to validate these cells. In total, this protocol takes 4 months and requires advanced cell culture skills, comparable to those necessary for somatic cell reprogramming into human induced pluripotent stem cells.
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15
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Zhang X, Yang M, Lv D, Xie Y, Sun Y, Zhang Y, He M, Liu H, Li F, Deng D. Effects of KCa channels on biological behavior of trophoblasts. Open Life Sci 2022; 17:1043-1052. [PMID: 36118166 PMCID: PMC9441684 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ca2+-activated potassium (KCa) channels are involved in many cellular functions, but their roles in trophoblasts are unclear. This study aimed to clarify the effects of KCa channels on the biological behavior of trophoblasts. The localization and expression of the three types of KCa channels, including large-conductance KCa channels (BKCa), intermediate-conductance KCa channels (IKCa), and small-conductance KCa channels (SKCa), were detected in human chorionic villi taken from pregnant women between 5 and 8 weeks of gestation (n = 15) and HTR-8/SVneo cells. The effects of KCa channels on proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells were examined by using the activators or inhibitors of KCa channels. Results showed that KCa channels were mainly localized on the membrane and in the cytoplasm of trophoblasts in human chorionic villi and HTR-8/SVneo cells. The proliferation and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells were inhibited by activating KCa channels. Apoptosis of trophoblasts was promoted through activating BKCa channels but was not affected by neither activating nor inhibiting IKCa and SKCa channels. This study substantiated the abovementioned biological roles of KCa channels in trophoblast cells, which is fundamental to further research on whether dysfunction of KCa channels is involved in the pathogenesis of pregnancy-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meitao Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Dan Lv
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yin Xie
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yanan Sun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yanling Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mengzhou He
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Haiyi Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fanfan Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dongrui Deng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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16
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Roberts RM, Ezashi T, Temple J, Owen JR, Soncin F, Parast MM. The role of BMP4 signaling in trophoblast emergence from pluripotency. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:447. [PMID: 35877048 PMCID: PMC10243463 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04478-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling pathway has established roles in early embryonic morphogenesis, particularly in the epiblast. More recently, however, it has also been implicated in development of extraembryonic lineages, including trophectoderm (TE), in both mouse and human. In this review, we will provide an overview of this signaling pathway, with a focus on BMP4, and its role in emergence and development of TE in both early mouse and human embryogenesis. Subsequently, we will build on these in vivo data and discuss the utility of BMP4-based protocols for in vitro conversion of primed vs. naïve pluripotent stem cells (PSC) into trophoblast, and specifically into trophoblast stem cells (TSC). PSC-derived TSC could provide an abundant, reproducible, and ethically acceptable source of cells for modeling placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Michael Roberts
- Division of Animal Sciences and Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Toshihiko Ezashi
- Division of Animal Sciences and Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10290 Ridgegate Circle, Lone Tree, CO, 80124, USA
| | - Jasmine Temple
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, 2880 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Joseph R Owen
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, 2880 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Francesca Soncin
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, 2880 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Mana M Parast
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, 2880 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.
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17
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Richardson L, Menon R. Fetal membrane at the feto-maternal interface: An underappreciated and understudied intrauterine tissue. PLACENTA AND REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2022; 1:10.54844/prm.2022.0104. [PMID: 37502422 PMCID: PMC10373051 DOI: 10.54844/prm.2022.0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555, TX, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555, TX, USA
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18
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Seetharam AS, Vu HTH, Choi S, Khan T, Sheridan MA, Ezashi T, Roberts RM, Tuteja G. The product of BMP-directed differentiation protocols for human primed pluripotent stem cells is placental trophoblast and not amnion. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1289-1302. [PMID: 35594861 PMCID: PMC9214062 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The observation that trophoblast (TB) can be generated from primed pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) by exposure to bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP4) when FGF2 and ACTIVIN signaling is minimized has recently been challenged with the suggestion that the procedure instead produces amnion. Here, by analyzing transcriptome data from multiple sources, including bulk and single-cell data, we show that the BMP4 procedure generates bona fide TB with similarities to both placental villous TB and TB generated from TB stem cells. The analyses also suggest that the transcriptomic signatures between embryonic amnion and different forms of TB have commonalities. Our data provide justification for the continued use of TB derived from PSCs as a model for investigating placental development. Cells differentiated by using BAP protocols resemble TB more than embryonic amnion Deviation from the standard BAP protocol results in less differentiated TB Single-cell/nucleus RNA-seq analysis identifies two syncytiotrophoblast populations
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun S Seetharam
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA; Genetics Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Ha T H Vu
- Genetics Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA; Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Sehee Choi
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Teka Khan
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA; Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Megan A Sheridan
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Toshihiko Ezashi
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA; Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - R Michael Roberts
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA; 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
- Genetics Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA; Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
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19
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Bačenková D, Trebuňová M, Čížková D, Hudák R, Dosedla E, Findrik-Balogová A, Živčák J. In Vitro Model of Human Trophoblast in Early Placentation. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040904. [PMID: 35453654 PMCID: PMC9029210 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex process of placental implantation and development affects trophoblast progenitors and uterine cells through the regulation of transcription factors, cytokines, adhesion receptors and their ligands. Differentiation of trophoblast precursors in the trophectoderm of early ontogenesis, caused by the transcription factors, such as CDX2, TEAD4, Eomes and GATA3, leads to the formation of cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast populations. The molecular mechanisms involved in placental formation inside the human body along with the specification and differentiation of trophoblast cell lines are, mostly due to the lack of suitable cell models, not sufficiently elucidated. This review is an evaluation of current technologies, which are used to study the behavior of human trophoblasts and other placental cells, as well as their ability to represent physiological conditions both in vivo and in vitro. An in vitro 3D model with a characteristic phenotype is of great benefit for the study of placental physiology. At the same time, it provides great support for future modeling of placental disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darina Bačenková
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Measurement, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Košice, 04200 Košice, Slovakia; (M.T.); (R.H.); (A.F.-B.); (J.Ž.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +42-1055-602-2380
| | - Marianna Trebuňová
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Measurement, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Košice, 04200 Košice, Slovakia; (M.T.); (R.H.); (A.F.-B.); (J.Ž.)
| | - Daša Čížková
- Centre for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, The University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 04181 Košice, Slovakia;
| | - Radovan Hudák
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Measurement, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Košice, 04200 Košice, Slovakia; (M.T.); (R.H.); (A.F.-B.); (J.Ž.)
| | - Erik Dosedla
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafarik Univerzity Hospital AGEL Košice-Šaca, Pavol Jozef Šafarik University in Košice, 04015 Košice-Šaca, Slovakia;
| | - Alena Findrik-Balogová
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Measurement, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Košice, 04200 Košice, Slovakia; (M.T.); (R.H.); (A.F.-B.); (J.Ž.)
| | - Jozef Živčák
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Measurement, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Košice, 04200 Košice, Slovakia; (M.T.); (R.H.); (A.F.-B.); (J.Ž.)
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20
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Fu D, Ju Y, Zhu C, Pan Y, Zhang S. LncRNA NEAT1 Promotes TLR4 Expression to Regulate Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Trophoblastic Cell Pyroptosis as a Molecular Sponge of miR-302b-3p. Mol Biotechnol 2022; 64:670-680. [PMID: 35064469 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-021-00436-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Pyroptosis is an inflammation-triggered cell death caused by certain inflammasomes, and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are related to cell pyroptosis. This study evaluated the mechanism of lncRNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced trophoblastic cells pyroptosis. HTR-8/Svneo trophoblastic cells were treated with LPS. The expression of lncRNA NEAT1 was decreased using siRNAs, followed by the evaluation of cell proliferation, Caspase-1 activity, levels of Cleaved Caspase-1 and gasdermin D-N, and the concentrations of Interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. We found that LPS promoted the pyroptosis of HTR-8/Svneo cells, and lncRNA NEAT1 was highly expressed in LPS-treated HTR-8/Svneo cells while silencing lncRNA NEAT1 inhibited LPS-induced trophoblastic cells pyroptosis. The subcellular localization of lncRNA NEAT1 was detected. Dual-luciferase gene experiment and RNA pull-down assay detected that lncRNA NEAT1 bound to miR-302b-3p and could inhibit miR-302b-3p, and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) was the target gene of miR-302b-3p. Then, a joint experiment was designed for detection, which found that miR-302b-3p downregulation partially reversed the inhibition of silencing lncRNA NEAT1 on LPS-induced trophoblastic cells pyroptosis and overexpression of TLR4 annulled the inhibition of silencing lncRNA NEAT1 on LPS-induced trophoblastic cells pyroptosis. Therefore, lncRNA NEAT1 promoted the transcription of TLR4 by competitively binding to miR-302b-3p, thus promoting LPS-induced trophoblastic cells pyroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Fu
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Clinical Medical College, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou University, No. 98 Nantong West Road, Guangling District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225001, China
| | - Yun Ju
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Clinical Medical College, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou University, No. 98 Nantong West Road, Guangling District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225001, China
| | - Chunhui Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Clinical Medical College, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou University, No. 98 Nantong West Road, Guangling District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225001, China
| | - Yu Pan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Clinical Medical College, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou University, No. 98 Nantong West Road, Guangling District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225001, China
| | - Suhua Zhang
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Clinical Medical College, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou University, No. 98 Nantong West Road, Guangling District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, 225001, China.
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21
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Dietrich B, Haider S, Meinhardt G, Pollheimer J, Knöfler M. WNT and NOTCH signaling in human trophoblast development and differentiation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:292. [PMID: 35562545 PMCID: PMC9106601 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04285-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Correct development of the human placenta and its differentiated epithelial cells, syncytial trophoblasts (STBs) and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs), is crucial for a successful pregnancy outcome. STBs develop by cell fusion of mononuclear cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) in placental floating villi, whereas migratory EVTs originate from specialized villi anchoring to the maternal decidua. Defects in trophoblast differentiation have been associated with severe pregnancy disorders such as early-onset preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. However, the evolutionary pathways underlying normal and adverse placentation are poorly understood. Herein, we discuss Wingless (WNT) and NOTCH signaling, two pathways that play pivotal roles in human placenta and trophoblast development. Whereas WNT is necessary for expansion of trophoblast progenitors and stem cells, NOTCH1 is required for proliferation and survival of EVT precursors. Differentiation of the latter is orchestrated by a switch in NOTCH receptor expression as well as by changes in WNT ligands and their downstream effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Dietrich
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Placental Development Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 5Q, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Haider
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Placental Development Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 5Q, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gudrun Meinhardt
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Placental Development Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 5Q, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Pollheimer
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Maternal-Fetal Immunology Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 5Q, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Knöfler
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Placental Development Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 5Q, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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22
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Bai T, Peng CY, Aneas I, Sakabe N, Requena DF, Billstrand C, Nobrega M, Ober C, Parast M, Kessler JA. Establishment of human induced trophoblast stem-like cells from term villous cytotrophoblasts. Stem Cell Res 2021; 56:102507. [PMID: 34454392 PMCID: PMC8551050 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2021.102507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSC) can be isolated from first trimester placenta but not from term placenta. Here we demonstrate that villous cytotrophoblasts (vCTB) from term placenta can be reprogrammed into induced trophoblastic stem-like cells (iTSC) by introducing sets of transcription factors. The iTSCs express TSC markers such as GATA3, TEAD4 and ELF5, and are multipotent, validated by their differentiation into both extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) and syncytiotrophoblasts (STB) in vitro and in vivo. The iTSC can be passaged indefinitely in vitro without slowing of growth. The transcriptome profile of these cells closely resembles the profile of hTSC isolated from first trimester placentae but different from the term placental vCTB from which they originated. The ability to reprogram cells from term placenta into iTSC will allow study of early gestation events which impact placental function later in gestation, including preeclampsia and spontaneous preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Bai
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Chian-Yu Peng
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Ivy Aneas
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Noboru Sakabe
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Daniela F Requena
- Department of Pathology and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA
| | | | - Marcelo Nobrega
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Carole Ober
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Mana Parast
- Department of Pathology and Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA
| | - John A Kessler
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA.
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23
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ASCL2 reciprocally controls key trophoblast lineage decisions during hemochorial placenta development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2016517118. [PMID: 33649217 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2016517118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive trophoblast cells are critical to spiral artery remodeling in hemochorial placentation. Insufficient trophoblast cell invasion and vascular remodeling can lead to pregnancy disorders including preeclampsia, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction. Previous studies in mice identified achaete-scute homolog 2 (ASCL2) as essential to extraembryonic development. We hypothesized that ASCL2 is a critical and conserved regulator of invasive trophoblast cell lineage development. In contrast to the mouse, the rat possesses deep intrauterine trophoblast cell invasion and spiral artery remodeling similar to human placentation. In this study, we investigated invasive/extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell differentiation using human trophoblast stem (TS) cells and a loss-of-function mutant Ascl2 rat model. ASCL2 transcripts are expressed in the EVT column and junctional zone, which represent tissue sources of invasive trophoblast progenitor cells within human and rat placentation sites, respectively. Differentiation of human TS cells into EVT cells resulted in significant up-regulation of ASCL2 and several other transcripts indicative of EVT cell differentiation. Disruption of ASCL2 impaired EVT cell differentiation, as indicated by cell morphology and transcript profiles. RNA sequencing analysis of ASCL2-deficient trophoblast cells identified both down-regulation of EVT cell-associated transcripts and up-regulation of syncytiotrophoblast-associated transcripts, indicative of dual activating and repressing functions. ASCL2 deficiency in the rat impacted placental morphogenesis, resulting in junctional zone dysgenesis and failed intrauterine trophoblast cell invasion. ASCL2 acts as a critical and conserved regulator of invasive trophoblast cell lineage development and a modulator of the syncytiotrophoblast lineage.
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24
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Costa J, Mackay R, de Aguiar Greca SC, Corti A, Silva E, Karteris E, Ahluwalia A. The Role of the 3Rs for Understanding and Modeling the Human Placenta. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153444. [PMID: 34362227 PMCID: PMC8347836 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Modeling the physiology of the human placenta is still a challenge, despite the great number of scientific advancements made in the field. Animal models cannot fully replicate the structure and function of the human placenta and pose ethical and financial hurdles. In addition, increasingly stricter animal welfare legislation worldwide is incentivizing the use of 3R (reduction, refinement, replacement) practices. What efforts have been made to develop alternative models for the placenta so far? How effective are they? How can we improve them to make them more predictive of human pathophysiology? To address these questions, this review aims at presenting and discussing the current models used to study phenomena at the placenta level: in vivo, ex vivo, in vitro and in silico. We describe the main achievements and opportunities for improvement of each type of model and critically assess their individual and collective impact on the pursuit of predictive studies of the placenta in line with the 3Rs and European legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Costa
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Ruth Mackay
- Centre for Genome Engineering and Maintenance, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK;
| | | | - Alessandro Corti
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabete Silva
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK; (S.-C.d.A.G.); (E.S.); (E.K.)
| | - Emmanouil Karteris
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK; (S.-C.d.A.G.); (E.S.); (E.K.)
| | - Arti Ahluwalia
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, 56122 Pisa, Italy
- Interuniversity Centro for the Promotion of 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro3R), Italy
- Correspondence:
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25
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Khan T, Seetharam AS, Zhou J, Bivens NJ, Schust DJ, Ezashi T, Tuteja G, Roberts RM. Single Nucleus RNA Sequence (snRNAseq) Analysis of the Spectrum of Trophoblast Lineages Generated From Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in vitro. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:695248. [PMID: 34368143 PMCID: PMC8334858 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.695248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
One model to study the emergence of the human trophoblast (TB) has been the exposure of pluripotent stem cells to bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) in presence of inhibitors of ACTIVIN/TGFB; A83-01 and FGF2; PD173074 (BAP), which generates a mixture of cytotrophoblast, syncytiotrophoblast, and cells with similarities to extravillous trophoblast. Here, H1 human embryonic stem cells were BAP-exposed under two O2 conditions (20% and 5%, respectively). At day 8, single nuclei RNA sequencing was used for transcriptomics analysis, thereby allowing profiling of fragile syncytial structures as well as the more resilient mononucleated cells. Following cluster analysis, two major groupings, one comprised of five (2,4,6,7,8) and the second of three (1,3,5) clusters were evident, all of which displayed recognized TB markers. Of these, two (2 and 3) weakly resembled extravillous trophoblast, two (5 and 6) strongly carried the hallmark transcripts of syncytiotrophoblast, while the remaining five were likely different kinds of mononucleated cytotrophoblast. We suggest that the two populations of nuclei within syncytiotrophoblast may have arisen from fusion events involving two distinct species of precursor cells. The number of differentially expressed genes between O2 conditions varied among the clusters, and the number of genes upregulated in cells cultured under 5% O2 was highest in syncytiotrophoblast cluster 6. In summary, the BAP model reveals an unexpectedly complex picture of trophoblast lineage emergence that will need to be resolved further in time-course studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teka Khan
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Arun S. Seetharam
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jie Zhou
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Nathan J. Bivens
- DNA Core Facility, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Danny J. Schust
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Toshihiko Ezashi
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Geetu Tuteja
- Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - R. Michael Roberts
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Division of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
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26
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Padmanabhan V, Song W, Puttabyatappa M. Praegnatio Perturbatio-Impact of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals. Endocr Rev 2021; 42:295-353. [PMID: 33388776 PMCID: PMC8152448 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The burden of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight is considerable across the world. Several risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes have been identified. One risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes receiving considerable attention in recent years is gestational exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Humans are exposed to a multitude of environmental chemicals with known endocrine-disrupting properties, and evidence suggests exposure to these EDCs have the potential to disrupt the maternal-fetal environment culminating in adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. This review addresses the impact of maternal and fetal exposure to environmental EDCs of natural and man-made chemicals in disrupting the maternal-fetal milieu in human leading to adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes-a risk factor for adult-onset noncommunicable diseases, the role lifestyle and environmental factors play in mitigating or amplifying the effects of EDCs, the underlying mechanisms and mediators involved, and the research directions on which to focus future investigations to help alleviate the adverse effects of EDC exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wenhui Song
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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27
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Padmanabhan V, Moeller J, Puttabyatappa M. Impact of gestational exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals on pregnancy and birth outcomes. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 92:279-346. [PMID: 34452689 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
With the advent of industrialization, humans are exposed to a wide range of environmental chemicals, many with endocrine disrupting potential. As successful maintenance of pregnancy and fetal development are under tight hormonal control, the gestational exposure to environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) have the potential to adversely affect the maternal milieu and support to the fetus, fetal developmental trajectory and birth outcomes. This chapter summarizes the impact of exposure to EDCs both individually and as mixtures during pregnancy, the immediate and long-term consequences of such exposures on the mother and fetus, the direct and indirect mechanisms through which they elicit their effects, factors that modify their action, and the research directions to focus future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacob Moeller
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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28
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Shankar V, van Blitterswijk C, Vrij E, Giselbrecht S. From Snapshots to Development: Identifying the Gaps in the Development of Stem Cell-based Embryo Models along the Embryonic Timeline. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2004250. [PMID: 33898195 PMCID: PMC8061376 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202004250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, stem cell-based models that reconstruct mouse and human embryogenesis have gained significant traction due to their near-physiological similarity to natural embryos. Embryo models can be generated in large numbers, provide accessibility to a variety of experimental tools such as genetic and chemical manipulation, and confer compatibility with automated readouts, which permits exciting experimental avenues for exploring the genetic and molecular principles of self-organization, development, and disease. However, the current embryo models recapitulate only snapshots within the continuum of embryonic development, allowing the progression of the embryonic tissues along a specific direction. Hence, to fully exploit the potential of stem cell-based embryo models, multiple important gaps in the developmental landscape need to be covered. These include recapitulating the lesser-explored interactions between embryonic and extraembryonic tissues such as the yolk sac, placenta, and the umbilical cord; spatial and temporal organization of tissues; and the anterior patterning of embryonic development. Here, it is detailed how combinations of stem cells and versatile bioengineering technologies can help in addressing these gaps and thereby extend the implications of embryo models in the fields of cell biology, development, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinidhra Shankar
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | | | - Erik Vrij
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | - Stefan Giselbrecht
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
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29
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Modeling preeclampsia using human induced pluripotent stem cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5877. [PMID: 33723311 PMCID: PMC7961010 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85230-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder, affecting up to 10% of pregnancies worldwide. The primary etiology is considered to be abnormal development and function of placental cells called trophoblasts. We previously developed a two-step protocol for differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells, first into cytotrophoblast (CTB) progenitor-like cells, and then into both syncytiotrophoblast (STB)- and extravillous trophoblast (EVT)-like cells, and showed that it can model both normal and abnormal trophoblast differentiation. We have now applied this protocol to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) derived from placentas of pregnancies with or without PE. While there were no differences in CTB induction or EVT formation, PE-iPSC-derived trophoblast showed a defect in syncytialization, as well as a blunted response to hypoxia. RNAseq analysis showed defects in STB formation and response to hypoxia; however, DNA methylation changes were minimal, corresponding only to changes in response to hypoxia. Overall, PE-iPSC recapitulated multiple defects associated with placental dysfunction, including a lack of response to decreased oxygen tension. This emphasizes the importance of the maternal microenvironment in normal placentation, and highlights potential pathways that can be targeted for diagnosis or therapy, while absence of marked DNA methylation changes suggests that other regulatory mechanisms mediate these alterations.
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30
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Lala PK, Nandi P, Hadi A, Halari C. A crossroad between placental and tumor biology: What have we learnt? Placenta 2021; 116:12-30. [PMID: 33958236 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Placenta in certain species including the human has evolved as a highly invasive tumor-like organ invading the uterus aned its vasculature to derive oxygen and nutrients for the fetus and exchange waste products. While several excellent reviews have been written comparing hemochorial placentation with tumors, no comprehensive review is available dealing with mechanistic insights into what makes them different, and what tumor biologists can learn from placental biologists, and vice versa. In this review, we analyze the structure-function relationship of the human placenta, emphasizing the functional need of the spatio-temporally orchestrated trophoblast invasiveness for fetal development and growth, and pathological consequences of aberrant invasiveness for fetal and maternal health. We then analyze similarities and differences between the placenta and invasive tumors in terms of hallmarks of cancer, some key molecules regulating their invasive functions, and how placental cancers (choriocarcinomas) or other cancers become refractory or even addicted to these invasion-restraining molecules. We cite in vitro models of human trophoblast and choriocarcinoma cell lines utilized to study mechanisms in normal placental development as well as those responsible for tumor progression. We discuss the pathobiology of hyper-invasive placentas and show thattrophoblastic neoplasias are a unique and heterogeneous class of tumors. We delve into the questions as to why metastasis from other organs rarely occurs at the placental site and whether pregnancy makes the mother more or less vulnerable to cancer-related morbidity/mortality. We attempt to compare trophoblast stem cells and cancer stem cells. Finally, we leave the readers with some thoughts as foods of future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peeyush K Lala
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Westernat Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A5C1, Canada; Associate Scientist, Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada N6C2V5.
| | - Pinki Nandi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Westernat Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A5C1, Canada.
| | - Ali Hadi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Westernat Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A5C1, Canada.
| | - Chidambra Halari
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Westernat Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A5C1, Canada.
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31
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Matoba N, Mestan KK, Collins JW. Understanding Racial Disparities of Preterm Birth Through the Placenta. Clin Ther 2021; 43:287-296. [PMID: 33483135 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2020.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The racial disparity associated with preterm birth is a public health concern in the United States. The placenta is the principal metabolic, respiratory, and endocrine organ of the fetus and a key route by which environmental exposures are transmitted from mother to offspring. Available at every delivery, it may serve as a marker of differences in prenatal exposures that manifest differently by race. Recently, we described differences in placental pathology between African-American and White preterm births: the prevalence of chronic inflammation was higher among African-American women's placentas compared with those of White women. Similarly, racial differences have been shown in placental malperfusion and placental weight. Social determinants such as poverty and stress from discrimination have been implicated in racial disparities in preterm birth. To date, however, the underlying biological mechanisms, whether through inflammatory, oxidative stress, or other pathways involving epigenetic programming, remain largely unknown. The placenta, complemented by maternal and umbilical cord blood biomarkers, may provide important information on the perinatal environment that explains the origins of racial disparities in preterm birth rates and subsequent health outcomes. This article reviews existing literature and current research gaps. Opportunities are discussed for future placental research that may reveal novel mechanisms leading to the development of new approaches in the prevention and management of preterm birth and its outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Matoba
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Karen K Mestan
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James W Collins
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Chicago, IL, USA
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32
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Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs) in Trophoblast Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010433. [PMID: 33406768 PMCID: PMC7795665 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ) belong to the transcription factor family, and they are highly expressed in all types of trophoblast during pregnancy. The present review discusses currently published papers that are related to the regulation of PPARs via lipid metabolism, glucose metabolism, and amino acid metabolism to affect trophoblast physiological conditions, including differentiation, maturation, secretion, fusion, proliferation, migration, and invasion. Recent pieces of evidence have proven that the dysfunctions of PPARs in trophoblast lead to several related pregnancy diseases such as recurrent miscarriage, preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and gestational diabetes mellitus. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms of PPARs in the control of these processes have been discussed as well. Finally, this review's purposes are to provide more knowledge about the role of PPARs in normal and disturbed pregnancy with trophoblast, so as to find PPAR ligands as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment and prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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33
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Richardson L, Kim S, Han A, Menon R. Modeling ascending infection with a feto-maternal interface organ-on-chip. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:4486-4501. [PMID: 33112317 PMCID: PMC7815379 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00875c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Maternal infection (i.e., ascending infection) and the resulting host inflammatory response are risk factors associated with spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), a major pregnancy complication. However, the path of infection and its propagation from the maternal side to the fetal side have been difficult to study due to the lack of appropriate in vitro models and limitations of animal models. A better understanding of the propagation kinetics of infectious agents and development of the host inflammatory response at the feto-maternal (amniochorion-decidua, respectively) interface (FMi) is critical in curtailing host inflammatory responses that can lead to PTB. To model ascending infection and determine inflammatory responses at the FMi, we developed a microfluidic organ-on-chip (OOC) device containing primary cells from the FMi (decidua, chorion, and amnion [mesenchyme and epithelium]) and collagen matrix harvested from primary tissue. The FMi-OOC is composed of four concentric circular cell/collagen chambers designed to mimic the thickness and cell density of the FMi in vivo. Each layer is connected by arrays of microchannels filled with type IV collagen to recreate the basement membrane of the amniochorion. Cellular characteristics (viability, morphology, production of nascent collagen, cellular transitions, and migration) in the OOC were similar to those seen in utero, validating the physiological relevance and utility of the developed FMi-OOC. The ascending infection model of the FMi-OOC, triggered by exposing the maternal (decidua) side of the OOC to lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 100 ng mL-1), shows that LPS propagated through the chorion, amnion mesenchyme, and reached the fetal amnion within 72 h. LPS induced time-dependent and cell-type-specific pro-inflammatory cytokine production (24 h decidua: IL-6, 48 h chorion: GM-CSF and IL-6, and 72 h amnion mesenchyme and epithelium: GM-CSF and IL-6). Collectively, this OOC model and study successfully modeled ascending infection, its propagation, and distinct inflammatory response at the FMi indicative of pathologic pathways of PTB. This OOC model provides a novel platform to study physiological and pathological cell status at the FMi, and is expected to have broad utility in the field of obstetrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
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34
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Sheridan MA, Fernando RC, Gardner L, Hollinshead MS, Burton GJ, Moffett A, Turco MY. Establishment and differentiation of long-term trophoblast organoid cultures from the human placenta. Nat Protoc 2020; 15:3441-3463. [PMID: 32908314 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-020-0381-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The human placenta is essential for successful reproduction. There is great variation in the anatomy and development of the placenta in different species, meaning that animal models provide limited information about human placental development and function. Until recently, it has been impossible to isolate trophoblast cells from the human placenta that proliferate in vitro. This has limited our ability to understand pregnancy disorders. Generating an in vitro model that recapitulates the unique features of the human placenta has been challenging. The first in vitro model system of human trophoblast that could be cultured long term and differentiated to syncytiotrophoblast (SCT) and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) was a two-dimensional (2D) culture system of human trophoblast stem cells. Here, we describe a protocol to isolate trophoblast from first-trimester human placentas that can be grown long term in a three-dimensional (3D) organoid culture system. Trophoblast organoids can be established within 2-3 weeks, passaged every 7-10 d, and cultured for over a year. The structural organization of these human trophoblast organoids closely resembles the villous placenta with a layer of cytotrophoblast (VCT) that differentiates into superimposed SCT. Altering the composition of the medium leads to differentiation of the trophoblast organoids into HLA-G+ EVT cells which rapidly migrate and invade through the Matrigel droplet in which they are cultured. Our previous research confirmed that there is similarity between the trophoblast organoids and in vivo placentas in their transcriptomes and ability to produce placental hormones. This organoid culture system provides an experimental model to investigate human placental development and function as well as interactions of trophoblast cells with the local and systemic maternal environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Sheridan
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ridma C Fernando
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Lucy Gardner
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Physiology, Neurobiology and Development, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Margherita Y Turco
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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