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Gene Expression Profile of Uterine Leiomyoma from Women Exposed to Different Air Pollution Levels in Metropolitan Cities of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032431. [PMID: 36768749 PMCID: PMC9917088 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leiomyomas (LMs) are the most frequent uterine benign tumors, representing the leading cause of hysterectomy indications worldwide. They are highly associated with women's reproductive complications, and endocrine disruptors may influence their etiology. In this sense, air pollution represents a relevant hormonal disruptor that acts on key signaling pathways, resulting in tumor development and infertility. Our goal was to evaluate submucosal LM samples from patients living in the metropolitan and Sao Paulo city regions, focusing on genes involved in tumor development and infertility features. Twenty-four patients were selected based on their region of residence and clinical information availability. Several genes were differentially expressed between women living in metropolitan areas and Sao Paulo city. Significant associations were observed between BCL-2, DVL1, FGFR3, and WNT5b downregulation and contraceptive use in the samples from women living in Sao Paulo city. ESR1 and HHAT downregulation was associated with ethnicity. WNT5b and GREM were associated with LM treatment and related pathologies, respectively. In the samples from women living in other cities of the metropolitan region, abortion occurrence was associated with BMP4 upregulation. Although further studies may be necessary, our results showed that air pollution exposure influences the expression of genes related to LM development and female reproductive features.
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Wright D, Britten J, Malik M, Catherino WH. Relugolix and elagolix directly inhibit leiomyoma extracellular matrix production in 2-dimesnional and 3-dimensional cell cultures. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:299-308. [PMID: 35977805 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effect relugolix and elagolix have on the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in human leiomyoma cells. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) OR ANIMALS None. January 5, 2022 Cell culture, protein analysis, immunohistochemistry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Production of GnRHR, COL1A1, FN1, VCAN, p-ERK, & ERK in treated/untreated leiomyoma cells. RESULTS 100 nM relugolix resulted in decreased production of COL1A1 at 24 (1.78 0.06-fold; P < .05) and 48 hours (1.92 0.14-fold; P < .05). Elagolix treatment resulted in a decrease in COL1A1 production at 24 but not 48 hours. In 2D and 3D, 100 nM relugolix resulted in decreased production of FN1 at 24 (1.7 ± 0.07-fold; P < .05) and 48 hours (1.8 ± 0.07-fold; P < .05); 100 nM elagolix resulted in decreased production of FN1 at 24 (1.7 ± 0.14-fold; P < .05) and 48 hours (2.0 ± 0.09-fold; P < .05). For cells treated with relugolix 100 nM resulted in decreased VCAN production by 48 hours (0.66 ± 0.07-fold; P < .05). Contrary to our 3D data, 2D elagolix-treated cells demonstrated a decrease in VCAN production that was identified only at 24 hours. For GnRHR, no significant difference between the drugs was seen at 24 hours; at 48 hours production was only significantly decreased for relugolix (P < .05). Comparing both drugs, there was a significant difference in the concentration of p-ERK to ERK at 24 hours (P < .05); there was no difference by 48 hours. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that treatment with either drug can 1) decrease ECM protein production and 2) inhibit the MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Wright
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joy Britten
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Minnie Malik
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - William H Catherino
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland.
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Salas A, Beltrán-Flores S, Évora C, Reyes R, Montes de Oca F, Delgado A, Almeida TA. Stem Cell Growth and Differentiation in Organ Culture: New Insights for Uterine Fibroid Treatment. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071542. [PMID: 35884847 PMCID: PMC9313456 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Organ culture allows for the understanding of normal and tumor cell biology, and tissues generally remain viable for 5–7 days. Strikingly, we determined that myometrial and MED12 mutant leiomyoma cells repopulated cell-depleted tissue slices after 20 days of culture. Using immunofluorescence and quantitative PCR of stem cell and undifferentiated cell markers, we observed clusters of CD49b+ cells in tumor slices. CD49b+ cells, however, were sparsely detected in the myometrial slices. Almost all LM cells strongly expressed Ki67, while only a few myometrial cells were stained for this proliferation marker. The CD73 marker was expressed only in tumor cells, whereas the mesenchymal stem cell receptor KIT was detected only in normal cells. HMGA2 and CD24 showed broader expression patterns and higher signal intensity in leiomyoma than in myometrial cells. In this study, we propose that activating CD49b+ stem cells in myometrium leads to asymmetrical division, giving rise to transit-amplifying KIT+ cells that differentiate to smooth muscle cells. On the contrary, activated leiomyoma CD49b+ cells symmetrically divide to form clusters of stem cells that divide and differentiate to smooth muscle cells without losing proliferation ability. In conclusion, normal and mutant stem cells can proliferate and differentiate in long-term organ culture, constituting a helpful platform for novel therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Salas
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cell Biology and Genetics, Biology Section, Science Faculty, University of La Laguna, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; (A.S.); (S.B.-F.); (R.R.)
- Institute of Tropical Diseases and Healthcare of the Canary Island, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Silvia Beltrán-Flores
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cell Biology and Genetics, Biology Section, Science Faculty, University of La Laguna, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; (A.S.); (S.B.-F.); (R.R.)
| | - Carmen Évora
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of La Laguna, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; (C.É.); (A.D.)
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies (ITB), Medicine Section, Faculty of Health Science, University of La Laguna, St. Santa María Soledad, s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ricardo Reyes
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cell Biology and Genetics, Biology Section, Science Faculty, University of La Laguna, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; (A.S.); (S.B.-F.); (R.R.)
- Institute of Tropical Diseases and Healthcare of the Canary Island, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | | | - Araceli Delgado
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of La Laguna, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; (C.É.); (A.D.)
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies (ITB), Medicine Section, Faculty of Health Science, University of La Laguna, St. Santa María Soledad, s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Teresa A. Almeida
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cell Biology and Genetics, Biology Section, Science Faculty, University of La Laguna, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; (A.S.); (S.B.-F.); (R.R.)
- Institute of Tropical Diseases and Healthcare of the Canary Island, Ave. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez s/n. San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-922-316-502 (ext. 6117)
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Acevedo DS, Fang WB, Rao V, Penmetcha V, Leyva H, Acosta G, Cote P, Brodine R, Swerdlow R, Tan L, Lorenzi PL, Cheng N. Regulation of growth, invasion and metabolism of breast ductal carcinoma through CCL2/CCR2 signaling interactions with MET receptor tyrosine kinases. Neoplasia 2022; 28:100791. [PMID: 35405500 PMCID: PMC9010752 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2022.100791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CCR2 correlates with MET receptor expression in breast ductal carcinomas. CCL2/CCR2 signaling in breast cancer cells depend on interactions with MET. CCR2 and MET signals alter metabolism of ductal carcinoma in situ in animal models. CCR2 mediates metabolism and progression of MIND lesions through MET.
With over 60,000 cases diagnosed annually in the US, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is the most prevalent form of early-stage breast cancer. Because many DCIS cases never progress to invasive ductal carcinomas (IDC), overtreatment remains a significant problem. Up to 20% patients experience disease recurrence, indicating that standard treatments do not effectively treat DCIS for a subset of patients. By understanding the mechanisms of DCIS progression, we can develop new treatment strategies better tailored to patients. The chemokine CCL2 and its receptor CCR2 are known to regulate macrophage recruitment during inflammation and cancer progression. Recent studies indicate that increased CCL2/CCR2 signaling in breast epithelial cells enhance formation of IDC. Here, we characterized the molecular mechanisms important for CCL2/CCR2-mediated DCIS progression. Phospho-protein array profiling revealed that CCL2 stimulated phosphorylation of MET receptor tyrosine kinases in breast cancer cells. Co-immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assays demonstrated that CCL2-induced MET activity depended on interactions with CCR2 and SRC. Extracellular flux analysis and biochemical assays revealed that CCL2/CCR2 signaling in breast cancer cells enhanced glycolytic enzyme expression and activity. CRISPR knockout and pharmacologic inhibition of MET revealed that CCL2/CCR2-induced breast cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration and glycolysis through MET-dependent mechanisms. In animals, MET inhibitors blocked CCR2-mediated DCIS progression and metabolism. CCR2 and MET were significantly co-expressed in patient DCIS and IDC tissues. In summary, MET receptor activity is an important mechanism for CCL2/CCR2-mediated progression and metabolism of early-stage breast cancer, with important clinical implications.
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Uimari O, Subramaniam KS, Vollenhoven B, Tapmeier TT. Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomata) and Heavy Menstrual Bleeding. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:818243. [PMID: 36303616 PMCID: PMC9580818 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.818243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine Fibroids, or leiomyomata, affect millions of women world-wide, with a high incidence of 75% within women of reproductive age. In ~30% of patients, uterine fibroids cause menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding, and more than half of the patients experience symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or infertility. Treatment is symptomatic with limited options including hysterectomy as the most radical solution. The genetic foundations of uterine fibroid growth have been traced to somatic driver mutations (MED12, HMGA2, FH−/−, and COL4A5-A6). These also lead to downstream expression of angiogenic factors including IGF-1 and IGF-2, as opposed to the VEGF-driven mechanism found in the angiogenesis of hypoxic tumors. The resulting vasculature supplying the fibroid with nutrients and oxygen is highly irregular. Of particular interest is the formation of a pseudocapsule around intramural fibroids, a unique structure within tumor angiogenesis. These aberrations in vascular architecture and network could explain the heavy menstrual bleeding observed. However, other theories have been proposed such as venous trunks, or venous lakes caused by the blocking of normal blood flow by uterine fibroids, or the increased local action of vasoactive growth factors. Here, we review and discuss the evidence for the various hypotheses proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Outi Uimari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oulu University, Oulu, Finland
- Research Unit for Pediatrics, Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric Surgery, Child Psychiatry, Dermatology, Clinical Genetics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Otorhinolaryngology and Ophthalmology (PEDEGO) Research Unit and Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Kavita S. Subramaniam
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Beverley Vollenhoven
- Women's and Newborn Program, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Thomas T. Tapmeier
- Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Thomas T. Tapmeier
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DeAngelis AM, Malik M, Britten J, Driggers P, Catherino WH. Carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 1: a key regulatory protein involved in leiomyoma growth. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:396-406. [PMID: 35559862 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess and characterize the role of carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1) in the development of uterine leiomyoma. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING Academic research center. PATIENT(S) Not applicable. INTERVENTION(S) Laboratory investigation. In vitro assessment of human leiomyoma and myometrial tissue specimens as well as immortalized leiomyoma and myometrial cell lines. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Western blotting and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to assess differences in CEACAM1 content between leiomyoma and myometrial samples. Small interfering RNA silencing experiments and transient transfection experiments were performed to characterize the regulatory role of CEACAM1 on downstream signaling cascades. RESULT(S) Analysis of RNA sequencing data revealed decreased CEACAM1 expression in human uterine leiomyoma specimens compared with that in myometrial samples. This translated to a significant down-regulation in CEACAM1 protein content in human leiomyoma compared with patient-matched myometrial tissue samples (0.236 ± 0.05-fold). A similar decrease in CEACAM1 protein content was observed in matched immortalized leiomyoma cell (ILC) and immortalized myometrial cell lines (0.21 ± 0.07). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed decreased staining intensity in leiomyoma surgical specimens compared with the matched myometrium of placebo patients. Lower CEACAM1 levels in leiomyoma were associated with increased activation of both the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathways compared with that in myometrial cells. This is significant because activation of these pathways plays an important role in leiomyoma growth. Treatment of myometrial cells with CEACAM1 small interfering RNA resulted in a significant down-regulation of CEACAM1 at the protein level (0.272 ± 0.06-fold) and was associated with increased activation of the MAPK (1.62 ± 0.21-fold) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (1.79 ± 0.35-fold) pathways, as well as increased collagen production (2.1 ± 0.49-fold). Rescue of CEACAM1 expression in leiomyoma cells by transient transfection restored regulatory control and resulted in lower activation of the MAPK pathway (0.58 ± 0.37-fold). CONCLUSION(S) CEACAM1 is an important protein involved in regulating many signal transduction pathways. Decreased CEACAM1 expression in leiomyoma allows permissive uncontrolled overactivation and up-regulation of downstream pathways that may contribute to leiomyoma growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M DeAngelis
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Minnie Malik
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joy Britten
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Paul Driggers
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - William H Catherino
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
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AlAshqar A, Reschke L, Kirschen GW, Borahay MA. Role of inflammation in benign gynecologic disorders: from pathogenesis to novel therapies†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:7-31. [PMID: 33739368 PMCID: PMC8256101 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence supports the notion that inflammation fosters the development of common benign gynecologic disorders, including uterine leiomyoma, endometriosis, and adenomyosis. Numerous cytokines, chemokines, and growth and transcription factors have indisputable roles in the establishment and maintenance of benign gynecologic disorders by initiating complex cascades that promote proliferation, angiogenesis, and lesion progression. The interaction between inflammation and benign gynecologic disorders is orchestrated by a plethora of factors, including sex steroids, genetics, epigenetics, extracellular matrix, stem cells, cardiometabolic risk factors, diet, vitamin D, and the immune system. The role of inflammation in these disorders is not limited to local pathobiology but also extends to involve clinical sequelae that range from those confined to the reproductive tract, such as infertility and gynecologic malignancies, to systemic complications such as cardiovascular disease. Enhanced understanding of the intricate mechanisms of this association will introduce us to unvisited pathophysiological perspectives and guide future diagnostic and therapeutic implications aimed at reducing the burden of these disorders. Utilization of inflammatory markers, microRNA, and molecular imaging as diagnostic adjuncts may be valuable, noninvasive techniques for prompt detection of benign gynecologic disorders. Further, use of novel as well as previously established therapeutics, such as immunomodulators, hormonal treatments, cardiometabolic medications, and cyclooxygenase-2 and NF-κB inhibitors, can target inflammatory pathways involved in their pathogenesis. In this comprehensive review, we aim to dissect the existing literature on the role of inflammation in benign gynecologic disorders, including the proposed underlying mechanisms and complex interactions, its contribution to clinical sequelae, and the clinical implications this role entails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelrahman AlAshqar
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Lauren Reschke
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gregory W Kirschen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mostafa A Borahay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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El Sabeh M, Saha SK, Afrin S, Islam MS, Borahay MA. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in uterine leiomyoma: role in tumor biology and targeting opportunities. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:3513-3536. [PMID: 33999334 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04174-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyoma is the most common tumor of the female reproductive system and originates from a single transformed myometrial smooth muscle cell. Despite the immense medical, psychosocial, and financial impact, the exact underlying mechanisms of leiomyoma pathobiology are poorly understood. Alterations of signaling pathways are thought to be instrumental in leiomyoma biology. Wnt/β-catenin pathway appears to be involved in several aspects of the genesis of leiomyomas. For example, Wnt5b is overexpressed in leiomyoma, and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway appears to mediate the role of MED12 mutations, the most common mutations in leiomyoma, in tumorigenesis. Moreover, Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a paracrine role where estrogen/progesterone treatment of mature myometrial or leiomyoma cells leads to increased expression of Wnt11 and Wnt16, which induces proliferation of leiomyoma stem cells and tumor growth. Constitutive activation of β-catenin leads to myometrial hyperplasia and leiomyoma-like lesions in animal models. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is also closely involved in mechanotransduction and extracellular matrix regulation and relevant alterations in leiomyoma, and crosstalk is noted between Wnt/β-catenin signaling and other pathways known to regulate leiomyoma development and growth such as estrogen, progesterone, TGFβ, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK, IGF, Hippo, and Notch signaling. Finally, evidence suggests that inhibition of the canonical Wnt pathway using β-catenin inhibitors inhibits leiomyoma cell proliferation. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of leiomyoma development is essential for effective treatment. The specific Wnt/β-catenin pathway molecules discussed in this review constitute compelling candidates for therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak El Sabeh
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Subbroto Kumar Saha
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mostafa A Borahay
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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"Metalloestrogenic" effects of cadmium downstream of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways in human uterine fibroid cells. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:1995-2006. [PMID: 33818655 PMCID: PMC8166678 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03033-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal reported to act as an estrogen "mimic" in the rat uterus and in vitro. We have reported that Cd stimulates proliferation of estrogen-responsive human uterine leiomyoma (ht-UtLM; fibroid) cells through nongenomic signaling involving the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), with activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (pMAPK44/42). In this study, we explored Cd-induced mechanisms downstream of MAPK and whether Cd could stimulate phosphorylation of Histone H3 at serine 10 (H3Ser10ph) through activated Aurora B kinase (pAurora B), a kinase important in activation of histone H3 at serine 10 during mitosis, and if this occurs via Fork head box M1 (FOXM1) and cyclin D1 immediately downstream of MAPK. We found that Cd increased proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and H3Ser10ph expression by immunofluorescence, and that H3ser10ph and pAurora B were coexpressed along the metaphase plate in ht-UtLM cells. In addition, Cd-exposed cells showed higher expression of pMAPK44/42, FOXM1, pAurora B, H3ser10ph, and Cyclin D1 by western blotting. Immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assays further indicated an association between FOXM1 and Cyclin D1 in Cd-exposed cells. These effects were attenuated by MAPK kinase (MEK1/2) inhibitor. In summary, Cd-induced proliferation of ht-UtLM cells occurred through activation of Histone H3 and Aurora B via FOXM1/Cyclin D1 interactions downstream of MAPK. This provides a molecular mechanism of how Cd acts as an "estrogen mimic" resulting in mitosis in hormonally responsive cells.
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Paul EN, Burns GW, Carpenter TJ, Grey JA, Fazleabas AT, Teixeira JM. Transcriptome Analyses of Myometrium from Fibroid Patients Reveals Phenotypic Differences Compared to Non-Diseased Myometrium. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3618. [PMID: 33807176 PMCID: PMC8036618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroid tissues are often compared to their matched myometrium in an effort to understand their pathophysiology, but it is not clear whether the myometria of uterine fibroid patients represent truly non-disease control tissues. We analyzed the transcriptomes of myometrial samples from non-fibroid patients (M) and compared them with fibroid (F) and matched myometrial (MF) samples to determine whether there is a phenotypic difference between fibroid and non-fibroid myometria. Multidimensional scaling plots revealed that M samples clustered separately from both MF and F samples. A total of 1169 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (false discovery rate < 0.05) were observed in the MF comparison with M. Overrepresented Gene Ontology terms showed a high concordance of upregulated gene sets in MF compared to M, particularly extracellular matrix and structure organization. Gene set enrichment analyses showed that the leading-edge genes from the TGFβ signaling and inflammatory response gene sets were significantly enriched in MF. Overall comparison of the three tissues by three-dimensional principal component analyses showed that M, MF, and F samples clustered separately from each other and that a total of 732 DEGs from F vs. M were not found in the F vs. MF, which are likely understudied in the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids and could be key genes for future investigation. These results suggest that the transcriptome of fibroid-associated myometrium is different from that of non-diseased myometrium and that fibroid studies should consider using both matched myometrium and non-diseased myometrium as controls.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jose M. Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (E.N.P.); (G.W.B.); (T.J.C.); (J.A.G.); (A.T.F.)
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Cordeiro Mitchell CN, Islam MS, Afrin S, Brennan J, Psoter KJ, Segars JH. Mechanical stiffness augments ligand-dependent progesterone receptor B activation via MEK 1/2 and Rho/ROCK-dependent signaling pathways in uterine fibroid cells. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:255-265. [PMID: 33676751 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test whether mechanical substrate stiffness would influence progesterone receptor B (PRB) signaling in fibroid cells. Uterine fibroids feature an excessive extracellular matrix, increased stiffness, and altered mechanical signaling. Fibroid growth is stimulated by progestins and opposed by anti-progestins, but a functional interaction between progesterone action and mechanical signaling has not been evaluated. DESIGN Laboratory studies. SETTING Translational science laboratory. PATIENT(S)/ANIMAL(S) Human fibroid cell lines and patient-matched fibroid and myometrial cell lines. INTERVENTION(S) Progesterone receptor B-dependent reporter assays and messenger RNA quantitation in cells cultured on stiff polystyrene plates (3GPa) or soft silicone plates (930KPa). Pharmacologic inhibitors of extracellular signal-related protein kinase (ERK) kinase 1/2 (MEK 1/2; PD98059), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (SB202190), receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs; nintedanib), RhoA (A13), and Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase (ROCK; Y27632). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Progesterone-responsive reporter activation. RESULT(S) Fibroid cells exhibited higher PRB-dependent reporter activity with progesterone (P4) in cells cultured on stiff vs. soft plates. Mechanically induced PRB activation with P4 was decreased 62% by PD98059, 78% by nintedanib, 38% by A13, and 50% by Y27632. Overexpression of the Rho-guanine nucleotide exchange factor (Rho-GEF), AKAP13, significantly increased PRB-dependent reporter activity. Collagen 1 messenger RNA levels were higher in fibroid cells grown on stiff vs. soft plates with P4. CONCLUSION(S) Cells cultured on mechanically stiff substrates had enhanced PRB activation via a mechanism that required MEK 1/2 and AKAP13/RhoA/ROCK signaling pathways. These studies provide a framework to explore the mechanisms by which mechanical stiffness affects progesterone receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina N Cordeiro Mitchell
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joshua Brennan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kevin J Psoter
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - James H Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women's Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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12
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Leppert PC, Al-Hendy A, Baird DD, Bulun S, Catherino W, Dixon D, Ducharme M, Harmon QE, Jayes FL, Paul E, Perucho AM, Segars J, Simón C, Stewart EA, Teixeira J, Tinelli A, Tschumperlin D, Zota AR. Summary of the Proceedings of the Basic Science of Uterine Fibroids Meeting: New Developments February 28, 2020. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:88-100. [PMID: 34124698 PMCID: PMC8192074 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Scientists from multiple basic disciplines and an international group of physician-scientists from the field of obstetrics and gynecology presented recent studies and discussed new and evolving theories of uterine fibroid etiology, growth and development at The Basic Science of the Uterine Fibroids meeting, sponsored by the Campion Fund and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The purpose was to share up-to date knowledge and to stimulate new concepts regarding the basic molecular biology and pathophysiology of uterine fibroids, and to promote future collaborations. The meeting was held at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences in North Carolina on February 28, 2020. Speakers reviewed recent advances in cellular and molecular processes that contribute to fibroid growth and new opportunities for treatment. At the conclusion of the conference, attendees identified important new directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis C. Leppert
- Campion Fund of the Phyllis and Mark Leppert Foundation for Fertility Research, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois
| | - Donna D. Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Serdar Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Il
| | - William Catherino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - Darlene Dixon
- National Toxicology Program, National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health. Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Merrick Ducharme
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Quaker E. Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Friederike L. Jayes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Emmanuel Paul
- Grand Rapids Research Center, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI
| | | | - James Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Carlos Simón
- IgenomixFoundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valencia University, Valencia
- Harvard University, Boston MA
| | - Elizabeth A. Stewart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic
| | - Jose Teixeira
- Grand Rapids Research Center, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vitto Fazzi Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Daniel Tschumperlin
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Ami R. Zota
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, George Washington University, Milken School of Public Health
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13
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Castro L, Liu J, Yu L, Burwell AD, Saddler TO, Santiago LA, Xue W, Foley JF, Staup M, Flagler ND, Shi M, Birnbaum LS, Darlene D. Differential Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Phosphorylation in the Uterus of Rats Following Developmental Exposure to Tetrabromobisphenol A. TOXICOLOGY RESEARCH AND APPLICATION 2021; 5. [PMID: 35071781 DOI: 10.1177/23978473211047164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is a brominated flame retardant that induces endometrial adenocarcinoma and other uterine tumors in Wistar Han rats; however, early molecular events or biomarkers of TBBPA exposure remain unknown. We investigated the effects of TBBPA on growth factor receptor activation (phospho-RTK) in uteri of rats following early-life exposures. Pregnant Wistar Han rats were exposed to TBBPA (0, 0.1, 25, 250 mg/kg/day) via oral gavage on gestation day 6 through weaning of pups (PND 21). Pups were exposed in utero, through lactation, and by daily gavage from PND 22 to PND 90. Uterine horns were collected (at PND 21, PND 33, PND 90) and formalin-fixed or frozen for histologic, immunohistochemical, phospho-RTK arrays, or western blot analysis. At PND 21, the phosphor-RTKs, FGFR2, FGFR3, TRKC and EPHA1 were significantly increased at different treatment concentrations. Several phospho-RTKs were also significantly overexpressed at PND 33 which included epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR), Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 3-4 (FGFR2, FGFR3, FGFR4), insulin-like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF1R), INSR, AXL, MERTK, PDGFRa and b, RET, Tyrosine Kinase with Immunoglobulin Like and EGF Like Domains 1 and 2 (TIE1; TIE2), TRKA, VEGFR2 and 3, and EPHA1 at different dose treatments. EGFR, an RTK overexpressed in endometrial cancer in women, remained significantly increased for all treatment groups at PND 90. Erb-B2 Receptor Tyrosine Kinase 2 (ERBB2) and IGF1R were overexpressed at PND 33 and remained increased through PND 90, although ERBB2 was statistically significant at PND 90. The phospho-RTKs, FGFR3, AXL, DTK, HGFR, TRKC, VEGFR1 and EPHB2 and 4 were also statistically significant at PND 90 at different dose treatments. The downstream effector, phospho-MAPK44/42 was also increased in uteri of treated rats. Our findings show RTKs are dysregulated following early life TBBPA exposures and their sustained activation may contribute to TBBPA-induced uterine tumors observed in rats later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lysandra Castro
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jingli Liu
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Linda Yu
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Alanna D Burwell
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Trey O Saddler
- Office of Data Science, DNTP, NIEHS, 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Lindsay A Santiago
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - William Xue
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Julie F Foley
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Michael Staup
- Charles River Laboratories, Inc., Durham, NC 27703, USA
| | - Norris D Flagler
- Cellular and Molecular Pathogenesis Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Min Shi
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, Division of the Intramural Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Linda S Birnbaum
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Dixon Darlene
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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14
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Pilgrim J, Arismendi J, DeAngelis A, Lewis T, Britten J, Malik M, Catherino WH. Characterization of the role of Activator Protein 1 signaling pathway on extracellular matrix deposition in uterine leiomyoma. F&S SCIENCE 2020; 1:78-89. [PMID: 35559742 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the role Activator Protein 1 (AP 1) family members play in mediating extracellular matrix deposition in uterine leiomyoma. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING University research laboratory. INTERVENTION(S) Exposure of leiomyoma and myometrial cell lines to either an AP 1 inhibitor alone, AP 1 inhibitor plus transforming growth factor (TGF)ß3, or TGFß3 alone. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Western immunoblot analysis was performed to assess for changes in AP 1 family member protein expression. RESULT(S) In patient-matched myometrial and leiomyoma cell lines, the only AP 1 member found to be elevated significantly in leiomyoma compared with myometrium was FOSB (3.47 ± 0.12-fold), whereas others were decreased significantly: FRA1 (0.67 ± 0.02-fold), FRA2 (0.45 ± 0.01-fold), c FOS (0.37 ± 0.01-fold), Phos c FOS (0.19 ± 0.02-fold), Phos c JUN (0.75 ± 0.02-fold), JUNB (0.81 ± 0.04-fold), and JUND (0.65 ± 0.03-fold). c JUN (0.93 ± 0.03-fold) concentration was reduced but at nonsignificant levels. Following stimulation with TGF ß 3, fibronectin (2.16 ± 0.14-fold) and versican (4.71 ± 0.15-fold) protein concentrations were increased at 24 hours. Collagen 1A demonstrated a time-dependent significant increased concentration beginning at 6 hours (1.32 ± 0.01-fold) and increased to (6.49 ± 0.02-fold) at 24 hours. Following treatment with AP 1 inhibitor (SR11302), there were significant reductions in Collagen 1A concentration at 4 hours (0.59 ± 0.03-fold) and 6 hours (0.42 ± 0.05-fold). Activator Protein 1 inhibition did not reduce significantly versican concentration until 6 hours of treatment (0.84 ± 0.04-fold). SR11302 also decreased significantly fibronectin concentration (0.68 ± 0.05-fold) at 8 hours of treatment. CONCLUSION(S) Activator Protein 1 signaling is well described in fibrotic diseases, and, herein, we demonstrated that signaling via AP 1 family members promotes extracellular matrix deposition in leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Pilgrim
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jacquel Arismendi
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Anthony DeAngelis
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Terrence Lewis
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joy Britten
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Minnie Malik
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - William H Catherino
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bethesda, Maryland.
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15
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Sahar T, Nigam A, Anjum S, Waziri F, Biswas S, Jain SK, Wajid S. Interactome Analysis of the Differentially Expressed Proteins in Uterine Leiomyoma. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2020; 19:1293-1312. [PMID: 30727917 DOI: 10.2174/1871520619666190206143523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent advances in proteomics present enormous opportunities to discover proteome related disparities and thus understanding the molecular mechanisms related to a disease. Uterine leiomyoma is a benign monoclonal tumor, located in the pelvic region, and affecting 40% of reproductive aged female. OBJECTIVE Identification and characterization of the differentially expressed proteins associated with leiomyogenesis by comparing uterine leiomyoma and normal myometrium. METHODS Paired samples of uterine leiomyoma and adjacent myometrium retrieved from twenty-five females suffering from uterine leiomyoma (n=50) were submitted to two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE), matrixassisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and to reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS Comparison of protein patterns revealed seven proteins with concordantly increased spot intensities in leiomyoma samples. E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase MIB2 (MIB2), Mediator of RNA polymerase II transcription subunit 10 (MED10), HIRA-interacting protein (HIRP3) and Fatty acid binding protein brain (FABP7) were found to be upregulated. While, Biogenesis of lysosome-related organelles complex 1 subunit 2 (BL1S2), Shadow of prion protein (SPRN) and RNA binding motif protein X linked like 2 (RMXL2) were found to be exclusively present in leiomyoma sample. The expression modulations of the corresponding genes were further validated which corroborated with the 2-DE result showing significant upregulation in leiomyoma. We have generated a master network showing the interactions of the experimentally identified proteins with their close neighbors and further scrutinized the network to prioritize the routes leading to cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. CONCLUSION This study highlights the importance of identified proteins as potential targets for therapeutic purpose. This work provides an insight into the mechanism underlying the overexpression of the proteins but warrants further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahreem Sahar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Aruna Nigam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, HIMSR and HAH Centenary Hospital, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Shadab Anjum
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Farheen Waziri
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Shipie Biswas
- Molecular Diagnostics, Genetix Biotech Asia Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi 110015, India
| | - Swatantra K Jain
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India.,Department of Biochemistry, Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Saima Wajid
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
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16
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Ura B, Monasta L, Arrigoni G, Licastro D, Di Lorenzo G, Romano F, Gaita B, Scrimin F, Ricci G. Leiomyoma phosphoproteins involved in inhibition of oxidative stress and synthesis of reactive oxygen species. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:2329-2335. [PMID: 31638170 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are benign smooth muscle cell tumors originating from the myometrium. The present study focused on leiomyoma and myometrium phosphoproteome enrichment by using immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC). The phosphoproteome was analyzed by two‑dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry. Western blotting was used for data validation. The results from IMAC identified 26 proteins significantly differentially phosphorylated in leiomyomas compared with normal myometrium. Three upregulated proteins (peroxiredoxin 2, protein disulfide isomerase family A member 3 and peroxiredoxin 4) were further validated by western blotting. Ingenuity pathway analysis revealed that four phosphoproteins were involved in the inhibition of oxidative stress and synthesis of reactive oxygen species. The present results demonstated for the first time an association between oxidative stress and phosphorylation in leiomyoma development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blendi Ura
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health‑IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', I‑34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Monasta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health‑IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', I‑34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giorgio Arrigoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, I‑35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Danilo Licastro
- Centro di Biomedicina Molecolare, Area Science Park, I‑34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Lorenzo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health‑IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', I‑34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health‑IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', I‑34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Bartolomea Gaita
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health‑IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', I‑34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Federica Scrimin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health‑IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', I‑34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health‑IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', I‑34137 Trieste, Italy
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17
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Mas A, Alonso R, Garrido-Gómez T, Escorcia P, Montero B, Jiménez-Almazán J, Martín J, Pellicer N, Monleón J, Simón C. The differential diagnoses of uterine leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas using DNA and RNA sequencing. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 221:320.e1-320.e23. [PMID: 31121144 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although uterine leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas are considered biologically unrelated tumors, they share morphologic and histologic characteristics that complicate their differential diagnosis. The long-term therapeutic option for leiomyoma is laparoscopic myomectomy with morcellation, particularly for patients who wish to preserve their fertility. However, because of the potential dissemination of undiagnosed or hidden leiomyosarcoma from morcellation, there is a need to develop a preoperative assessment of malignancy risk. OBJECTIVE Through an integrated comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis, we aim to identify differential genetic targets in leiomyomas vs leiomyosarcomas using next-generation sequencing as the first step toward preoperative differential diagnosis. STUDY DESIGN Targeted sequencing of DNA and RNA coding regions for solid tumor-associated genes was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples from 13 leiomyomas and 13 leiomyosarcoma cases. DNA sequencing was used to identify copy number variations, single-nucleotide variants, and small insertions/deletions. RNA sequencing was used to identify gene fusions, splice variants, and/or differential gene expression profiles. RESULTS In leiomyosarcomas, tumor mutation burden was higher in terms of copy number variations, single nucleotide variants, small insertions/deletions, and gene fusions compared with leiomyomas. For copy number variations, 20 genes were affected by deletions in leiomyosarcomas, compared with 6 observed losses in leiomyomas. Gains (duplications) were identified in 19 genes in leiomyosarcomas, but only 3 genes in leiomyomas. The most common mutations (single-nucleotide variants and insertions/deletions) for leiomyosarcomas were identified in 105 genes of all analyzed leiomyosarcomas; 82 genes were affected in leiomyomas. Of note, 1 tumor previously diagnosed as leiomyosarcoma was established as inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor along this study with a novel ALK-TNS1 fusion. Finally, a differential transcriptomic profile was observed for 11 of 55 genes analyzed in leiomyosarcomas; 8.5% of initially diagnosed leiomyosarcomas showed high-confidence, novel gene fusions that were associated with these tumors. CONCLUSION Through integrated comparative genomic and transcriptomic analyses, we identified novel differential genetic targets that potentially differentiate leiomyosarcomas and leiomyomas. This provides a new insight into the differential diagnosis of these myometrial tumors.
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18
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Phosphoproteins Involved in the Inhibition of Apoptosis and in Cell Survival in the Leiomyoma. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8050691. [PMID: 31100862 PMCID: PMC6572112 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8050691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are benign smooth muscle cell tumors originating from the myometrium. In this study we focus on leiomyoma and normal myometrium phosphoproteome, to identify differentially phosphorylated proteins involved in tumorigenic signaling pathways, and in anti-apoptotic processes and cell survival. We obtained paired tissue samples of seven leiomyomas and adjacent myometria and analyzed the phosphoproteome by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) combined with immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) and Pro-Q Diamond phosphoprotein gel stain. We used mass spectrometry for protein identification and Western blotting for 2-DE data validation. Quantities of 33 proteins enriched by the IMAC approach were significantly different in the leiomyoma if compared to the myometrium. Bioinformatic analysis revealed ten tumorigenic signaling pathways and four phosphoproteins involved in both the inhibition of apoptosis and cell survival. Our study highlights the involvement of the phosphoproteome in leiomyoma growth. Further studies are needed to understand the role of phosphorylation in leiomyoma. Our data shed light on mechanisms that still need to be ascertained, but could open the path to a new class of drugs that not only can block the growth, but could also lead to a significant reduction in tumor size.
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19
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Yu L, Das P, Vall AJ, Yan Y, Gao X, Sifre MI, Bortner CD, Castro L, Kissling GE, Moore AB, Dixon D. Bisphenol A induces human uterine leiomyoma cell proliferation through membrane-associated ERα36 via nongenomic signaling pathways. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 484:59-68. [PMID: 30615907 PMCID: PMC6450385 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The role of ERα36 in regulating BPA's effects and its potential as a risk factor for human uterine fibroids were evaluated. BPA at low concentrations (10-6 μM - 10 μM) increased proliferation by facilitating progression of hormonally regulated, immortalized human uterine leiomyoma (ht-UtLM; fibroid) cells from G0-G1 into S phase of the cell cycle; whereas, higher concentrations (100 μM-200 μM) decreased growth. BPA upregulated ERα36 gene and protein expression, and induced increased SOS1 and Grb2 protein expression, both of which are mediators of the MAPKp44/42/ERK1/2 pathway. EGFR (pEGFR), Ras, and MAPKp44/42 were phosphorylated with concurrent Src activation in ht-UtLM cells within 10 min of BPA exposure. BPA enhanced colocalization of phosphorylated Src (pSrc) to ERα36 and coimmunoprecipitation of pSrc with pEGFR. Silencing ERα36 with siERα36 abolished the above effects. BPA induced proliferation in ht-UtLM cells through membrane-associated ERα36 with activation of Src, EGFR, Ras, and MAPK nongenomic signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Yu
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Parikshit Das
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Alejandra J Vall
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Yitang Yan
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Xioahua Gao
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Maria I Sifre
- Flow Cytometry Center, Signal Transduction Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Carl D Bortner
- Flow Cytometry Center, Signal Transduction Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Lysandra Castro
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Grace E Kissling
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Alicia B Moore
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Darlene Dixon
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP (DNTP), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
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20
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Marczylo TH, Konje JC. New Insights of Uterine Leiomyoma Pathogenesis: Endocannabinoid System. Med Sci Monit Basic Res 2019; 25:76-87. [PMID: 30842391 PMCID: PMC6421936 DOI: 10.12659/msmbr.914019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to determine if components of the endocannabinoid system are modulated in uterine leiomyomas (fibroids). Components studied included cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2); the G protein-coupled receptor GPR55; transient potential vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) and the endocannabinoid modulating enzymes N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), and their N-acylethanolamine (NAE) ligands: N-arachidonylethanolamine (AEA), N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA), and N-palmityolethanaolamine (PEA). Material/Methods Transcript levels of CB1, CB2, TRPV1, GPR55, NAPE-PLD, and FAAH were measured using RT-PCR and correlated with the tissue levels of the 3 NAEs in myometrial tissues. The tissues studied were: 1) fibroids, 2) myometrium adjacent/juxtaposed to the fibroid lesions, and 3) normal myometrium. Thirty-seven samples were processed for NAE measurements and 28 samples were used for RT-PCR analyses. Results FAAH expression was significantly lower in fibroids, resulting in a NAPE-PLD: FAAH ratio that favors higher AEA levels in pre-menopausal tissues, whilst PEA levels were significantly lower, particularly in post-menopausal women, suggesting PEA protects against fibroid pathogenesis. The CB1: CB2 ratio was lower in fibroids, suggesting that loss of CB1 expression affects the fibroid cell phenotype. Significant correlations between reduced FAAH, CB1, and GPR55 expression and PEA in fibroids indicate that the loss of these endocannabinoid system components are biomarkers of leiomyomata. Conclusions Loss of expression of CB1, FAAH, GPR55, and PEA production are linked to the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids and further understanding of this might eventually lead to better disease indicators or the development of therapeutic potentials that might eventually be used in the management of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, North Cumbria University Hospital NHS Trust, Carlisle, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony H Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy H Marczylo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Public Health England, Chilton, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Justin C Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sidra Medicine, Doha and Wellness Women's Research Centre, Doha, Qatar
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21
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Serna VA, Wu X, Qiang W, Thomas J, Blumenfeld ML, Kurita T. Cellular kinetics of MED12-mutant uterine leiomyoma growth and regression in vivo. Endocr Relat Cancer 2018; 25:747-759. [PMID: 29700012 PMCID: PMC6032993 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cellular mechanisms of uterine leiomyoma (LM) formation have been studied primarily utilizing in vitro models. However, recent studies established that the cells growing in the primary cultures of MED12-mutant LM (MED12-LM) do not carry causal mutations. To improve the accuracy of LM research, we addressed the cellular mechanisms of LM growth and regression utilizing a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model, which faithfully replicates the patient tumors in situ The growth and maintenance of MED12-LMs depend on 17β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). We determined E2 and P4-activated MAPK and PI3K pathways in PDXs with upregulation of IGF1 and IGF2, suggesting that the hormone actions on MED12-LM are mediated by the IGF pathway. When hormones were removed, MED12-LM PDXs lost approximately 60% of volume within 3 days through reduction in cell size. However, in contrast to general belief, the survival of LM cells was independent of E2 and/or P4, and apoptosis was not involved in the tumor regression. Furthermore, it was postulated that abnormal collagen fibers promote the growth of LMs. However, collagen fibers of actively growing PDXs were well aligned. The disruption of collagen fibers, as found in human LM specimens, occurred only when the volume of PDXs had grown to over 20 times the volume of unstimulated PDXs, indicating disruption is the result of growth not the cause. Hence, this study revises generally accepted theories on the growth and regression of LMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanida A Serna
- Department of Cancer Biology and GeneticsThe Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Cancer Biology and GeneticsThe Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Wenan Qiang
- Center for Developmental TherapeuticsChemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
- Division of Reproductive Science in MedicineDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Justin Thomas
- Department of Cancer Biology and GeneticsThe Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael L Blumenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOhio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Takeshi Kurita
- Department of Cancer Biology and GeneticsThe Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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22
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Islam MS, Akhtar MM, Segars JH, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Molecular targets of dietary phytochemicals for possible prevention and therapy of uterine fibroids: Focus on fibrosis. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2018; 57:3583-3600. [PMID: 28609115 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2016.1245649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (myomas or leiomyomas) are common benign tumors of reproductive aged women. Fibroids are clinically apparent in 20-50% of women, and cause abnormal uterine bleeding, abdominal pain and discomfort, pregnancy complications and infertility. Unfortunately, limited numbers of medical treatment are available but no effective preventive strategies exist. Moreover, the benefits of medical treatments are tempered by lack of efficacy or serious adverse side effects. Fibrosis has recently been recognized as a key pathological event in leiomyoma development and growth. It is defined by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). ECM plays important role in making bulk structure of leiomyoma, and ECM-rich rigid structure is believed to be a cause of abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain/pressure. Dietary phytochemicals are known to regulate fibrotic process in different biological systems, and being considered as potential tool to manage human health. At present, very few dietary phytochemicals have been studied in uterine leiomyoma, and they are mostly known for their antiproliferative effects. Therefore, in this review, our aim was to introduce some dietary phytochemicals that could target fibrotic processes in leiomyoma. Thus, this review could serve as useful resource to develop antifibrotic drugs for possible prevention and treatment of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy.,b Biotechnology and Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Botany , University of Rajshahi , Rajshahi , Bangladesh
| | - Most Mauluda Akhtar
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy.,c Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy
| | - James H Segars
- d Howard W. and Georgeanna Seegar Jones Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
| | - Mario Castellucci
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- a Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy.,e Department of Information Engineering , Università Politecnica delle Marche , Ancona , Italy
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23
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Zeng L, Yang K, Liu H, Zhang G. A network pharmacology approach to investigate the pharmacological effects of Guizhi Fuling Wan on uterine fibroids. Exp Ther Med 2017; 14:4697-4710. [PMID: 29201170 PMCID: PMC5704263 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.5170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate the pharmacological mechanism of Guizhi Fuling Wan (GFW) in the treatment of uterine fibroids, a network pharmacology approach was used. Information on GFW compounds was collected from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) databases, and input into PharmMapper to identify the compound targets. Genes associated with uterine fibroids genes were then obtained from the GeneCards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man databases. The interaction data of the targets and other human proteins was also collected from the STRING and IntAct databases. The target data were input into the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery for gene ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analyses. Networks of the above information were constructed and analyzed using Cytoscape. The following networks were compiled: A compound-compound target network of GFW; a herb-compound target-uterine fibroids target network of GWF; and a compound target-uterine fibroids target-other human proteins protein-protein interaction network, which were subjected to GO and pathway enrichment analyses. According to this approach, a number of novel signaling pathways and biological processes underlying the effects of GFW on uterine fibroids were identified, including the negative regulation of smooth muscle cell proliferation, apoptosis, and the Ras, wingless-type, epidermal growth factor and insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling pathways. This network pharmacology approach may aid the systematical study of herbal formulae and make TCM drug discovery more predictable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuting Zeng
- The Basic Medical Laboratory of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Kailin Yang
- The Basic Medical Laboratory of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Huiping Liu
- The Basic Medical Laboratory of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Guomin Zhang
- The Basic Medical Laboratory of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
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24
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Sarais V, Cermisoni GC, Schimberni M, Alteri A, Papaleo E, Somigliana E, Vigano' P. Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin as a Possible Mediator of Leiomyoma Growth during Pregnancy: Molecular Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E2014. [PMID: 28930160 PMCID: PMC5618662 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18092014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common gynecologic benign tumors. Studies supporting a strong pregnancy-related growth of leiomyomas generally claimed a crucial role of sex steroid hormones. However, sex steroids are unlikely the unique actors involved as estrogen and progesterone achieve a pick serum concentration in the last trimester while leiomyomas show a typical increase during the first trimester. Given the rapid exponential raise in serum human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG) at the beginning of gestation, we conducted a review to assess the potential role of hCG in the striking growth of leiomyomas during initial pregnancy. Fibroid growth during initial pregnancy seems to correlate to the similar increase of serum hCG levels until 12 weeks of gestation. The presence of functional Luteinizing Hormone/human Chorionic Gonadotropin (LH/hCG) receptors was demonstrated on leiomyomas. In vitro treatment of leiomyoma cells with hCG determines an up to 500% increase in cell number after three days. Expression of cyclin E and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 was significantly increased in leiomyoma cells by hCG treatment. Moreover, upon binding to the receptor, hCG stimulates prolactin secretion in leiomyoma cells, promoting cell proliferation via the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade. Fibroid enlargement during initial pregnancy may be regulated by serum hCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Sarais
- Centro Scienze Natalità, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Greta Chiara Cermisoni
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Matteo Schimberni
- Centro Scienze Natalità, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Centro Scienze Natalità, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico AND Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Paola Vigano'
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
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25
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Makker A, Goel MM, Mahdi AA, Bhatia V, Das V, Agarwal A, Pandey A. PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling & its regulator tumour suppressor genes PTEN & LKB1 in human uterine leiomyomas. Indian J Med Res 2017; 143:S112-S119. [PMID: 27748285 PMCID: PMC5080920 DOI: 10.4103/0971-5916.191808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & objectives: Despite their high occurrence and associated significant level of morbidity manifesting as spectrum of clinical symptoms, the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyomas (ULs) remains unclear. We investigated expression profile of tumour suppressor genes PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten) and LKB1 (liver kinase B1), and key signaling components of P13K (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase)/Akt (protein kinase B)/mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway in leiomyomas and adjacent normal myometrium in women of reproductive age, to explore the possibility of targeting this pathway for future therapeutic implications. Methods: Real time PCR (qPCR) was used to quantify relative gene expression levels of PTEN, Akt1, Akt2, mTOR, LKB1 and VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A) in leiomyoma as compared to adjacent normal myometrium. Immunohistochemistry was subsequently performed to analyze expression of PTEN, phospho-Akt, phospho-mTOR, phospho-S6, LKB1 and VEGFA in leiomyoma and adjacent normal myometrium. Results: Significant upregulation of PTEN (2.52 fold; P=0.03) and LKB1 (3.93 fold; P=0.01), and downregulation of VEGFA (2.95 fold; P=0.01) genes were observed in leiomyoma as compared to normal myometrium. Transcript levels of Akt1, Akt2 and mTOR did not vary significantly between leiomyoma and myometrium. An increased immunoexpression of PTEN (P=0.015) and LKB1 (P<0.001) and decreased expression of VEGFA (P=0.01) was observed in leiomyoma as compared to myometrium. Immunostaining for activated (phosphorylated) Akt, mTOR and S6 was absent or low in majority of leiomyoma and myometrium. Interpretation & conclusions: Upregulation of PTEN and LKB1 in concert with negative or low levels of activated Akt, mTOR and S6 indicates that PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway may not play a significant role in pathogenesis of leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annu Makker
- Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Madhu Mati Goel
- Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Abbas Ali Mahdi
- Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Vikram Bhatia
- Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Vinita Das
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Anjoo Agarwal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Amita Pandey
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
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26
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Abstract
Uterine fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyoma (UL), are monoclonal tumors of the smooth muscle tissue layer (myometrium) of the uterus. Although ULs are considered benign, uterine fibroids are the source of major quality-of-life issues for approximately 25% of all women, who suffer from clinically significant symptoms of UL. Despite the prevalence of UL, there is no treatment option for UL which is long term, cost-effective, and leaves fertility intact. The lack of understanding about the etiology of UL contributes to the scarcity of medical therapies available. Studies have identified an important role for sex steroid hormones in the pathogenesis of UL, and have driven the use of hormonal treatment for fibroids, with mixed results. Dysregulation of cell signaling pathways, miRNA expression, and cytogenetic abnormalities have also been implicated in UL etiology. Recent discoveries on the etiology of UL and the development of relevant genetically modified rodent models of UL have started to revitalize UL research. This review outlines the major characteristics of fibroids; major contributors to UL etiology, including steroid hormones; and available preclinical animal models for UL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M McWilliams
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Center for Reproductive Sciences, IRHRM, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas
| | - Vargheese M Chennathukuzhi
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Center for Reproductive Sciences, IRHRM, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas
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27
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Islam MS, Segars JH, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Dietary phytochemicals for possible preventive and therapeutic option of uterine fibroids: Signaling pathways as target. Pharmacol Rep 2017; 69:57-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2016.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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28
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Borahay MA, Asoglu MR, Mas A, Adam S, Kilic GS, Al-Hendy A. Estrogen Receptors and Signaling in Fibroids: Role in Pathobiology and Therapeutic Implications. Reprod Sci 2016; 24:1235-1244. [PMID: 27872195 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116678686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common gynecologic tumors with a significant medical and financial burden. Several genetic, hormonal, and biological factors have been shown to contribute to the development and growth of fibroid tumors. Of these factors, estrogen is particularly critical since fibroids are considered estrogen dependent because no prepubertal cases have been described in the literature and tumors tend to regress after menopause. Understanding the role of estrogen in fibroids is not only important for understanding the pathobiology of fibroids but also for the development of successful therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the types and structure of estrogen receptors (nuclear and membrane bound, including α and β receptors and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 GPER1). Estrogen-signaling pathways in fibroids include genomic (direct and indirect) and nongenomic including Ras-Raf-MEK (MAPK/Erk Kinase)-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3)-Akt (Protein kinase B)-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways; shortly Ras-Raf-MEK-MAPK and PI3K-PIP3-Akt-mTOR pathways. Several aberrations in estrogen receptors and signaling pathways are implicated in fibroid pathobiology. Current therapeutic and research agents targeting ERs/signaling include gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, GnRH antagonists, aromatase inhibitors, selective ER modulators, gene therapy, and others. Future research can identify potential targets for the development of novel treatments. In particular, epigenomics of estrogen activity and individualized (precision) medicine appear to be attractive areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa A Borahay
- 1 Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,2 Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Mehmet R Asoglu
- 2 Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Aymara Mas
- 3 Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Sarah Adam
- 4 Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Mercer University, Macon, GA, USA
| | - Gokhan S Kilic
- 2 Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- 3 Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, USA
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29
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Katz TA, Yang Q, Treviño LS, Walker CL, Al-Hendy A. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals and uterine fibroids. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:967-77. [PMID: 27553264 PMCID: PMC5051569 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most frequent gynecologic tumor, affecting 70% to 80% of women over their lifetime. Although these tumors are benign, they can cause significant morbidity and may require invasive treatments such as myomectomy and hysterectomy. Many risk factors for these tumors have been identified, including environmental exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as genistein and diethylstilbestrol. Uterine development may be a particularly sensitive window to environmental exposures, as some perinatal EDC exposures have been shown to increase tumorigenesis in both rodent models and human epidemiologic studies. The mechanisms by which EDC exposures may increase tumorigenesis are still being elucidated, but epigenetic reprogramming of the developing uterus is an emerging hypothesis. Given the remarkably high incidence of uterine fibroids and their significant impact on women's health, understanding more about how prenatal exposures to EDCs (and other environmental agents) may increase fibroid risk could be key to developing prevention and treatment strategies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany A Katz
- Health Science Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Lindsey S Treviño
- Health Science Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas
| | - Cheryl Lyn Walker
- Health Science Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia.
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30
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Yu L, Ham K, Gao X, Castro L, Yan Y, Kissling GE, Tucker CJ, Flagler N, Dong R, Archer TK, Dixon D. Epigenetic regulation of transcription factor promoter regions by low-dose genistein through mitogen-activated protein kinase and mitogen-and-stress activated kinase 1 nongenomic signaling. Cell Commun Signal 2016; 14:18. [PMID: 27582276 PMCID: PMC5007815 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-016-0141-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The phytoestrogen, genistein at low doses nongenomically activates mitogen-activated protein kinase p44/42 (MAPKp44/42) via estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) leading to proliferation of human uterine leiomyoma cells. In this study, we evaluated if MAPKp44/42 could activate downstream effectors such as mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1 (MSK1), which could then epigenetically modify histone H3 by phosphorylation following a low dose (1 μg/ml) of genistein. Results Using hormone-responsive immortalized human uterine leiomyoma (ht-UtLM) cells, we found that genistein activated MAPKp44/42 and MSK1, and also increased phosphorylation of histone H3 at serine10 (H3S10ph) in ht-UtLM cells. Colocalization of phosphorylated MSK1 and H3S10ph was evident by confocal microscopy in ht-UtLM cells (r = 0.8533). Phosphorylation of both MSK1and H3S10ph was abrogated by PD98059 (PD), a MEK1 kinase inhibitor, thereby supporting genistein’s activation of MSK1 and Histone H3 was downstream of MAPKp44/42. In proliferative (estrogenic) phase human uterine fibroid tissues, phosphorylated MSK1 and H3S10ph showed increased immunoexpression compared to normal myometrial tissues, similar to results observed in in vitro studies following low-dose genistein administration. Real-time RT-PCR arrays showed induction of growth-related transcription factor genes, EGR1, Elk1, ID1, and MYB (cMyb) with confirmation by western blot, downstream of MAPK in response to low-dose genistein in ht-UtLM cells. Additionally, genistein induced associations of promoter regions of the above transcription factors with H3S10ph as evidenced by Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays, which were inhibited by PD. Therefore, genistein epigenetically modified histone H3 by phosphorylation of serine 10, which was regulated by MSK1 and MAPK activation. Conclusion Histone H3 phosphorylation possibly represents a mechanism whereby increased transcriptional activation occurs following low-dose genistein exposure. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12964-016-0141-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Yu
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Kyle Ham
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Xiaohua Gao
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Lysandra Castro
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Yitang Yan
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Grace E Kissling
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, Division of Intramural Research (DIR), NIEHS, NIH, HHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Charles J Tucker
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, DIR, NIEHS, NIH, HHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Norris Flagler
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, HHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Ray Dong
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Trevor K Archer
- Chromatin and Gene Expression Group, Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, DIR, NIEHS, NIH, HHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Darlene Dixon
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA.
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Skrzypek K, Kusienicka A, Szewczyk B, Adamus T, Lukasiewicz E, Miekus K, Majka M. Constitutive activation of MET signaling impairs myogenic differentiation of rhabdomyosarcoma and promotes its development and progression. Oncotarget 2016; 6:31378-98. [PMID: 26384300 PMCID: PMC4741613 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a soft tissue sarcoma, which may originate from impaired differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). Expression of MET receptor is elevated in alveolar RMS subtype (ARMS) which is associated with worse prognosis, compared to embryonal RMS (ERMS). Forced differentiation of ARMS cells diminishes MET level and, as shown previously, MET silencing induces differentiation of ARMS. In ERMS cells introduction of TPR-MET oncogene leads to an uncontrolled overstimulation of the MET receptor downstream signaling pathways. In vivo, tumors formed by those cells in NOD-SCID mice display inhibited differentiation, enhanced proliferation, diminished apoptosis and increased infiltration of neutrophils. Consequently, tumors grow significantly faster and they display enhanced ability to metastasize to lungs and to vascularize due to elevated VEGF, MMP9 and miR-378 expression. In vitro, TPR-MET ERMS cells display enhanced migration, chemotaxis and invasion toward HGF and SDF-1. Introduction of TPR-MET into MSC increases survival and may induce expression of early myogenic factors depending on the genetic background, and it blocks terminal differentiation of skeletal myoblasts. To conclude, our results suggest that activation of MET signaling may cause defects in myogenic differentiation leading to rhabdomyosarcoma development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Skrzypek
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Kusienicka
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Szewczyk
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Tomasz Adamus
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewa Lukasiewicz
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Miekus
- Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Marcin Majka
- Department of Transplantation, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Krakow, Poland
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Mozzachio K, Moore AB, Kissling GE, Dixon D. Immunoexpression of Steroid Hormone Receptors and Proliferation Markers in Uterine Leiomyoma and Normal Myometrial Tissues from the Miniature Pig, Sus scrofa. Toxicol Pathol 2015; 44:450-7. [PMID: 26692562 DOI: 10.1177/0192623315621414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas in miniature pet pigs occur similarly to those in women with regard to frequency, age, parity, and cycling. Clinical signs, gross, and histologic features of the porcine tumors closely resemble uterine leiomyomas (fibroids) in women. Although fibroids are hormonally responsive in women, the roles of estrogen and progesterone have not been fully elucidated. In this study, immunohistochemistry was used to assess the expression of the steroid hormone receptors, estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α), estrogen receptor beta (ER-β) and progesterone receptor (PR), and cell proliferation markers, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67 in tumor and matched myometrial tissues sampled from miniature pigs. A "quickscore" method was used to determine receptor expression and labeling indices were calculated for the markers. ER-α/β and PR were localized to the nuclei of smooth muscle cells in both tissues. PR expression was intense and diffuse throughout all tissues, with correlation between tumors and matched myometria. Conversely, ER-α expression was variable between the myometrial and tumor tissues, as well as between animals. ER-β expression was low. PCNA and Ki-67 were localized to the nucleus and expression varied among tumors; however, normal tissues were overall negative. These findings support further investigation into the use of the miniature pig as a model of fibroids in women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia B Moore
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Grace E Kissling
- Biostatistics Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Darlene Dixon
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program Laboratory (NTPL), Division of the NTP, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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Growth factors and pathogenesis. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2015; 34:25-36. [PMID: 26527305 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2015.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Growth factors are relatively small and stable, secreted or membrane-bound polypeptide ligands, which play an important role in proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, survival, inflammation, and tissue repair, or fibrosis. They exert multiple effects through the activation of signal transduction pathways by binding to their receptors on the surface of target cells. A number of studies have demonstrated the central role of growth factors and their signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyomas. Numerous differentially expressed growth factors have been identified in leiomyoma and myometrial cells. These growth factors can activate multiple signaling pathways (Smad 2/3, ERK 1/2, PI3K, and β-catenin) and regulate major cellular processes, including inflammation, proliferation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis which are linked to uterine leiomyoma development and growth. In this chapter, we discuss the role of growth factors and their signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyomas.
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Borahay MA, Al-Hendy A, Kilic GS, Boehning D. Signaling Pathways in Leiomyoma: Understanding Pathobiology and Implications for Therapy. Mol Med 2015; 21:242-56. [PMID: 25879625 DOI: 10.2119/molmed.2014.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are the most common tumors of the female genital tract, affecting 50% to 70% of females by the age of 50. Despite their prevalence and enormous medical and economic impact, no effective medical treatment is currently available. This is, in part, due to the poor understanding of their underlying pathobiology. Although they are thought to start as a clonal proliferation of a single myometrial smooth muscle cell, these early cytogenetic alterations are considered insufficient for tumor development and additional complex signaling pathway alterations are crucial. These include steroids, growth factors, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/Smad; wingless-type (Wnt)/β-catenin, retinoic acid, vitamin D, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). An important finding is that several of these pathways converge in a summative way. For example, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Akt pathways seem to act as signal integrators, incorporating input from several signaling pathways, including growth factors, estrogen and vitamin D. This underlines the multifactorial origin and complex nature of these tumors. In this review, we aim to dissect these pathways and discuss their interconnections, aberrations and role in leiomyoma pathobiology. We also aim to identify potential targets for development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa A Borahay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Gokhan S Kilic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Darren Boehning
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
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Gao X, Yu L, Moore AB, Kissling GE, Waalkes MP, Dixon D. Cadmium and proliferation in human uterine leiomyoma cells: evidence of a role for EGFR/MAPK pathways but not classical estrogen receptor pathways. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2015; 123:331-336. [PMID: 25343777 PMCID: PMC4384203 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1408234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been proposed that cadmium (Cd) is an environmental "metalloestrogen" and that its action is mediated via the estrogen receptor (ER). Cd mimics the effects of estrogen in the rat uterus, and blood Cd concentrations positively correlate with ER levels in uteri of women with fibroids. OBJECTIVES In the present study we explored whether Cd could stimulate proliferation of estrogen-responsive human uterine leiomyoma (ht-UtLM) cells and uterine smooth muscle cells (ht-UtSMCs) through classical interactions with ERα and ERβ, or by nongenomic mechanisms. METHODS We used estrogen response element (ERE) reporters, phosphorylated receptor tyrosine kinase arrays, Western blot analysis, estrogen binding, and cell proliferation assays to evaluate the effects of Cd on ht-UtLM cells and ht-UtSMCs. RESULTS Cd stimulated growth of both cell types at lower concentrations and inhibited growth at higher concentrations (≥ 50 μM). Cd did not significantly bind to ERα or ERβ, nor did it show transactivation in both cell types transiently transfected with ERE reporter genes. However, in both cells types, Cd (0.1 μM and 10 μM) activated p44/42 MAPK (ERK1/2), and a MAPK inhibitor (PD98059) abrogated Cd-induced cell proliferation. Cd in ht-UtLM cells, but not in ht-UtSMCs, activated the growth factor receptors EGFR, HGFR, and VEGF-R1 upstream of MAPK. Additional studies in ht-UtLM cells showed that AG1478, an EGFR inhibitor, abolished Cd-induced phosphorylation of EGFR and MAPK. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that low concentrations of Cd stimulated cell proliferation in estrogen-responsive uterine cells by nongenomic activation of MAPK, but not through classical ER-mediated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Gao
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory, Division of the NTP (DNTP)
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Li H, Li Y, Morin D, Plymate S, Lye S, Dong X. The androgen receptor mediates antiapoptotic function in myometrial cells. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1338. [PMID: 25032861 PMCID: PMC4123094 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Revised: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
During pregnancy, myometrial phenotype is programmed into three characteristic stages referred to as the early proliferative, the midterm hypertrophic, and the late contractile stage. Increased myometrial growth in the early and midterm of pregnancy involves a complex process of cell proliferation, antiapoptosis and differentiation. We have previously demonstrated that the androgen receptor (AR) is required for myometrial cell proliferation by modulating IGF-1 signaling during early pregnancy. Here, we report that AR also exerts its antiapoptotic function in human myometrial cells. Enhanced AR expression protects, whereas AR silencing sensitizes myometrial cells to both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic stimuli. AR agonist inhibits, whereas AR antagonist induces myometrial cells to undergo apoptotic cell death. Gene microarray analysis confirms that the central functions of AR in myometrial cells are to regulate cell cycling and apoptosis through three major gene groups involving the epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling, RNA splicing and DNA repair processes. AR mediates its antiapoptotic function through two distinct pathways. In the receptor-dependent pathway, AR is required for the expression of several protein factors within the EGF signaling pathway. Through the PI3K/Akt pathway, AR enhances the expression of the antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1. In the ligand-dependent pathway, AR agonist triggers the activation of Src kinase, which in turn phosphorylates STAT3 to increase Mcl-1 expression. We conclude from these results that the AR signaling exerts antiapoptotic function in myometrial cells, further supporting its key role in programming of myometrial phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Li
- The Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Y Li
- The Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - D Morin
- The Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - S Plymate
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine and VAPSHCS-GRECC, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - S Lye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - X Dong
- 1] The Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada [2] Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Fujisawa C, Castellot JJ. Matrix production and remodeling as therapeutic targets for uterine leiomyoma. J Cell Commun Signal 2014; 8:179-94. [PMID: 25012731 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-014-0234-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyoma, commonly known as fibroids, is a benign neoplasm of smooth muscle in women. The incidence of clinically symptomatic fibroids in reproductive-age women is approximately 20 %, with nearly 80 % of black women suffering from this condition. Symptoms include severe pain and hemorrhage; fibroids are also a major cause of infertility or sub-fertility in women. Uterine leiomyoma consist of hyperplastic smooth muscle cells and an excess deposition of extracellular matrix, specifically collagen, fibronectin, and sulfated proteoglycans. Extracellular matrix components interact and signal through integrin-β1 on the surface of uterine leiomyoma smooth muscle cells, provide growth factor storage, and act as co-receptors for growth factor-receptor binding. ECM and growth factor signaling through integrin-β1 and growth factor receptors significantly increases cell proliferation and ECM deposition in uterine leiomyoma. Growth factors TGF-β, IGF, PDGF, FGF and EGF are all shown to promote uterine leiomyoma progression and signal through multiple pathways to increase the expression of genes encoding matrix or matrix-modifying proteins. Decreasing integrin expression, reducing growth factor action and inhibiting ECM action on uterine leiomyoma smooth muscle cells are important opportunities to treat uterine leiomyoma without use of the current surgical procedures. Both natural compounds and chemicals are shown to decrease fibrosis and uterine leiomyoma progression, but further analysis is needed to make inroads in treating this common women's health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Fujisawa
- Public Heath and Professional Degrees Program, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
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Bostancı MS, Bayram M, Bakacak SM, Yıldırım OK, Attar R, Yıldırım G, Bağrıaçık EÜ, Celtemen B. The role of TWIST, SERPINB5, and SERPIN1 genes in uterine leiomyomas. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2014; 15:92-5. [PMID: 24976774 DOI: 10.5152/jtgga.2014.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is investigate the role of the Twist homolog 1 (TWIST), serine peptidase inhibitor (SERPINB5), and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (SERPIN1) genes in uterine leiomyoma etiopathogenesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Twelve patients, aged between 39 and 58, and had a hysterectomy, were included in the study. The size of the leiomyomas was between 20 and 130 mm based on gross pathology after hysterectomy. Tissue samples were obtained from normal myometrium and leiomyoma (1 cm(3)) tissue of the uterus of the patients and stored at -86°C. Samples were divided to two groups after histopathological evaluation of the uterus: normal myometrial tissues as control group (Group 1) and leiomyoma tissue as the study group (Group 2). The TWIST, SERPINB5, and SERPIN1 genes were studied for uterine leiomyoma etiopathogenesis. RESULTS TWIST gene expression was significantly higher in the uterine leiomyoma tissue (p<0.001). SERPINB5 and SERPIN1 gene expression was decreased in the uterine leiomyoma tissue, but the differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION TWIST gene activity is significantly increased in leiomyoma tissue when compared to normal myometrium. In spite of the fact that the development of uterine leiomyomas is estrogen- and progesterone-dependent, myometrial cells could be triggered by the TWIST gene for uterine leiomyoma development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Sühha Bostancı
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sakarya University Faculty of Medicine, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Merih Bayram
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Süleyman Murat Bakacak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sütçü İmam University Faculty f Medicine, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey
| | - Ozge Kızılkale Yıldırım
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yeditepe University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Rukset Attar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yeditepe University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Gazi Yıldırım
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yeditepe University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Emin Ümit Bağrıaçık
- Department of Immunology, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Baran Celtemen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Segars JH, Parrott EC, Nagel JD, Guo XC, Gao X, Birnbaum LS, Pinn VW, Dixon D. Proceedings from the Third National Institutes of Health International Congress on Advances in Uterine Leiomyoma Research: comprehensive review, conference summary and future recommendations. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:309-33. [PMID: 24401287 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids are the most common gynecologic tumors in women of reproductive age yet the etiology and pathogenesis of these lesions remain poorly understood. Age, African ancestry, nulliparity and obesity have been identified as predisposing factors for uterine fibroids. Symptomatic tumors can cause excessive uterine bleeding, bladder dysfunction and pelvic pain, as well as associated reproductive disorders such as infertility, miscarriage and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. Currently, there are limited noninvasive therapies for fibroids and no early intervention or prevention strategies are readily available. This review summarizes the advances in basic, applied and translational uterine fibroid research, in addition to current and proposed approaches to clinical management as presented at the 'Advances in Uterine Leiomyoma Research: 3rd NIH International Congress'. Congress recommendations and a review of the fibroid literature are also reported. METHODS This review is a report of meeting proceedings, the resulting recommendations and a literature review of the subject. RESULTS The research data presented highlights the complexity of uterine fibroids and the convergence of ethnicity, race, genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors, including lifestyle and possible socioeconomic parameters on disease manifestation. The data presented suggest it is likely that the majority of women with uterine fibroids will have normal pregnancy outcomes; however, additional research is warranted. As an alternative to surgery, an effective long-term medical treatment for uterine fibroids should reduce heavy uterine bleeding and fibroid/uterine volume without excessive side effects. This goal has not been achieved and current treatments reduce symptoms only temporarily; however, a multi-disciplined approach to understanding the molecular origins and pathogenesis of uterine fibroids, as presented in this report, makes our quest for identifying novel targets for noninvasive, possibly nonsystemic and effective long-term treatment very promising. CONCLUSIONS The Congress facilitated the exchange of scientific information among members of the uterine leiomyoma research and health-care communities. While advances in research have deepened our knowledge of the pathobiology of fibroids, their etiology still remains incompletely understood. Further needs exist for determination of risk factors and initiation of preventive measures for fibroids, in addition to continued development of new medical and minimally invasive options for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- James H Segars
- Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Rettew AN, Getty PJ, Greenfield EM. Receptor tyrosine kinases in osteosarcoma: not just the usual suspects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 804:47-66. [PMID: 24924168 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-04843-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite aggressive surgical and chemotherapy protocols, survival rates for osteosarcoma patients have not improved over the last 30 years. Therefore, novel therapeutic agents are needed. Receptor tyrosine kinases have emerged as targets for the development of new cancer therapies since their activation leads to enhanced proliferation, survival, and metastasis. In fact, aberrant expression and activation of RTKs have been associated with the progression of many cancers. Studies from our lab using phosphoproteomic screening identified RTKs that are activated and thus may contribute to the signaling within metastatic human osteosarcoma cells. Functional genomic screening using siRNA was performed to distinguish which of the activated RTKs contribute to in vitro phenotypes associated with metastatic potential (motility, invasion, colony formation, and cell growth). The resulting RTK hits were then validated using independent validation experiments. From these results, we identified four RTKs (Axl, EphB2, FGFR2, and Ret) that have not been previously studied in osteosarcoma and provide targets for the development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Rettew
- Department of Orthopaedics, Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA,
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Hou P, Zhao L, Li Y, Luo F, Wang S, Song J, Bai J. Comparative expression of thioredoxin-1 in uterine leiomyomas and myometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 20:148-54. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Tal R, Segars JH. The role of angiogenic factors in fibroid pathogenesis: potential implications for future therapy. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:194-216. [PMID: 24077979 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well established that tumors are dependent on angiogenesis for their growth and survival. Although uterine fibroids are known to be benign tumors with reduced vascularization, recent work demonstrates that the vasculature of fibroids is grossly and microscopically abnormal. Accumulating evidence suggests that angiogenic growth factor dysregulation may be implicated in these vascular and other features of fibroid pathophysiology. METHODS Literature searches were performed in PubMed and Google Scholar for articles with content related to angiogenic growth factors and myometrium/leiomyoma. The findings are hereby reviewed and discussed. RESULTS Multiple growth factors involved in angiogenesis are differentially expressed in leiomyoma compared with myometrium. These include epidermal growth factor (EGF), heparin-binding-EGF, vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor-β and adrenomedullin. An important paradox is that although leiomyoma tissues are hypoxic, leiomyoma feature down-regulation of key molecular regulators of the hypoxia response. Furthermore, the hypoxic milieu of leiomyoma may contribute to fibroid development and growth. Notably, common treatments for fibroids such as GnRH agonists and uterine artery embolization (UAE) are shown to work at least partly via anti-angiogenic mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS Angiogenic growth factors play an important role in mechanisms of fibroid pathophysiology, including abnormal vasculature and fibroid growth and survival. Moreover, the fibroid's abnormal vasculature together with its aberrant hypoxic and angiogenic response may make it especially vulnerable to disruption of its vascular supply, a feature which could be exploited for treatment. Further experimental studies are required in order to gain a better understanding of the growth factors that are involved in normal and pathological myometrial angiogenesis, and to assess the potential of anti-angiogenic treatment strategies for uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshef Tal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11219, USA
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Uterine fibroids: pathogenesis and interactions with endometrium and endomyometrial junction. Obstet Gynecol Int 2013; 2013:173184. [PMID: 24163697 PMCID: PMC3791844 DOI: 10.1155/2013/173184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids or myomas) are benign tumors of uterus and clinically apparent in a large part of reproductive aged women. Clinically, they present with a variety of symptoms: excessive menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhoea and intermenstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms such as a sensation of bloatedness, increased urinary frequency, and bowel disturbance. In addition, they may compromise reproductive functions, possibly contributing to subfertility, early pregnancy loss, and later pregnancy complications. Despite the prevalence of this condition, myoma research is underfunded compared to other nonmalignant diseases. To date, several pathogenetic factors such as genetics, microRNA, steroids, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and extracellular matrix components have been implicated in the development and growth of leiomyoma. This paper summarizes the available literature regarding the ultimate relative knowledge on pathogenesis of uterine fibroids and their interactions with endometrium and subendometrial myometrium.
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Islam MS, Protic O, Stortoni P, Grechi G, Lamanna P, Petraglia F, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Complex networks of multiple factors in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyoma. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:178-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2012] [Revised: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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An integrative genomic and transcriptomic analysis reveals potential targets associated with cell proliferation in uterine leiomyomas. PLoS One 2013; 8:e57901. [PMID: 23483937 PMCID: PMC3587425 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0057901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Uterine Leiomyomas (ULs) are the most common benign tumours affecting women of reproductive age. ULs represent a major problem in public health, as they are the main indication for hysterectomy. Approximately 40–50% of ULs have non-random cytogenetic abnormalities, and half of ULs may have copy number alterations (CNAs). Gene expression microarrays studies have demonstrated that cell proliferation genes act in response to growth factors and steroids. However, only a few genes mapping to CNAs regions were found to be associated with ULs. Methodology We applied an integrative analysis using genomic and transcriptomic data to identify the pathways and molecular markers associated with ULs. Fifty-one fresh frozen specimens were evaluated by array CGH (JISTIC) and gene expression microarrays (SAM). The CONEXIC algorithm was applied to integrate the data. Principal Findings The integrated analysis identified the top 30 significant genes (P<0.01), which comprised genes associated with cancer, whereas the protein-protein interaction analysis indicated a strong association between FANCA and BRCA1. Functional in silico analysis revealed target molecules for drugs involved in cell proliferation, including FGFR1 and IGFBP5. Transcriptional and protein analyses showed that FGFR1 (P = 0.006 and P<0.01, respectively) and IGFBP5 (P = 0.0002 and P = 0.006, respectively) were up-regulated in the tumours when compared with the adjacent normal myometrium. Conclusions The integrative genomic and transcriptomic approach indicated that FGFR1 and IGFBP5 amplification, as well as the consequent up-regulation of the protein products, plays an important role in the aetiology of ULs and thus provides data for potential drug therapies development to target genes associated with cellular proliferation in ULs.
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Gestrinone inhibits growth of human uterine leiomyoma may relate to activity regulation of ERα, Src and P38 MAPK. Biomed Pharmacother 2012; 66:569-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2012.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2011] [Accepted: 02/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Gao X, Yu L, Castro L, Tucker CJ, Moore AB, Xiao H, Dixon D. An essential role of p27 downregulation in fenvalerate-induced cell growth in human uterine leiomyoma and smooth muscle cells. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2012; 303:E1025-35. [PMID: 22850687 PMCID: PMC3469610 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00107.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we reported that fenvalerate (Fen) promotes proliferation of human uterine leiomyoma (UtLM) cells by enhancing progression of cells from G(0)-G(1) to S phase through molecular mechanisms independent of estrogen receptor-α and -β. The cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor p27, which blocks G(1) to S phase transitions and is an important regulator of CDK2, is often decreased in hormonally regulated diseases, including uterine leiomyomas. Therefore, we were interested in whether Fen could regulate the expression of p27 and whether p27 might play a role in Fen-induced cell proliferation. Expression of p27 in Fen-treated UtLM and uterine smooth muscle cells (UtSMCs) was examined. We found that p27 mRNA was significantly downregulated and that protein levels were decreased in both cell types treated with 10 μM Fen for 24 h compared with respective controls. Overexpression of p27 in UtLM cells and UtSMCs using an adenovirus doxycycline (Dox)-regulated Tet-off system abrogated the proliferative effects of Fen, as evidenced by decreased total cell numbers and BrdU incorporation. Fen treatment increased CDK2 mRNA expression levels; however, overexpression of p27 also abolished this effect. In contrast, Dox treatment dramatically restored the above muted responses. Finally, we utilized siRNA to knock down p27 expression. After transfection, mRNA levels of p27 were downregulated in UtLM cells and UtSMCs and total cell numbers and BrdU incorporation increased significantly compared with nontransfected cells. Fen treatment in the presence of p27 silencing enhanced the increased cell counts and BrdU labeling in UtLM cells and UtSMCs. Taken together, these results indicate that p27 downregulation is critical for Fen-induced cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Gao
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, National Toxicology Program (NTP) Laboratory Branch, NTP, National Institute ofEnvironmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
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Estrogen Regulates MAPK-Related Genes through Genomic and Nongenomic Interactions between IGF-I Receptor Tyrosine Kinase and Estrogen Receptor-Alpha Signaling Pathways in Human Uterine Leiomyoma Cells. JOURNAL OF SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION 2012; 2012:204236. [PMID: 23094148 PMCID: PMC3474284 DOI: 10.1155/2012/204236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen and growth factors play a major role in uterine leiomyoma (UtLM) growth possibly through interactions of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) signaling. We determined the genomic and nongenomic effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) on IGF-IR/MAPKp44/42 signaling and gene expression in human UtLM cells with intact or silenced IGF-IR. Analysis by RT2 Profiler PCR-array showed genes involved in IGF-IR/MAPK signaling were upregulated in UtLM cells by E2 including cyclin D kinases, MAPKs, and MAPK kinases; RTK signaling mediator, GRB2; transcriptional factors ELK1 and E2F1; CCNB2 involved in cell cycle progression, proliferation, and survival; and COL1A1 associated with collagen synthesis. Silencing (si)IGF-IR attenuated the above effects and resulted in upregulation of different genes, such as transcriptional factor ETS2; the tyrosine kinase receptor, EGFR; and DLK1 involved in fibrosis. E2 rapidly activated IGF-IR/MAPKp44/42 signaling nongenomically and induced phosphorylation of ERα at ser118 in cells with a functional IGF-IR versus those without. E2 also upregulated IGF-I gene and protein expression through a prolonged genomic event. These results suggest a pivotal role of IGF-IR and possibly other RTKs in mediating genomic and nongenomic hormone receptor interactions and signaling in fibroids and provide novel genes and targets for future intervention and prevention strategies.
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Kim JJ, Sefton EC. The role of progesterone signaling in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyoma. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 358:223-31. [PMID: 21672608 PMCID: PMC3184215 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are benign tumors that originate from the myometrium. Evidence points to ovarian steroid hormones, in particular, progesterone as major promoters of leiomyoma development and growth. While progesterone action in leiomyomas involves the classical nuclear receptor effects on gene regulation, there is growing evidence that signaling pathways are directly activated by the progesterone receptor (PR) and that PR can interact with growth factor signaling systems to promote proliferation and survival of leiomyomas. Studies investigating the genomic and non-genomic actions of PR and its role in leiomyoma growth are summarized here. Studies testing various selective progesterone receptor modulators for the treatment of leiomyomas are also highlighted. An increased understanding of the mechanisms associated with progesterone-driven growth of leiomyomas is critical in order to develop more efficient and targeted therapies for this prevalent disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Julie Kim
- Division of Reproductive Biology Research, Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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