1
|
Heidari Khoei H, Javali A, Kagawa H, Sommer TM, Sestini G, David L, Slovakova J, Novatchkova M, Scholte Op Reimer Y, Rivron N. Generating human blastoids modeling blastocyst-stage embryos and implantation. Nat Protoc 2023; 18:1584-1620. [PMID: 36792779 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-023-00802-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Human early development sets the stage for embryonic and adult life but remains difficult to investigate. A solution came from the ability of stem cells to organize into structures resembling preimplantation embryos-blastocysts-that we termed blastoids. This embryo model is available in unlimited numbers and could thus support scientific and medical advances. However, its predictive power depends on how faithfully it recapitulates the blastocyst. Here, we describe how we formed human blastoids that (1) efficiently achieve the morphology of the blastocyst and (2) form lineages according to the pace and sequence of blastocyst development, (3) ultimately forming cells that transcriptionally reflect the blastocyst (preimplantation stage). We employ three different commercially available 96- and 24-well microwell plates with results similar to our custom-made ones, and show that blastoids form in clinical in vitro fertilization medium and can be cryopreserved for shipping. Finally, we explain how blastoids replicate the directional process of implantation into endometrial organoids, specifically when these are hormonally stimulated. It takes 4 d for human blastoids to form and 10 d to prepare the endometrial implantation assay, and we have cultured blastoids up to 6 d (time-equivalent of day 13). On the basis of our experience, we anticipate that a person with ~1 year of human pluripotent stem cell culture experience and of organoid culture should be able to perform the protocol. Altogether, blastoids offer an opportunity to establish scientific and biomedical discovery programs for early pregnancy, and an ethical alternative to the use of embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heidar Heidari Khoei
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Alok Javali
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Harunobu Kagawa
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa Maria Sommer
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Giovanni Sestini
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Laurent David
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, CR2TI, UMR 1064, Nantes, France.,Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, CNRS, BioCore, Nantes, France
| | - Jana Slovakova
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Science (IMBA), IMBA Stem Cell Core Facility (ISCCF), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Novatchkova
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria.,Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Yvonne Scholte Op Reimer
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Nicolas Rivron
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu D, Chen Y, Ren Y, Yuan P, Wang N, Liu Q, Yang C, Yan Z, Yang M, Wang J, Lian Y, Yan J, Zhai F, Nie Y, Zhu X, Chen Y, Li R, Chang HM, Leung PCK, Qiao J, Yan L. Primary specification of blastocyst trophectoderm by scRNA-seq: New insights into embryo implantation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabj3725. [PMID: 35947672 PMCID: PMC9365277 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj3725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Mechanisms of implantation such as determination of the attachment pole, fetal-maternal communication, and underlying causes of implantation failure are largely unexplored. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing on peri-implantation embryos from both humans and mice to explore trophectoderm (TE) development and embryo-endometrium cross-talk. We found that the transcriptomes of polar and mural TE diverged after embryos hatched from the zona pellucida in both species, with polar TE being more mature than mural TE. The implantation poles show similarities in cell cycle activities, as well as in expression of genes critical for implantation and placentation. Embryos that either fail to attach in vitro or fail to implant in vivo show abnormalities in pathways related to energy production, protein metabolism, and 18S ribosomal RNA m6A methylation. These findings uncover the gene expression characteristics of humans and mice TE differentiation during the peri-implantation period and provide new insights into embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yidong Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yixin Ren
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Peng Yuan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Cen Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhiqiang Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ying Lian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Fan Zhai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yanli Nie
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Peter C. K. Leung
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liying Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Thach B, Samarajeewa N, Li Y, Heng S, Tsai T, Pangestu M, Catt S, Nie G. Podocalyxin molecular characteristics and endometrial expression: high conservation between humans and macaques but divergence in mice†. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:1143-1158. [PMID: 35284933 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Podocalyxin (PODXL) is a newly identified key negative regulator of human endometrial receptivity, specifically down-regulated in the luminal epithelium at receptivity to permit embryo implantation. Here, we bioinformatically compared the molecular characteristics of PODXL among the human, rhesus macaque and mouse, determined by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization (mouse tissues) whether endometrial PODXL expression is conserved across the three species, and examined if PODXL inhibits mouse embryo attachment in vitro. The PODXL gene, mRNA and protein sequences showed greater similarities between humans and macaques than with mice. In all species, PODXL was expressed in endometrial luminal/glandular epithelia and endothelia. In macaques (n = 9), luminal PODXL was significantly down-regulated when receptivity is developed, consistent with the pattern found in women. At receptivity PODXL was also reduced in shallow glands, whereas endothelial expression was unchanged across the menstrual cycle. In mice, endometrial PODXL did not vary considerably across the estrous cycle (n = 16); however, around embryo attachment on d4.5 of pregnancy (n = 4), luminal PODXL was greatly reduced especially near the site of embryo attachment. Mouse embryos failed to attach or thrive when co-cultured on a monolayer of Ishikawa cells overexpressing PODXL. Thus, endometrial luminal PODXL expression is down-regulated for embryo implantation in all species examined, and PODXL inhibits mouse embryo implantation. Rhesus macaques share greater conservations with humans than mice in PODXL molecular characteristics and regulation, thus represent a better animal model for functional studies of endometrial PODXL for treatment of human fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bothidah Thach
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Nirukshi Samarajeewa
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Ying Li
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Sophea Heng
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Tesha Tsai
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Mulyoto Pangestu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Sally Catt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Guiying Nie
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Effects of fibrin matrix and Ishikawa cells on in vitro 3D uterine tissue cultures on a rat model: A controlled study. JOURNAL OF SURGERY AND MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.28982/josam.1054556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
5
|
Nikolakopoulou K, Turco MY. Investigation of infertility using endometrial organoids. Reproduction 2021; 161:R113-R127. [PMID: 33621191 PMCID: PMC8052517 DOI: 10.1530/rep-20-0428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a common problem in modern societies with significant socio-psychological implications for women. Therapeutic interventions are often needed which, depending on the cause, can either be medical treatment, surgical procedures or assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, the treatment of infertility is not always successful due to our limited understanding of the preparation of the lining of the uterus, the endometrium, for pregnancy. The endometrium is of central importance for successful reproduction as it is the site of placental implantation providing the interface between the mother and her baby. Due to the dynamic, structural and functional changes the endometrium undergoes throughout the menstrual cycle, it is challenging to study. A major advancement is the establishment of 3D organoid models of the human endometrium to study this dynamic tissue in health and disease. In this review, we describe the changes that the human endometrium undergoes through the different phases of the menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy. We discuss defects in the processes of endometrial repair, decidualization and acquisition of receptivity that are associated with infertility. Organoids could be utilized to investigate the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring in non-pregnant endometrium and early pregnancy. These studies may lead to therapeutic applications that could transform the treatment of reproductive failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Nikolakopoulou
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Margherita Y Turco
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stern-Tal D, Achache H, Jacobs Catane L, Reich R, Tavor Re'em T. Novel 3D embryo implantation model within macroporous alginate scaffolds. J Biol Eng 2020; 14:18. [PMID: 32617119 PMCID: PMC7325373 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-020-00240-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Implantation failure remains an unsolved obstacle in reproductive medicine. Previous studies have indicated that estrogen responsiveness, specifically by estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), is crucial for proper implantation. There is an utmost need for a reliable in vitro model that mimics the events in the uterine wall during the implantation process for studying the regulatory mechanisms governing the process. The current two-dimensional and hydrogel-based in vitro models provide only short-term endometrial cell culture with partial functionality. Results Endometrial biopsies showed an increase in E-cadherin expression on the typical window of implantation of fertile women, compared to negligible expression in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) patients. These clinical results indicated E-cadherin as a marker for receptivity. Three-dimensional (3D) macroporous alginate scaffolds were the base for epithelial endometrial cell-seeding and long-term culture under hormone treatment that mimicked a typical menstrual cycle. The RL95–2 epithelial cell culture in macroporous scaffolds was viable for 3 weeks and showed increased E-cadherin levels in response to estrogen. Human choriocarcinoma (JAR) spheroids were used as embryo models, seeded onto cell constructs and successfully adhered to the RL95–2 cell culture. Moreover, a second model of HEC-1A with low ERα levels, showed lower E-cadherin expression and no JAR attachment. E-cadherin expression and JAR attachment were recovered in HEC-1A cells that were transfected with ERα plasmid. Conclusions We present a novel model that enables culturing endometrial cells on a 3D matrix for 3 weeks under hormonal treatment. It confirmed the importance of ERα function and E-cadherin for proper implantation. This platform may serve to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms controlling the implantation process, and for screening and evaluating potential novel therapeutic strategies for RIF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dganit Stern-Tal
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hanna Achache
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Liora Jacobs Catane
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Reuven Reich
- School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tali Tavor Re'em
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem, 26 Yaakov Shreibom Street, 9103501 Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fan H, Jiang L, Lee YL, Wong CKC, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Lee KF. Bisphenol compounds regulate decidualized stromal cells in modulating trophoblastic spheroid outgrowth and invasion in vitro†. Biol Reprod 2020; 102:693-704. [PMID: 31742322 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is commonly found in epoxy resins used in the manufacture of plastic coatings in food packaging and beverage cans. There is a growing concern about BPA as a weak estrogenic compound that can affect human endocrine function. Chemicals structurally similar to BPA, such as bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS), have been developed as substitutes in the manufacturing industry. Whether these bisphenol substitutes have adverse effects on human endocrine and reproductive systems remains largely unknown. This study investigated the effects of BPA, BPF, and BPS on regulating the function of decidualized human primary endometrial stromal cells on trophoblast outgrowth and invasion by indirect and direct co-culture models. All three bisphenols did not affect the stromal cell decidualization process. However, BPA- and BPF-treated decidualized stromal cells stimulated trophoblastic spheroid invasion in the indirect coculture model. The BPA-treated decidualized stromal cells had upregulated expressions of several invasion-related molecules including leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), whereas both BPA- and BPF-treated decidualized stromal cells had downregulated expressions of anti-invasion molecules including plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNFα) . Taken together, BPA and BPF altered the expression of invasive and anti-invasive molecules in decidualized stromal cells modulating its function on trophoblast outgrowth and invasion, which could affect the implantation process and subsequent pregnancy outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Luhan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yin-Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Balaguer N, Moreno I, Herrero M, González M, Simón C, Vilella F. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C1 may control miR-30d levels in endometrial exosomes affecting early embryo implantation. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:411-425. [PMID: 29846695 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is there a specific mechanism to load the microRNA (miRNA), hsa-miR-30d, into exosomes to facilitate maternal communication with preimplantation embryos? SUMMARY ANSWER The heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C1 (hnRNPC1) is involved in the internalization of endometrial miR-30d into exosomes to prepare for its subsequent incorporation into trophectoderm cells. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Our group previously described a novel cell-to-cell communication mechanism involving the delivery of endometrial miRNAs from the maternal endometrium to the trophectoderm cells of preimplantation embryos. Specifically, human endometrial miR-30d is taken up by murine blastocysts causing the overexpression of certain genes involved in embryonic adhesion (Itb3, Itga7 and Cdh5) increasing embryo adhesion rates. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Transfer of maternal miR-30d to preimplantation embryos was confirmed by co-culture of wild-type (WT) and miR-30d knockout (KO) murine embryos with primary cultures of human endometrial epithelial cells (hEECs) in which mir-30d was labeled with specific Molecular Beacon (MB) or SmartFlare probes. Potential molecules responsible for the miR-30d loading into exosomes were purified by pull-down analysis with a biotinylated form of miR-30d on protein lysates from human endometrial exosomes, identified using mass spectrometry and assessed by flow cytometry, western blotting and co-localization studies. The role of hnRNPC1 in the miR-30d loading and transportation was interrogated by quantification of this miRNA in exosomes isolated from endometrial cells in which hnRNPC1 was transiently silenced using small interference RNA. Finally, the transfer of miR-30d to WT and KO embryos was assessed upon co-culture with sihnRNPC1 transfected cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Murine embryos from miR-30d WT and KO mice, (strain MirC26tm1Mtm/Mmjax), were obtained by oviduct flushing of superovulated females. Endometrial Exosomes were purified by ultracentrifugation of supernatants from primary cultures of hEECs or Ishikawa cells. MB and Smartflare miR-30d probes were detected by confocal and/or transmission electron microscopy (TEM). hEECs and exosomes derived from them were subjected to pull-down with a biotinylated form of miR-30d. Captured proteins were identified by mass spectrometry (MS/MS). Western blotting was performed to detect hnRNPC1 and CYR61 in whole lysates, subcellular fractions and secreted vesicles from hEECs. Co-localization studies of the selected proteins with the exosomal marker CD63 were performed. FACS analysis was carried out to determine the presence of hnRNPC1 inside exosomes. Silencing of hnRNPC1 was conducted in the Ishikawa Cell Line with the Smart Pool Accell HNRNPC siRNA at a final concentration of 50 nM. RT-qPCRs were done to determine the messenger levels of miR-30d in cells and exosomes. Co-cultures of WT and KO embryos were established with Ishikawa cells double-transfected with sihnRPNC1 and MB probes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE MS/MS analysis allowed us to identify hnRNPC1 as a possible protein to influence miR-30d loading into exosomes. Co-localization studies of hnRNPC1 with CD63 and FACS analyses suggested the presence of hnRNPC1 inside exosomes. Silencing of hnRNPC1 in Ishikawa cells resulted in a sharp decrease of the levels of miR-30d in both epithelial-like cells (P = 0.0001) and exosomes (P = 0.0152), suggesting its potential role in miR-30d biogenesis and transfer. Co-culture assays of miR-30d KO embryos with sihnRNPC1 hEECs revealed a decrease in embryo-miR-30d acquisition during the adhesion and invasion stages. In turn, transient silencing of hnRNPC1 results in a significant decrease of blastocyst adhesion compared to mock transfection conditions using Block-it, in both WT [Mean ± SD; 67 ± 10.0% vs. 38 ± 8.5%(P = 0.0006)] and miR-30d KO embryos [Mean ± SD; 50 ± 11.5% vs. 26 ± 8.8% (P = 0.0029) (n = 2); 14 embryos transferred per condition tested]. LARGE-SCALE DATA MS/MS data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD008773. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The Ishikawa Cell Line was used as a model of hEECs in silencing experiments due to the low survival rates of primary hEECs after transfection. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The data show that hnRNPC1 may be involved in the internalization of miR-30d inside exosomes. The decreased rates of embryo adhesion in endometrial epithelial-like cells transiently silenced with sihnRNPC1evidence that hnRNPC1 could be an important player in the maternal-embryo communication established in the early stages of implantation. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Miguel Servet Program Type I of Instituto de Salud Carlos III [CP13/00038]; FIS project [PI14/00545] to F.V.; the 'Atracció de Talent' Program from VLC-CAMPUS [UV-INV-PREDOC14-178329 to NB]; a Torres-Quevedo grant (PTQ-13-06133) by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness to IM and MINECO/FEDER Grant [SAF2015-67154-R] to C.S. The authors declare there is no conflict of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Balaguer
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - I Moreno
- Department of Basic Research, Igenomix, S.L. Parque Tecnológico de Paterna, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, CA, USA
| | - M Herrero
- Department of Basic Research, Igenomix, S.L. Parque Tecnológico de Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - M González
- Department of Basic Research, Igenomix, S.L. Parque Tecnológico de Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - C Simón
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Basic Research, Igenomix, S.L. Parque Tecnológico de Paterna, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, CA, USA.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Igenomix Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Clínico (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | - F Vilella
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, CA, USA.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Igenomix Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Clínico (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Rahimipour M, Salehnia M, Jafarabadi M. Morphological, Ultrastructural, and Molecular Aspects of In Vitro Mouse Embryo Implantation on Human Endometrial Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in The Presence of Steroid Hormones as An Implantation Model. CELL JOURNAL 2018; 20:369-376. [PMID: 29845791 PMCID: PMC6004996 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2018.5221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Objective This experimental study aimed to evaluate the effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) on the interaction
between mouse embryo and human endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells, and gene expressions related to implantation
[αV and β3 integrins, interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R), and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR)] using an in vitro two-
dimensional model.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, the endometrial stromal cells were isolated enzymatically and
mechanically, and cultured to the fourth passage. Next, their immunophenotype was confirmed by flow cytometric
analysis as mesenchymal stromal cells. The cells were cultured as either the experimental group in the presence of E2
(0.3 nmol) and P4 (63.5 nmol) or control group without any hormone treatment. Mouse blastocysts were co-cultured
with endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells in both groups for 48 hours. Their interaction was assessed under an
inverted microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Expressions of αV and β3 integrins, LIFR, and IL-1R
genes were analyzed by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Results Similar observations were seen in both groups by light microscopy and SEM. We observed the presence of
pinopode-like structures and cell secretions on the apical surfaces of endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells in both
groups. The trophoblastic cells expanded and interacted with the mesenchymal monolayer cells. At the molecular
level, expression of IL-1R significantly increased in the hormonal treated group compared to the control (P≤0.05).
Expressions of the other genes did not differ.
Conclusion This study has shown that co-culture of endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells with mouse embryo in
media that contained E2 (0.3 nmol) and P4 (63.5 nmol) could effectively increase the expression of IL-1R, which is
involved in embryo implantation. However, there were no significant effects on expressions of αV and β3 integrins,
LIFR, and on the morphology and ultrastructure of endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Rahimipour
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Jafarabadi
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Electronic Address:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tang M, You J, Wang W, Lu Y, Hu X, Wang C, Liu A, Zhu Y. Impact of Galectin-1 on Trophoblast Stem Cell Differentiation and Invasion in In Vitro Implantation Model. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:700-711. [PMID: 28826368 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117725816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) differentiate in an orderly manner, which plays an important role in the process of embryo implantation, placentation, and early pregnancy maintenance. At the maternal-fetal interface, the dialogue is crucial between trophoblast cells and endometrial epithelial cells. Previous studies suggested that galectin-1 (Gal-1) may play an important role in placental development. In this study, we used Ishikawa (IK) cells-TSC coculture model to simulate the maternal-fetal interface and induce the differentiation of TSCs by differentiation media. The messenger RNA level of each cell type markers, fusion markers, and Gal-1 was detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction during the differentiation of TSCs. Wound healing and transwell invasion assays were used to detect the migration and invasion ability in each group. We found that coculture with IK cells or conditioned media from IK cells could promote the differentiation and invasion of TSCs and increase Gal-1 expression in TSCs. Furthermore, recombinant Gal-1 could also promote the differentiation and invasion of TSCs, suggesting that some of IK cells secretion increase the expression of Gal-1 in TSCs during implantation, which then induced trophoblast differentiation and invasion in vitro. These findings provide significant insights into the biology of embryo-maternal interactions with the importance of Gal-1 in TSCs for the successful establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minyue Tang
- 1 Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiali You
- 1 Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Wang
- 1 Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongchao Lu
- 1 Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- 1 Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- 2 Division of Human Reproduction and Developmental Genetics, The Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,3 Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Aixia Liu
- 1 Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yimin Zhu
- 1 Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang D, Xu G, Zhang R, Zhu Y, Gao H, Zhou C, Sheng J, Huang H. Decreased expression of aquaporin 2 is associated with impaired endometrial receptivity in controlled ovarian stimulation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 28:499-506. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 07/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, there has been evidence of decreased implantation rates with in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer due to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of COS on embryo implantation and the role of aquaporin 2 (AQP2). We recruited eight patients who underwent COS and 40 matched controls. Endometrial samples were collected on Day 4~8 after injection of human chorionic gonadotrophin in the COS group and in the mid-secretory phase in the control group. Human endometrial morphological changes after COS were examined and expression of AQP2, leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and integrin B3 (ITGB3) were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and immunohistochemistry in human endometrium and Ishikawa cells. Attachment rates were obtained using the embryo attachment test. The results showed that endometrial epithelial cells from the COS group were disrupted and lacked pinopodes. Messenger RNA and protein levels of AQP2, LIF and ITGB3 decreased in endometrial samples from the COS group. Knockdown of AQP2 resulted in reduced expression of LIF and ITGB3 and reduced embryo attachment rates. In conclusion, impaired endometrial receptivity in patients who underwent COS is correlated with a decreased expression of AQP2.
Collapse
|
12
|
Kim J, Lee J, Kim SH, Jun JH. Coculture of Preimplantation Embryos With Outgrowth Embryos Improves Embryonic Developmental Competence in Mice. Reprod Sci 2015; 23:913-23. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115623641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Kim
- Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Graduated School, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jaewang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Kim
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Hyun Jun
- Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Graduated School, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Health Science, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
- Eulji Medi-Bio Research Institute (EMBRI), Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yin LJ, Zhang Y, Lv PP, He WH, Wu YT, Liu AX, Ding GL, Dong MY, Qu F, Xu CM, Zhu XM, Huang HF. Insufficient maintenance DNA methylation is associated with abnormal embryonic development. BMC Med 2012; 10:26. [PMID: 22413869 PMCID: PMC3355050 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-10-26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early pregnancy loss (EPL) is a frustrating clinical problem, whose mechanisms are not completely understood. DNA methylation, which includes maintenance methylation and de novo methylation directed by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), is important for embryo development. Abnormal function of these DNMTs may have serious consequences for embryonic development. METHODS To evaluate the possible involvement of DNA methylation in human EPL, the expression of DNMT proteins and global methylation of DNA were assessed in villous or decidua from EPL patients. The association of maintenance methylation with embryo implantation and development was also examined. RESULTS We found that DNMT1 and DNMT3A were both expressed in normal human villous and decidua. DNMT1 expression and DNA global methylation levels were significantly down-regulated in villous of EPL. DNMT3A expression was not significantly changed in the EPL group compared to controls in either villous or decidua. We also found that disturbance of maintenance methylation with a DNMT1 inhibitor may result in a decreased global DNA methylation level and impaired embryonic development in the mouse model, and inhibit in vitro embryo attachment to endometrial cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that defects in DNA maintenance methylation in the embryo, not in the mother, are associated with abnormal embryonic implantation and development. The findings of the current study provide new insights into the etiology of EPL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jun Yin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|