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Medegan Fagla B, Buhimschi IA. Protein Misfolding in Pregnancy: Current Insights, Potential Mechanisms, and Implications for the Pathogenesis of Preeclampsia. Molecules 2024; 29:610. [PMID: 38338354 PMCID: PMC10856193 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29030610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding disorders are a group of diseases characterized by supra-physiologic accumulation and aggregation of pathogenic proteoforms resulting from improper protein folding and/or insufficiency in clearance mechanisms. Although these processes have been historically linked to neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, evidence linking protein misfolding to other pathologies continues to emerge. Indeed, the deposition of toxic protein aggregates in the form of oligomers or large amyloid fibrils has been linked to type 2 diabetes, various types of cancer, and, in more recent years, to preeclampsia, a life-threatening pregnancy-specific disorder. While extensive physiological mechanisms are in place to maintain proteostasis, processes, such as aging, genetic factors, or environmental stress in the form of hypoxia, nutrient deprivation or xenobiotic exposures can induce failure in these systems. As such, pregnancy, a natural physical state that already places the maternal body under significant physiological stress, creates an environment with a lower threshold for aberrant aggregation. In this review, we set out to discuss current evidence of protein misfolding in pregnancy and potential mechanisms supporting a key role for this process in preeclampsia pathogenesis. Improving our understanding of this emerging pathophysiological process in preeclampsia can lead to vital discoveries that can be harnessed to create better diagnoses and treatment modalities for the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irina Alexandra Buhimschi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
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Guo Y, Huang C, Xu C, Qiu L, Yang F. Dysfunction of ZNF554 promotes ROS-induced apoptosis and autophagy in Fetal Growth Restriction via the p62-Keap1-Nrf2 pathway. Placenta 2023; 143:34-44. [PMID: 37804692 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is one of the most common complications of an abnormal pregnancy. Placental dysplasia has been established as a significant contributing factor to FGR. Zinc finger protein 554 (ZNF554) is a member of the Krüppel-associated box domain zinc finger protein subfamily, primarily expressed in the placenta and essential for maintaining normal pregnancy outcomes. However, its precise role in FGR remains uncertain. In this study, we confirmed that ZNF554 was low expressed in the placenta of the FGR pregnancy. To further elucidate the impact of ZNF554 on trophoblasts, we conducted experiments using siRNA and overexpression plasmids on HTR8/SVneo and JEG3 cells. Our findings revealed that silencing ZNF554 increased apoptosis and inhibited migration and invasion, while overexpression reduced apoptosis and promoted migration and invasion. Notably, ZNF554 knockdown decreased cellular antioxidant capacity and elevated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Conversely, ZNF554 activated the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) signaling pathway, exerting its antioxidant effects. Additionally, ZNF554 knockdown promoted cellular autophagy by suppressing P62 and enhancing LC3-II/LC3-I expression. Importantly, the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) partially mitigated the impact of ZNF554 knockdown on mitochondrial ROS in trophoblast cells and subsequent effects on cellular autophagy and apoptosis. In conclusion, our results suggest that ZNF554 plays a pivotal role in modulating trophoblast cell invasion and may serve as a prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Guo
- Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China; Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Chuyi Huang
- Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China; Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Cailing Xu
- Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China; Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Liyan Qiu
- Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China; Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China; Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China.
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Komijani E, Parhizkar F, Abdolmohammadi-Vahid S, Ahmadi H, Nouri N, Yousefi M, Aghebati-Maleki L. Autophagy-mediated immune system regulation in reproductive system and pregnancy-associated complications. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103973. [PMID: 37295066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy lysosomal degradation is the main cell mechanism in cellular, tissue and organismal homeostasis and is controlled by autophagy-related genes (ATG). Autophagy has important effects in cellular physiology, including adaptation to metabolic stress, removal of dangerous cargo (such as protein aggregates, damaged organelles, and intracellular pathogens), regeneration during differentiation and development, and prevention of genomic damage in general. Also, it has been found that autophagy is essential for pre-implantation, development, and maintaining embryo survival in mammals. Under certain conditions, autophagy may be detrimental through pro-survival effects such as cancer progression or through possible cell death-promoting effects. Hormonal changes and environmental stress can initiate autophagy in reproductive physiology. The activity of autophagy can be upregulated under conditions like a lack of nutrients, inflammation, hypoxia, and infections. In this regard the dysregulation of autophagy involved in some pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia (PE) and pregnancy loss, and has a major impact on reproductive outcomes. Therefore, we aimed to discuss the relationship between autophagy and the female reproductive system, with a special focus on the immune system, and its role in fetal and maternal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erfan Komijani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Forough Parhizkar
- Student's Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Ahmadi
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Narjes Nouri
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Zhou H, Zhao C, Wang P, Yang W, Zhu H, Zhang S. Regulators involved in trophoblast syncytialization in the placenta of intrauterine growth restriction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1107182. [PMID: 36798658 PMCID: PMC9927020 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1107182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental dysfunction refers to the insufficiency of placental perfusion and chronic hypoxia during early pregnancy, which impairs placental function and causes inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, affecting fetal development and health. Fetal intrauterine growth restriction, one of the most common outcomes of pregnancy-induced hypertensions, can be caused by placental dysfunction, resulting from deficient trophoblast syncytialization, inadequate trophoblast invasion and impaired vascular remodeling. During placental development, cytotrophoblasts fuse to form a multinucleated syncytia barrier, which supplies oxygen and nutrients to meet the metabolic demands for fetal growth. A reduction in the cell fusion index and the number of nuclei in the syncytiotrophoblast are found in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by IUGR, suggesting that the occurrence of IUGR may be related to inadequate trophoblast syncytialization. During the multiple processes of trophoblasts syncytialization, specific proteins and several signaling pathways are involved in coordinating these events and regulating placental function. In addition, epigenetic modifications, cell metabolism, senescence, and autophagy are also involved. Study findings have indicated several abnormally expressed syncytialization-related proteins and signaling pathways in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by IUGR, suggesting that these elements may play a crucial role in the occurrence of IUGR. In this review, we discuss the regulators of trophoblast syncytialization and their abnormal expression in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanjing Zhou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenqiong Zhao
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peixin Wang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Zhu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Songying Zhang, ; Haiyan Zhu,
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Songying Zhang, ; Haiyan Zhu,
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Redline RW, Ravishankar S, Bagby C, Saab S, Zarei S. Diffuse and Localized SARS-CoV-2 Placentitis: Prevalence and Pathogenesis of an Uncommon Complication of COVID-19 Infection During Pregnancy. Am J Surg Pathol 2022; 46:1036-1047. [PMID: 35319524 PMCID: PMC9281407 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in pregnancy has been associated with preterm delivery and preeclampsia. A less frequent and underrecognized complication is extensive placental infection which is associated with high rates of perinatal morbidity and mortality. The frequency, early pathogenesis, and range of lesions associated with this infection are poorly understood. We conducted a population-based study of placental pathology from all mothers with COVID-19 (n=271) over an 18-month period delivering within our health system. The overall prevalence of diffuse severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) placentitis, as defined by typical histology and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, was 14.8/1000, but increased to 59/1000 in preterm births. We also identified 3 cases with isolated small foci of localized SARS-CoV-2 placentitis, characterized by focal perivillous fibrin and intervillositis, which illustrate the early pathogenesis and suggest that infection may be contained in some cases. Two other placental lesions were more common in mothers with COVID-19, high-grade maternal vascular malperfusion in preterm deliveries and high-grade chronic villitis at term (5/5 cases tested of the latter were negative by IHC for SARS-CoV-2). Additional investigation of diffuse and localized SARS-CoV-2 placentitis by IHC showed loss of BCL-2, C4d staining in surrounding villi, and an early neutrophil-predominant intervillous infiltrate that later became dominated by monocyte-macrophages. We propose a model of focal infection of syncytiotrophoblast by virally infected maternal leukocytes leading to loss of BCL-2 and apoptosis. Infection is then either contained by surrounding fibrinoid (localized) or initiates waves of aponecrosis and immune activation that spread throughout the villous parenchyma (diffuse).
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond W. Redline
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
- Departments of Pathology
- Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH
| | - Sanjita Ravishankar
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
- Departments of Pathology
| | - Christina Bagby
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
- Departments of Pathology
| | - Shahrazad Saab
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
- Departments of Pathology
| | - Shabnam Zarei
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
- Departments of Pathology
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Choi M, Byun N, Hwang JR, Choi YS, Sung JH, Choi SJ, Kim JS, Oh SY, Roh CR. Effect of hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine on syncytial differentiation and autophagy in primary human trophoblasts. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 149:112916. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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Redman CW, Staff AC, Roberts JM. Syncytiotrophoblast stress in preeclampsia: the convergence point for multiple pathways. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S907-S927. [PMID: 33546842 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia evolves in 2 stages: a placental problem that generates signals to the mother to cause a range of responses that comprise the second stage (preeclampsia syndrome). The first stage of early-onset preeclampsia is poor placentation, which we here call malplacentation. The spiral arteries are incompletely remodeled, leading to later placental malperfusion, relatively early in the second half of pregnancy. The long duration of the first stage (several months) is unsurprisingly associated with fetal growth restriction. The first stage of late-onset preeclampsia, approximately 80% of total cases, is shorter (several weeks) and part of a process that is common to all pregnancies. Placental function declines as it outgrows uterine capacity, with increasing chorionic villous packing, compression of the intervillous space, and fetal hypoxia, and causes late-onset clinical presentations such as "unexplained" stillbirths, late-onset fetal growth restriction, or preeclampsia. The second stages of early- and late-onset preeclampsia share syncytiotrophoblast stress as the most relevant feature that causes the maternal syndrome. Syncytiotrophoblast stress signals in the maternal circulation are probably the most specific biomarkers for preeclampsia. In addition, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (mainly produced by syncytiotrophoblast) is the best-known biomarker and is routinely used in clinical practice in many locations. How the stress signals change over time in normal pregnancies indicates that syncytiotrophoblast stress begins on average at 30 to 32 weeks' gestation and progresses to term. At term, syncytiotrophoblast shows increasing markers of stress, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, syncytial knots, and necrosis. We label this phenotype the "twilight placenta" and argue that it accounts for the clinical problems of postmature pregnancies. Senescence as a stress response differs in multinuclear syncytiotrophoblast from that of mononuclear cells. Syncytiotrophoblast irreversibly acquires part of the senescence phenotype (cell cycle arrest) when it is formed by cell fusion. The 2 pathways converge on the common pathologic endpoint, syncytiotrophoblast stress, and contribute to preeclampsia subtypes. We highlight that the well-known heterogeneity of the preeclampsia syndrome arises from different pathways to this common endpoint, influenced by maternal genetics, epigenetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors with different fetal and maternal responses to the ensuing insults. This complexity mandates a reassessment of our approach to predicting and preventing preeclampsia, and we summarize research priorities to maximize what we can learn about these important issues.
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Carroll A, Desforges M, Jones CJ, Heazell AE. Morphological and functional changes in placentas from prolonged pregnancies. Placenta 2022; 125:29-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Toschi P, Baratta M. Ruminant Placental Adaptation in Early Maternal Undernutrition: An Overview. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:755034. [PMID: 34746288 PMCID: PMC8565373 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.755034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Correct placental development during early gestation is considered the main determinant of fetal growth in late pregnancy. A reduction in maternal nourishment occurring across the early developmental window has been linked to a wide range of pregnancy disorders affecting placental transport capacity and consequently the fetal nutrient supply line, with long-term implications for offspring health and productivity. In livestock, ruminant species specifically experience maternal undernutrition in extensive systems due to seasonal changes in food availability, with significant economic losses for the farmer in some situations. In this review, we aim to discuss the effects of reduced maternal nutrition during early pregnancy on placental development with a specific focus on ruminant placenta physiology. Different types of placental adaptation strategies were examined, also considering the potential effects on the epigenetic landscape, which is known to undergo extensive reprogramming during early mammalian development. We also discussed the involvement of autophagy as a cellular degradation mechanism that may play a key role in the placental response to nutrient deficiency mediated by mammalian target of rapamycin, named the mTOR intracellular pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Toschi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Mario Baratta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Viale delle Scienze, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Shan D, Dong R, Hu Y. Current understanding of autophagy in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Placenta 2021; 115:53-59. [PMID: 34560328 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is the most common liver disease during pregnancy. Manifested with pruritus and elevation in bile acids, the etiology of ICP is still poorly understood. Although ICP is considered relatively benign for the mother, increased rates of adverse fetal outcomes including sudden fetal demise are possible devastating outcomes associated with ICP. Limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms restricted treatment options and managements of ICP. In recent decades, evolving evidence indicated the significance of autophagy in pregnancy and pregnancy complications. Autophagy is an ancient self-defense mechanism which is essential for cell survival, differentiation and development. Autophagy has pivotal roles in embryogenesis, implantation, and maintenance of pregnancy, and is involved in the orchestration of diverse physiological and pathological cellular responses in patients with pregnancy complications. Recent advances in these research fields provide tantalizing targets on autophagy to improve the care of pregnant women. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding autophagy in ICP and its possible roles in the causation and prevention of ICP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Shan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ruihong Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yayi Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Chen H, Williams KE, Kwan EY, Kapidzic M, Puckett KA, Aburajab RK, Robinson JF, Fisher SJ. Global proteomic analyses of human cytotrophoblast differentiation/invasion. Development 2021; 148:dev199561. [PMID: 34121116 PMCID: PMC8276980 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
During human pregnancy, cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) from the placenta differentiate into specialized subpopulations that play crucial roles in proper fetal growth and development. A subset of these CTBs differentiate along an invasive pathway, penetrating the decidua and anchoring the placenta to the uterus. A crucial hurdle in pregnancy is the ability of these cells to migrate, invade and remodel spiral arteries, ensuring adequate blood flow to nourish the developing fetus. Although advances continue in describing the molecular features regulating the differentiation of these cells, assessment of their global proteomic changes at mid-gestation remain undefined. Here, using sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment-ion spectra (SWATH), which is a data-independent acquisition strategy, we characterized the protein repertoire of second trimester human CTBs during their differentiation towards an invasive phenotype. This mass spectrometry-based approach allowed identification of 3026 proteins across four culture time points corresponding to sequential stages of differentiation, confirming the expression dynamics of established molecules and offering new information into other pathways involved. The availability of a SWATH CTB global spectral library serves as a beneficial resource for hypothesis generation and as a foundation for further understanding CTB differentiation dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Sandler-Moore Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Katherine E. Williams
- Sandler-Moore Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Elaine Y. Kwan
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Mirhan Kapidzic
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Kenisha A. Puckett
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Rayyan K. Aburajab
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Joshua F. Robinson
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Susan J. Fisher
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Sandler-Moore Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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12
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Zhou F, Wang Y, Tan Y, Wu C, Chen Y. HMGB1 regulates lipopolysaccharide-induced cellular dysfunction in HTR8/SVneo cells: Implications for the role of HMGB1 in unexplained spontaneous miscarriage. Placenta 2021; 112:16-22. [PMID: 34243116 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Approximately half of miscarriages are of an unknown aetiology and are likely characterized by aberrant inflammation at the uteroplacental interface. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a ubiquitous nuclear protein that participates in the pathological inflammatory response. The present study investigated the role of HMGB1 in inflammation-induced damage in trophoblasts and elucidated the underlying mechanism. METHODS Immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of HMGB1 in early unexplained miscarriage and normal placentas. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced HTR8/SVneo cells were used as an in vitro model to mimic the aberrant inflammation at the uteroplacental interface of miscarriage. The expression of HMGB1 and the autophagy-related proteins LC3 and Beclin1 was detected using Western blotting. Autophagy was studied in villous tissues using immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Cell proliferation and migration were analysed. RESULTS The expression level of HMGB1 in villous tissues with early unexplained miscarriage was significantly higher than the normal pregnancy group. The inhibition of HMGB1 in LPS-treated HTR8/SVneo cells decreased the expression of Beclin 1 and LC3, which promoted cell proliferation and migration. We found a high level of autophagy in miscarriage placentas. HMGB1 and autophagy inhibition reversed the proliferation and migration of LPS-induced HTR-8/SVneo cells. DISCUSSION Our results demonstrated that HMGB1 participated in LPS-induced inflammation via autophagy and regulated trophoblast functions, such as cell proliferation and migration, to potentially participate in the pathogenesis of miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhou
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Boai Hospital of Zhongshan, Zhongshan, China
| | - Yan Tan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Chongcong Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yuezhou Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, China.
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13
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Aplin JD, Jones CJP. Cell dynamics in human villous trophoblast. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:904-922. [PMID: 34125187 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Villous cytotrophoblast (vCTB) is a precursor cell population that supports the development of syncytiotrophoblast (vSTB), the high surface area barrier epithelium of the placental villus, and the primary interface between maternal and fetal tissue. In light of increasing evidence that the placenta can adapt to changing maternal environments or, under stress, can trigger maternal disease, we consider what properties of these cells empower them to exert a controlling influence on pregnancy progression and outcome. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE How are cytotrophoblast proliferation and differentiation regulated in the human placental villus to allow for the increasing demands of the fetal and environmental challenges and stresses that may arise during pregnancy? SEARCH METHODS PubMed was interrogated using relevant keywords and word roots combining trophoblast, villus/villous, syncytio/syncytium, placenta, stem, transcription factor (and the individual genes), signalling, apoptosis, autophagy (and the respective genes) from 1960 to the present. Since removal of trophoblast from its tissue environment is known to fundamentally change cell growth and differentiation kinetics, research that relied exclusively on cell culture has not been the main focus of this review, though it is mentioned where appropriate. Work on non-human placenta is not systematically covered, though mention is made where relevant hypotheses have emerged. OUTCOMES The synthesis of data from the literature has led to a new hypothesis for vCTB dynamics. We propose that a reversible transition can occur from a reserve population in G0 to a mitotically active state. Cells from the in-cycle population can then differentiate irreversibly to intermediate cells that leave the cycle and turn on genes that confer the capacity to fuse with the overlying vSTB as well as other functions associated with syncytial barrier and transport function. We speculate that alterations in the rate of entry to the cell cycle, or return of cells in the mitotic fraction to G0, can occur in response to environmental challenge. We also review evidence on the life cycle of trophoblast from the time that fusion occurs, and point to gaps in knowledge of how large quantities of fetal DNA arrive in maternal circulation. We critique historical methodology and make a case for research to re-address questions about trophoblast lifecycle and dynamics in normal pregnancy and the common diseases of pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction, where altered trophoblast kinetics have long been postulated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The hypothesis requires experimental testing, moving research away from currently accepted methodology towards a new standard that includes representative cell and tissue sampling, assessment of cell cycle and differentiation parameters, and robust classification of cell subpopulations in villous trophoblast, with due attention to gestational age, maternal and fetal phenotype, disease and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Carolyn J P Jones
- Maternal and Fetal Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
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Carvajal L, Gutiérrez J, Morselli E, Leiva A. Autophagy Process in Trophoblast Cells Invasion and Differentiation: Similitude and Differences With Cancer Cells. Front Oncol 2021; 11:637594. [PMID: 33937039 PMCID: PMC8082112 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.637594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Early human placental development begins with blastocyst implantation, then the trophoblast differentiates and originates the cells required for a proper fetal nutrition and placental implantation. Among them, extravillous trophoblast corresponds to a non-proliferating trophoblast highly invasive that allows the vascular remodeling which is essential for appropriate placental perfusion and to maintain the adequate fetal growth. This process involves different placental cell types as well as molecules that allow cell growth, cellular adhesion, tissular remodeling, and immune tolerance. Remarkably, some of the cellular processes required for proper placentation are common between placental and cancer cells to finally support tumor growth. Indeed, as in placentation trophoblasts invade and migrate, cancer cells invade and migrate to promote tumor metastasis. However, while these processes respond to a controlled program in trophoblasts, in cancer cells this regulation is lost. Interestingly, it has been shown that autophagy, a process responsible for the degradation of damaged proteins and organelles to maintain cellular homeostasis, is required for invasion of trophoblast cells and for vascular remodeling during placentation. In cancer cells, autophagy has a dual role, as it has been shown both as tumor promoter and inhibitor, depending on the stage and tumor considered. In this review, we summarized the similarities and differences between trophoblast cell invasion and cancer cell metastasis specifically evaluating the role of autophagy in both processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Carvajal
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jaime Gutiérrez
- School of Medical Technology, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago, Chile
| | - Eugenia Morselli
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Autophagy Research Center, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andrea Leiva
- School of Medical Technology, Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago, Chile
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Kasture V, Sahay A, Joshi S. Cell death mechanisms and their roles in pregnancy related disorders. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 126:195-225. [PMID: 34090615 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy and apoptosis are catabolic pathways essential for homeostasis. They play a crucial role for normal placental and fetal development. These cell death mechanisms are exaggerated in placental disorders such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Apoptosis is widely studied, highly controlled and regulated whereas; autophagy is an orderly degradation and recycling of the cellular components. Cellular senescence may be initiated by a variety of stimuli, including hypoxia, oxidative stress, reduction in survival signals and nutrition deprivation. Apoptosis is regulated by two types of pathways intrinsic and extrinsic. Extrinsic pathway is initiated by apoptosis inducing cells such as macrophages, natural killer cells whereas; intrinsic pathway is initiated in response to DNA damage, cell injury and lack of oxygen. In autophagy, the cell or organelles undergo lysosomal degradation. Placental apoptosis increases as the gestation progresses while autophagy plays a role in trophoblast differentiation and invasion. In pregnancy disorders like preeclampsia and IUGR, proapoptotic markers such as caspase 3, 8, BAX are higher and antiapoptotic markers like Bcl-2 are lower. In GDM, apoptotic markers are reduced resulting in increased placental mass and fetal macrosomia. Apoptosis in the pathological pregnancies is also influenced by the reduced levels of micronutrients and long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids resulting in disturbed placental biology. This chapter describes the role of various key molecular events involved in cellular senescence and the various factors influencing them. This will help identify future therapeutic strategies for better management of these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishali Kasture
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India
| | - Akriti Sahay
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India
| | - Sadhana Joshi
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India.
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16
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de la Torre P, Fernández-de la Torre M, Flores AI. Premature senescence of placental decidua cells as a possible cause of miscarriage produced by mycophenolic acid. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:3. [PMID: 33397374 PMCID: PMC7780668 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-020-00704-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful pregnancy is supported by a healthy maternal-fetal interface (i.e., the decidual tissues) which holds the conceptus and safeguards it against stressors from the beginning of pregnancy. Any disturbance of this interface can presumably lead to the loss of pregnancy. The use of the immunosuppressive drug mycophenolic acid (MPA) should be discontinued in pregnancy given its abortive and embryotoxic effects. Direct teratogenic effects have been observed in mammalian embryos cultured in MPA, but the underlying mechanisms of abortion by MPA are less understood. METHODS Decidual stromal cells isolated from human placentas are cultured in the presence of clinically relevant doses of MPA. Data regarding the effects of MPA on the proliferation and viability of decidua cultures are first analysed and then, molecular pathways contributing to these effects are unravelled. RESULTS MPA treatment of decidual stromal cells results in loss of proliferation capacity and a decrease in the viability of decidua cultures. The molecular pathways involved in the effects of MPA on decidual stromal cells are a reduction in pre-rRNA synthesis and subsequent disruption of the nucleolus. The nucleolar stress stabilizes p53, which in turn, leads to a p21-mediated cell cycle arrest in late S and G2 phases, preventing the progression of the decidua cells into the mitosis. Furthermore, MPA does not induce apoptosis but activate mechanisms of autophagy and senescence in decidual stromal cells. CONCLUSION The irreversible growth arrest of decidua cells, whose role in the maintenance of the pregnancy microenvironment is known, may be one cause of miscarriage in MPA treated pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paz de la Torre
- Grupo de Medicina Regenerativa, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Avda. Cordoba s/n 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Fernández-de la Torre
- Grupo de Enfermedades Raras, Mitocondriales y Neuromusculares, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Avda. Cordoba s/n 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I Flores
- Grupo de Medicina Regenerativa, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Avda. Cordoba s/n 28041, Madrid, Spain.
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Colson A, Sonveaux P, Debiève F, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. Adaptations of the human placenta to hypoxia: opportunities for interventions in fetal growth restriction. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:531-569. [PMID: 33377492 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is the functional interface between the mother and the fetus during pregnancy, and a critical determinant of fetal growth and life-long health. In the first trimester, it develops under a low-oxygen environment, which is essential for the conceptus who has little defense against reactive oxygen species produced during oxidative metabolism. However, failure of invasive trophoblasts to sufficiently remodel uterine arteries toward dilated vessels by the end of the first trimester can lead to reduced/intermittent blood flow, persistent hypoxia and oxidative stress in the placenta with consequences for fetal growth. Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is observed in ∼10% of pregnancies and is frequently seen in association with other pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia (PE). FGR is one of the main challenges for obstetricians and pediatricians, as smaller fetuses have greater perinatal risks of morbidity and mortality and postnatal risks of neurodevelopmental and cardio-metabolic disorders. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this review was to examine the importance of placental responses to changing oxygen environments during abnormal pregnancy in terms of cellular, molecular and functional changes in order to highlight new therapeutic pathways, and to pinpoint approaches aimed at enhancing oxygen supply and/or mitigating oxidative stress in the placenta as a mean of optimizing fetal growth. SEARCH METHODS An extensive online search of peer-reviewed articles using PubMed was performed with combinations of search terms including pregnancy, placenta, trophoblast, oxygen, hypoxia, high altitude, FGR and PE (last updated in May 2020). OUTCOMES Trophoblast differentiation and placental establishment are governed by oxygen availability/hypoxia in early pregnancy. The placental response to late gestational hypoxia includes changes in syncytialization, mitochondrial functions, endoplasmic reticulum stress, hormone production, nutrient handling and angiogenic factor secretion. The nature of these changes depends on the extent of hypoxia, with some responses appearing adaptive and others appearing detrimental to the placental support of fetal growth. Emerging approaches that aim to increase placental oxygen supply and/or reduce the impacts of excessive oxidative stress are promising for their potential to prevent/treat FGR. WIDER IMPLICATIONS There are many risks and challenges of intervening during pregnancy that must be considered. The establishment of human trophoblast stem cell lines and organoids will allow further mechanistic studies of the effects of hypoxia and may lead to advanced screening of drugs for use in pregnancies complicated by placental insufficiency/hypoxia. Since no treatments are currently available, a better understanding of placental adaptations to hypoxia would help to develop therapies or repurpose drugs to optimize placental function and fetal growth, with life-long benefits to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Colson
- Pole of Obstetrics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Pole of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre Sonveaux
- Pole of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Debiève
- Pole of Obstetrics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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18
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Li YX, Long DL, Liu J, Qiu D, Wang J, Cheng X, Yang X, Li RM, Wang G. Gestational diabetes mellitus in women increased the risk of neonatal infection via inflammation and autophagy in the placenta. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e22152. [PMID: 33019392 PMCID: PMC7535644 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) produces numerous problems for maternal and fetal outcomes. However, the precise molecular mechanisms of GDM are not clear. METHODS In our study, we randomly assigned 22 pregnant women with fasting glucose concentrations, 1 hour oral glucose tolerance test (1H-OGTT) and 2 hour oral glucose tolerance test (2H-OGTT), different than 28 normal pregnant women from a sample of 107 pregnant women at the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University in China. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin 1 alpha (IL-1α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured from blood plasma of pregnant women and umbilical arteries using ultraviolet spectrophotometry. Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E), Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) or Masson staining were performed to examine whether diabetes mellitus altered the morphology of placenta. Quantitative PCR (Q-PCR), western blotting and immunofluorescent staining were performed to examine whether diabetes mellitus and autophagy altered the gene expressions of the placental tissue. RESULTS We found that women with GDM exhibited increased placental weight and risk of neonatal infection. The concentrations of IL-6 protein and IL-8 protein in GDM were increased in both maternal and umbilical arterial blood. H&E, Masson and PAS staining results showed an increased number of placental villi and glycogen deposition in patients with GDM, but no placental sclerosis was found. Q-PCR results suggested that the expression levels of HIF-1α and the toll like receptor 4 (TLR4)/ myeloid differential protein-88 (MyD88)/ nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway were increased in the GDM placenta. Through Western Blotting, we found that the expression of NF-kappa-B inhibitor alpha (IKBα) and Nuclear factor-κB p65 (NF-κB p65) in GDM placenta was significantly enhanced. We also showed that the key autophagy-related genes, autophagy-related 7 (ATG7) and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3), were increased in GDM compared with normal pregnant women. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that women with GDM exhibit an increased risk of neonatal infection via inflammation and autophagy in the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-xiao Li
- The First Affiliate Hospital of Jinan University
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, Medical College
| | - Deng-lu Long
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, Medical College
| | - Jia Liu
- The First Affiliate Hospital of Jinan University
| | - Di Qiu
- The First Affiliate Hospital of Jinan University
| | - Jingyun Wang
- The First Affiliate Hospital of Jinan University
| | - Xin Cheng
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, Medical College
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of the Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuesong Yang
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, Medical College
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of the Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui-man Li
- The First Affiliate Hospital of Jinan University
| | - Guang Wang
- International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development & Prenatal Medicine, Division of Histology and Embryology, Medical College
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of the Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Autophagy regulates trophoblast invasion by targeting NF-κB activity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14033. [PMID: 32820194 PMCID: PMC7441061 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70959-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is one of the most serious complications of pregnancy, affecting 5-10% of parturients worldwide. Recent studies have suggested that autophagy is involved in trophoblast invasion and may be associated with defective placentation underlying preeclampsia. We thus aimed to understand the mechanistic link between autophagy and trophoblast invasion. Using the two most commonly used trophoblast cell lines, JEG-3 and HTR-8/SVneo, we inhibited autophagy by ATG5 and beclin-1 shRNA. Conversion of LC3-II was evaluated in ATG5 and beclin-1 knock-down cells in the presence of the lysosomal protease inhibitors E-64d and pepstatin A, to detect the efficiency of autophagy inhibition. Upon autophagy inhibition, we measured cell invasion, activity of NF-κB and related signaling pathways, MMP-2, MMP-9, sFlt-1, and TNF-α levels. Autophagy inhibition increased the invasiveness of these trophoblastic cell lines and increased Akt and NF-κB activity as well as p65 expression. Of note, an NF-κB inhibitor significantly attenuated the trophoblast invasion induced by autophagy inhibition. Autophagy inhibition was also associated with increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels and decreased the production of sFlt-1 and TNF-α. Collectively, our results indicate that autophagy regulates trophoblast invasiveness in which the NF-κB pathway and MMP-2, MMP-9, sFlt-1 and TNF-α levels are affected.
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Yin X, Gao R, Geng Y, Chen X, Liu X, Mu X, Ding Y, Wang Y, He J. Autophagy regulates abnormal placentation induced by folate deficiency in mice. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:305-319. [PMID: 30976800 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Folate deficiency has been linked to a wide range of pregnancy disorders. Most research about folate-deficiency has focused on the embryo itself, little attention has been paid to possible effects on the placenta. According to our results, the morphology of the placenta, endocrine function, and the expression of genes involved in placental differentiation were all abnormal in folate-deficient mice on days 10, 12, and 14 of pregnancy. Similar results were found in human placenta explants cultured in folate-deficient medium. Autophagy is an inducible catabolic process activated by external nutrients starvation. Here we explored further, whether autophagy was involved in the abnormal placentation caused by folate-deficiency. The aberrant number of autophagosomes measured by transmission electron microscopy and the deviant expression of autophagy-related markers showed a disordered autophagy in placentas under conditions of folate-deficiency in vivo and in vitro dual-fluorescence mRFP-eGFP-LC3 analysis indicated enhanced autophagy was detected in HTR8/SVneo cells incubated in folate-deficient medium. Importantly, the placentation impairment in mice and human placenta explants could be recovered by inhibiting placental autophagy using 3-MA. In addition, the apoptosis and invasive capability of HTR8/SVneo cells were obviously suppressed by folate deficiency but notably elevated by 3-MA. These data suggest that folate deficiency can impair placentation and autophagy is a key factor in this. However, the signal pathway by which folate deficiency causes aberrant autophagy needs to be explored further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yin
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Rufei Gao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yanqing Geng
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xueqing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xinyi Mu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yubin Ding
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Junlin He
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management and Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China
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Chakraborty S, Bose R, Islam S, Das S, Ain R. Harnessing Autophagic Network Is Essential for Trophoblast Stem Cell Differentiation. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:682-694. [PMID: 32143554 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2019.0296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Differentiation of trophoblast stem (TS) cells into various cell lineages of the placenta during mammalian development is accompanied by dynamic changes in its proteome for exerting the highly specialized functions of various cell subtypes. In the present study, we demonstrate that the autophagic machinery, which includes proteins for initiation, vesicle nucleation, and autophagosome maturation are robustly upregulated during differentiation of TS cells. Interestingly, basal levels of autophagy were detectable in the developing mouse placenta as well as TS cells. However, autophagic flux was actively triggered by induction of differentiation evident from LC3 maturation. Formation of Beclin1, Vps34, and PIK3R4 ternary complex at the phagophore assembly site that is typically known to induce autophagy was also enhanced during differentiation. Degradation of the p62/SQSTM1 cargo protein and its colocalization with LC3, a mature autophagosome marker, was most prevalent in the trophoblast giant cells (TGCs) and negligible in other trophoblast cells at day 6 of differentiation. Furthermore, disruption of autophagy by impairing lysosomal fusion in TS cells before induction of differentiation led to a decrease in the giant cell and spongiotrophoblast cell markers Prl3d1, Prl2c2, Prl4a1, and Tpbpα upon differentiation. In addition, inhibition of autophagy was associated with a decrease in nuclear size of TGCs. Taken together, these data highlight that autophagy is a necessary prelude in commitment of trophoblast differentiation from the multipotent TS cells probably by regulating protein turnover at the onset of differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreeta Chakraborty
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
| | - Rumela Bose
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
| | - Safirul Islam
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
| | - Shreya Das
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
| | - Rupasri Ain
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
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Mao Q, Chu S, Shapiro S, Yao H, De Paepe ME. Discordant placental oxygenation and autophagy in twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS). Placenta 2020; 90:9-17. [PMID: 32056557 PMCID: PMC7912434 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND (Macro)autophagy is an important process of self-degradation of macromolecules and organelles that ensures cellular homeostasis and energy preservation during stressful conditions. Dysregulated placental autophagy has been implicated in a wide range of pregnancy complications. Recent studies identified hypoxia as a key regulator of trophoblast autophagy in vitro; however, its effects on placental autophagy in vivo remain incompletely understood. In this study, we evaluated the monochorionic twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS) placenta as model of discordant placental oxygenation to determine the effects of hypoxia on placental autophagy in utero. METHODS We performed a retrospective comparative analysis of tissue oxygenation and autophagy in anemic and polycythemic territories of TAPS placentas (N = 12). Archival tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical, immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses of carbonic anhydrase (CA) IX (hypoxia marker) and key autophagy/lysosomal markers. RESULTS CAIX protein levels were significantly higher in anemic twin territories than in corresponding polycythemic territories, consistent with relative tissue hypoxia. Anemic placental shares further displayed significantly higher levels of LC3I/II (autophagosome markers) and LAMP1/2 (lysosome markers), associated with upregulated expression of lysosome/autophagosome activity-associated markers, transcription factor EB and cathepsin D. The accumulation of autophagosomes and lysosomes in anemic shares was accompanied by elevated p62 protein expression, suggestive of inhibition of the downstream autophagy pathway. CONCLUSIONS TAPS placentas display striking intertwin discordance in tissue oxygenation and autophagic activity and may provide a suitable model for study of the interrelationship between hypoxia, autophagy, and pregnancy outcome in a monochorionic twin setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanfu Mao
- From the Department of Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital, The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and the Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sharon Chu
- From the Department of Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital, The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and the Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Svetlana Shapiro
- From the Department of Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital, The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and the Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Hongwei Yao
- From the Department of Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital, The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and the Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Monique E De Paepe
- From the Department of Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital, The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and the Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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23
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Lima FA, Barateiro A, Dombrowski JG, de Souza RM, Costa DDS, Murillo O, Epiphanio S, Gonçalves LA, Marinho CRF. Plasmodium falciparum infection dysregulates placental autophagy. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226117. [PMID: 31805150 PMCID: PMC6894763 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium (P.) falciparum malaria during pregnancy has been frequently associated with severe consequences such as maternal anemia, abortion, premature birth, and reduced birth weight. Placental damage promotes disruption of the local homeostasis; though, the mechanisms underlying these events are still to be elucidated. Autophagy is a fundamental homeostatic mechanism in the natural course of pregnancy by which cells self-recycle in order to survive in stressful environments. Placentas from non-infected and P. falciparum-infected women during pregnancy were selected from a previous prospective cohort study conducted in the Brazilian Amazon (Acre, Brazil). Newborns from infected women experienced reduced birth weight (P = 0.0098) and placental immunopathology markers such as monocyte infiltrate (P < 0.0001) and IL-10 production (P = 0.0122). The placentas were evaluated for autophagy-related molecules. As a result, we observed reduced mRNA levels of ULK1 (P = 0.0255), BECN1 (P = 0.0019), and MAP1LC3B (P = 0.0086) genes in placentas from P. falciparum-infected, which was more striking in those diagnosed with placental malaria. Despite the protein levels of these genes followed the same pattern, the observed reduction was not statistically significant in placentas from P. falciparum-infected women. Nevertheless, our data suggest that chronic placental immunopathology due to P. falciparum infection leads to autophagy dysregulation, which might impair local homeostasis during malaria in pregnancy that may result in poor pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Afonso Lima
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Barateiro
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Douglas de Sousa Costa
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Oscar Murillo
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Epiphanio
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lígia Antunes Gonçalves
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Hung TH, Huang SY, Chen SF, Wu CP, Hsieh TT. Decreased placental apoptosis and autophagy in pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes with large-for-gestational age fetuses. Placenta 2019; 90:27-36. [PMID: 32056548 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dysregulation of placental apoptosis and autophagy are observed in pregnancy complications including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. However, studies of their changes in the placentas of women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) show inconsistent results. We aimed to compare the changes in apoptosis, autophagy, and Bcl-2 family proteins in the placentas from women with normal pregnancies and those with GDM, with or without large-for-gestational age (LGA) infants and to investigate the effect of hyperglycemia on the changes in apoptosis, autophagy, and Bcl-2 family proteins in primary cytotrophoblastic cells. METHODS Villous tissues were obtained from normal pregnant women and those with GDM, with or without LGA infants. Primary cytotrophoblast cells were isolated from normal term placentas and cultured under standard, hyperglycemic, or hyperosmotic conditions. RESULTS Compared to placentas from normal pregnant women, those from GDM women with LGA infants were heavier, had lower beclin-1 and DRAM levels, less M30 and cleaved PARP immunoreactivity, and increased Ki-67 immunoreactivity. These changes were associated with increased Bcl-xL and decreased Bak levels. Increased glucose concentration led to lower ATG5, beclin-1, LC3B-II, p62, and DRAM levels, lower annexin V and M30-positive cell percentages, and less cleaved PARP changes compared with standard culture conditions. Hyperglycemia caused higher Bcl-xL levels and lower Bak and Bad levels than did standard culture conditions. DISCUSSION There were differential changes in apoptosis and autophagy between placentas from normal pregnant women and those from GDM women with LGA infants. Bcl-2 family proteins are likely involved in the regulation of these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Ho Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Shih-Yin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Fu Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Pu Wu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - T'sang-T'ang Hsieh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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The fine-tuning of endoplasmic reticulum stress response and autophagy activation during trophoblast syncytialization. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:651. [PMID: 31501418 PMCID: PMC6733854 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1905-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The syncytiotrophoblast (STB) is a multinuclear layer forming the outer surface of the fetal part of the placenta deriving from villous cytotrophoblastic cell (vCTB) fusion and differentiation. This syncytialization process is characterized by morphological and biochemical alterations of the trophoblast, which probably require removal of pre-existing structures and proteins to maintain cell homeostasis and survival. Interestingly, autophagy, which allows degradation and recycling of cellular components, was shown to be activated in syncytiotrophoblast. Here we examined the involvement of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) response in autophagy activation during vCTB syncytialization. We first demonstrated the activation of ERS response and autophagy during the time course of trophoblastic cell fusion and differentiation. Alteration of autophagy activation in vCTB by chemical treatments or Beclin-1 expression modulation leads to a decrease in trophoblastic syncytialization. Furthermore, ERS response inhibition by chemical treatment or siRNA strategy leads to a default in syncytialization, associated with alteration of autophagy markers and cell survival. From these data, we suggest that ERS response, by fine regulation of autophagy activation, may serve as an adaptive mechanism to promote cell survival during trophoblastic syncytialization.
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Runyan CL, McIntosh SZ, Maestas MM, Quinn KE, Boren BP, Ashley RL. CXCR4 signaling at the ovine fetal-maternal interface regulates vascularization, CD34+ cell presence, and autophagy in the endometrium†. Biol Reprod 2019; 101:102-111. [PMID: 31004477 PMCID: PMC8127038 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Placenta development is characterized by extensive angiogenesis and vascularization but if these processes are compromised placental dysfunction occurs, which is the underlying cause of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. Dysregulation of placental angiogenesis has emerged as one of the main pathophysiological features in the development of placental insufficiency and its clinical consequences. The signaling axis initiated by chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its receptor CXCR4 stimulates angiogenesis in other tissues, and may be central to placental vascularization. We hypothesized that CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling governs the pro-angiogenic placental microenvironment by coordinating production of central angiogenic factors and receptors and regulates endometrial cell survival essential for placental function and subsequent fetal longevity. The CXCR4 antagonist, AMD3100, was used to elucidate the role of CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling regarding uteroplacental vascular remodeling at the fetal-maternal interface. On day 12 postbreeding, osmotic pumps were surgically installed and delivered either AMD3100 or PBS into the uterine lumen ipsilateral to the corpus luteum. On day 20, endometrial tissues were collected, snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen, and uterine horn cross sections preserved for immunofluorescent analysis. In endometrium from ewes receiving AMD3100 infusion, the abundance of select angiogenic factors was diminished, while presence of CD34+ cells increased compared to control ewes. Ewes receiving AMD3100 infusion also exhibited less activation of Akt/mTOR signaling, and elevated LC3B-II, a marker of cellular autophagy in endometrium. This study suggests that CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling governs placental homeostasis by serving as a critical upstream mediator of vascularization and cell viability, thereby ensuring appropriate placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheyenne L Runyan
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Stacia Z McIntosh
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Marlie M Maestas
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Kelsey E Quinn
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Ben P Boren
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Ryan L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
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Nakashima A, Tsuda S, Kusabiraki T, Aoki A, Ushijima A, Shima T, Cheng SB, Sharma S, Saito S. Current Understanding of Autophagy in Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092342. [PMID: 31083536 PMCID: PMC6539256 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved process in eukaryotes to maintain cellular homeostasis under environmental stress. Intracellular control is exerted to produce energy or maintain intracellular protein quality controls. Autophagy plays an important role in embryogenesis, implantation, and maintenance of pregnancy. This role includes supporting extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) that invade the decidua (endometrium) until the first third of uterine myometrium and migrate along the lumina of spiral arterioles under hypoxic and low-nutrient conditions in early pregnancy. In addition, autophagy inhibition has been linked to poor placentation—a feature of preeclamptic placentas—in a placenta-specific autophagy knockout mouse model. Studies of autophagy in human placentas have revealed controversial results, especially with regard to preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Without precise estimation of autophagy flux, wrong interpretation would lead to fixed tissues. This paper presents a review of the role of autophagy in pregnancy and elaborates on the interpretation of autophagy in human placental tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akitoshi Nakashima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Sayaka Tsuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Tae Kusabiraki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Aiko Aoki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Akemi Ushijima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Tomoko Shima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Shi-Bin Cheng
- Departments of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02905, USA.
| | - Surendra Sharma
- Departments of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02905, USA.
| | - Shigeru Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
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28
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Hart B, Morgan E, Alejandro EU. Nutrient sensor signaling pathways and cellular stress in fetal growth restriction. J Mol Endocrinol 2019; 62:R155-R165. [PMID: 30400060 PMCID: PMC6443503 DOI: 10.1530/jme-18-0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction is one of the most common obstetrical complications resulting in significant perinatal morbidity and mortality. The most frequent etiology of human singleton fetal growth restriction is placental insufficiency, which occurs secondary to reduced utero-placental perfusion, abnormal placentation, impaired trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodeling, resulting in altered nutrient and oxygen transport. Two nutrient-sensing proteins involved in placental development and glucose and amino acid transport are mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and O-linked N-acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT), which are both regulated by availability of oxygen. Impairment in either of these pathways is associated with fetal growth restriction and accompanied by cellular stress in the forms of hypoxia, oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, metabolic dysfunction and nutrient starvation in the placenta. Recent evidence has emerged regarding the potential impact of nutrient sensors on fetal stress response, which occurs in a sexual dysmorphic manner, indicating a potential element of genetic gender susceptibility to fetal growth restriction. In this mini review, we focus on the known role of mTOR and OGT in placental development, nutrient regulation and response to cellular stress in human fetal growth restriction with supporting evidence from rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Hart
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Elizabeth Morgan
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Emilyn U Alejandro
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Zhang L, Deng X, Shi X, Dong X. Silencing H19 regulated proliferation, invasion, and autophagy in the placenta by targeting miR-18a-5p. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:9006-9015. [PMID: 30536700 PMCID: PMC6587755 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a serious pregnancy complication associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity. It may lead to neurodevelopmental impairment and adulthood onset disorders. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were found to be associated with the pathogenesis of FGR. Here we report that the lncRNAH19 is significantly decreased in placentae from pregnancies with FGR. Downregulation of H19 leads to reduced proliferation and invasion of extravillous trophoblast cells. This is identified with reduced trophoblast invasion, which has been discovered in FGR. Autophagy is exaggerated in FGR. Downregulation of H19 promotes autophagy via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK/ERK/mTOR pathways of extravillous trophoblast cells in FGR. We also found that the expression level of microRNAs miR-18a-5p was negatively correlated with that of H19. H19 can act as an endogenous sponge by directly binding to miR-18a-5p, which targets IRF2. The expression of miR-18a-5p was upregulated, but IRF2 expression was downregulated after the H19 knockdown. In conclusion, our study revealed that H19 downexpressed could inhibit proliferation and invasion, and promote autophagy by targeting miR-18a-5pin HTR8 and JEG3 cells. We propose that aberrant regulation of H19/miR-18a-5p-mediated regulatory pathway may contribute to the molecular mechanism of FGR. We indicated that H19 may be a potential predictive, diagnostic, and therapeutic modality for FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xinru Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xian Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xiaojing Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
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30
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Sagrillo-Fagundes L, Assunção Salustiano EM, Ruano R, Markus RP, Vaillancourt C. Melatonin modulates autophagy and inflammation protecting human placental trophoblast from hypoxia/reoxygenation. J Pineal Res 2018; 65:e12520. [PMID: 30091210 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin has been proposed as a possible treatment for the deleterious effects of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R), such as autophagy, inflammation, and apoptosis. Pathological pregnancies, such as preeclampsia, are associated with placental H/R, and decreased placental melatonin synthesis as well as lower melatonin levels in the placenta and maternal plasma. However, the effects of exogenous melatonin on inflammation and autophagy induced by pregnancy complications associated with H/R await investigation. This study aimed to determine as to whether melatonin protects human primary villous trophoblasts against H/R-induced autophagy, inflammation, and apoptosis. Human primary villous cytotrophoblasts were isolated and immunopurified from normal term placentas. These cells were then exposed or not to 1 mmol/L melatonin for 72 hour in normoxia (8% O2 ), thereby inducing differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast that was then exposed to H/R (0.5% O2 , for 4 hour) or normoxia. H/R decreased endogenous melatonin synthesis (by 68%) and interleukin (IL)-10 levels (by 72%), coupled to increased tumor necrosis factor (TNF) (by 114%), IL-6 (by 55%), and NFκB (by 399%), compared to normoxia. Melatonin treatment reversed the H/R effect, restoring IL-10, TNF, and IL-6 levels to those of the normoxia condition. Melatonin, as well as NFκB inhibition, enhanced autophagy activation, consequently increasing syncytiotrophoblast survival in H/R conditions. This study suggests that H/R, which is present in pregnancy complications, inhibits endogenous melatonin production, thereby contributing to reduced syncytiotrophoblast viability. Results indicate that exogenous melatonin treatment may afford protection against H/R-induced damage, thereby enhancing placental cell survival, and contributing to improved fetal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Sagrillo-Fagundes
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed Research Centre, Laval, Quebec, Canada
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Rodrigo Ruano
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Regina P Markus
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed Research Centre, Laval, Quebec, Canada
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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Expression of urotensin II is associated with placental autophagy in patients with severe preeclampsia. J Hum Hypertens 2018; 32:759-769. [PMID: 29991702 PMCID: PMC6249200 DOI: 10.1038/s41371-018-0083-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The aims of this study are to explore the correlation between the expressions of urotensin II (UII) and autophagic markers (LC3 and P62) in patients with severe preeclampsia (SPE). A total of 64 pregnant subjects were recruited, including 29 healthy pregnancies and 35 preeclamptic patients (7 mild preeclamptic (MPE) patients and 28 SPE patients). UII and autophagic markers expression in placenta specimens was investigated by immunohistochemistry (IHC), RT-qPCR, and western blot. IHC analysis manifested that the expressions of UII and autophagic markers were mainly located in the placental cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast. Western blot and IHC analysis both indicated that the expression of UII was significantly correlated with autophagic marker LC3II (by western blot) or LC3 (by IHC) (r = 0.495, P = 0.010; r = 0.816, P = 0.007). Moreover, SPE group had higher expression of UII and LC3II, lower expression of P62 than that of normal controls. The expression of LC3II was positively related with systolic blood pressure (SBP) and urinary protein level (SBP (r = 0.501, P = 0.003) and urine protein quantitation (r = 0.509, P = 0.022)), whereas P62 had negative correlation with SBP. We first verify that UII has positive correlation with autophagic marker LC3 in placentas of preeclampsia patients; besides, autophagic levels are positively correlated with SBP and urine protein in patients with SPE.
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Oxidative Stress in Preeclampsia and Placental Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051496. [PMID: 29772777 PMCID: PMC5983711 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 316] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a persistent hypertensive gestational disease characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria, which presents from the second trimester of pregnancy. At the cellular level, preeclampsia has largely been associated with the release of free radicals by the placenta. Placenta-borne oxidative and nitrosative stresses are even sometimes considered as the major molecular determinants of the maternal disease. In this review, we present the recent literature evaluating free radical production in both normal and pathological placentas (including preeclampsia and other major pregnancy diseases), in humans and animal models. We then assess the putative effects of these free radicals on the placenta and maternal endothelium. This analysis was conducted with regard to recent papers and possible therapeutic avenues.
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Gauster M, Maninger S, Siwetz M, Deutsch A, El-Heliebi A, Kolb-Lenz D, Hiden U, Desoye G, Herse F, Prokesch A. Downregulation of p53 drives autophagy during human trophoblast differentiation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:1839-1855. [PMID: 29080089 PMCID: PMC5910494 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2695-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The placental barrier is crucial for the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus and is maintained by differentiation and fusion of mononucleated cytotrophoblasts into the syncytiotrophoblast, a process only partially understood. Here transcriptome and pathway analyses during differentiation and fusion of cultured trophoblasts yielded p53 signaling as negative upstream regulator and indicated an upregulation of autophagy-related genes. We further showed p53 mRNA and protein levels decreased during trophoblast differentiation. Reciprocally, autophagic flux increased and cytoplasmic LC3B-GFP puncta became more abundant, indicating enhanced autophagic activity. In line, in human first trimester placenta p53 protein mainly localized to the cytotrophoblast, while autophagy marker LC3B as well as late autophagic compartments were predominantly detectable in the syncytiotrophoblast. Importantly, ectopic overexpression of p53 reduced levels of LC3B-II, supporting a negative regulatory role on autophagy in differentiating trophoblasts. This was also shown in primary trophoblasts and human first trimester placental explants, where pharmacological stabilization of p53 decreased LC3B-II levels. In summary our data suggest that differentiation-dependent downregulation of p53 is a prerequisite for activating autophagy in the syncytiotrophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Gauster
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, F/03/38, 8010, Graz, Austria.
| | - Sabine Maninger
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, F/03/38, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Monika Siwetz
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, F/03/38, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Alexander Deutsch
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Amin El-Heliebi
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, F/03/38, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Dagmar Kolb-Lenz
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, F/03/38, 8010, Graz, Austria
- Center for Medical Research, Core Facility Ultrastructure Analysis, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Ursula Hiden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gernot Desoye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Joint Cooperation Between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Prokesch
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, F/03/38, 8010, Graz, Austria.
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Dimasuay KG, Gong L, Rosario F, McBryde E, Spelman T, Glazier J, Rogerson SJ, Beeson JG, Jansson T, Devenish RJ, Boeuf P. Impaired placental autophagy in placental malaria. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187291. [PMID: 29125872 PMCID: PMC5681252 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Placental malaria is a major cause of low birthweight, principally due to impaired fetal growth. Intervillositis, a local inflammatory response to placental malaria, is central to the pathogenesis of poor fetal growth as it impairs transplacental amino acid transport. Given the link between inflammation and autophagy, we investigated whether placental malaria-associated intervillositis increased placental autophagy as a potential mechanism in impaired fetal growth. Methods We examined placental biopsies collected after delivery from uninfected women (n = 17) and from women with Plasmodium falciparum infection with (n = 14) and without (n = 7) intervillositis. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining coupled with advanced image analysis were used to quantify the expression of autophagic markers (LC3-II, LC3-I, Rab7, ATG4B and p62) and the density of autophagosomes (LC3-positive puncta) and lysosomes (LAMP1-positive puncta). Results Placental malaria with intervillositis was associated with higher LC3-II:LC3-I ratio, suggesting increased autophagosome formation. We found higher density of autophagosomes and lysosomes in the syncytiotrophoblast of malaria-infected placentas with intervillositis. However, there appear to be no biologically relevant increase in LC3B/LAMP1 colocalization and expression of Rab7, a molecule involved in autophagosome/lysosome fusion, was lower in placental malaria with intervillositis, indicating a block in the later stage of autophagy. ATG4B and p62 expression showed no significant difference across histological groups suggesting normal autophagosome maturation and loading of cargo proteins into autophagosomes. The density of autophagosomes and lysosomes in the syncytiotrophoblast was negatively correlated with placental amino acid uptake. Conclusions Placental malaria-associated intervillositis is associated with dysregulated autophagy that may impair transplacental amino acid transport, possibly contributing to poor fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris Genelyn Dimasuay
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine at the Peter Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lan Gong
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fredrick Rosario
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Emma McBryde
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim Spelman
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jocelyn Glazier
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, St. Mary’s Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen J. Rogerson
- Department of Medicine at the Peter Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James G. Beeson
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine at the Peter Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Rodney J. Devenish
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Philippe Boeuf
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine at the Peter Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Hung TH, Hsieh TT, Wu CP, Li MJ, Yeh YL, Chen SF. Mammalian target of rapamycin signaling is a mechanistic link between increased endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by growth restriction. Placenta 2017; 60:9-20. [PMID: 29208245 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and autophagy have been noted in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by idiopathic intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR); however, the cause of these phenomena remains unclear. We surmised that oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) may increase ER stress and autophagy and that mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is involved in regulating placental ER stress and autophagy in pregnancies complicated by IUGR. METHODS We obtained placentas from women with normal term pregnancies and pregnancies complicated by IUGR to compare ER stress, mTOR signaling, and levels of autophagy-related proteins between the two groups and used primary cytotrophoblast cells treated with or without salubrinal (an ER stress inhibitor), MHY1485 (an mTOR activator), or rapamycin (an mTOR inhibitor) to investigate the effects of OGD on ER stress, mTOR activity, and autophagy levels in vitro. RESULTS Women with pregnancies complicated by IUGR displayed higher placental ER stress and autophagy levels but lower mTOR activity than women with normal pregnancies. Furthermore, OGD increased ER stress, regulated in development and DNA damage responses-1 (REDD1), phosphorylated tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2), and autophagy levels and decreased mTOR activity compared to the standard culture condition; however, the salubrinal treatment attenuated these changes. Moreover, the administration of MHY1485 or rapamycin to OGD-treated cells decreased or increased autophagy levels, respectively. DISCUSSION Based on our results, mTOR is a mechanistic link between OGD-induced ER stress and autophagy in cytotrophoblast cells; thus, mTOR plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of pregnancies complicated by IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Ho Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - T'sang-T'ang Hsieh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Pu Wu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Jen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Lin Yeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Fu Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Autophagy regulation in preeclampsia: Pros and cons. J Reprod Immunol 2017; 123:17-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Abstract
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catalytic process by which cytoplasmic components including damaged macromolecules and organelles are degraded. The role of autophagy includes adaptive responses to nutrition deprivation or intracellular stimuli. Although autophagosomes were first observed in early 1960s, it was 1990s that autophagy-related genes in yeast were identified and studied. Nowadays, the molecular machinery of autophagy and signaling pathway to various stimuli are almost outlined. Dysregulation of autophagic activity has been implicated in many human diseases including neurodegenerative diseases, infection and inflammation, and malignancies. However, since current understanding of autophagy in placenta is just at the beginning, this paper aims to provide general information on autophagy (part I) and to summarize articles on autophagy in human placenta (part II). This review article will serve as a basis for further researches on autophagy in relation to human pregnancy and its complications.
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Yu M, Chen L, Peng Z, Nüssler AK, Wu Q, Liu L, Yang W. Mechanism of deoxynivalenol effects on the reproductive system and fetus malformation: Current status and future challenges. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 41:150-158. [PMID: 28286114 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a toxic fungal secondary metabolite produced by molds of the Fusarium genus, and it is known to cause a spectrum of diseases both in humans and animals, such as emesis, diarrhea, anorexia, immunotoxicity, hematological disorders, impairment of maternal reproduction, and fetal development. The recently revealed teratogenic potential of DON has received much attention. In various animal models, it has been shown that DON led to skeletal deformities of the fetus. However, the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood, and toxicological data are also scarce. Several animal research studies highlight the potential link between morphological abnormalities and changes of autophagy in the reproductive system. Because autophagy is involved in fetal development, maintenance of placental function, and bone remodeling, this mechanism has become a high priority for future research. The general aim of the present review is to deliver a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge of DON-induced reproductive toxicity in different animal models and to provide some prospective ideas for further research. The focus of the current review is to summarize toxic and negative effects of DON exposure on the reproductive system and the potential underlying molecular mechanisms in various animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Yu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China; Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China
| | - Liangkai Chen
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China; Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China
| | - Zhao Peng
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China; Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China
| | - Andreas K Nüssler
- Department of Traumatology, BG Trauma Center, University of Tübingen, Schnarrenbergstr. 95, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Qinghua Wu
- College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434025, China; Center for Basic and Applied Research, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Liegang Liu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China; Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China; Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Road 13, 430030 Wuhan, China.
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Cao B, Camden AJ, Parnell LA, Mysorekar IU. Autophagy regulation of physiological and pathological processes in the female reproductive tract. Am J Reprod Immunol 2017; 77. [PMID: 28194822 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a ubiquitous cell recycling pathway that delivers cytoplasmic constituents to the lysosome and is essential for normal cellular function. Autophagic activity is up-regulated under physiological conditions as well as stressful conditions such as nutrient deprivation, oxidative stress, hypoxia, inflammation, and infection. Thus, it is essential to regard the functional importance of the pathway and its components in a given tissue context. Here we review what is known about the involvement of autophagy process during physiological processes in the female reproductive tract and in pregnancy from preimplantation to oocyte function to placental development, parturition, and postpartum remodeling of the uterus; as well as in pathological and adverse events during these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alison J Camden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lindsay A Parnell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Indira U Mysorekar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Prokesch A, Blaschitz A, Bauer T, Moser G, Hiden U, Zadora J, Dechend R, Herse F, Gauster M. Placental DAPK1 and autophagy marker LC3B-II are dysregulated by TNF-α in a gestational age-dependent manner. Histochem Cell Biol 2017; 147:695-705. [PMID: 28097431 PMCID: PMC5429897 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-016-1537-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy, a cell-survival process responsible for degradation of protein aggregates and damaged organelles, is increasingly recognized as another mechanism essential for human placentation. A substantial body of experiments suggests inflammation and oxidative stress as the underlying stimuli for altered placental autophagy, giving rise to placenta dysfunction and pregnancy pathologies. Here, the hypothesis is tested whether or not pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α are able to influence the expression profile of autophagy genes in human first-trimester villous placenta. Autophagy-focused qPCR arrays identified substantial downregulation of death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) in first-trimester placental explants in response to IL-6 and TNF-α, respectively. Immunohistochemistry of placental explants detected considerable DAPK1 staining in placental macrophages, villous cytotrophoblasts and less intense in the syncytiotrophoblast. Both immunohistochemistry and Western blot showed decreased DAPK1 protein in TNF-α-treated placental explants compared to control. On cellular level, DAPK1 expression decreased in SGHPL-4 trophoblasts in response to TNF-α. Observed changes in the expression profile of autophagy-related genes were reflected by significantly decreased lipidation of autophagy marker microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 beta (LC3B-II) in first trimester placental explants in response to TNF-α. Analysis of TNF-α-treated term placental explants showed decreased DAPK1 protein, whereas in contrast to first-trimester LC3B expression and lipidation increased. Immunohistochemistry of placental tissues from early-onset preeclampsia (PE) showed less DAPK1 staining, when compared to controls. Accordingly, DAPK1 mRNA and protein were decreased in primary trophoblasts isolated from early-onset PE, while LC3B-I and -II were increased. Results from this study suggest that DAPK1, a regulator of apoptosis, autophagy and programmed necrosis, decreases in human placenta in response to elevated maternal TNF-α, irrespective of gestational age. In contrast, TNF-α differentially regulates levels of autophagy marker LC3B in human placenta over gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Prokesch
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Harrachgasse 21/VII, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Astrid Blaschitz
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Harrachgasse 21/VII, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Tamara Bauer
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Harrachgasse 21/VII, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerit Moser
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Harrachgasse 21/VII, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Ursula Hiden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Julianna Zadora
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Joint Cooperation Between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Joint Cooperation Between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
- HELIOS-Klinikum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Joint Cooperation Between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Gauster
- Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Graz, Harrachgasse 21/VII, 8010, Graz, Austria.
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Zhang ZW, Li ZL, Yuan S. The Role of Secretory Autophagy in Zika Virus Transfer through the Placental Barrier. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 6:206. [PMID: 28119857 PMCID: PMC5220013 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2016.00206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies indicated that the Zika virus genome could be detected in the amniotic fluid and the fetal brain, which confirms that the virus can cross the placental barrier. Secretory autophagy or exosome pathways may participate in this virus transfer. Autophagy modulators regulate autophagosome formation or membrane fusion with lysosomal vesicles and therefore inhibit viral nucleocapsid releasing or virus transfer to the fetus hypothetically. However, some autophagy modulators may enhance virus replication. Autophagy inhibitors may arrest placental development; while exaggeration of autophagy in human placenta may be associated with the fetal growth restriction. Therefore, autophagy modulators should be used carefully due to their complex clinical effects. Alternatively, exosome-specific inhibitors might be also considered, although their safety of both maternal and fetal conditions must be carefully assessed before any advancement to human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Wei Zhang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu, China
| | - Zi-Lin Li
- General Hospital of Lanzhou Military Region Lanzhou, China
| | - Shu Yuan
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu, China
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Zhang Y, Hu X, Gao G, Wang Y, Chen P, Ye Y. Autophagy protects against oxidized low density lipoprotein-mediated inflammation associated with preeclampsia. Placenta 2016; 48:136-143. [PMID: 27871466 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Revised: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inflammatory responses play an important role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Recently, the anti-inflammatory role played by autophagy has drawn increasing attention. Our aim was to investigate variations in autophagy in preeclampsia and protection against oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-mediated inflammation by autophagy. METHODS We used immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time PCR, and western blotting to analyze the expression of autophagy proteins (beclin-1 and LC3II/LC3I) in preeclampsia placentas and in JEG-3 cells treated with oxLDL and rapamycin. RESULTS We found a decreased level of autophagy proteins in preeclampsia placentas, and oxLDL did not induce autophagy in JEG-3 cells. Furthermore, when cells were pretreated with rapamycin, autophagy was activated and expression of inflammatory factors (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6) induced by oxLDL was downregulated. CONCLUSION We conclude that impaired autophagy in preeclampsia has potential to decrease trophoblast protection from oxidative and inflammatory stress, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Obstetrical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, PR China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- Obstetrical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, PR China
| | - Guoqiang Gao
- Obstetrical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, PR China
| | - Yufang Wang
- Obstetrical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, PR China
| | - Pingping Chen
- Obstetrical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, PR China
| | - Yuanhua Ye
- Obstetrical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, PR China.
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de Andrade Ramos BR, Witkin SS. The influence of oxidative stress and autophagy cross regulation on pregnancy outcome. Cell Stress Chaperones 2016; 21:755-62. [PMID: 27383757 PMCID: PMC5003807 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-016-0715-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), a byproduct of aerobic energy metabolism, is maintained at physiological levels by the activity of antioxidant components. Insufficiently opposed ROS results in oxidative stress characterized by altered mitochondrial function, decreased protein activity, damage to nucleic acids, and induction of apoptosis. Elevated levels of inadequately opposed ROS induce autophagy, a major intracellular pathway that sequesters and removes damaged macromolecules and organelles. In early pregnancy, autophagy induction preserves trophoblast function in the low oxygen and nutrient placental environment. Inadequate regulation of the ROS-autophagy axis leads to abnormal autophagy activity and contributes to the development of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. ROS-autophagy interactions are altered at the end of gestation and participate in the initiation of parturition at term. The induction of high levels of ROS coupled with a failure to induce a corresponding increase in autophagy results in the triggering of preterm labor and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Ribeiro de Andrade Ramos
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University-UNESP, Distrito de Rubião Júnior, 18618-970, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Steven S Witkin
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University-UNESP, Distrito de Rubião Júnior, 18618-970, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Toschi P, Czernik M, Zacchini F, Fidanza A, Loi P, Ptak GE. Evidence of Placental Autophagy during Early Pregnancy after Transfer of In Vitro Produced (IVP) Sheep Embryos. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157594. [PMID: 27326761 PMCID: PMC4915622 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancies obtained by Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) are associated with limited maternal nutrient uptake. Our previous studies shown that in vitro culture of sheep embryos is associated with vascularization defects in their placentae and consequent reduction of embryo growth. Autophagy is a pro-survival cellular mechanism triggered by nutrient insufficiency. Therefore, the goal of our present study was to determine if autophagy is involved in early placental development after transfer of in vitro produced (IVP) embryos. To do this, placentae obtained following transfer of IVP sheep embryos were compared with placentae obtained after natural mating (control-CTR). The placentae were collected on day 20 post-fertilization and post-mating, respectively, and were analyzed using molecular (qPCR), ultrastructural and histological/immunological approaches. Our results show drastically increased autophagy in IVP placentae: high levels of expression (p<0.05) of canonical markers of cellular autophagy and a high proportion of autophagic cells (35.08%; p<0.001) were observed. We conclude that high autophagic activity in IVP placentae can be a successful temporary counterbalance to the retarded vasculogenesis and the reduction of foetal growth observed in pregnancies after transfer of IVP embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Toschi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marta Czernik
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Federica Zacchini
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec ul. Postepu 36A, 05–552 Magdalenka, Poland
| | - Antonella Fidanza
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec ul. Postepu 36A, 05–552 Magdalenka, Poland
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Grażyna Ewa Ptak
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, 64100, Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec ul. Postepu 36A, 05–552 Magdalenka, Poland
- National Research Institute of Animal Production, 1, Krakowska Street, 32–083 Balice n/Krakow, Poland
- * E-mail:
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Avagliano L, Massa V, Zullino S, Doi P, Marconi AM, Ferrazzi E, Bulfamante GP. Inflammation modulates LC3 expression in human preterm delivery. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2016; 30:698-704. [PMID: 27125211 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1183630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autophagy is an inducible intracellular process acting under stressor conditions, such as infections, inflammation and hypoxia. The aim of the present study was to analyze autophagy expression in preterm delivered human placenta. METHODS Autophagy marker LC3 was analyzed in 25 consecutive human placentas delivered before 34 weeks of gestation, analyzed by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and quantitative real-time PCR, according to the histologic classification of preterm delivery (PTD) (cases with or without placental inflammatory lesions). RESULTS LC3 expression was observed both in cases with and without inflammatory lesions. In cases with histological inflammation, strong immunoreactivity for LC3 autophagic marker was observed in the inflammatory cell infiltration composed by neutrophils. In all PTD cases, trophoblastic cells in chorion laeve express LC3, with variable staining intensity: a significant reduction of LC3 expression was observed in chorion laeve of PTD with histological inflammation compared to PTD without inflammatory lesions. Moreover, the decrement of LC3 staining was observed to be associated to the increasing severity of the histological signs of fetal inflammatory response. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that the expression of LC3 varies depending on different histological features, indicating an interesting and possibly clinically relevant relation between autophagy expression levels and the inflammatory status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Avagliano
- a Department of Health Sciences , San Paolo Hospital Medical School, University of Milan , Milan , Italy and
| | - Valentina Massa
- a Department of Health Sciences , San Paolo Hospital Medical School, University of Milan , Milan , Italy and
| | - Sara Zullino
- b Department of Woman , Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Biomedical and Clinical Sciences School of Medicine, University of Milan , Milan , Italy
| | - Patrizia Doi
- a Department of Health Sciences , San Paolo Hospital Medical School, University of Milan , Milan , Italy and
| | - Anna Maria Marconi
- a Department of Health Sciences , San Paolo Hospital Medical School, University of Milan , Milan , Italy and
| | - Enrico Ferrazzi
- b Department of Woman , Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Biomedical and Clinical Sciences School of Medicine, University of Milan , Milan , Italy
| | - Gaetano Pietro Bulfamante
- a Department of Health Sciences , San Paolo Hospital Medical School, University of Milan , Milan , Italy and
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Burton GJ, Yung HW, Murray AJ. Mitochondrial - Endoplasmic reticulum interactions in the trophoblast: Stress and senescence. Placenta 2016; 52:146-155. [PMID: 27091649 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Placental stress has been implicated in the pathophysiology of complications of pregnancy, including growth restriction and pre-eclampsia. Initially, attention focused on oxidative stress, but recently mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress have been identified. Complex molecular interactions exist among these different forms of stress, making it unlikely that any occurs in isolation. In part, this is due to close physiological connections between the two organelles principally involved, mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mediated through Ca2+ signalling. Here, we review the involvement of the mitochondria-ER unit in the generation of stress within the trophoblast, and consider consequences for obstetric outcome. Mild stress may induce adaptive responses, including upregulation of antioxidant defences and autophagy, while moderate levels may affect stem cell behaviour and reduce cell proliferation, contributing to the growth-restricted phenotype. High levels of stress can stimulate release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-angiogenic factors, increasing the risk of pre-eclampsia. In addition, chronic stress may promote senescence of the trophoblast, which in other cell types leads to a pro-inflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Evidence from rodents suggests that a degree of trophoblastic stress develops with increasing gestational age in normal pregnancies. The increase in maternal concentrations of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and reduction in placental growth factor (PlGF) suggest the same may occur in the human, starting around 30 weeks of pregnancy. Placental malperfusion, or co-existing maternal conditions, such as diabetes, will exacerbate that stress. Amelioration of trophoblastic stress should remain a research priority, but will be difficult due to the complexity of the molecular pathways involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- G J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
| | - H W Yung
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - A J Murray
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
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Oxidative Stress in Placenta: Health and Diseases. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:293271. [PMID: 26693479 PMCID: PMC4676991 DOI: 10.1155/2015/293271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, development of the placenta is interrelated with the oxygen concentration. Embryo development takes place in a low oxygen environment until the beginning of the second trimester when large amounts of oxygen are conveyed to meet the growth requirements. High metabolism and oxidative stress are common in the placenta. Reactive oxidative species sometimes harm placental development, but they are also reported to regulate gene transcription and downstream activities such as trophoblast proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis. Autophagy and apoptosis are two crucial, interconnected processes in the placenta that are often influenced by oxidative stress. The proper interactions between them play an important role in placental homeostasis. However, an imbalance between the protective and destructive mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis seems to be linked with pregnancy-related disorders such as miscarriage, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. Thus, potential therapies to hold oxidative stress in leash, promote placentation, and avoid unwanted apoptosis are discussed.
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Sisti G, Kanninen TT, Ramer I, Witkin SS. Interaction between the inducible 70-kDa heat shock protein and autophagy: effects on fertility and pregnancy. Cell Stress Chaperones 2015; 20:753-8. [PMID: 26081752 PMCID: PMC4529872 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-015-0609-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A consequence of hsp70 (HSPA1A) induction is the inhibition of autophagy. Evidence of autophagy involvement in all aspects of the reproductive process is reviewed, and possible consequences of hsp70 induction at each developmental stage are postulated. It is proposed that aberrant external or internal stimuli that result in high levels of hsp70 production interfere with normal autophagy-related functions and lead to a decrease in the number of functional ova and spermatozoa, impaired pre- and post-implantation embryo development, and increased susceptibility to premature labor and delivery. The purpose of this review is to increase understanding of hsp70-autophagy interactions during reproduction. Interventions to modulate this interaction will lead to development of novel protocols to improve fertility and pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Sisti
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Tomi T. Kanninen
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Ilana Ramer
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Steven S. Witkin
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 USA
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Role of the Atg9a gene in intrauterine growth and survival of fetal mice. Reprod Biol 2015; 15:131-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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50
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Akaishi R, Yamada T, Nakabayashi K, Nishihara H, Furuta I, Kojima T, Morikawa M, Yamada T, Fujita N, Minakami H. Autophagy in the placenta of women with hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. Placenta 2014; 35:974-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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