STX2 Promotes Trophoblast Growth, Migration, and Invasion Through Activation of the PI3K-AKT Pathway in Preeclampsia

Circular RNA circ_0022707 impedes the progression of preeclampsia via the miR-3135b/GHR/PI3K/Akt axis

Preeclampsia (PE) is a severe pregnancy complication linked to maternal and fetal health, yet its underlying causes and pathogenesis remain elusive. Circular RNA (circRNA), a form of non-coding RNA, is implicated in the progression of PE; nevertheless, the specific mechanism is not fully elucidated. This study aimed to identify and validate circRNAs that are pivotal in the pathophysiology of PE. Firstly, we constructed a ceRNA network using datasets from the GEO database and identified circ_0022707 as our study target. Then, using qRT-PCR analysis, we validated that circ_0022707 was downregulated in preeclamptic placentas compared to those of normal pregnant women. In situ hybridization assays revealed that circ_0022707 existed in placental villous trophoblast cells. Additionally, Pearson correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship between the expression of circ_0022707 and PE-related indicators (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, along with 24-h proteinuria levels). Furthermore, gain-of-function experiments confirmed that circ_0022707 could promote trophoblast cell proliferation and cell cycle progression while suppressing apoptosis. In vivo experiments using a preeclampsia-like mouse model also demonstrated that circ_0022707 administration could mitigate preeclampsia-like symptoms. Mechanistically, we confirmed that circ_0022707 functions through the miR-3135b/GHR/PI3K/Akt pathway in trophoblast cells. Overall, our study has provided insight into the important function of circ_002707 in the development of PE, enhancing our understanding of the disease's mechanism and proposing a viable therapeutic strategy for PE.

LMWH prevents thromboinflammation in the placenta via HBEGF-AKT signaling

ABSTRACT

Low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) are used to prevent or treat thromboembolic events during pregnancy. Although studies suggest an overall protective effect of LMWH in preeclampsia (PE), their use in PE remains controversial. LMWH may convey beneficial effects in PE independent of their anticoagulant activity, possibly by inhibiting inflammation. Here, we evaluated whether LMWH inhibit placental thromboinflammation and trophoblast NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Using an established procoagulant extracellular vesicle-induced and platelet-dependent PE-like mouse model, we show that LMWH reduces pregnancy loss and trophoblast inflammasome activation, restores altered trophoblast differentiation, and improves trophoblast proliferation in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, LMWH inhibits platelet-independent trophoblast NLRP3 (NLR family pyrin domain containing 3) inflammasome activation. Mechanistically, LMWH activates via heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF) signaling the PI3-kinase-AKT pathway in trophoblasts, thus preventing inflammasome activation. In human PE placental explants, inflammasome activation and PI3-kinase-AKT signaling events were reduced with LMWH treatment compared with those without LMWH treatment. Thus, LMWH inhibits sterile inflammation via the HBEGF signaling pathway in trophoblasts and ameliorates PE-associated complications. These findings suggest that drugs targeting the inflammasome may be evaluated in PE and identify a signaling mechanism through which LMWH ameliorates PE, thus providing a rationale for the use of LMWH in PE.

Potential molecular mechanisms and clinical implications of piRNAs in preeclampsia: a review

Preeclampsia is a multisystem progressive condition and is one of the most serious complications of pregnancy. Owing to its unclear pathogenesis, there are no precise and effective therapeutic targets for preeclampsia, and the only available treatment strategy is to terminate the pregnancy and eliminate the clinical symptoms. In recent years, non-coding RNAs have become a hotspot in preeclampsia research and have shown promise as effective biomarkers for the early diagnosis of preeclampsia over conventional biochemical markers. PIWI-interacting RNAs, novel small non-coding RNA that interact with PIWI proteins, are involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level. However, the mechanisms underlying the role of PIWI-interacting RNAs in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia remain unclear. In this review, we discuss the findings of existing studies on PIWI-interacting RNA biogenesis, functions, and their possible roles in preeclampsia, providing novel insights into the potential application of PIWI-interacting RNAs in the early diagnosis and clinical treatment of preeclampsia.

Differential mRNA and lncRNA Expression Profiles Associated with Early Pregnancy Loss in ART Patients

Early pregnancy loss (EPL) is the most common complication in assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, the precise causes for nearly 50% patients remain unexplained. In the current study, we aimed to discover the differentially expressed profiling of mRNAs and lncRNAs by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Human chorionic villi tissues were collected from patients with EPL and natural control (NC) group. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of these specimens was performed for transcriptome analysis. As a result, we identified a total of 141 mRNAs and 137 lncRNAs that were significantly differentially expressed between villi tissues from EPL and NC. Functional enrichment analyses indicated enrichment of differentially expressed genes involved in pathways were associated with growth hormone receptor binding, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Jak-STAT signaling pathway, transcriptional misregulation in cancer, metabolic pathways and Rap1 signaling pathway. Additionally, the co-expression networks (lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA) was constructed based on the correlation analysis between the differentially expressed RNAs.7 mRNAs and 6 lncRNAs were successfully technically validated with RT-PCR. In conclusion, our results suggest a direction for the further study of EPL-related mRNAs and lncRNAs and may ultimately assist in understanding the pathogenesis of EPL.

Bioinformatic Analysis Identifies Potential Extracellular Matrix Related Genes in the Pathogenesis of Early Onset Preeclampsia

Early-onset preeclampsia (EOPE) is a complex pregnancy complication that poses significant risks to the health of both mothers and fetuses, and research on its pathogenesis and pathophysiology remains insuffcient. This study aims to explore the role of candidate genes and their potential interaction mechanisms in EOPE through bioinformatics analysis techniques. Two gene expression datasets, GSE44711 and GSE74341, were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between EOPE and gestational age-matched preterm control samples. Functional enrichment analysis was performed utilizing the kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), gene ontology (GO), and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database, and hub DEGs were identified through Cytoscape software and comparative toxicogenomics database (CTD) analysis. Furthermore, a diagnostic logistic model was established using these hub genes, which were confirmed through reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Finally, immune cell infiltration was analyzed using CIBERSORT. In total, 807 DEGs were identified in the GSE44711 dataset (451 upregulated genes and 356 downregulated genes), and 787 DEGs were identified in the GSE74341 dataset (446 upregulated genes and 341 downregulated genes). These DEGs were significantly enriched in various molecular functions such as extracellular matrix structural constituent, receptor-ligand activity binding, cytokine activity, and platelet-derived growth factor. KEGG and GSEA annotation revealed significant enrichment in pathways related to ECM-receptor interaction, PI3K-AKT signaling, and focal adhesion. Ten hub genes were identified through the CytoHubba plugin in Cytoscape. Among these hub genes, three key DEGs (COL1A1, SPP1, and THY1) were selected using CTD analysis and various topological methods in Cytoscape. The diagnostic logistic model based on these three genes exhibited high efficiency in predicting EOPE (AUC = 0.922). RT-PCR analysis confirmed the downregulation of these genes in EOPE, and immune cell infiltration analysis suggested the significant role of M1 and M2 macrophages in EOPE. In conclusion, this study highlights the association of three key genes (COL1A1, SPP1, and THY1) with EOPE and their contribution to high diagnostic efficiency in the logistic model. Additionally, it provides new insights for future research on EOPE and emphasizes the diagnostic value of these identified genes. More research is needed to explore their functional and diagnostic significance in EOPE.

Unraveling the molecular mechanisms driving enhanced invasion capability of extravillous trophoblast cells: a comprehensive review

Precise extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion is crucial for successful placentation and pregnancy. This review focuses on elucidating the mechanisms that promote heightened EVT invasion. We comprehensively summarize the pivotal roles of hormones, angiogenesis, hypoxia, stress, the extracellular matrix microenvironment, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immunity, inflammation, programmed cell death, epigenetic modifications, and microbiota in facilitating EVT invasion. The molecular mechanisms underlying enhanced EVT invasion may provide valuable insights into potential pathogenic mechanisms associated with diseases characterized by excessive invasion, such as the placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), thereby offering novel perspectives for managing pregnancy complications related to deficient EVT invasion.

Upregulation of SEMP1 Contributes to Improving the Biological Functions of Trophoblast via the PI3K/AKT Pathway in Preeclampsia

Disturbance of extravillous trophoblast infiltration is associated with preeclampsia (PE), a severe condition of pregnancy characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. Senescence-associated epithelial membrane protein 1 (SEMP1), an integral membrane protein, is a vital component of tight junction strands in epithelial or endothelial cells, with no clear function reported in PE. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets showed that SEMP1 expression was downregulated in the placental tissues of PE patients, which was confirmed by assessing SEMP1 levels in placental samples collected in our hospital. Furthermore, less SEMP1 was detected in cytokeratin 7 positive trophoblast cells in the spiral arteries of rat placentas post L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) treatment. Trophoblast cells acquired robust ability of proliferation, migration, and invasion when SEMP1 was overexpressed. Such capability was weakened in SEMP1-silenced cells. Trophoblast cells overexpressing SEMP1 secreted more vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), which facilitated the tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Blockade of PI3K/AKT signaling transduction with LY294002 dampened the effects of SEMP1 on trophoblast cells. Collectively, we firstly indicated that SEMP1 inhibition is a potential driver for PE, which may be associated with the deactivation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Mechanism of histone deacetylase HDAC2 in FOXO3-mediated trophoblast pyroptosis in preeclampsia

Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) has been demonstrated to regulate trophoblast behaviors. However, its role in trophoblast pyroptosis remains unknown. This study sought to analyze the molecular mechanism of HDAC2 in trophoblast pyroptosis in PE. Expression levels of HDAC2, forkhead box O3 (FOXO3), and protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) in placenta tissues and HTR8/SVneo cells and H3K27ac levels in cells were determined. Levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in placenta tissues were determined, and their correlation with HDAC2 was analyzed. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated, and levels of pyroptosis-associated proteins and cytokines were determined. The enrichments of H3K27 acetylation (H3K27ac) and FOXO3 in the FOXO3/PERK promoter region were determined. HDAC2 was downregulated, and FOXO3, PERK, IL-1β, and IL-18 levels were elevated in PE placenta tissues. In HTR8/SVneo cells, HDAC2 downregulation suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and increased pyroptosis. HDAC2 erased H3K27ac in the FOXO3 promoter region and repressed FOXO3, and FOXO3 bound to the PERK promoter and increased PERK transcription. Functional rescue experiments revealed that silencing FOXO3 or PERK counteracted HDAC2 downregulation-induced cell pyroptosis. Overall, HDAC2 downregulation enhanced H3K27ac to activate FOXO3 and PERK, leading to the occurrence of trophoblast pyroptosis in PE.

LncRNA LINC00534 regulates cell proliferation and migration via the miR-494-3p/PTEN axis in HTR-8/SVneo cells

BACKGROUND

LncRNA LINC00534 has been found to be differentially expressed in placental tissue samples of preeclampsia (PE), but the exact mechanism is still unclear.

METHODS

In vitro assays were carried out in HTR-8/SVneo cells using various methods, including cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), transwells, flow cytometry, and Western blotting (WB) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RNA pull-down and bioinformatics analysis were applied to examine other potential underlying mechanisms involved.

RESULTS

We found that there was a high expression of LINC00534 in the placental tissues of patients with PE. LINC00534 overexpression (OE) significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration as well as accelerated cell apoptosis in HTR8/SVneo cells. The knockdown of LINC00534 produced an opposite trend. Mechanistically, LINC00534 promoted the expressions of PTEN (Phosphatase and tensin homolog) through decreasing miR-494-3p. Further rescue studies showed that LINC00534 played a role by targeting mir-494-3p, which controlled the growth and migration of HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells via regulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT (Phosphatidylinositol3-kinase/protein kinase B). Moreover, lncRNA pull-down assay identified 198 potential bound proteins for LINC00534. Those proteins were mostly involved in RNA processing and modification, posttranslational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones.

CONCLUSION

Overall, by suppressing HTR8/SVneo cell growth and migration via the miR-494-3p/PTEN axis and other mechanisms, LINC00534 offers new insight into PE pathogenesis.

Trophectoderm Transcriptome Analysis in LIN28 Knockdown Ovine Conceptuses Suggests Diverse Roles of the LIN28-let-7 Axis in Placental and Fetal Development

The proper conceptus elongation in ruminants is critical for the successful placentation and establishment of pregnancy. We have previously shown that the trophectoderm-specific knockdown of LIN28A/B in day 9 ovine blastocysts resulted in increased let-7 miRNAs and reduced conceptus elongation at day 16 of gestation. In this current study, by transcriptome analysis of LIN28A knockdown (AKD) or LIN28B knockdown (BKD) trophectoderm (TE), we explored the downstream target genes of the LIN28-let-7 axis and their roles in the placental and fetal development. We identified 449 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in AKD TE and 1214 DEGs in BKD TE compared to non-targeting control (NTC). Our analysis further revealed that 210 downregulated genes in AKD TE and 562 downregulated genes in BKD TE were the potential targets of let-7 miRNAs. Moreover, 16 downregulated genes in AKD TE and 57 downregulated and 7 upregulated genes in BKD TE were transcription factors. The DEGs in AKD and BKD TE showed enrichment in the biological processes and pathways critical for placental development and function, and fetal development and growth. The results of this study suggest the potential roles of the LIN28-let-7 axis in placental and fetal development beyond its involvement in trophoblast proliferation and conceptus elongation.

SNHG22 promotes migration and invasion of trophoblasts via miR-128-3p/PCDH11X axis and activates PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

OBJECTIVES

Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) act as an indispensable role in the Preeclampsia (PE)-related trophoblast function, while its relationship with Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 22 (SNHG22) remains unknown. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the roles of lncRNA SNHG22 in the Preeclampsia (PE)-related trophoblasts function and the underlying mechanism.

METHOD

Normal placentas and placentas from PE patients were collected to detect the expression of lncRNA SNHG22. Then, trophoblasts HTR-8/Svneo and JEG-3 were purchased, cultured, and treated to investigate the roles of lncRNA SNHG22 on cell migration and invasion as well as its underlying regulatory mechanism.

RESULTS

The SNHG22 was downregulated in PE patients, and it was found that SNHG22 overexpression could drive migration and invasion of trophoblasts, while SNHG22 depletion exerted a suppressive effect. Mechanistically, SNHG22 was validated to regulate microRNA-128-3p (miR-128-3p), and Protocadherin 11 X-Linked (PCDH11X) was identified as the target gene of miR-128-3p. Furthermore, it was found that SNHG22 acted as a promoter in the migration and invasion of trophoblast cells in a miR-128-3p/PCDH11X dependent manner, and SNHG22 silencing weakened the activation of PCDH11X-mediated PI3K/Akt signaling pathways through inhibiting miR-128-3p, thereby preventing migration and invasion of trophoblasts.

CONCLUSION

SNHG22 acted as a driver in the migration and invasion of trophoblasts and may be considered a candidate for the amelioration of PE.

FPR2 serves a role in recurrent spontaneous abortion by regulating trophoblast function via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) effects both the physical and mental health of women of reproductive age. Trophoblast dysfunction may result in RSA due to shallow placental implantation. The mechanisms underlying formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2) on the biological functions of trophoblasts remain to be elucidated. The present study aimed to explore the potential functions of FPR2, a G protein‑coupled receptor, in placental trophoblasts. The location and expression levels of FPR2 in the villi tissue of patients with RSA were detected using immunohistochemical staining, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting. Following the transfection of small interfering RNA targeting FPR2 in HTR‑8/SVneo cells, a Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay was used to determine the levels of cell viability. Flow cytometry was used to examine the levels of cell apoptosis and gap closure and Transwell assays were carried out to evaluate the levels of cell migration and invasion. A tube formation assay was performed to detect the levels of capillary‑like structure formation. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of proteins in the associated signaling pathways. The expression of FPR2 was present in villi trophoblasts and was markedly increased in patients with RSA. The levels of trophoblast invasion, migration and tube formation were markedly increased following FPR2 knockdown, whereas the levels of apoptosis were markedly decreased. In addition, FPR2 knockdown caused an increase in the phosphorylation levels of AKT and PI3K. Thus, FPR2 may be involved in the regulation of trophoblast function via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The results of the present study provided a theoretical basis for the use of FPR2 as a target for the treatment of trophoblast‑associated diseases, such as RSA.