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Slaby EM, Hansen N, Sharma R, Pirrotte P, Weaver JD. Engineered 3D Hydrogel Matrices to Modulate Trophoblast Stem Cell-Derived Placental Organoid Phenotype. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.594007. [PMID: 38798435 PMCID: PMC11118344 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.594007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Placental organoid models are a promising platform to study human placental development and function. Organoid systems typically use naturally derived hydrogel extracellular matrices (ECM), resulting in batch-to-batch variability that limits experimental reproducibility. As an alternative, synthetic ECM-mimicking hydrogel matrices offer greater consistency and control over environmental cues. Here, we generated trophoblast stem cell-derived placental organoids using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels with tunable degradability and placenta-derived ECM cues to evaluate trophoblast differentiation relative to Matrigel and two-dimensional (2D) culture controls. Our data demonstrate that PEG hydrogels support trophoblast viability and metabolic function comparable to gold standard Matrigel. Additionally, phenotypic characterization via proteomic analysis revealed that PEG and Matrigel matrices drive syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast-dominant placental organoid phenotypes, respectively. Further, three-dimensional (3D) environments promoted greater integrin expression and ECM production than 2D culture. This study demonstrates that engineered 3D culture environments can be used to reliably generate placental organoids and guide trophoblast differentiation.
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Vasconcelos S, Moustakas I, Branco MR, Guimarães S, Caniçais C, van der Helm T, Ramalho C, Marques CJ, de Sousa Lopes SMC, Dória S. Syncytiotrophoblast Markers Are Downregulated in Placentas from Idiopathic Stillbirths. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5180. [PMID: 38791219 PMCID: PMC11121380 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105180] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The trophoblast cells are responsible for the transfer of nutrients between the mother and the foetus and play a major role in placental endocrine function by producing and releasing large amounts of hormones and growth factors. Syncytiotrophoblast cells (STB), formed by the fusion of mononuclear cytotrophoblasts (CTB), constitute the interface between the foetus and the mother and are essential for all of these functions. We performed transcriptome analysis of human placental samples from two control groups-live births (LB), and stillbirths (SB) with a clinically recognised cause-and from our study group, idiopathic stillbirths (iSB). We identified 1172 DEGs in iSB, when comparing with the LB group; however, when we compared iSB with the SB group, only 15 and 12 genes were down- and upregulated in iSB, respectively. An assessment of these DEGs identified 15 commonly downregulated genes in iSB. Among these, several syncytiotrophoblast markers, like genes from the PSG and CSH families, as well as ALPP, KISS1, and CRH, were significantly downregulated in placental samples from iSB. The transcriptome analysis revealed underlying differences at a molecular level involving the syncytiotrophoblast. This suggests that defects in the syncytial layer may underlie unexplained stillbirths, therefore offering insights to improve clinical obstetrics practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Vasconcelos
- Genetics Service, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal (C.J.M.)
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ioannis Moustakas
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands (T.v.d.H.); (S.M.C.d.S.L.)
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Miguel R. Branco
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Susana Guimarães
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Caniçais
- Genetics Service, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal (C.J.M.)
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Talia van der Helm
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands (T.v.d.H.); (S.M.C.d.S.L.)
| | - Carla Ramalho
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Joana Marques
- Genetics Service, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal (C.J.M.)
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana M. Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands (T.v.d.H.); (S.M.C.d.S.L.)
| | - Sofia Dória
- Genetics Service, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal (C.J.M.)
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
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3
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Lee JG, Yon JM, Kim G, Lee SG, Kim CY, Cheong SA, Kim HY, Yu J, Kim K, Sung YH, Yoo HJ, Woo DC, Rho JK, Ha CH, Pack CG, Oh SH, Lim JS, Han YM, Hong EJ, Seong JK, Lee HW, Lee SW, Lee KU, Kim CJ, Nam SY, Cho YS, Baek IJ. PIBF1 regulates trophoblast syncytialization and promotes cardiovascular development. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1487. [PMID: 38374152 PMCID: PMC10876648 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45647-8] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Proper placental development in early pregnancy ensures a positive outcome later on. The developmental relationship between the placenta and embryonic organs, such as the heart, is crucial for a normal pregnancy. However, the mechanism through which the placenta influences the development of embryonic organs remains unclear. Trophoblasts fuse to form multinucleated syncytiotrophoblasts (SynT), which primarily make up the placental materno-fetal interface. We discovered that endogenous progesterone immunomodulatory binding factor 1 (PIBF1) is vital for trophoblast differentiation and fusion into SynT in humans and mice. PIBF1 facilitates communication between SynT and adjacent vascular cells, promoting vascular network development in the primary placenta. This process affected the early development of the embryonic cardiovascular system in mice. Moreover, in vitro experiments showed that PIBF1 promotes the development of cardiovascular characteristics in heart organoids. Our findings show how SynTs organize the barrier and imply their possible roles in supporting embryogenesis, including cardiovascular development. SynT-derived factors and SynT within the placenta may play critical roles in ensuring proper organogenesis of other organs in the embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Geol Lee
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center (KMPC), Seoul, 08826, Korea
- Biological Resources Research Group, Bioenvironmental Science & Toxicology Division, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Jinju, 52834, Korea
| | - Jung-Min Yon
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Globinna Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Seul-Gi Lee
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - C-Yoon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Seung-A Cheong
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | | | - Jiyoung Yu
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Kyunggon Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Digital Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Young Hoon Sung
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Hyun Ju Yoo
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Digital Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Dong-Cheol Woo
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Jin Kyung Rho
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Chang Hoon Ha
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Chan-Gi Pack
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Seak Hee Oh
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Joon Seo Lim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Yu Mi Han
- Research Institute of Medical Science, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, 06351, Korea
| | - Eui-Ju Hong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Korea
| | - Je Kyung Seong
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center (KMPC), Seoul, 08826, Korea
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Han-Woong Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Sang-Wook Lee
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center (KMPC), Seoul, 08826, Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Ki-Up Lee
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Chong Jai Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Sang-Yoon Nam
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, Korea
| | - You Sook Cho
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea.
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea.
| | - In-Jeoung Baek
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Korea.
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center (KMPC), Seoul, 08826, Korea.
- Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Korea.
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Wang M, Liu Y, Sun R, Liu F, Li J, Yan L, Zhang J, Xie X, Li D, Wang Y, Li S, Zhu X, Li R, Lu F, Xiao Z, Wang H. Single-nucleus multi-omic profiling of human placental syncytiotrophoblasts identifies cellular trajectories during pregnancy. Nat Genet 2024; 56:294-305. [PMID: 38267607 PMCID: PMC10864176 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-023-01647-w] [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: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The human placenta has a vital role in ensuring a successful pregnancy. Despite the growing body of knowledge about its cellular compositions and functions, there has been limited research on the heterogeneity of the billions of nuclei within the syncytiotrophoblast (STB), a multinucleated entity primarily responsible for placental function. Here we conducted integrated single-nucleus RNA sequencing and single-nucleus ATAC sequencing analyses of human placentas from early and late pregnancy. Our findings demonstrate the dynamic heterogeneity and developmental trajectories of STB nuclei and their correspondence with human trophoblast stem cell (hTSC)-derived STB. Furthermore, we identified transcription factors associated with diverse STB nuclear lineages through their gene regulatory networks and experimentally confirmed their function in hTSC and trophoblast organoid-derived STBs. Together, our data provide insights into the heterogeneity of human STB and represent a valuable resource for interpreting associated pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijiao Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yawei Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Medical Center of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Run Sun
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fenting Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaqian Li
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Long Yan
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jixiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xinwei Xie
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Dongxu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yiming Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shiwen Li
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xili Zhu
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Falong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhenyu Xiao
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China.
| | - Hongmei Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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5
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Jaremek A, Renaud SJ. Analyzing Trophoblast Fusion Using Immunofluorescence and Split Protein Complementation Assays. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2728:87-98. [PMID: 38019393 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3495-0_7] [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] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The fusion of cytotrophoblasts into a multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast is essential for placental development. For studies investigating syncytiotrophoblast formation, various methods are available to analyze the fusion efficiency of trophoblast cells in vitro. Here, we describe protocols for measuring trophoblast fusion using immunofluorescence and an assay employing complementary parts of a split green fluorescent protein that self-reassociates and generates a fluorescent signal following cell fusion. Together, these approaches allow for a comprehensive and robust analysis of the fusion index in trophoblast cells and can strengthen the accuracy and throughput of investigations into factors that may regulate syncytiotrophoblast development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Jaremek
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
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6
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Olivieri NR, Othman L, Flannery DD, Gordon SM. Transmission, seroprevalence, and maternal-fetal impact of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:456-463. [PMID: 37857846 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02859-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Congenital infections can have devastating short- and long-term impacts on the developing fetus. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a zoonotic pathogen of concern that causes a severe congenital syndrome but is under-recognized and under-studied. Herein we review data on the natural animal reservoirs of LCMV, modes of transmission to humans, seroprevalence of LCMV worldwide in both pregnant and non-pregnant individuals, mechanisms of viral dissemination to placenta and fetus, and impact of climate change on viral transmission. We highlight opportunities to enhance awareness of congenital LCMV and provide recommendations for prevention and monitoring among at-risk pregnant people. IMPACT: Key message of the article: LCMV is a zoonotic virus that poses a major threat to maternal-fetal health. Adds to the existing literature: We comprehensively address transmission of LCMV from the natural reservoir to the pregnant individual, placenta, and fetus. Impact: Available data call for enhanced patient and provider awareness about congenital LCMV during pregnancy, as well as a need for efforts to better define the seroprevalence and impact of congenital LCMV worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie R Olivieri
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Loui Othman
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dustin D Flannery
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Scott M Gordon
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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7
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Owen DM, Kwon M, Huang X, Nagari A, Nandu T, Kraus WL. Genome-wide identification of transcriptional enhancers during human placental development and association with function, differentiation, and disease†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:965-981. [PMID: 37694817 PMCID: PMC10724456 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is a dynamic organ that must perform a remarkable variety of functions during its relatively short existence in order to support a developing fetus. These functions include nutrient delivery, gas exchange, waste removal, hormone production, and immune barrier protection. Proper placenta development and function are critical for healthy pregnancy outcomes, but the underlying genomic regulatory events that control this process remain largely unknown. We hypothesized that mapping sites of transcriptional enhancer activity and associated changes in gene expression across gestation in human placenta tissue would identify genomic loci and predicted transcription factor activity related to critical placenta functions. We used a suite of genomic assays [i.e., RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq), Precision run-on-sequencing (PRO-seq), and Chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq)] and computational pipelines to identify a set of >20 000 enhancers that are active at various time points in gestation. Changes in the activity of these enhancers correlate with changes in gene expression. In addition, some of these enhancers encode risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes. We further show that integrating enhancer activity, transcription factor motif analysis, and transcription factor expression can identify distinct sets of transcription factors predicted to be more active either in early pregnancy or at term. Knockdown of selected identified transcription factors in a trophoblast stem cell culture model altered the expression of key placental marker genes. These observations provide a framework for future mechanistic studies of individual enhancer-transcription factor-target gene interactions and have the potential to inform genetic risk prediction for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Owen
- Laboratory of Signaling and Gene Regulation, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Division of General Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Minjung Kwon
- Laboratory of Signaling and Gene Regulation, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Xuan Huang
- Laboratory of Signaling and Gene Regulation, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Anusha Nagari
- Laboratory of Signaling and Gene Regulation, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Tulip Nandu
- Laboratory of Signaling and Gene Regulation, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - W Lee Kraus
- Laboratory of Signaling and Gene Regulation, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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8
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Li X, Li ZH, Wang YX, Liu TH. A comprehensive review of human trophoblast fusion models: recent developments and challenges. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:372. [PMID: 37816723 PMCID: PMC10564767 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01670-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
As an essential component of the maternal-fetal interface, the placental syncytiotrophoblast layer contributes to a successful pregnancy by secreting hormones necessary for pregnancy, transporting nutrients, mediating gas exchange, balancing immune tolerance, and resisting pathogen infection. Notably, the deficiency in mononuclear trophoblast cells fusing into multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Despite the availability of many models for the study of trophoblast fusion, there exists a notable disparity from the ideal model, limiting the deeper exploration into the placental development. Here, we reviewed the existing models employed for the investigation of human trophoblast fusion from several aspects, including the development history, latest progress, advantages, disadvantages, scope of application, and challenges. The literature searched covers the monolayer cell lines, primary human trophoblast, placental explants, human trophoblast stem cells, human pluripotent stem cells, three-dimensional cell spheres, organoids, and placenta-on-a-chip from 1938 to 2023. These diverse models have significantly enhanced our comprehension of placental development regulation and the underlying mechanisms of placental-related disorders. Through this review, our objective is to provide readers with a thorough understanding of the existing trophoblast fusion models, making it easier to select most suitable models to address specific experimental requirements or scientific inquiries. Establishment and application of the existing human placental trophoblast fusion models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Li
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, Chongqing, China
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuo-Hang Li
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China
- Medical Laboratory Department, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Yaan, 625099, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China.
| | - Tai-Hang Liu
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, Chongqing, China.
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China.
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9
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Bragança J, Pinto R, Silva B, Marques N, Leitão HS, Fernandes MT. Charting the Path: Navigating Embryonic Development to Potentially Safeguard against Congenital Heart Defects. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1263. [PMID: 37623513 PMCID: PMC10455635 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13081263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are structural or functional defects present at birth due to improper heart development. Current therapeutic approaches to treating severe CHDs are primarily palliative surgical interventions during the peri- or prenatal stages, when the heart has fully developed from faulty embryogenesis. However, earlier interventions during embryonic development have the potential for better outcomes, as demonstrated by fetal cardiac interventions performed in utero, which have shown improved neonatal and prenatal survival rates, as well as reduced lifelong morbidity. Extensive research on heart development has identified key steps, cellular players, and the intricate network of signaling pathways and transcription factors governing cardiogenesis. Additionally, some reports have indicated that certain adverse genetic and environmental conditions leading to heart malformations and embryonic death may be amendable through the activation of alternative mechanisms. This review first highlights key molecular and cellular processes involved in heart development. Subsequently, it explores the potential for future therapeutic strategies, targeting early embryonic stages, to prevent CHDs, through the delivery of biomolecules or exosomes to compensate for faulty cardiogenic mechanisms. Implementing such non-surgical interventions during early gestation may offer a prophylactic approach toward reducing the occurrence and severity of CHDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Bragança
- Algarve Biomedical Center-Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rute Pinto
- Algarve Biomedical Center-Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Silva
- Algarve Biomedical Center-Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Universidade do Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Nuno Marques
- Algarve Biomedical Center-Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Helena S. Leitão
- Algarve Biomedical Center-Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Mónica T. Fernandes
- Algarve Biomedical Center-Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- School of Health, University of Algarve Campus Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
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10
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Chen J, Neil JA, Tan JP, Rudraraju R, Mohenska M, Sun YBY, Walters E, Bediaga NG, Sun G, Zhou Y, Li Y, Drew D, Pymm P, Tham WH, Wang Y, Rossello FJ, Nie G, Liu X, Subbarao K, Polo JM. A placental model of SARS-CoV-2 infection reveals ACE2-dependent susceptibility and differentiation impairment in syncytiotrophoblasts. Nat Cell Biol 2023; 25:1223-1234. [PMID: 37443288 PMCID: PMC10415184 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-023-01182-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection causes COVID-19. Several clinical reports have linked COVID-19 during pregnancy to negative birth outcomes and placentitis. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning SARS-CoV-2 infection during placentation and early pregnancy are not clear. Here, to shed light on this, we used induced trophoblast stem cells to generate an in vitro early placenta infection model. We identified that syncytiotrophoblasts could be infected through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Using a co-culture model of vertical transmission, we confirmed the ability of the virus to infect syncytiotrophoblasts through a previous endometrial cell infection. We further demonstrated transcriptional changes in infected syncytiotrophoblasts that led to impairment of cellular processes, reduced secretion of HCG hormone and morphological changes vital for syncytiotrophoblast function. Furthermore, different antibody strategies and antiviral drugs restore these impairments. In summary, we have established a scalable and tractable platform to study early placental cell types and highlighted its use in studying strategies to protect the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - J A Neil
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - J P Tan
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - R Rudraraju
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - M Mohenska
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Y B Y Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - E Walters
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - N G Bediaga
- Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - G Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Y Zhou
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Y Li
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - D Drew
- Infectious Diseases and Immune Defences Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - P Pymm
- Infectious Diseases and Immune Defences Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - W H Tham
- Infectious Diseases and Immune Defences Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Y Wang
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - F J Rossello
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- University of Melbourne Centre for Cancer Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - G Nie
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - X Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - K Subbarao
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - J M Polo
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
- South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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11
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Lenders V, Koutsoumpou X, Phan P, Soenen SJ, Allegaert K, de Vleeschouwer S, Toelen J, Zhao Z, Manshian BB. Modulation of engineered nanomaterial interactions with organ barriers for enhanced drug transport. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:4672-4724. [PMID: 37338993 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00574j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
The biomedical use of nanoparticles (NPs) has been the focus of intense research for over a decade. As most NPs are explored as carriers to alter the biodistribution, pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of associated drugs, the delivery of these NPs to the tissues of interest remains an important topic. To date, the majority of NP delivery studies have used tumor models as their tool of interest, and the limitations concerning tumor targeting of systemically administered NPs have been well studied. In recent years, the focus has also shifted to other organs, each presenting their own unique delivery challenges to overcome. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in leveraging NPs to overcome four major biological barriers including the lung mucus, the gastrointestinal mucus, the placental barrier, and the blood-brain barrier. We define the specific properties of these biological barriers, discuss the challenges related to NP transport across them, and provide an overview of recent advances in the field. We discuss the strengths and shortcomings of different strategies to facilitate NP transport across the barriers and highlight some key findings that can stimulate further advances in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Lenders
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Xanthippi Koutsoumpou
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Philana Phan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Stefaan J Soenen
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B3000 Leuven, Belgium.
- NanoHealth and Optical Imaging Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karel Allegaert
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CN Rotterdam, 3015, The Netherlands
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, B3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven de Vleeschouwer
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jaan Toelen
- Leuven Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Zongmin Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Bella B Manshian
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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12
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Vasconcelos S, Caniçais C, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, Marques CJ, Dória S. The role of DNA hydroxymethylation and TET enzymes in placental development and pregnancy outcome. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:66. [PMID: 37095555 PMCID: PMC10127343 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01483-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is a temporary organ that is essential for supporting mammalian embryo and fetal development. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying trophoblast differentiation and placental function may contribute to improving the diagnosis and treatment of obstetric complications. Epigenetics plays a significant role in the regulation of gene expression, particularly at imprinted genes, which are fundamental in the control of placental development. The Ten-Eleven-Translocation enzymes are part of the epigenetic machinery, converting 5-methylcytosine (5mC) into 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC). DNA hydroxymethylation is thought to act as an intermediate in the DNA demethylation mechanism and potentially be a stable and functionally relevant epigenetic mark on its own. The role of DNA hydroxymethylation during differentiation and development of the placenta is not fully understood but increasing knowledge in this field will help to evaluate its potential role in pregnancy complications. This review focuses on DNA hydroxymethylation and its epigenetic regulators in human and mouse placental development and function. Additionally, we address 5hmC in the context of genomic imprinting mechanism and in pregnancy complications, such as intrauterine growth restriction, preeclampsia and pregnancy loss. The cumulative findings show that DNA hydroxymethylation might be important for the control of gene expression in the placenta and suggest a dynamic role in the differentiation of trophoblast cell types during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Vasconcelos
- Genetics Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Caniçais
- Genetics Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - C Joana Marques
- Genetics Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal.
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sofia Dória
- Genetics Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal.
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.
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13
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Designing Effective Multi-Target Drugs and Identifying Biomarkers in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) Using In Vivo, In Vitro, and In Silico Approaches. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030879. [PMID: 36979858 PMCID: PMC10045586 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) occurs in approximately 5% of women. Despite an abundance of evidence, the molecular mechanism of RPL’s pathology remains unclear. Here, we report the protective role of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) during RPL. We aimed to construct an RPL network utilizing GEO datasets and identified hub high-traffic genes. We also investigated whether the expressions of PLK1 were altered in the chorionic villi collected from women with RPL compared to those from healthy early pregnant women. Gene expression differences were evaluated using both pathway and gene ontology (GO) analyses. The identified genes were validated using in vivo and in vitro models. Mice with PLK1-overexpression and PLK1-knockdown in vitro models were produced by transfecting certain plasmids and si-RNA, respectively. The apoptosis in the chorionic villi, mitochondrial function, and NF-κB signaling activity was evaluated. To suppress the activation of PLK1, the PLK1 inhibitor BI2536 was administered. The HTR-8/SVneo and JEG-3 cell lines were chosen to establish an RPL model in vitro. The NF-κB signaling, Foxo signaling, PI3K/AKT, and endometrial cancer signaling pathways were identified via the RPL regulatory network. The following genes were identified: PLK1 as hub high-traffic gene and MMP2, MMP9, BAX, MFN1, MFN2, FOXO1, OPA1, COX15, BCL2, DRP1, FIS1, TRAF2, and TOP2A. Clinical samples were examined, and the results demonstrated that RPL patients had tissues with decreased PLK1 expression in comparison to women with normal pregnancies (p < 0.01). In vitro, PLK1 knockdown induced the NF-κB signaling pathway and apoptosis activation while decreasing cell invasion, migration, and proliferation (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the in vivo model proved that cell mitochondrial function and chorionic villi development are both hampered by PLK1 suppression. Our findings revealed that the PLK1/TRAF2/NF-κB axis plays a crucial role in RPL-induced chorionic villi dysfunction by regulating mitochondrial dynamics and apoptosis and might be a potential therapeutic target in the clinic.
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14
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Paquette AG, Lapehn S, Freije S, MacDonald J, Bammler T, Day DB, Loftus CT, Kannan K, Alex Mason W, Bush NR, LeWinn KZ, Enquobahrie DA, Marsit C, Sathyanarayana S. Placental transcriptomic signatures of prenatal exposure to Hydroxy-Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 172:107763. [PMID: 36689866 PMCID: PMC10211546 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous pollutants originating from petrogenic and pyrogenic sources. PAH compounds can cross the placenta, and prenatal PAH exposure is linked to adverse infant and childhood health outcomes. OBJECTIVE In this first human transcriptomic assessment of PAHs in the placenta, we examined associations between prenatal PAH exposure and placental gene expression to gain insight into mechanisms by which PAHs may disrupt placental function. METHODS The ECHO PATHWAYS Consortium quantified prenatal PAH exposure and the placental transcriptome from 629 pregnant participants enrolled in the CANDLE study. Concentrations of 12 monohydroxy-PAH (OH-PAH) metabolites were measured in mid-pregnancy urine using high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Placental transcriptomic data were obtained using paired-end RNA sequencing. Linear models were fitted to estimate covariate-adjusted associations between maternal urinary OH-PAHs and placental gene expression. We performed sex-stratified analyses to evaluate whether associations varied by fetal sex. Selected PAH/gene expression analyses were validated by treating HTR-8/SVneo cells with phenanthrene, and quantifying expression via qPCR. RESULTS Urinary concentrations of 6 OH-PAHs were associated with placental expression of 8 genes. Three biological pathways were associated with 4 OH-PAHs. Placental expression of SGF29 and TRIP13 as well as the vitamin digestion and absorption pathway were positively associated with multiple metabolites. HTR-8/SVneo cells treated with phenanthrene also exhibited 23 % increased TRIP13 expression compared to vehicle controls (p = 0.04). Fetal sex may modify the relationship between prenatal OH-PAHs and placental gene expression, as more associations were identified in females than males (45 vs 28 associations). DISCUSSION Our study highlights novel genes whose placental expression may be disrupted by OH-PAHs. Increased expression of DNA damage repair gene TRIP13 may represent a response to double-stranded DNA breaks. Increased expression of genes involved in vitamin digestion and metabolism may reflect dietary exposures or represent a compensatory mechanism to combat damage related to OH-PAH toxicity. Further work is needed to study the role of these genes in placental function and their links to perinatal outcomes and lifelong health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison G Paquette
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA; University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | - Drew B Day
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - W Alex Mason
- University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Nicole R Bush
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco CA, USA
| | - Kaja Z LeWinn
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco CA, USA
| | | | | | - Sheela Sathyanarayana
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA; University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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15
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Liu Z, Zhai M, Zhang Q, Yang T, Wan Z, Li J, Liu X, Xu B, Du L, Chan RWS, Zhang L, Yeung WSB, Cheung KW, Chiu PCN, Wang WJ, Lee CL, Gao Y. Resolving the gene expression maps of human first-trimester chorionic villi with spatial transcriptome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1060298. [PMID: 36561369 PMCID: PMC9763897 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1060298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is important for fetal development in mammals, and spatial transcriptomic profiling of placenta helps to resolve its structure and function. In this study, we described the landscape of spatial transcriptome of human placental villi obtained from two pregnant women at the first trimester using the modified Stereo-seq method applied for paraformaldehyde (PFA) fixation samples. The PFA fixation of human placenta villi was better than fresh villi embedded in optimum cutting temperature (OCT) compound, since it greatly improved tissue morphology and the specificity of RNA signals. The main cell types in chorionic villi such as syncytiotrophoblasts (SCT), villous cytotrophoblasts (VCT), fibroblasts (FB), and extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) were identified with the spatial transcriptome data, whereas the minor cell types of Hofbauer cells (HB) and endothelial cells (Endo) were spatially located by deconvolution of scRNA-seq data. We demonstrated that the Stereo-seq data of human villi could be used for sophisticated analyses such as spatial cell-communication and regulatory activity. We found that the SCT and VCT exhibited the most ligand-receptor pairs that could increase differentiation of the SCT, and that the spatial localization of specific regulons in different cell types was associated with the pathways related to hormones transport and secretion, regulation of mitotic cell cycle, and nutrient transport pathway in SCT. In EVT, regulatory pathways such as the epithelial to mesenchyme transition, epithelial development and differentiation, and extracellular matrix organization were identified. Finally, viral receptors and drug transporters were identified in villi according to the pathway analysis, which could help to explain the vertical transmission of several infectious diseases and drug metabolism efficacy. Our study provides a valuable resource for further investigation of the placenta development, physiology and pathology in a spatial context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Qingqing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tingyu Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China,Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Birth Defects Screening, Shenzhen, China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jianlin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaofeng Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Libei Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rachel W. S. Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ka Wang Cheung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wen-Jing Wang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Wen-Jing Wang, ; Cheuk-Lun Lee, ; Ya Gao,
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Wen-Jing Wang, ; Cheuk-Lun Lee, ; Ya Gao,
| | - Ya Gao
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China,Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Birth Defects Screening, Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Wen-Jing Wang, ; Cheuk-Lun Lee, ; Ya Gao,
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16
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The multifaceted role of GCM1 during trophoblast differentiation in the human placenta. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203071119. [PMID: 36442132 PMCID: PMC9894182 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203071119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Remodeling of the uterine vasculature by invasive extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) is a critical aspect of human placentation. Insufficient EVT invasion can lead to severe obstetrical complications like preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and preterm birth. Glial cells missing-1 (GCM1) is a transcription factor that is crucial for proper placentation in mice, and is highly expressed in human syncytiotrophoblast (ST) and EVTs. GCM1 is classically considered a master regulator of ST formation, but little is known about its contribution to the development and function of EVTs. Therefore, in this study we test the hypothesis that GCM1 is a critical regulator of both EVT and ST development and function. We show that GCM1 is highly expressed in human trophoblast stem (TS) cells differentiated into either ST or EVTs. Knockdown of GCM1 in TS cells hindered differentiation into both ST and EVT pathways. When placed in ST media, GCM1-knockdown cells formed small, unstable clusters; when placed in EVT media, cells had altered morphology and transcript profiles resembling cells trapped in an intermediate state between CT and EVT, and invasive capacity through matrix was reduced. RNA sequencing analysis of GCM1-deficient TS cells revealed downregulation of EVT-associated genes and enrichment in transcripts related to WNT signaling, which was linked to decreased expression of the EVT master regulator ASCL2 and the WNT antagonist NOTUM. Our findings reveal an essential role of GCM1 during ST and EVT development, and suggest that GCM1 regulates differentiation of human TS cells into EVTs by inducing expression of ASCL2 and NOTUM.
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Perić M, Bečeheli I, Čičin-Šain L, Desoye G, Štefulj J. Serotonin system in the human placenta - the knowns and unknowns. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1061317. [PMID: 36531448 PMCID: PMC9751904 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1061317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The biogenic monoamine serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is a chemical messenger widely distributed in the brain and various other organs. Its homeostasis is maintained by the coordinated activity of a variety of proteins, including enzymes of serotonin metabolism, transmembrane transporters of serotonin, and serotonin receptors. The serotonin system has been identified also in the placenta in rodent models as a key component of placental physiology. However, serotonin pathways in the human placenta are far from well understood. Their alterations may have long-lasting consequences for the fetus that can manifest later in life. In this review, we summarize information on the location of the components of the serotonin system in the human placenta, their regulation, function, and alterations in pathological pregnancies. We highlight current controversies and discuss important topics for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Perić
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Molecular Neurobiology, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivona Bečeheli
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Molecular Neurobiology, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lipa Čičin-Šain
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Molecular Neurobiology, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Gernot Desoye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jasminka Štefulj
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Molecular Neurobiology, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
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18
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Vidal MS, Lintao RCV, Severino MEL, Tantengco OAG, Menon R. Spontaneous preterm birth: Involvement of multiple feto-maternal tissues and organ systems, differing mechanisms, and pathways. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1015622. [PMID: 36313741 PMCID: PMC9606232 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1015622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Survivors of preterm birth struggle with multitudes of disabilities due to improper in utero programming of various tissues and organ systems contributing to adult-onset diseases at a very early stage of their lives. Therefore, the persistent rates of low birth weight (birth weight < 2,500 grams), as well as rates of neonatal and maternal morbidities and mortalities, need to be addressed. Active research throughout the years has provided us with multiple theories regarding the risk factors, initiators, biomarkers, and clinical manifestations of spontaneous preterm birth. Fetal organs, like the placenta and fetal membranes, and maternal tissues and organs, like the decidua, myometrium, and cervix, have all been shown to uniquely respond to specific exogenous or endogenous risk factors. These uniquely contribute to dynamic changes at the molecular and cellular levels to effect preterm labor pathways leading to delivery. Multiple intervention targets in these different tissues and organs have been successfully tested in preclinical trials to reduce the individual impacts on promoting preterm birth. However, these preclinical trial data have not been effectively translated into developing biomarkers of high-risk individuals for an early diagnosis of the disease. This becomes more evident when examining the current global rate of preterm birth, which remains staggeringly high despite years of research. We postulate that studying each tissue and organ in silos, as how the majority of research has been conducted in the past years, is unlikely to address the network interaction between various systems leading to a synchronized activity during either term or preterm labor and delivery. To address current limitations, this review proposes an integrated approach to studying various tissues and organs involved in the maintenance of normal pregnancy, promotion of normal parturition, and more importantly, contributions towards preterm birth. We also stress the need for biological models that allows for concomitant observation and analysis of interactions, rather than focusing on these tissues and organ in silos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel S. Vidal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ryan C. V. Lintao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Mary Elise L. Severino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
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19
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Abdelzaher H, Tawfik SM, Nour A, Abdelkader S, Elbalkiny ST, Abdelkader M, Abbas WA, Abdelnaser A. Climate change, human health, and the exposome: Utilizing OMIC technologies to navigate an era of uncertainty. Front Public Health 2022; 10:973000. [PMID: 36211706 PMCID: PMC9533016 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.973000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change is an anthropogenic phenomenon that is alarming scientists and non-scientists alike. The emission of greenhouse gases is causing the temperature of the earth to rise and this increase is accompanied by a multitude of climate change-induced environmental exposures with potential health impacts. Tracking human exposure has been a major research interest of scientists worldwide. This has led to the development of exposome studies that examine internal and external individual exposures over their lifetime and correlate them to health. The monitoring of health has also benefited from significant technological advances in the field of "omics" technologies that analyze physiological changes on the nucleic acid, protein, and metabolism levels, among others. In this review, we discuss various climate change-induced environmental exposures and their potential health implications. We also highlight the potential integration of the technological advancements in the fields of exposome tracking, climate monitoring, and omics technologies shedding light on important questions that need to be answered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anwar Abdelnaser
- Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
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20
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Renaud SJ, Jeyarajah MJ. How trophoblasts fuse: an in-depth look into placental syncytiotrophoblast formation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:433. [PMID: 35859055 PMCID: PMC11072895 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04475-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In humans, cell fusion is restricted to only a few cell types under normal conditions. In the placenta, cell fusion is a critical process for generating syncytiotrophoblast: the giant multinucleated trophoblast lineage containing billions of nuclei within an interconnected cytoplasm that forms the primary interface separating maternal blood from fetal tissue. The unique morphology of syncytiotrophoblast ensures that nutrients and gases can be efficiently transferred between maternal and fetal tissue while simultaneously restricting entry of potentially damaging substances and maternal immune cells through intercellular junctions. To maintain integrity of the syncytiotrophoblast layer, underlying cytotrophoblast progenitor cells terminate their capability for self-renewal, upregulate expression of genes needed for differentiation, and then fuse into the overlying syncytium. These processes are disrupted in a variety of obstetric complications, underscoring the importance of proper syncytiotrophoblast formation for pregnancy health. Herein, an overview of key mechanisms underlying human trophoblast fusion and syncytiotrophoblast development is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A5C1, Canada.
| | - Mariyan J Jeyarajah
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A5C1, Canada
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21
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Chen Y, Siriwardena D, Penfold C, Pavlinek A, Boroviak TE. An integrated atlas of human placental development delineates essential regulators of trophoblast stem cells. Development 2022; 149:275917. [PMID: 35792865 PMCID: PMC9340556 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The trophoblast lineage safeguards fetal development by mediating embryo implantation, immune tolerance, nutritional supply and gas exchange. Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) provide a platform to study lineage specification of placental tissues; however, the regulatory network controlling self-renewal remains elusive. Here, we present a single-cell atlas of human trophoblast development from zygote to mid-gestation together with single-cell profiling of hTSCs. We determine the transcriptional networks of trophoblast lineages in vivo and leverage probabilistic modelling to identify a role for MAPK signalling in trophoblast differentiation. Placenta- and blastoid-derived hTSCs consistently map between late trophectoderm and early cytotrophoblast, in contrast to blastoid-trophoblast, which correspond to trophectoderm. We functionally assess the requirement of the predicted cytotrophoblast network in an siRNA-screen and reveal 15 essential regulators for hTSC self-renewal, including MAZ, NFE2L3, TFAP2C, NR2F2 and CTNNB1. Our human trophoblast atlas provides a powerful analytical resource to delineate trophoblast cell fate acquisition, to elucidate transcription factors required for hTSC self-renewal and to gauge the developmental stage of in vitro cultured cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Chen
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Dylan Siriwardena
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Christopher Penfold
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | | | - Thorsten E Boroviak
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
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22
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Transcription factor networks in trophoblast development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:337. [PMID: 35657505 PMCID: PMC9166831 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04363-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The placenta sustains embryonic development and is critical for a successful pregnancy outcome. It provides the site of exchange between the mother and the embryo, has immunological functions and is a vital endocrine organ. To perform these diverse roles, the placenta comprises highly specialized trophoblast cell types, including syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast. The coordinated actions of transcription factors (TFs) regulate their emergence during development, subsequent specialization, and identity. These TFs integrate diverse signaling cues, form TF networks, associate with chromatin remodeling and modifying factors, and collectively determine the cell type-specific characteristics. Here, we summarize the general properties of TFs, provide an overview of TFs involved in the development and function of the human trophoblast, and address similarities and differences to their murine orthologs. In addition, we discuss how the recent establishment of human in vitro models combined with -omics approaches propel our knowledge and transform the human trophoblast field.
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23
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Louwen F, Kreis NN, Ritter A, Friemel A, Solbach C, Yuan J. BCL6, a key oncogene, in the placenta, pre-eclampsia and endometriosis. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:890-909. [PMID: 35640966 PMCID: PMC9629482 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The key oncogene B-cell lymphoma 6 (BCL6) drives malignant progression by promoting proliferation, overriding DNA damage checkpoints and blocking cell terminal differentiation. However, its functions in the placenta and the endometrium remain to be defined. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Recent studies provide evidence that BCL6 may play various roles in the human placenta and the endometrium. Deregulated BCL6 might be related to the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia (PE) as well as endometriosis. In this narrative review, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge regarding the pathophysiological role of BCL6 in these two reproductive organs, discuss related molecular mechanisms, and underline associated research perspectives. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a comprehensive literature search using PubMed for human, animal and cellular studies published until October 2021 in the following areas: BCL6 in the placenta, in PE and in endometriosis, in combination with its functions in proliferation, fusion, migration, invasion, differentiation, stem/progenitor cell maintenance and lineage commitment. OUTCOMES The data demonstrate that BCL6 is important in cell proliferation, survival, differentiation, migration and invasion of trophoblastic cells. BCL6 may have critical roles in stem/progenitor cell survival and differentiation in the placenta and the endometrium. BCL6 is aberrantly upregulated in pre-eclamptic placentas and endometriotic lesions through various mechanisms, including changes in gene transcription and mRNA translation as well as post-transcriptional/translational modifications. Importantly, increased endometrial BCL6 is considered to be a non-invasive diagnostic marker for endometriosis and a predictor for poor outcomes of IVF. These data highlight that BCL6 is crucial for placental development and endometrium homeostasis, and its upregulation is associated with the pathogenesis of PE, endometriosis and infertility. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The lesson learned from studies of the key oncogene BCL6 reinforces the notion that numerous signaling pathways and regulators are shared by tumors and reproductive organs. Their alteration may promote the progression of malignancies as well as the development of gestational and reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Louwen
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nina-Naomi Kreis
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Ritter
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Alexandra Friemel
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christine Solbach
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Juping Yuan
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
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24
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Li J, Wang L, Ding J, Cheng Y, Diao L, Li L, Zhang Y, Yin T. Multiomics Studies Investigating Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: An Effective Tool for Mechanism Exploration. Front Immunol 2022; 13:826198. [PMID: 35572542 PMCID: PMC9094436 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.826198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) account for approximately 1%-5% of women aiming to achieve childbirth. Although studies have shown that RPL is associated with failure of endometrial decidualization, placental dysfunction, and immune microenvironment disorder at the maternal-fetal interface, the exact pathogenesis remains unknown. With the development of high-throughput technology, more studies have focused on the genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics of RPL, and new gene mutations and new biomarkers of RPL have been discovered, providing an opportunity to explore the pathogenesis of RPL from different biological processes. Bioinformatics analyses of these differentially expressed genes, proteins and metabolites also reflect the biological pathways involved in RPL, laying a foundation for further research. In this review, we summarize the findings of omics studies investigating decidual tissue, villous tissue and blood from patients with RPL and identify some possible limitations of current studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinli Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanxiang Cheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Longfei Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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25
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Choi S, Khan T, Roberts RM, Schust DJ. Leveraging Optimized Transcriptomic and Personalized Stem Cell Technologies to Better Understand Syncytialization Defects in Preeclampsia. Front Genet 2022; 13:872818. [PMID: 35432469 PMCID: PMC9006100 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.872818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the process of human placentation is important to the development of strategies for treatment of pregnancy complications. Several animal and in vitro human model systems for the general study human placentation have been used. The field has expanded rapidly over the past decades to include stem cell-derived approaches that mimic preclinical placental development, and these stem cell-based models have allowed us to better address the physiology and pathophysiology of normal and compromised trophoblast (TB) sublineage development. The application of transcriptomic approaches to these models has uncovered limitations that arise when studying the distinctive characteristics of the large and fragile multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast (STB), which plays a key role in fetal-maternal communication during pregnancy. The extension of these technologies to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is just now being reported and will allow, for the first time, a reproducible and robust approach to the study of the developmental underpinnings of late-manifesting diseases such as preeclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth retardation in a manner that is patient- and disease-specific. Here, we will first focus on the application of various RNA-seq technologies to TB, prior limitations in fully accessing the STB transcriptome, and recent leveraging of single nuclei RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) technology to improve our understanding of the STB transcriptome. Next, we will discuss new stem-cell derived models that allow for disease- and patient-specific study of pregnancy disorders, with a focus on the study of STB developmental abnormalities in PE that combine snRNA-seq approaches and these new in vitro models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehee Choi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Teka Khan
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - R. Michael Roberts
- Christopher S Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Danny J. Schust
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Danny J. Schust,
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