1
|
Cainelli S, Peralta MB, Stassi AF, Angeli E, Gareis NC, Durante L, Ortega HH, Velázquez MML. Endometrial distribution of bovine immune cells in relation to days to conception after parturition. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 270:107603. [PMID: 39321495 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
In dairy cows, the processes involved in the resolution of uterine inflammation during the postpartum are closely related to improved fertility during the subsequent lactation period. Little is known, however, about the role and distribution of endometrial immune cell populations during the pre-implantation period. This study was aimed to analyze the endometrial distribution of several mononuclear immune cells (T cells, γδ T cells, B cells and macrophages) in healthy dairy cows during the postpartum, beyond the transition period, looking for its possible association with the parturition-conception interval (PCI) and delayed conception. The quantification of immune cells was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the expression of hormone receptors in immune cells was evaluated by double IHC. Dairy cows were grouped according to their PCI: PCI shorter than or equal to 90 DIM (PCI≤90), PCI between 90 and 120 DIM (PCI90-120), and PCI greater than 150 DIM (PCI≥150). The distribution of endometrial mononuclear immune cells was analyzed by a Generalized Linear Model, and the association of the distribution of mononuclear immune cells with delayed conception was evaluated with a Kaplan-Meier test. The cows from the PCI90-120 group showed the highest number of endometrial macrophages, and a lower number of B cells than the PCI≤90 group. Results also showed an association between the lower number of B cells in the endometrium during the pre-implantation period and earlier conception. Also, the present findings indicates that ESR and PR are expressed in the endometrial MØ, T cells, γδ T cells and B cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Cainelli
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - M B Peralta
- Instituto de Ecología Humana y Desarrollo Sustentable. Universidad Católica de Santa Fe (UCSF), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - A F Stassi
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - E Angeli
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - N C Gareis
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - L Durante
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - H H Ortega
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - M M L Velázquez
- Instituto de Ecología Humana y Desarrollo Sustentable. Universidad Católica de Santa Fe (UCSF), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ebrahimi F, Omidvar-Mehrabadi A, Shahbazi M, Mohammadnia-Afrouzi M. Innate and adaptive immune dysregulation in women with recurrent implantation failure. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 164:104262. [PMID: 38823361 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104262] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a condition where a woman fails to obtain pregnancy after multiple embryo transfer cycles, even with superior-quality blastocysts. There are various factors that can contribute to RIF, including immunologic disturbances. The immune system is extremely important during pregnancy. Immune cells such as T cells, B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages (MQ) are present in the female reproductive tract and are accountable for regulating the immune response to invading pathogens and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Dysregulation of these immune cells can lead to inflammation, which can impair fertility. One of the most common immunological disturbances observed in RIF is an altered Th1/Th2 ratio, along with changes in NK cell and macrophage numbers. In addition, the presence of some antibodies, such as anti-ovarian antibodies, can also contribute to RIF. Interleukins have been implicated in the development of an inflammatory response that can interfere with successful embryo implantation. As a result, a comprehensive understanding of immunological compartments in RIF women could assist us in determining the immunological origins of this disease. We will discuss immunological factors that might contribute to RIF etiology, including cellular and molecular components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fateme Ebrahimi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Shahbazi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Strbo N, Rodriguez S, Padula L, Fisher E, Lyons A, Rodriguez C, Rivas K, Ibrahim M, Paidas M, Attia G. Assessment of immune cells in the uterine fluid at the time of the embryo transfer. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13842. [PMID: 38650366 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Although endometrial receptivity is a key factor in influencing implantation in both naturally conceived and assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, very little is known about the endometrium milieu around the time of implantation. Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of several cytokines in the endometrium that affect implantation. However, there is lacking data about the presence of immune cell subtypes within the endometrium and in the uterine cavity at the time of implantation. METHOD OF STUDY This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (# 225589). The study was designed as a prospective observational cohort study between May 2021 and December 2022 at a single academic-based fertility center. All patients underwent at least one In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycle and have frozen embryos. Twenty-four participants were recruited for this study which was conducted during the frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle regardless of the outcome of previous cycles. Two samples were acquired from each subject, denoted as lower and upper. A trial transfer catheter was introduced under ultrasound guidance into the lower uterine segment. Upon removal, the tip was rinsed in IMDM medium containing 10% FBS (lower uterus). A transfer catheter was then loaded with the embryo that was placed in the upper uterus under ultrasound guidance. The tip of the transfer catheter was rinsed in separate aliquot of the above media (upper uterus). After centrifugation, pelleted cells were stained for the following surface markers: CD45, CD3, CD19, CD4, CD8, gamma delta TCR, CD25, CD127, CD66b, CD14, CD16, CD56 and acquired on Sony SP6800 Spectral Analyzer. RESULTS Upon staining the pelleted cells, we were able to identify viable leukocytes from samples obtained from both, upper and lower uterus (0.125 × 106 cells ± SD 0.32), (0.123 × 106 cells ± SD 0.12), respectively. Among total viable cells, there was no significant difference in both percent and number of CD45+ cells between the upper and lower uterus (9.88% ± 6.98 SD, 13.67% ± 9.79 SD, p = .198) respectively. However, there was significantly higher expression of CD3+ (p = .006), CD19+ (p = .032) and CD14+ (p = .019) cells in samples collected from upper compared to lower uterus. Within all CD3+ cells, we found that gamma delta T cells (GDT) were the major population of T cells in both upper and lower uterus. In contrast, CD8+ T cells were significantly higher in the lower uterus when compared to the upper uterus (p = .009). There was no statistically significant difference in the expression of CD4+ T cells, T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+CD127-), NK cells (CD56+), neutrophils (CD66b+) and FcγRIII+ cells (CD16+) between upper and lower uterus. CONCLUSIONS We believe the immune milieu at the time of embryo transfer will affect implantation. Understanding the composition of immune cells will guide further research in identifying optimal immune milieus that favor implantation. Comprehensive analysis of endometrium is expected to lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve IVF outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Strbo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Suset Rodriguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Laura Padula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Eva Fisher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Annabel Lyons
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Carolina Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Katelyn Rivas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mohammed Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Michael Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - George Attia
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shimada S, Sakamoto H, Iijima N, Fukui A, Shi Y, Deguchi M, Yamada H. Increased IL-10-competent regulatory B cells in the decidua of early human pregnancy. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 160:104142. [PMID: 37683533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104142] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory B cells (Bregs) may play a pivotal role in maintaining human pregnancy. For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, this study noted that cell percentages of CD24hiCD38hi Bregs and CD24hiCD27+ Bregs, which can potentially produce IL-10, are increased in human decidua compared with the mid-luteal phase endometrium. In each case of decidua, the correlation between Bregs and dendritic cell (DC) or natural killer (NK) cell expression was further explored. A positive correlation between the percentage of CD24hiCD38hi Bregs and CD123-CD11c+ myeloid DCs (mDCs) was noted. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was also observed between the percentage of CD24hiCD27+ Bregs and CD94+CD56brightCD16- suppressive NK cells. These findings regarding decidual Bregs deepen the understanding of the harmonious immunological microenvironment that sustains early human pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hiroki Sakamoto
- Department of cellular immunology, Sapporo Clinical Laboratory Inc., Sapporo, Japan
| | - Norifumi Iijima
- National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Laboratory of Nuclear Transport Dynamics, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Yutoku Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Masashi Deguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hideto Yamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan; Center for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ganeva R, Parvanov D, Vidolova N, Ruseva M, Handzhiyska M, Arsov K, Decheva I, Metodiev D, Moskova-Doumanova V, Stamenov G. Endometrial immune cell ratios and implantation success in patients with recurrent implantation failure. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 156:103816. [PMID: 36739733 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to compare the endometrial immune cells quantities and ratios during the mid-luteal phase between women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) with successful and unsuccessful embryo implantation. For this purpose, endometrial biopsies from 116 women aged between 29 and 46 with history of RIF undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) without endometrial pathologies were immunohistochemically stained for CD3 + T-cells, CD4 + T-helpers, CD8 + T-killers, CD14 + monocytes, CD68 + macrophages, CD56 + NK cells and CD79α+ B-cells. Endometrial immune cells quantities and ratios were compared based on the embryo implantation outcome in the subsequent embryo transfer cycle. Spearman correlation analysis and Mann-Whitney U test were used to analyse the obtained data. Patients who experienced successful implantation at the subsequent cycle had significantly lower percentage of CD3 + T cells, and higher ratios of CD4 + /CD8 + , CD4 + /CD3 + and CD68 + /CD3 + than the patients who experienced another failure in implantation. In addition, the ratios of CD3 + /CD14 + , CD79α+ /CD14 + and CD56 + /CD14 + were significantly lower in the successful implantation group than that in the unsuccessful one. A cut off value of CD68 + /CD3 + ratio higher than 0.85 (AUC 0.67, 95% CI 0.56-0.79), CD4 + /CD3 + ratio higher than 0.19 (AUC 0.67, 95% CI 0.56-0.79) and CD4 + /CD8 + ratio higher than 0.43 (AUC 0.62, 95% CI 0.50-0.73) could be predictive factors for successful implantation in RIF patients. Knowledge on the immune cell composition could assist in the evaluation of the endometrial receptivity in RIF patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rumiana Ganeva
- Research & Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria; Department of Cell and developmental biology, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Dimitar Parvanov
- Research & Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Nina Vidolova
- Research & Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Margarita Ruseva
- Research & Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Maria Handzhiyska
- Research & Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Katarina Arsov
- Research & Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Ivon Decheva
- Research & Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Dimitar Metodiev
- Pathology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Veselina Moskova-Doumanova
- Department of Cell and developmental biology, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Georgi Stamenov
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jiang L, Cao D, Yeung WSB, Lee KF. Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Reveals Interactions between Endometrial Stromal Cells, Epithelial Cells, and Lymphocytes during Mouse Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010213. [PMID: 36613656 PMCID: PMC9820401 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) is an essential process facilitating embryo implantation. However, the roles of non-decidualized and decidualized ESCs in regulating the microenvironment of a receptive endometrium remain unclear. We investigated single-cell transcriptomic changes in the uterus of a CD-1 mouse model at the post-implantation stage. The implantation and inter-implantation sites of the uteruses of pregnant mice at 4.5 and 5.5 days post-coitum were dissected for single-cell RNA sequencing. We identified eight cell types: epithelial cells, stromal cells, endothelial cells, mesothelial cells, lymphocytes, myocytes, myeloids, and pericytes. The ESC transcriptome suggests that the four ESC subtypes are involved in the extracellular remodeling during implantation. The trajectory plot of ESC subtypes indicates embryo implantation that involves a differentiation pathway from undifferentiated ESCs (ESC 1) to decidualized ESCs (DEC ESCs), with distinct signaling pathways between the ESC subtypes. Furthermore, the ligand-receptor analysis suggests that ESCs communicate with epithelial cells and immune cells through nectin and ICAM signaling. Collectively, both decidualized and non-decidualized ESCs may regulate the endometrial microenvironment for optimal endometrial receptivity and immune tolerance. This study provides insights on the molecular and cellular characteristics of mouse ESCs in modulating the epithelial and lymphocyte functions during early embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luhan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing 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, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing 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, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +852-2816-1947
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Busse M, Langwisch S, Tedford K, Fischer KD, Zenclussen AC. Maternal B cell signaling orchestrates fetal development in mice. Development 2022; 149:272200. [PMID: 34528666 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
B cell participation in early embryo/fetal development and the underlying molecular pathways have not been explored. To understand whether maternal B cell absence or impaired signaling interferes with placental and fetal growth, we paired CD19-deficient (CD19-/-) mice, females with B cell-specific MyD88 (BMyD88-/-) or IL10 (BIL10-/-) deficiency as well as wild-type and MyD88-/- controls on C57Bl/6 background with BALB/c males. Pregnancies were followed by ultrasound and Doppler measurements. Implantation number was reduced in BMyD88-/- and MyD88-/- mice. Loss of MyD88 or B cell-specific deletion of MyD88 or IL10 resulted in decreased implantation areas at gestational day (gd) 5, gd8 and gd10, accompanied by reduced placental thickness, diameter and areas at gd10. Uterine artery resistance was enhanced in BIL10-/- dams at gd10. Challenge with 0.4 mg lipopolysaccharide/kg bodyweight at gd16 revealed that BMyD88-/-, BIL10-/- and CD19-/- mothers delivered preterm, whereas controls maintained their pregnancy. B cell-specific MyD88 and IL10 expression is essential for appropriate in utero development. IL10+B cells are involved in uterine blood flow regulation during pregnancy. Finally, B cell-specific CD19, MyD88 and IL10 expression influences susceptibility towards preterm birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mandy Busse
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany
| | - Stefanie Langwisch
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany
| | - Kerry Tedford
- Institute for Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39112, Germany
| | - Klaus-Dieter Fischer
- Institute for Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39112, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany.,Department of Environmental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig 04318, Germany.,Perinatal Research Group, Saxonian Incubator for Translation, Leipzig University, Leipzig 04103, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Shen M, Child T, Mittal M, Sarodey G, Salim R, Granne I, Southcombe JH. B Cell Subset Analysis and Gene Expression Characterization in Mid-Luteal Endometrium. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:709280. [PMID: 34447753 PMCID: PMC8383145 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.709280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is the innermost mucosal membrane of the uterus and is the first point of contact for an implanting blastocyst. A wide variety of immune cells are found amongst the endometrial epithelial layers and stromal cells which both provide host immune responses against pathogens and also assist with placentation and pregnancy establishment, however, B cells have not been characterized, despite being a vital player in both adaptive and mucosal immunity. Through analysis of mid-luteal endometrial biopsies, we find 1–5% of endometrial immune cells are B cells, the majority were naïve or memory B cells, with few plasma cells. Compared with circulating B cells, endometrial B cells had an activated phenotype, with increased expression of CD69, HLA-DR, CD74, and CD83, and IL-10 production capacities. PD1+CXCR5+ICOS+ T follicular helper-like cells and FAS+IgD–BCL6+ germinal center B cells were also present in the endometrium, which may indicate that endometrial B cells are playing an active role through germinal center reactions in the human endometrial environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengni Shen
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, L3 Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Child
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, L3 Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Oxford Fertility, The Fertility Partnership, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Monica Mittal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Wolfson Fertility Center, St Mary's and Hammersmith Hospitals, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Geet Sarodey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Wolfson Fertility Center, St Mary's and Hammersmith Hospitals, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rehan Salim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Wolfson Fertility Center, St Mary's and Hammersmith Hospitals, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ingrid Granne
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, L3 Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer H Southcombe
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, L3 Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hu C, Liu H, Pang B, Wu H, Lin X, Zhen Y, Yi H. Supraphysiological estradiol promotes human T follicular helper cell differentiation and favours humoural immunity during in vitro fertilization. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:6524-6534. [PMID: 34032001 PMCID: PMC8278094 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, humoural immunity is essential for protection against many extracellular pathogens; however, autoimmune diseases may be induced or aggravated. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells contribute to humoural immunity. The aim of this study was to test whether Tfh cell function can be manipulated via hormones. Seventy‐four women who underwent in vitro fertilization were recruited and divided into four groups: menstrual period (MP), controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), embryo transfer (ET) and pregnant after embryo transfer (P). A flow cytometry analysis was performed to identify Tfh cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Bioinformatics analysis revealed a possible pathway between Tfh and B cells. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were used to detect interleukin (IL)‐21 and IL‐6. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to quantify BCL‐6, BACH2, XBP‐1, IRF‐4 and G protein‐coupled (GP)ER‐1 mRNA expression. Compared with the MP group, the COH, ET and P groups showed more Tfh and B cells, as well as higher IL‐21, IL‐6, BCL‐6 and BACH2 expression. Furthermore, Tfh cell frequency in PBMCs, as well as serum IL‐21 and IL‐6 levels, were all positively correlated with serum estradiol (E2) levels; the B cell percentage also correlated positively with Tfh cells in PBMCs. Combined with the bioinformatics analysis, XBP‐1, IRF‐4 and GPER‐1 expression was related to E2 levels, both in vivo and in vitro. We speculate that E2 augments Tfh cells and favours humoural immunity. This study indicates that Tfh cell regulation may be a novel target in maintaining the maternal‐foetal immune balance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cong Hu
- Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - HongLei Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Pang
- Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiuying Lin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Province People's Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Yu Zhen
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Changchun, China
| | - Huanfa Yi
- Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Catalán D, Mansilla MA, Ferrier A, Soto L, Oleinika K, Aguillón JC, Aravena O. Immunosuppressive Mechanisms of Regulatory B Cells. Front Immunol 2021; 12:611795. [PMID: 33995344 PMCID: PMC8118522 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.611795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory B cells (Bregs) is a term that encompasses all B cells that act to suppress immune responses. Bregs contribute to the maintenance of tolerance, limiting ongoing immune responses and reestablishing immune homeostasis. The important role of Bregs in restraining the pathology associated with exacerbated inflammatory responses in autoimmunity and graft rejection has been consistently demonstrated, while more recent studies have suggested a role for this population in other immune-related conditions, such as infections, allergy, cancer, and chronic metabolic diseases. Initial studies identified IL-10 as the hallmark of Breg function; nevertheless, the past decade has seen the discovery of other molecules utilized by human and murine B cells to regulate immune responses. This new arsenal includes other anti-inflammatory cytokines such IL-35 and TGF-β, as well as cell surface proteins like CD1d and PD-L1. In this review, we examine the main suppressive mechanisms employed by these novel Breg populations. We also discuss recent evidence that helps to unravel previously unknown aspects of the phenotype, development, activation, and function of IL-10-producing Bregs, incorporating an overview on those questions that remain obscure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Catalán
- Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Instituto Milenio en Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel Andrés Mansilla
- Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ashley Ferrier
- Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Instituto Milenio en Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lilian Soto
- Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Unidad de Dolor, Hospital Clínico, Universidad de Chile (HCUCH), Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Juan Carlos Aguillón
- Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Octavio Aravena
- Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang L, Jiang P, Zhao S, Liu H, Liu L, Mor G, Liu C, Liao A. The dynamic profile and potential function of B-cell subsets during pregnancy. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 18:1082-1084. [PMID: 32879470 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-00535-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Liling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Panpan Jiang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Sijia Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Liping Liu
- Wuhan Children Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Gil Mor
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China.,C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chaohong Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China.
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Clusters of Tolerogenic B Cells Feature in the Dynamic Immunological Landscape of the Pregnant Uterus. Cell Rep 2020; 32:108204. [PMID: 32997982 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Well-timed interaction of correctly functioning maternal immune cells is essential to facilitate healthy placenta formation, because the uterine immune environment has to tolerate the semi-allogeneic fetus and allow adequate trophoblast invasion. Here, we assess the uterine immune signature before and during pregnancy. Extensive supervised and unsupervised flow cytometry clustering strategies not only show a general increase in immune memory throughout pregnancy but also reveal the continuous presence of B cells. Contrary to the belief that B cells are merely a consequence of uterine pathology, decidual B cells produce IL-10 and are found to be localized in clusters, together with Foxp3pos T cells. Our findings therefore suggest a role for B cells in healthy pregnancy.
Collapse
|
13
|
Guzman-Genuino RM, Hayball JD, Diener KR. Regulatory B Cells: Dark Horse in Pregnancy Immunotherapy? J Mol Biol 2020; 433:166596. [PMID: 32693108 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2020.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There are many unanswered questions surrounding the function of immune cells and how they interact with the reproductive system to support successful pregnancy or contribute to pregnancy pathologies. While the role of immune cells such as uterine natural killer and dendritic cells, and more recently regulatory T cells has been established, the role of another major immune cell population, the B cell, and particularly the regulatory B cells, is relatively poorly understood. This review outlines what is known about B-cell subsets in the context of pregnancy, what constitutes a regulatory B cell and what role they may play, particularly during early pregnancy. Lastly, we discuss why immunotherapies for the treatment of pregnancy disorders is not widely progressed clinically and speculate on the potential of functional regulatory B cells as the basis of novel immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of immune-based pregnancy pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Marian Guzman-Genuino
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - John D Hayball
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kerrilyn R Diener
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Garcia-Valtanen P, Guzman-Genuino RM, Hayball JD, Diener KR. Polyinosinic: Polycytidylic Acid and Murine Cytomegalovirus Modulate Expression of Murine IL-10 and IL-21 in White Adipose Tissue. Viruses 2020; 12:v12050569. [PMID: 32455939 PMCID: PMC7290755 DOI: 10.3390/v12050569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
White adipose tissue (WAT) produces interleukin-10 and other immune suppressors in response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). It also homes a subset of B-cells specialized in the production of IL-10, referred to as regulatory B-cells. We investigated whether viral stimuli, polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) or whole replicative murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV), could stimulate the expression of IL-10 in murine WAT using in vivo and ex vivo approaches. Our results showed that in vivo responses to systemic administration of poly(I:C) resulted in high levels of endogenously-produced IL-10 and IL-21 in WAT. In ex vivo WAT explants, a subset of B-cells increased their endogenous IL-10 expression in response to poly(I:C). Finally, MCMV replication in WAT explants resulted in decreased IL-10 levels, opposite to the effect seen with poly(I:C). Moreover, downregulation of IL-10 correlated with relatively lower number of Bregs. To our knowledge, this is the first report of IL-10 expression by WAT and WAT-associated B-cells in response to viral stimuli.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Garcia-Valtanen
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, UniSA Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia; (R.M.G.-G.); (J.D.H.)
- Correspondence: (P.G.-V.); (K.R.D.); Tel.: +61-(08)-8302-2374 (P.G.-V.); +61-(08)-8302-7393 (K.R.D.)
| | - Ruth Marian Guzman-Genuino
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, UniSA Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia; (R.M.G.-G.); (J.D.H.)
| | - John D. Hayball
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, UniSA Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia; (R.M.G.-G.); (J.D.H.)
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Kerrilyn R. Diener
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, UniSA Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia; (R.M.G.-G.); (J.D.H.)
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
- Correspondence: (P.G.-V.); (K.R.D.); Tel.: +61-(08)-8302-2374 (P.G.-V.); +61-(08)-8302-7393 (K.R.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fujiwara H, Ono M, Sato Y, Imakawa K, Iizuka T, Kagami K, Fujiwara T, Horie A, Tani H, Hattori A, Daikoku T, Araki Y. Promoting Roles of Embryonic Signals in Embryo Implantation and Placentation in Cooperation with Endocrine and Immune Systems. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051885. [PMID: 32164226 PMCID: PMC7084435 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation in the uterus is an essential process for successful pregnancy in mammals. In general, the endocrine system induces sufficient embryo receptivity in the endometrium, where adhesion-promoting molecules increase and adhesion-inhibitory molecules decrease. Although the precise mechanisms remain unknown, it is widely accepted that maternal–embryo communications, including embryonic signals, improve the receptive ability of the sex steroid hormone-primed endometrium. The embryo may utilize repulsive forces produced by an Eph–ephrin system for its timely attachment to and subsequent invasion through the endometrial epithelial layer. Importantly, the embryonic signals are considered to act on maternal immune cells to induce immune tolerance. They also elicit local inflammation that promotes endometrial differentiation and maternal tissue remodeling during embryo implantation and placentation. Additional clarification of the immune control mechanisms by embryonic signals, such as human chorionic gonadotropin, pre-implantation factor, zona pellucida degradation products, and laeverin, will aid in the further development of immunotherapy to minimize implantation failure in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fujiwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +81-(0)76-265-2425; Fax: +81-(0)76-234-4266
| | - Masanori Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Yukiyasu Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Takamatsu Red Cross Hospital, Takamatsu 760-0017, Japan;
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Research Institute of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto 862-8652, Japan;
| | - Takashi Iizuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Kyosuke Kagami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Tomoko Fujiwara
- Department of Home Science and Welfare, Kyoto Notre Dame University, Kyoto 606-0847, Japan;
| | - Akihito Horie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (A.H.); (H.T.)
| | - Hirohiko Tani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (A.H.); (H.T.)
| | - Akira Hattori
- Department of System Chemotherapy and Molecular Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan;
| | - Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Transgenic Animal Science, Advanced Science Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan;
| | - Yoshihiko Araki
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu 279-0021, Japan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| |
Collapse
|