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Igbodike E, Iwuala I, Mbonu C, Okechukwu U, Funtua A, Eleje G, Akinjo A, Ubom A, Ikechebelu J, Anunobi C, Uche O. Giant "Hydra Headed" Uterine Fibroid in a Nullipara: A Case Report. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-CASE REPORTS 2024; 17:11795476241274689. [PMID: 39286445 PMCID: PMC11403671 DOI: 10.1177/11795476241274689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Background Uterine fibroids, or Leiomyoma is a type of Smooth Muscle Tumors of the uterus (SMTs) and are common in the black race. Giant uterine fibroids, on the other hand, are uncommon and may occur during patient dissimulation. Dissimulation may occur because of a dread of surgery and hospitals visits, fear of surgical death, chronic intake of herbal concussion, and a religio-traditional strong belief system on instant healing following prayers, among others. Myths like belief of defecating the uterine fibroids, some herbs that can melt them away, and the belief that such illness may follow ancestral curses can fuel dissimulation. The surgical approach can be a source of challenge, careful case selection considering the size and number of tumors can be helpful. Case report We present a 35-year-old nulligravida who presented to the clinic with a 14-year history of progressive abdominal swelling. Examination revealed a firm mass with a symphysio-fundal height of 55 cm. She subsequently had an open abdominal myomectomy with all the myoma nodules weighing 12.9 kg in total! Histology confirmed uterine fibroid. Conclusion It is possible to offer open myomectomy in patients with giant uterine fibroid following careful patient selection with a consent for possible hysterectomy. Dissimulation can be minimized with repetitive counseling of patients. The choice of surgery depends on the size and number of uterine fibroids, but surgical approach does not necessarily influence fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emeka Igbodike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Havana Specialist Hospital, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Perinatology, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Ijeoma Iwuala
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Havana Specialist Hospital, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Chijioke Mbonu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Havana Specialist Hospital, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Ugwu Okechukwu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Lagos State, Nigeria
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Anas Funtua
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Federal Teaching Hospital Katsina, Katsina, Nigeria
| | - George Eleje
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi Campus, Anambra State, Nigeria
| | - Andrea Akinjo
- Department of Anatomic and Molecular Pathology, College of Medicine University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Akaninyene Ubom
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Perinatology, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Joseph Ikechebelu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi Campus, Anambra State, Nigeria
| | - Charles Anunobi
- Department of Anatomic and Molecular Pathology, College of Medicine University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Onwudiegwu Uche
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
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Liu J, Yu L, Castro L, Yan Y, Bushel P, Scappini E, Dixon D. Induction of fibrosis following exposure to bisphenol A and its analogues in 3D human uterine leiomyoma cultures. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:134772. [PMID: 38901254 PMCID: PMC11309888 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogues (BPAF, BPS) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants used as plastic additives in various daily life products, with many concerns on their role as environmental estrogens. Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids) are highly prevalent gynecologic tumors with progressive fibrosis. Fibroids are hormone-responsive and may be the target of environmental estrogens. However, the effects of BPA, BPAF, and BPS exposure on uterine fibrosis are largely unknown. Here, we evaluated fibrosis and the crucial role of TGF-beta signaling in human fibroid tumors, the profibrotic effects of BPA, BPAF or BPS in a human 3D uterine leiomyoma (ht-UtLM) in vitro model, and the long-term outcomes of BPAF exposure in rat uterus. In 3D ht-UtLM spheroids, BPA, BPAF, and BPS all promoted cell proliferation and fibrosis by increasing the production of extracellular matrices. Further mechanistic analysis showed the profibrotic effects were induced by TGF-beta signaling activation mainly through SMAD2/3 pathway and crosstalk with multiple non-SMAD pathways. Furthermore, the profibrotic effects of BPAF were supported by observation of uterine fibrosis in vivo in rats following long-term BPAF exposure. Overall, the 3D ht-UtLM spheroid can be an important model for investigating environment-induced fibrosis in uterine fibroids. BPA and its analogues can induce fibrosis via TGF-beta signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingli Liu
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT), NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Linda Yu
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT), NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Lysandra Castro
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT), NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Yitang Yan
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT), NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Pierre Bushel
- BlueRock Therapeutics, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Erica Scappini
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, DIR, NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Darlene Dixon
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT), NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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Aimagambetova G, Bapayeva G, Ukybassova T, Zemlyanskiy V, Gusmanov A, Terzic M. The role of VEGF and TGF-β blood levels for fibroid shrinkage, menorrhagia score, and quality of life improvement after uterine artery embolization for uterine fibroids: a study protocol. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1382822. [PMID: 39165371 PMCID: PMC11334076 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1382822] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyoma is a common condition affecting women that occurs in more than 70% of females. Women with leiomyomas overall have lower quality of life and deficiency in many specific spheres of life including work-related productivity, sexuality, relationships, social-emotional health, and physical well-being that might be present even in pre-and extended throughout early postmenopausal life. Choices for symptomatic fibroid management include medical, interventional radiology procedures, surgical, and expectant management. The uterine artery embolization (UAE) procedure has gained justified popularity for myoma management. Growth factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and tumor growth factor β (TGF-β), hold an important role in leiomyoma progression. However, blood levels of VEGF and TGF-β in patients before and after UAE are not fully investigated and the possible relationship with myoma shrinkage has not been evaluated. Therefore, this study aims to assess menorrhagia score and quality of life improvement after UAE for uterine fibroids and compare blood levels of VEGF and TGF-β in patients with uterine leiomyoma before and after UAE. This cross-sectional study will be performed at the University Medical Center, Astana, Kazakhstan. Women undergoing the UAE procedure for uterine leiomyoma will be involved in the study following the precisely defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Uterine leiomyoma nodules' structural changes after UAE will be assessed along with the blood levels of growth factors (VEGF and TGF-β), menorrhagia score, and quality of life. An important outcome of this project will be an investigation of the blood levels of growth factors (VEGF and TGF-β) before and after the procedure and their association with leiomyoma shrinkage in correlation with the menorrhagia score and quality of life alterations among patients undergoing UAE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gauri Bapayeva
- Clinical Academic Department of Women’s Health, CF “University Medical Center”, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Talshyn Ukybassova
- Clinical Academic Department of Women’s Health, CF “University Medical Center”, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Viktor Zemlyanskiy
- Clinical Academic Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, CF “University Medical Center”, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Arnur Gusmanov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Milan Terzic
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
- Clinical Academic Department of Women’s Health, CF “University Medical Center”, Astana, Kazakhstan
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Milewska G, Ponikwicka-Tyszko D, Bernaczyk P, Lupu O, Szamatowicz M, Sztachelska M, Pilaszewicz-Puza A, Koda M, Bielawski T, Zbucka-Kretowska M, Pawelczyk A, Tomaszewski J, Li X, Huhtaniemi I, Wolczynski S, Rahman NA. Functional evidence for two distinct mechanisms of action of progesterone and selective progesterone receptor modulator on uterine leiomyomas. Fertil Steril 2024; 122:341-351. [PMID: 38431184 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.02.046] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the specific mechanisms through which progesterone and selective progesterone receptor modulators impact the growth, synthesis, and accumulation of the extracellular matrix in uterine leiomyomas. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING Academic Research Institutions. PATIENTS (S) This study involved reproductive-age women diagnosed with infertility associated uterine leiomyomas who underwent myomectomy either after selective progesterone receptor modulator ulipristal acetate (UA) treatment or without any pharmacological pretreatment. Control samples included healthy myometrium tissue (n = 100). Specimens were obtained from the Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology and Biobank, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland. INTERVENTIONS Daily (5 mg/d) UA treated for 2 months (n = 100) and untreated (n = 150) patients with uterine leiomyomas or normal healthy myometrium (n = 100) tissue samples immediately after surgery were collected for transcriptional analysis and assessments. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Progesterone-induced activation of the signaling pathways related to uterine leiomyomas extracellular matrix synthesis, deposition, and growth, as well as the expression profile of progesterone receptors in uterine leiomyomas, were assessed. RESULTS The results indicated that progesterone activated the transforming growth factor-β and SMAD3 signaling pathways and promoted proliferation, growth, and extracellular matrix remodeling in uterine leiomyomas by up-regulating SMAD3, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor type 1 and II, Ras homolog A, vascular endothelial growth factor, or increasing the fibrosis-related gene collagen, type I, ɑ-1, and procollagen, type I, ɑ-1 production. In contrast, UA had inhibitory effects on these processes. The study also showed that both nuclear and membrane progesterone receptors play distinct roles in uterine leiomyoma pathobiology. CONCLUSIONS We showed that both nuclear and membrane progesterone receptors were relevant in the treatment of uterine leiomyomas, especially when combined with selective progesterone receptor modulators. Novel therapeutic approaches combining selective progesterone receptor modulators with or without direct and indirect extracellular matrix targeting through selected specifically TGF-β and SMAD3 (SMAD3, TGF-β receptor types 1 and II, Ras homolog A, vascular endothelial growth factor, collagen, type I, ɑ-1) signaling pathways could therefore be a treatment option for uterine leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Milewska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
| | - Donata Ponikwicka-Tyszko
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Piotr Bernaczyk
- Department of Medical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
| | - Oana Lupu
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
| | - Michal Szamatowicz
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
| | - Maria Sztachelska
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | | | - Mariusz Koda
- Department of General Pathomorphology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
| | - Tomasz Bielawski
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Monika Zbucka-Kretowska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adam Pawelczyk
- Division of General and Transplant Surgery, Department of General, Vascular and Transplant Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Jakub Tomaszewski
- Tomaszewski Medical Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology Bialystok, Poland
| | - Xiangdong Li
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland; State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University Bejing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, United Kingdom; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Slawomir Wolczynski
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland; Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Nafis A Rahman
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Finland.
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Ciebiera M, Kociuba J, Ali M, Madueke-Laveaux OS, Yang Q, Bączkowska M, Włodarczyk M, Żeber-Lubecka N, Zarychta E, Corachán A, Alkhrait S, Somayeh V, Malasevskaia I, Łoziński T, Laudański P, Spaczynski R, Jakiel G, Al-Hendy A. Uterine fibroids: current research on novel drug targets and innovative therapeutic strategies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:669-687. [PMID: 39136530 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2390094] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterine fibroids, the most common nonmalignant tumors affecting the female genital tract, are a significant medical challenge. This article focuses on the most recent studies that attempted to identify novel non-hormonal therapeutic targets and strategies in UF therapy. AREAS COVERED This review covers the analysis of the pharmacological and biological mechanisms of the action of natural substances and the role of the microbiome in reference to UFs. This study aimed to determine the potential role of these compounds in UF prevention and therapy. EXPERT OPINION While there are numerous approaches for treating UFs, available drug therapies for disease control have not been optimized yet. This review highlights the biological potential of vitamin D, EGCG and other natural compounds, as well as the microbiome, as promising alternatives in UF management and prevention. Although these substances have been quite well analyzed in this area, we still recommend conducting further studies, particularly randomized ones, in the field of therapy with these compounds or probiotics. Alternatively, as the quality of data continues to improve, we propose the consideration of their integration into clinical practice, in alignment with the patient's preferences and consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Warsaw Institute of Women's Health, Warsaw, Poland
- Development and Research Center of Non-Invasive Therapies, Pro-Familia Hospital, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Jakub Kociuba
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Warsaw Institute of Women's Health, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Monika Bączkowska
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Żeber-Lubecka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Zarychta
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ana Corachán
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Samar Alkhrait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vafaei Somayeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Tomasz Łoziński
- Development and Research Center of Non-Invasive Therapies, Pro-Familia Hospital, Rzeszow, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pro-Familia Hospital, Rzeszow, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Piotr Laudański
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Women's Health Research Institute, Calisia University, Kalisz, Poland
- OVIklinika Infertility Center, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert Spaczynski
- Center for Gynecology, Obstetrics and Infertility Treatment, Poznan, Poland
- Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Boos D, Chuang TD, Abbasi A, Luzzi A, Khorram O. The immune landscape of uterine fibroids as determined by mass cytometry. F&S SCIENCE 2024; 5:272-282. [PMID: 38925276 PMCID: PMC11404535 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2024.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the differences in immune cell profiles in uterine fibroids (Fibs) and matched myometrium (Myo). DESIGN Observational study. SETTING Laboratory study. PATIENT(S) The study included tissue that was collected from 10 pairs of Fib and matched Myo from women, not on hormonal medications, undergoing hysterectomy and myomectomy. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Differences in immune cell and cytokine composition between Fib and matched Myo. RESULT(S) The mass cytometry analysis indicated that Fibs had a significantly higher number of natural killer (NK) cells, total macrophages, M2 macrophages, and conventional dendritic cells when compared with matched Myo from the same patient. In contrast, Fibs had significantly fewer CD3 and CD4 T cells when compared with Myo. The mass cytometry analysis results did not show any significant difference in the number of resting mast cells. Immunoflurorescent and immunohistochemical imaging confirmed the cytometry by time of flight results, showing a significantly higher number of NK cells, tryptase-positive mast cells indicative of mast cell activation, total macrophages, and M2 cells in Fibs and a significantly lower number of CD3 and CD4 T cells. The cytokine assay revealed significantly increased levels of human interferon α2, interleukin (IL)-1α, and platelet-derived growth factor AA and significantly lower levels of macrophage colony-stimulating factor and IL-1 receptor antagonist in Fib. CONCLUSION(S) Our results show significant differences in immune cell populations and cytokine levels between Fib and Myo. These differences could account for the increased inflammation in fib and a potential mechanism by which these tumors evade the immune system. These findings provide a foundation for further studies exploring the role of immune cells in Fib development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drake Boos
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, California
| | - Tsai-Der Chuang
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, California
| | - Asghar Abbasi
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, California
| | - Anna Luzzi
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, California
| | - Omid Khorram
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, California; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, California.
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Saini P, Holmes AG, Wei JJ, Parker JB, Chakravarti D. Engineered uterine primary myometrial cells with high-mobility group AT-hook 2 overexpression display a leiomyoma-like transcriptional and epigenomic phenotype. F&S SCIENCE 2024:S2666-335X(24)00043-0. [PMID: 39074663 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2024.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if engineered high-mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2) overexpressing uterine primary myometrial cells recapitulate the transcriptional and epigenomic features of HMGA2-subtype leiomyomas. DESIGN Isolated primary, "normal" myometrial cells from three patients were engineered to overexpress HMGA2 to determine how HMGA2 establishes transcriptomic and epigenomic features of HMGA2-overexpressing leiomyoma. SETTING Academic research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Primary myometrial cells were isolated from normal myometrium obtained from three patients undergoing hysterectomy. INTERVENTION(S) Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Determined genome-wide transcriptomic and epigenomic features of engineered HMGA2-overexpressing uterine primary myometrial cells. RESULT(S) Engineered HMGA2-V5-overexpressing primary myometrial cells approximated the HMGA2 expression level observed in HMGA2-overexpression subtype leiomyoma. High-mobility group AT-hook 2-V5 expression resulted in differential expression of 1,612 genes (false discovery rate [FDR] < 0.05) that were found to be enriched in pathways associated with leiomyoma formation, including extracellular matrix organization. Comparative gene expression analysis between HMGA2-V5 engineered primary cells and HMGA2-overexpression subtype leiomyoma revealed significant overlap of differentially expressed genes. Mechanistically, HMGA2-V5 overexpression resulted in 41,323 regions with differential H3K27ac deposition (FDR < 0.05) and 205,605 regions of altered chromatin accessibility (FDR < 0.05). Transcription factor binding site analysis implicated the AP-1 family of transcription factors. CONCLUSION(S) High-mobility group AT-hook 2 overexpression induces leiomyoma-like transcriptomic and epigenomic modulations in myometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Saini
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Austin G Holmes
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jian-Jun Wei
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - J Brandon Parker
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Debabrata Chakravarti
- Division of Reproductive Sciences in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.
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8
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Echague C, Malik M, Driggers P, Catherino WH. Coenzyme Q-10 reduced the aberrant production of extracellular matrix proteins in uterine leiomyomas through transforming growth factor beta 3. F&S SCIENCE 2024:S2666-335X(24)00039-9. [PMID: 39004304 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2024.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10) on the dysregulated synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins mediated by transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGF-β3) in uterine leiomyomas. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING University. PATIENTS None. INTERVENTIONS Treatment of immortalized uterine myometrial and leiomyoma cells to TGF-β3 and CoQ-10. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The protein concentrations of collagen 1A1 (COL1A1), collagen 3A1 (COL3A1), collagen 11A1 (COL11A1), and fibronectin (FN1) were assessed through western blot analysis after treatment of immortalized uterine myometrial and leiomyoma cells with both transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) 3 and concentrations of CoQ-10 at 10, 50, and 100 μM concurrently for 24 hours. RESULTS Immortalized uterine leiomyoma and myometrial cells exposed to TGF-β3 for 24 hours demonstrated a significant up-regulation of COL1A1, COL3A1, COL11A1, and FN1 compared with untreated cells. In leiomyoma cells, concurrent treatment with CoQ-10 over the same timeframe revealed a dose-dependent decrease in these protein concentrations compared with those in cells treated with TGF-β3 alone. At the highest concentration of 100 μM of CoQ-10, significant decreases in the amounts of COL1A1 (0.59 ± 0.10-fold), COL3A1 (0.46 ± 0.09-fold), COL11A1 (0.53 ± 0.09-fold), and FN1 (0.56 ± 0.09-fold) were observed. Similarly, myometrial cells exposed to both TGF-β3 and CoQ-10 demonstrated a dose-responsive decline in the amount of extracellular matrix protein compared with cells exposed to TGF-β3 alone. Significant reductions in the amounts of COL1A1 (0.75 ± 0.03-fold), COL3A1 (0.48 ± 0.06-fold), COL11A1 (0.38 ± 0.06), and FN1 (0.69 ± 0.04-fold) were appreciated at 100-μM CoQ-10. CONCLUSION Coenzyme Q-10 mitigated the aberrant production of key biomarkers of the extracellular matrix mediated by TGF-β3 in uterine leiomyomas. Our findings highlight a promising nonhormonal compound that can counteract the fibroproliferative process inherent to leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Echague
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Minnie Malik
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Paul Driggers
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - William H Catherino
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
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9
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Olson SL, Akbar RJ, Gorniak A, Fuhr LI, Borahay MA. Hypoxia in uterine fibroids: role in pathobiology and therapeutic opportunities. OXYGEN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 4:236-252. [PMID: 38957794 PMCID: PMC11218552 DOI: 10.3390/oxygen4020013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common tumors in females affecting up to 70% of women world-wide, yet targeted therapeutic options are limited. Oxidative stress has recently surfaced as a key driver of fibroid pathogenesis and provides insights into hypoxia-induced cell transformation, extracellular matrix pathophysiology, hypoxic cell signaling cascades, and uterine biology. Hypoxia drives fibroid tumorigenesis through (1) promoting myometrial stem cell proliferation, (2) causing DNA damage propelling transformation of stem cells to tumor initiating cells, and (3) driving excess extracellular matrix (ECM) production. Common fibroid-associated DNA mutations include MED12 mutations, HMGA2 overexpression, and Fumarate hydratase loss of function. Evidence suggests an interaction between hypoxia signaling and these mutations. Fibroid development and growth are promoted by hypoxia-triggered cell signaling via various pathways including HIF-1, TGFβ, and Wnt/β-catenin. Fibroid-associated hypoxia persists due to antioxidant imbalance, ECM accumulation, and growth beyond adequate vascular supply. Current clinically available fibroid treatments do not take advantage of hypoxia-targeting therapies. Growing pre-clinical and clinical studies identify ROS inhibitors, anti-HIF-1 agents, Wnt/β-catenin inhibition, and TGFβ cascade inhibitors as agents that may reduce fibroid development and growth through targeting hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney L. Olson
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | | | - Adrianna Gorniak
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Laura I. Fuhr
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Mostafa A. Borahay
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Kiesler ZG, Hunter MI, Balboula AZ, Patterson AL. Periostin's role in uterine leiomyoma development: a mini-review on the potential periostin poses as a pharmacological intervention for uterine leiomyoma. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:1825-1831. [PMID: 38441600 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07435-z] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas, also known as fibroids or myomas, occur in an estimated 70-80% of reproductive aged women. Many experience debilitating symptoms including pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Current treatment options are limited in preserving fertility, with many opting for sterilizing hysterectomy as a form of treatment. Currently, surgical interventions include hysterectomy, myomectomy, and uterine artery embolization in addition to endometrial ablation to control AUB. Non-surgical hormonal interventions, including GnRH agonists, are connotated with negative side effects and are unacceptable for women desiring fertility. Periostin, a regulatory extra cellular matrix (ECM) protein, has been found to be expressed in various gynecological diseases including leiomyomas. We previously determined that periostin over-expression in immortalized myometrial cells led to the development of a leiomyoma-like cellular phenotype. Periostin is induced by TGF-β, signals through the PI3K/AKT pathway, induces collagen production, and mediates wound repair and fibrosis, all of which are implicated in leiomyoma pathology. Periostin has been linked to other gynecological diseases including ovarian cancer and endometriosis and is being investigated as pharmacological target for treating ovarian cancer, post-surgical scarring, and numerous other fibrotic conditions. In this review, we provide discussion linking pathological inflammation and wound repair, with a TGF-β-periostin-collagen signaling in the pathogenesis of leiomyomas, and ultimately the potential of periostin as a druggable target to treat leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra G Kiesler
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Mark I Hunter
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Ahmed Z Balboula
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Amanda L Patterson
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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11
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Bhat AS, Chakkittukandiyil A, Muthu SK, Kotha S, Muruganandham S, Rajagopal K, Jayaram S, Kothandan R, Selvaraj D. Network-based drug repositioning of linagliptin as a potential agent for uterine fibroids targeting transforming growth factor-beta mediated fibrosis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 703:149611. [PMID: 38354463 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149611] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroid is the most common non-cancerous tumor with no satisfactory options for long-term pharmacological treatment. Fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP) is one of the critical enzymes that enhances the fibrosis in uterine fibroids. Through STITCH database mining, we found that dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) have the potential to inhibit the activity of FAP. Both DPP4 and FAP belong to the dipeptidyl peptidase family and share a similar catalytic domain. Hence, ligands which have a binding affinity with DPP4 could also bind with FAP. Among the DPP4i, linagliptin exhibited the highest binding affinity (Dock score = -8.562 kcal/mol) with FAP. Our study uncovered that the differences in the S2 extensive-subsite residues between DPP4 and FAP could serve as a basis for designing selective inhibitors specifically targeting FAP. Furthermore, in a dynamic environment, linagliptin was able to destabilize the dimerization interface of FAP, resulting in potential inhibition of its biological activity. True to the in-silico results, linagliptin reduced the fibrotic process in estrogen and progesterone-induced fibrosis in rat uterus. Furthermore, linagliptin reduced the gene expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), a critical factor in collagen secretion and fibrotic process. Masson trichrome staining confirmed that the anti-fibrotic effects of linagliptin were due to its ability to reduce collagen deposition in rat uterus. Altogether, our research proposes that linagliptin has the potential to be repurposed for the treatment of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Shreenidhi Bhat
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Amritha Chakkittukandiyil
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Santhosh Kumar Muthu
- Department of Biochemistry, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, GN Mills, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Satvik Kotha
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sudharsan Muruganandham
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kalirajan Rajagopal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Saravanan Jayaram
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ram Kothandan
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Divakar Selvaraj
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India.
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12
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Latifi Z, Oghbaei F, Salemi Z, Kamalipoya S, Fattahi A. Vitamin D and its binding protein in patients with leiomyomas. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2024; 50:691-698. [PMID: 38192105 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15883] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
AIM This study examined the levels of VitD, VitD binding protein (DBP), and free VitD in leiomyomas patients and their association with the quantity, dimensions, and site of fibroid growths. Additionally, we evaluated the potentiality of employing these factors as a biomarker tool for the diagnosis and assessment of uterine fibroid progression. METHODS This study involved the participation of 55 women with leiomyomas and 50 healthy women. We utilized commercial ELISA kits to measure the levels of total VitD and DBP in their serum. Additionally, we calculated the levels of free VitD and the ratio of VitD to DBP. Moreover, we determined the number, size, and location of the leiomyomas in the patients. RESULTS There were no significant differences in the levels of total VitD between the groups. However, patients had significantly lower levels of free VitD and higher levels of DBP compared to the control group. The size of the largest leiomyomas showed a negative relationship with free VitD and a positive relationship with DBP. Receiver operating characteristic analyses, showed that the cut-off value for free VitD was 4.47 pg/mL, with a sensitivity of 75.6% and a specificity of 74.4%. The cut-off value for DBP was 256.2 μg/mL, with a sensitivity of 86% and a specificity of 70.3%. CONCLUSIONS Free VitD and DBP potentially contribute to the development of leiomyomas and are linked to the size of these tumors. The measurement of serum levels of these factors could serve as additional biomarkers for the diagnosis of leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Latifi
- Nervous system stem cell research center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Farnaz Oghbaei
- Healthy Ageing Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Zahra Salemi
- Department of Biochemistry, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Samaneh Kamalipoya
- Students Research Committee, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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13
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Szucio W, Bernaczyk P, Ponikwicka-Tyszko D, Milewska G, Pawelczyk A, Wołczyński S, Rahman NA. Progesterone signaling in uterine leiomyoma biology: Implications for potential targeted therapy. Adv Med Sci 2024; 69:21-28. [PMID: 38278085 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2024.01.001] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are the most common benign smooth muscle cell steroid-dependent tumors that occur in women of reproductive age. Progesterone (P4) is a major hormone that promotes the ULs development and growth. P4 action in ULs is mediated mainly by its nuclear progesterone receptors (PGRs), although rapid non-genomic responses have also been observed. Data on the membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) regulated signaling pathways in ULs in the available literature is still very limited. One of the essential characteristics of ULs is the excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM). P4 has been shown to stimulate ECM production and collagen synthesis in ULs. Recent research demonstrated that, despite their benign nature, ULs may present with abnormal vasculature. P4 has been shown to regulate angiogenesis in ULs through the upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and by controlling the secretion of permeability factors. This review summarizes the key findings regarding the role of PGRs and mPRs in ULs, especially highlighting the potential ECM and angiogenesis modulation by P4. An increased understanding of this mechanistic role of nuclear and specifically mPRs in the biology of P4-modulated ECM and angiogenesis in the growth of ULs could turn out to be fundamental for developing effective targeted therapies for ULs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weronika Szucio
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Piotr Bernaczyk
- Department of Medical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Donata Ponikwicka-Tyszko
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Gabriela Milewska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adam Pawelczyk
- Department of Plastic, Endocrine and General Surgery, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Sławomir Wołczyński
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Nafis A Rahman
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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14
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Zhang Y, BinShaari R, Nawi MABA, Bin Hassan A, Cui C. Pharmacological Action and Research Progress of Taraxasterol. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2024; 25:1767-1777. [PMID: 38178677 DOI: 10.2174/0113892010276692231220103636] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Primarily sourced from Asteraceae family herbs such as the Dandelion, Taraxasterol is a pentacyclic triterpenoid lauded for its extensive biological functionalities. Its therapeutic potency is demonstrated in various disease models, encompassing enteritis, arthritis, acute hepatic injury, and pneumonia. Scientific literature underscores its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antineoplastic attributes. The primary aim of this study is to thoroughly explore the diseasemodulating mechanisms and effects of taraxasterol. We endeavor to provide an exhaustive review of the experimental subjects, intervention components, distinct action modalities, contributing factors, and protein pathway expressions associated with taraxasterol, systematically represented via diagrams and tables. Such a schematic representation encourages a continued academic dialogue concerning taraxasterol's pharmacological characteristics. This review is envisioned as a practical guide for the selection of experimental subjects and methodologies in prospective research. It is intended to further illuminate taraxasterol's pharmacodynamics, thereby offering theoretical and empirical justification for its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- School of dental sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Qilu Medical University, Zibo, China
| | - Ramizu BinShaari
- School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | | | - Akram Bin Hassan
- School of dental sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Caiyun Cui
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
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15
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Bariani MV, Cui YH, Ali M, Bai T, Grimm SL, Coarfa C, Walker CL, He YY, Yang Q, Al-Hendy A. TGFβ signaling links early life endocrine-disrupting chemicals exposure to suppression of nucleotide excision repair in rat myometrial stem cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:288. [PMID: 37689587 PMCID: PMC10492698 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04928-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is linked to the development of uterine fibroids (UFs) in women. UFs, non-cancerous tumors, are thought to originate from abnormal myometrial stem cells (MMSCs). Defective DNA repair capacity may contribute to the emergence of mutations that promote tumor growth. The multifunctional cytokine TGFβ1 is associated with UF progression and DNA damage repair pathways. To investigate the impact of EDC exposure on TGFβ1 and nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathways, we isolated MMSCs from 5-month-old Eker rats exposed neonatally to diethylstilbestrol (DES), an EDC, or to vehicle (VEH). EDC-MMSCs exhibited overactivated TGFβ1 signaling and reduced mRNA and protein levels of NER pathway components compared to VEH-MMSCs. EDC-MMSCs also demonstrated impaired NER capacity. Exposing VEH-MMSCs to TGFβ1 decreased NER capacity while inhibiting TGFβ signaling in EDC-MMSCs restored it. RNA-seq analysis and further validation revealed decreased expression of Uvrag, a tumor suppressor gene involved in DNA damage recognition, in VEH-MMSCs treated with TGFβ1, but increased expression in EDC-MMSCs after TGFβ signaling inhibition. Overall, we demonstrated that the overactivation of the TGFβ pathway links early life exposure to EDCs with impaired NER capacity, which would lead to increased genetic instability, arise of mutations, and fibroid tumorigenesis. We demonstrated that the overactivation of the TGFβ pathway links early life exposure to EDCs with impaired NER capacity, which would lead to increased fibroid incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yan-Hong Cui
- Department of Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tao Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sandra L Grimm
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Precision and Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Precision and Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cheryl L Walker
- Center for Precision and Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yu-Ying He
- Department of Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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16
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Jasti P, Kumari S, Singh S, Anudeep PP. Serum versican as a potential biomarker in patients with uterine fibroids: A study from Eastern India. J Family Med Prim Care 2023; 12:1704-1709. [PMID: 37767449 PMCID: PMC10521836 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_320_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Versican is a chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan with raised expression at site of inflammation, and uterine fibroids are associated with local inflammation. Hence, this study aimed to estimate serum Versican levels in pre-menopausal women with uterine fibroids to evaluate its diagnostic efficiency. Materials and Methods This case-control study included forty uterine fibroid cases and 40 healthy controls. Cases clinically evaluated with USG findings, that is number, location of fibroid and volume calculated by prolate ellipse formula a × b × c × 0.523 (a - height, b - width, c - depth). Biochemical investigations, that is serum Versican levels, were estimated by ELISA with total cholesterol, HDLc and LDLc. Triglycerides by fully automated chemistry analysers. Serum biochemical parameters were compared and correlated with volume of fibroid. Area under receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated along with cut-off value to determine diagnostic potential of Versican, differentiating women with fibroids. Results In the present study, patients with fibroids had decreased levels of serum Versican (79.43 ± 18.60) as compared to healthy controls (101.81 ± 28.24, P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant negative correlation (r = - 0. 307, P = 0.04) between serum Versican level and volume of fibroid. Area under ROC was 0.726 (95% CI: 0.616-0.836; P = 0.001). The best cut-off value for serum Versican level was 96.90 ng/ml with 90% sensitivity and 48% specificity. Conclusion Serum Versican levels were found significantly lower in women with fibroid with a negative correlation with volume of fibroid uterus. Furthermore, extensive study would help in substantiating diagnostic potential of serum Versican in fibroid uterus patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Jasti
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Suchitra Kumari
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sweta Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - PP Anudeep
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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17
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Bariani MV, Cui YH, Ali M, Bai T, Grimm SL, Coarfa C, Walker CL, He YY, Yang Q, Al-Hendy A. TGFβ signaling links early-life endocrine-disrupting chemicals exposure to suppression of nucleotide excision repair in rat myometrial stem cells. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3001855. [PMID: 37333266 PMCID: PMC10274956 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3001855/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is linked to the development of uterine fibroids (UFs) in women. UFs, non-cancerous tumors, are thought to originate from abnormal myometrial stem cells (MMSCs). Defective DNA repair capacity may contribute to the emergence of mutations that promote tumor growth. The multifunctional cytokine TGFβ1 is associated with UF progression and DNA damage repair pathways. To investigate the impact of EDC exposure on TGFβ1 and nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathways, we isolated MMSCs from 5-months old Eker rats exposed neonatally to Diethylstilbestrol (DES), an EDC, or to vehicle (VEH). EDC-MMSCs exhibited overactivated TGFβ1 signaling and reduced mRNA and protein levels of NER pathway components compared to VEH-MMSCs. EDC-MMSCs also demonstrated impaired NER capacity. Exposing VEH-MMSCs to TGFβ1 decreased NER capacity while inhibiting TGFβ signaling in EDC-MMSCs restored it. RNA-seq analysis and further validation revealed decreased expression of Uvrag, a tumor suppressor gene involved in DNA damage recognition, in VEH-MMSCs treated with TGFβ1, but increased expression in EDC-MMSCs after TGFβ signaling inhibition. Overall, we demonstrated that the overactivation of the TGFβ pathway links early-life exposure to EDCs with impaired NER capacity, which would lead to increased genetic instability, arise of mutations, and fibroid tumorigenesis. We demonstrated that the overactivation of the TGFβ pathway links early-life exposure to EDCs with impaired NER capacity, which would lead to increased fibroid incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mohamed Ali
- University of Chicago Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - Tao Bai
- University of Chicago Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | | | | | | | - Yu-Ying He
- University of Chicago Department of Medicine
| | - Qiwei Yang
- University of Chicago Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- University of Chicago Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
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18
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Korczynska L, Zeber-Lubecka N, Zgliczynska M, Zarychta E, Zareba K, Wojtyla C, Dabrowska M, Ciebiera M. The role of microbiota in the pathophysiology of uterine fibroids - a systematic review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1177366. [PMID: 37305407 PMCID: PMC10250666 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1177366] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
For a long time, the uterus had been considered a sterile organ, meaning that under physiological conditions the uterus would not be colonized by bacteria. Based on available data, it may be concluded that the gut and uterine microbiome are related, and that the role of this microbiome is greater than expected. Despite being the most common pelvic neoplasms in women of reproductive age, uterine fibroids (UFs) are still poorly understood tumors whose etiology has not been fully determined. This systematic review presents the relationship between intestinal and uterine dysbiosis and uterine fibroids. A systematic review of three medical databases was carried out: the MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane. In this study, 195 titles and abstracts were reviewed, including only original articles and clinical trials of uterine microbiome criteria. Finally, 16 studies were included to the analysis. In recent years, researchers dealing with reproduction in a broad sense have focused on the microbiome in various locations to study its role in the pathogenesis and, consequently, the prevention and treatment of diseases of the genital organ. Conventional microbial detection methods are not suitable for identifying bacteria, which are difficult to culture. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) provides an easier and faster and more informative analysis of bacterial populations. It seems that gut microbiota dysbiosis has the potential to be a risk factor for uterine fibroids or affect the disease process. Some changes were shown in many types of bacteria, such as Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Verrucomicrobia detected in fecal samples in patients with uterine fibroids. In view of the few results on the link between the microbiome and uterine fibroids, further intensive studies in humans and animal models are necessary, including the possible use of different microbiome modulations in the prevention or treatment of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Korczynska
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Zeber-Lubecka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zgliczynska
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatology and Neonatology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Zarychta
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kornelia Zareba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Cezary Wojtyla
- International Prevention Research Institute – Collaborating Centre, Calisia University, Kalisz, Poland
| | - Michalina Dabrowska
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michal Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Ali M, Ciebiera M, Vafaei S, Alkhrait S, Chen HY, Chiang YF, Huang KC, Feduniw S, Hsia SM, Al-Hendy A. Progesterone Signaling and Uterine Fibroid Pathogenesis; Molecular Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutics. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081117. [PMID: 37190026 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081117] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most important benign neoplastic threat to women's health worldwide, with a prevalence of up to 80% in premenopausal women, and can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, and infertility. Progesterone signaling plays a crucial role in the development and growth of UFs. Progesterone promotes the proliferation of UF cells by activating several signaling pathways genetically and epigenetically. In this review article, we reviewed the literature covering progesterone signaling in UF pathogenesis and further discussed the therapeutic potential of compounds that modulate progesterone signaling against UFs, including selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) drugs and natural compounds. Further studies are needed to confirm the safety of SPRMs as well as their exact molecular mechanisms. The consumption of natural compounds as a potential anti-UFs treatment seems promising, since these compounds can be used on a long-term basis-especially for women pursuing concurrent pregnancy, unlike SPRMs. However, further clinical trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, 00-189 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Somayeh Vafaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Samar Alkhrait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hsin-Yuan Chen
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fen Chiang
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ko-Chieh Huang
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Stepan Feduniw
- Department of Gynecology, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Shih-Min Hsia
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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20
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Trinh QD, Pham NTK, Takada K, Ushijima H, Komine-Aizawa S, Hayakawa S. Roles of TGF-β1 in Viral Infection during Pregnancy: Research Update and Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076489. [PMID: 37047462 PMCID: PMC10095195 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076489] [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: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) is a pleiotropic growth factor playing various roles in the human body including cell growth and development. More functions of TGF-β1 have been discovered, especially its roles in viral infection. TGF-β1 is abundant at the maternal-fetal interface during pregnancy and plays an important function in immune tolerance, an essential key factor for pregnancy success. It plays some critical roles in viral infection in pregnancy, such as its effects on the infection and replication of human cytomegalovirus in syncytiotrophoblasts. Interestingly, its role in the enhancement of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection and replication in first-trimester trophoblasts has recently been reported. The above up-to-date findings have opened one of the promising approaches to studying the mechanisms of viral infection during pregnancy with links to corresponding congenital syndromes. In this article, we review our current and recent advances in understanding the roles of TGF-β1 in viral infection. Our discussion focuses on viral infection during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. We highlight the mutual roles of viral infection and TGF-β1 in specific contexts and possible functions of the Smad pathway in viral infection, with a special note on ZIKV infection. In addition, we discuss promising approaches to performing further studies on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quang Duy Trinh
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Ngan Thi Kim Pham
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Takada
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ushijima
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Shihoko Komine-Aizawa
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Satoshi Hayakawa
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
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21
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Two oncomiRs, miR-182-5p and miR-103a-3p, Involved in Intravenous Leiomyomatosis. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030712. [PMID: 36980984 PMCID: PMC10048324 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030712] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Leiomyomas, also referred to as fibroids, belong to the most common type of benign tumors developing in the myometrium of the uterus. Intravenous leiomyomatosis (IVL) tends to be regarded as a rare type of uterine leiomyoma. IVL tumors are characterized by muscle cell masses developing within the uterine and extrauterine venous system. The underlying mechanism responsible for the proliferation of these lesions is still unknown. The aim of the study was to investigate the expression of the two epigenetic factors, oncomiRs miR-182-5p and miR-103a-3p, in intravenous leiomyomatosis. This study was divided into two stages: initially, miR-182-5p and miR-103a-3p expression was assessed in samples coming from intravenous leiomyomatosis localized in myometrium (group I, n = 6), intravenous leiomyomatosis beyond the uterus (group II; n = 5), and the control group, i.e., intramural leiomyomas (group III; n = 9). The expression level of miR-182-5p was significantly higher in samples coming from intravenous leiomyomatosis (group I and group II) as compared to the control group (p = 0.029 and p = 0.024, respectively). In the second part of the study, the expression levels of the studied oncomiRs were compared between seven samples delivered from one woman during a four-year observation. The long-term follow-up of one patient demonstrated significantly elevated levels of both studied oncomiRs in intravenous leiomyomatosis in comparison to intramural leiomyoma samples.
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22
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Ali M, Bariani MV, Vafaei S, Omran MM, Yang Q, Madueke-Laveaux OS, Al-Hendy A. Prevention of Uterine Fibroids: molecular mechanisms and potential clinical application. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND UTERINE DISORDERS 2023; 1:100018. [PMID: 37637856 PMCID: PMC10451784 DOI: 10.1016/j.jeud.2023.100018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs; leiomyoma) are the most common benign neoplastic threat to women worldwide, exacting an immense personal burden on female health and a monetary expense to the healthcare system estimated in the hundreds of billions of dollars every year globally. With no long-term non-invasive treatment option currently available to treat UFs, deeper insights regarding tumor etiology are the key for developing newer therapies. Accordingly, in this review, we discuss new mechanistic paradigm to explain UF tumor development through an exquisite model involving developmental reprogramming of myometrial stem cells due to early life endocrine disruptors exposure, inflammation, fibrosis, DNA damage, and eventually tissue stiffness. Further, we propose to utilize shear wave elastography as a potential screening tool for the early identification of women at risk for developing UFs who can benefit from several simple preventive strategies, including the consumption of natural compounds such as vitamin D and green tea as a safe fertility friendly non-hormonal modality to delay or even arrest or reverse UF progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maria Victoria Bariani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Somayeh Vafaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Mervat M. Omran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Obianuju Sandra Madueke-Laveaux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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23
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Carbajo-García MC, Juarez-Barber E, Segura-Benítez M, Faus A, Trelis A, Monleón J, Carmona-Antoñanzas G, Pellicer A, Flanagan JM, Ferrero H. H3K4me3 mediates uterine leiomyoma pathogenesis via neuronal processes, synapsis components, proliferation, and Wnt/β-catenin and TGF-β pathways. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:9. [PMID: 36703136 PMCID: PMC9878797 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01060-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomas (UL) are the most common benign tumor in women of reproductive age. Their pathology remains unclear, which hampers the development of safe and effective treatments. Raising evidence suggests epigenetics as a main mechanism involved in tumor development. Histone modification is a key component in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Specifically, the histone mark H3K4me3, which promotes gene expression, is altered in many tumors. In this study, we aimed to identify if the histone modification H3K4me3 regulates the expression of genes involved in uterine leiomyoma pathogenesis. METHODS Prospective study integrating RNA-seq (n = 48) and H3K4me3 CHIP-seq (n = 19) data of uterine leiomyomas versus their adjacent myometrium. Differentially expressed genes (FDR < 0.01, log2FC > 1 or < - 1) were selected following DESeq2, edgeR, and limma analysis. Their differential methylation and functional enrichment (FDR < 0.05) were respectively analyzed with limma and ShinyGO. RESULTS CHIP-seq data showed a global suppression of H3K4me3 in uterine leiomyomas versus their adjacent myometrial tissue (p-value< 2.2e-16). Integrating CHIP-seq and RNA-seq data highlighted that transcription of 696/922 uterine leiomyoma-related differentially expressed genes (DEG) (FDR < 0.01, log2FC > 1 or < - 1) was epigenetically mediated by H3K4me3. Further, 50 genes were differentially trimethylated (FDR < 0.05), including 33 hypertrimethylated/upregulated, and 17 hypotrimethylated/downregulated genes. Functional enrichment analysis of the latter showed dysregulation of neuron-related processes and synapsis-related cellular components in uterine leiomyomas, and a literature review study of these DEG found additional implications with tumorigenesis (i.e. aberrant proliferation, invasion, and dysregulation of Wnt/β-catenin, and TGF-β pathways). Finally, SATB2, DCX, SHOX2, ST8SIA2, CAPN6, and NPTX2 proto-oncogenes were identified among the hypertrimethylated/upregulated DEG, while KRT19, ABCA8, and HOXB4 tumor suppressor genes were identified among hypotrimethylated/downregulated DEG. CONCLUSIONS H3K4me3 instabilities alter the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, inducing aberrant proliferation, and dysregulated Wnt/β-catenin, and TGF-β pathways, that ultimately promote uterine leiomyoma progression. The reversal of these histone modifications may be a promising new therapeutic alternative for uterine leiomyoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Cristina Carbajo-García
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Elena Juarez-Barber
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marina Segura-Benítez
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Faus
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Javier Monleón
- Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Pellicer
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - James M Flanagan
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain.
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24
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Bhatia V, Stevens T, Derks MFL, Dunkelberger J, Knol EF, Ross JW, Dekkers JCM. Identification of the genetic basis of sow pelvic organ prolapse. Front Genet 2023; 14:1154713. [PMID: 37144137 PMCID: PMC10151575 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1154713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is one contributor to recent increases in sow mortality that have been observed in some populations and environments, leading to financial losses and welfare concerns. Methods: With inconsistent previous reports, the objective here was to investigate the role of genetics on susceptibility to POP, using data on 30,429 purebred sows, of which 14,186 were genotyped (25K), collected from 2012 to 2022 in two US multiplier farms with a high POP incidence of 7.1% among culled and dead sows and ranging from 2% to 4% of all sows present by parity. Given the low incidence of POP for parities 1 and >6, only data from parities 2 to 6 were retained for analyses. Genetic analyses were conducted both across parities, using cull data (culled for POP versus another reason), and by parity, using farrowing data. (culled for POP versus culled for another reason or not culled). Results and Discussion: Estimates of heritability from univariate logit models on the underlying scale were 0.35 ± 0.02 for the across-parity analysis and ranged from 0.41 ± 0.03 in parity 2 to 0.15 ± 0.07 in parity 6 for the by-parity analyses. Estimates of genetic correlations of POP between parities based on bivariate linear models indicated a similar genetic basis of POP across parities but less similar with increasing distance between parities. Genome wide association analyses revealed six 1 Mb windows that explained more than 1% of the genetic variance in the across-parity data. Most regions were confirmed in several by-parity analyses. Functional analyses of the identified genomic regions showed a potential role of several genes on chromosomes 1, 3, 7, 10, 12, and 14 in susceptibility to POP, including the Estrogen Receptor gene. Gene set enrichment analyses showed that genomic regions that explained more variation for POP were enriched for several terms from custom transcriptome and gene ontology libraries. Conclusion: The influence of genetics on susceptibility to POP in this population and environment was confirmed and several candidate genes and biological processes were identified that can be targeted to better understand and mitigate the incidence of POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishesh Bhatia
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- *Correspondence: Vishesh Bhatia,
| | - Tomas Stevens
- Topigs Norsvin Research Center, Beuningen, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Jason W. Ross
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jack C. M. Dekkers
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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25
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Akram Z, Mahjabeen I, Irshad F, Ahmed MW, Rehman S, Rizwan M, Shafqat A, Kiran A, Saeed A. Expression deregulation of matrix metalloproteinases and vasoconstriction related genes in Pakistani females with abnormal uterine bleeding. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:543. [PMID: 36564776 PMCID: PMC9784108 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-02132-y] [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: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is irregular menstrual bleeding which has great impact on female health and life style. Various genetic factors are involved in etiology and pathology of AUB. Present study was designed to explore the association of PTGFR, MMP9, MMP2, TGFB3 and VEGFB with AUB. METHODS Blood samples of 212 females with AUB were collected along with age-matched healthy control. Expression variation of targeted genes was evaluated using qPCR. Present study cohort was divided into different groups based on demographic parameters and all targeted genes were correlated with study demographics. RESULTS Expression of targeted genes was significantly (P < 0.001) downregulated in females with AUB compared to control. Reduced (P < 0.01) expression of targeted genes was observed in all age groups (21-30, 31-40, 41-50 year) of AUB patients compared to respective control. Expression of VEGFB increased (P < 0.05) in AUB females with > 9 days bleeding compared to AUB patient had < 9 days bleeding. AUB women with miscarriage history showed upregulation in MMP2, TGFB3 (P < 0.05), and downregulation in MMP9 and VEGFB (P < 0.05) expression compared to AUB group with no miscarriage history. Expression of MMP2 increased (P < 0.05) in AUB females with > 60 kg body weigh compared to AUB patient with < 60 kg weight. CONCLUSION Present study open a new window for diagnosis of AUB at early stages and suggested a possible involvement of PTGFR, MMP9, MMP2, TGFB3 and VEGFB as candidate biomarkers in AUB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zertashia Akram
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Ishrat Mahjabeen
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Faiza Irshad
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Malik Waqar Ahmed
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sadaf Rehman
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Rizwan
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amna Shafqat
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Aniqa Kiran
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Asma Saeed
- grid.418920.60000 0004 0607 0704Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Uterine Fibroids, Perceived Stress, and Menstrual Distress: a Key Role of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1608-1615. [PMID: 36471219 PMCID: PMC10160184 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01126-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors in women of reproductive age, frequently associated with pain symptoms and heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), leading to impaired quality of life. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the global perception of stress and the menstrual distress in patients with UFs. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on a group (n = 69) of fertile age women with UFs compared to age-matched controls, by administering two questionnaires: the perceived stress scale (PSS) and the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MEDI-Q). The PSS, MEDI-Q Total Score and 3 subscales—menstrual symptoms (MS), menstrual symptoms distress (MSD), and menstrual specificity index (MESI)—were evaluated. Patients with UFs showed higher PSS than controls (18.5 ± 5.0 vs. 13.8 ± 5.0, p < 0.001) and PSS values were very high in those with HMB, severe dysmenorrhea, and impaired social and working life. Patients with UFs also showed significantly higher score for MEDI-Q Total Score (16.51 ± 12.99 vs. 10.86 ± 12.36) (p < 0.01) as well as for the subscales MSD (2.54 ± 1.07 vs. 1.57 ± 0.98) (p < 0.001) and MESI (0.76 ± 0.30 vs 0.60 ± 0.39) (p < 0.05). The menstrual distress was associated to being uncomfortable about uterine bleeding; in fact, MEDI-Q Total Score was significantly higher in women with HMB compared to those with moderate/normal bleeding. UF characteristics (number, type, and size) did not correlate with perceived stress or menstrual distress. In conclusion, women with UFs have significantly higher levels of perceived stress and menstrual distress than controls and HMB plays a major role in determining such conditions.
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Importance of Fibrosis in the Pathogenesis of Uterine Leiomyoma and the Promising Anti-fibrotic Effects of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 and Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitors in the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyoma. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1383-1398. [PMID: 35969363 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01064-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroid or leiomyoma is the most common benign uterus tumor. The tumor is primarily composed of smooth muscle (fibroid) cells, myofibroblast, and a significant amount of extracellular matrix components. It mainly affects women of reproductive age. They are uncommon before menarche and usually disappear after menopause. The fibroids have excessive extracellular matrix components secreted by activated fibroblast cells (myofibroblast). Myofibroblast has the characteristics of fibroblast and smooth muscle cells. These cells possess contractile capability due to the expression of contractile proteins which are normally found only in muscle tissues. The rigid nature of the tumor is responsible for many side effects associated with uterine fibroids. The current drug treatment strategies are primarily hormone-driven and not anti-fibrotic. This paper emphasizes the fibrotic background of uterine fibroids and the mechanisms behind the deposition of excessive extracellular matrix components. The transforming growth factor-β, hippo, and focal adhesion kinase-mediated signaling pathways activate the fibroblast cells and deposit excessive extracellular matrix materials. We also exemplify how dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors could be beneficial in reducing the fibrotic process in leiomyoma. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors prevent the fibrotic process in organs such as the kidneys, lungs, liver, and heart. These inhibitors are proven to inhibit the signaling pathways mentioned above at various stages of their activation. Based on literature evidence, we constructed a narrative review on the mechanisms that support the beneficial effects of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors for treating uterine fibroids.
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Takao T, Ono M, Yoshimasa Y, Masuda H, Maruyama T. A mediator complex subunit 12 gain-of-function mutation induces partial leiomyoma cell properties in human uterine smooth muscle cells. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:288-298. [PMID: 35643626 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To clarify whether a mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12) gain-of-function mutation induces leiomyoma cell properties in human uterine smooth muscle cells (USMCs). DESIGN Experimental study. SETTING Academic research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing hysterectomy for leiomyoma. INTERVENTION(S) CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing to introduce an MED12 gain-of-function mutation (G44D) into human USMCs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Cell proliferation, collagen production, and in vivo tumorigenicity of USMCs with vs. without the MED12 mutation. RESULT(S) Uterine smooth muscle cells isolated from the uterine myometrium of a 44-year-old patient were subjected to lentiviral vector-mediated gene transduction of the fluorescent protein Venus, followed by long-term passage. Uterine smooth muscle cells with a normal female karyotype, high cell proliferative activity, and Venus expression, but without stem/progenitor cell populations, were obtained and designated as USMC44. Using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, mtUSMC44 (MED12, 131G>A, p.G44D) and mock USMC44 without MED12 mutation (wtUSMC44) were established from USMC44. wtUSMC44 and mtUSMC44 showed similar cell proliferation activity, even in the presence of estradiol and progesterone (EP) together with transforming growth factor-beta 3 (TGFB3). In addition, wtUSMC44 and mtUSMC44 generated similar tiny smooth muscle-like tissue constructs when xenotransplanted beneath the kidney capsule in immunodeficient mice treated with EP alone or TGFB3. In contrast, mtUSMC44 produced more collagen type I than wtUSMC in vitro, and this production was likely enhanced by EP and TGFB3. CONCLUSION(S) The results suggest that the MED12 gain-of-function mutation is involved in collagen production. Although approximately 70% of leiomyomas have MED12 mutations, additional factors and/or events other than MED12 and/or myometrial stem/progenitor cells may be required for fully inducing leiomyoma cell properties, including transformation, in USMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoka Takao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Regenerative Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Masanori Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yushi Yoshimasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Masuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Maruyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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29
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Yang Q, Ciebiera M, Bariani MV, Ali M, Elkafas H, Boyer TG, Al-Hendy A. Comprehensive Review of Uterine Fibroids: Developmental Origin, Pathogenesis, and Treatment. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:678-719. [PMID: 34741454 PMCID: PMC9277653 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are benign monoclonal neoplasms of the myometrium, representing the most common tumors in women worldwide. To date, no long-term or noninvasive treatment option exists for hormone-dependent uterine fibroids, due to the limited knowledge about the molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation and development of uterine fibroids. This paper comprehensively summarizes the recent research advances on uterine fibroids, focusing on risk factors, development origin, pathogenetic mechanisms, and treatment options. Additionally, we describe the current treatment interventions for uterine fibroids. Finally, future perspectives on uterine fibroids studies are summarized. Deeper mechanistic insights into tumor etiology and the complexity of uterine fibroids can contribute to the progress of newer targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Yang
- Qiwei Yang, Ph.D. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, M167, Billings, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Michal Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, ul. Cegłowska 80, 01-809, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Hoda Elkafas
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Egyptian Drug Authority, formerly National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Cairo 35521, Egypt
| | - Thomas G Boyer
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229-3900, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Correspondence: Ayman Al-Hendy, MD, Ph.D. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, N112, Peck Pavilion, Chicago, IL 60637. USA.
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A Possible Cause for the Differential Expression of a Subset of miRNAs in Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Myometrium and Leiomyoma. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13071106. [PMID: 35885889 PMCID: PMC9319258 DOI: 10.3390/genes13071106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The aetiology of leiomyoma is debated; however, dysregulated progenitor cells or miRNAs appear to be involved. Previous profiling analysis of miRNA in healthy myometrium- (M-MSCs) and leiomyoma- (L-MSCs) derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) identified 15 miRNAs differentially expressed between M-MSCs and L-MSCs. Here, we try to elucidate whether these differentially regulated 15 miRNAs arise as a conversion of M-MSCs along the differentiation process or whether they may originate from divergent cell commitment. To trace the origin of the dysregulation, a comparison was made of the expression of miRNAs previously identified as differentially regulated in M-MSCs and L-MSCs with that detected in MSCs from amniotic fluid (considered as a substitute for embryonic cells). The results do not allow for a foregone conclusion: the miRNAs converging to the adherens junction pathway showed a gradual change along the differentiation process, and the miRNAs which coincided with the other three pathways (ECM-receptor interaction, TGFβ and cell cycle) showed a complex, not linear, regulation and, therefore, a trend along the hypothetical differentiation process was not deduced. However, the role of miRNAs appears to be predominant in the onset of leiomyoma and may follow two different mechanisms (early commitment; exacerbation); furthermore, miRNAs can support the observed (epigenetic) predisposition.
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Maekawa R, Sato S, Tamehisa T, Sakai T, Kajimura T, Sueoka K, Sugino N. Different DNA methylome, transcriptome and histological features in uterine fibroids with and without MED12 mutations. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8912. [PMID: 35618793 PMCID: PMC9135739 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12899-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutations in Mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12m) have been reported as a biomarker of uterine fibroids (UFs). However, the role of MED12m is still unclear in the pathogenesis of UFs. Therefore, we investigated the differences in DNA methylome, transcriptome, and histological features between MED12m-positive and -negative UFs. DNA methylomes and transcriptomes were obtained from MED12m-positive and -negative UFs and myometrium, and hierarchically clustered. Differentially expressed genes in comparison with the myometrium and co-expressed genes detected by weighted gene co-expression network analysis were subjected to gene ontology enrichment analyses. The amounts of collagen fibers and the number of blood vessels and smooth muscle cells were histologically evaluated. Hierarchical clustering based on DNA methylation clearly separated the myometrium, MED12m-positive, and MED12m-negative UFs. MED12m-positive UFs had the increased activities of extracellular matrix formation, whereas MED12m-negative UFs had the increased angiogenic activities and smooth muscle cell proliferation. The MED12m-positive and -negative UFs had different DNA methylation, gene expression, and histological features. The MED12m-positive UFs form the tumor with a rich extracellular matrix and poor blood vessels and smooth muscle cells compared to the MED12m-negative UFs, suggesting MED12 mutations affect the tissue composition of UFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Maekawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, 755-8505, Japan.
| | - Shun Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Tamehisa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sakai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Takuya Kajimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Kotaro Sueoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Norihiro Sugino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
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Mlodawska OW, Saini P, Parker JB, Wei JJ, Bulun SE, Simon MA, Chakravarti D. Epigenomic and enhancer dysregulation in uterine leiomyomas. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:518-547. [PMID: 35199155 PMCID: PMC9247409 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomas, also known as uterine fibroids or myomas, are the most common benign gynecological tumors and are found in women of reproductive and postmenopausal age. There is an exceptionally high prevalence of this tumor in women by the age of 50 years. Black women are particularly affected, with an increased incidence, earlier age of onset, larger and faster growing fibroids and greater severity of symptoms as compared to White women. Although advances in identifying genetic and environmental factors to delineate these fibroids have already been made, only recently has the role of epigenomics in the pathogenesis of this disease been considered. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Over recent years, studies have identified multiple epigenomic aberrations that may contribute to leiomyoma development and growth. This review will focus on the most recent discoveries in three categories of epigenomic changes found in uterine fibroids, namely aberrant DNA methylation, histone tail modifications and histone variant exchange, and their translation into altered target gene architecture and transcriptional outcome. The findings demonstrating how the altered 3D shape of the enhancer can regulate gene expression from millions of base pairs away will be discussed. Additionally, translational implications of these discoveries and potential roadblocks in leiomyoma treatment will be addressed. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive PubMed search was performed to identify published articles containing keywords relevant to the focus of the review, such as: uterine leiomyoma, uterine fibroids, epigenetic alterations, epigenomics, stem cells, chromatin modifications, extracellular matrix [ECM] organization, DNA methylation, enhancer, histone post-translational modifications and dysregulated gene expression. Articles until September 2021 were explored and evaluated to identify relevant updates in the field. Most of the articles focused on in the discussion were published between 2015 and 2021, although some key discoveries made before 2015 were included for background information and foundational purposes. We apologize to the authors whose work was not included because of space restrictions or inadvertent omission. OUTCOMES Chemical alterations to the DNA structure and of nucleosomal histones, without changing the underlying DNA sequence, have now been implicated in the phenotypic manifestation of uterine leiomyomas. Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis has revealed subsets of either suppressed or overexpressed genes accompanied by aberrant promoter methylation. Furthermore, differential promoter access resulting from altered 3D chromatin structure and histone modifications plays a role in regulating transcription of key genes thought to be involved in leiomyoma etiology. The dysregulated genes function in tumor suppression, apoptosis, angiogenesis, ECM formation, a variety of cancer-related signaling pathways and stem cell differentiation. Aberrant DNA methylation or histone modification is also observed in altering enhancer architecture, which leads to changes in enhancer-promoter contact strength, producing novel explanations for the overexpression of high mobility group AT-hook 2 and gene dysregulation found in mediator complex subunit 12 mutant fibroids. While many molecular mechanisms and epigenomic features have been investigated, the basis for the racial disparity observed among those in the Black population remains unclear. WIDER IMPLICATIONS A comprehensive understanding of the exact pathogenesis of uterine leiomyoma is lacking and requires attention as it can provide clues for prevention and viable non-surgical treatment. These findings will widen our knowledge of the role epigenomics plays in the mechanisms related to uterine leiomyoma development and highlight novel approaches for the prevention and identification of epigenome targets for long-term non-invasive treatment options of this significantly common disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J Brandon Parker
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jian-Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Serdar E Bulun
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Melissa A Simon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Health Equity Transformation, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Debabrata Chakravarti
- Correspondence address. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E Superior Street, Lurie 4-119, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. E-mail:
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Liu J, Yu L, Castro L, Yan Y, Clayton NP, Bushel P, Flagler ND, Scappini E, Dixon D. Short-term tetrabromobisphenol A exposure promotes fibrosis of human uterine fibroid cells in a 3D culture system through TGF-beta signaling. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22101. [PMID: 35032343 PMCID: PMC8852695 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101262r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a derivative of BPA, is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant with weak estrogenic properties. In women, uterine fibroids are highly prevalent estrogen-responsive tumors often with excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and may be the target of environmental estrogens. We have found that BPA has profibrotic effects in vitro, in addition to previous reports of the in vivo fibrotic effects of BPA in mouse uterus. However, the role of TBBPA in fibrosis is unclear. To investigate the effects of TBBPA on uterine fibrosis, we developed a 3D human uterine leiomyoma (ht-UtLM) spheroid culture model. Cell proliferation was evaluated in 3D ht-UtLM spheroids following TBBPA (10-6 -200 µM) administration at 48 h. Fibrosis was assessed using a Masson's Trichrome stain and light microscopy at 7 days of TBBPA (10-3 µM) treatment. Differential expression of ECM and fibrosis genes were determined using RT² Profiler™ PCR arrays. Network and pathway analyses were conducted using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. The activation of pathway proteins was analyzed by a transforming growth factor-beta (TGFB) protein array. We found that TBBPA increased cell proliferation and promoted fibrosis in 3D ht-UtLM spheroids with increased deposition of collagens. TBBPA upregulated the expression of profibrotic genes and corresponding proteins associated with the TGFB pathway. TBBPA activated TGFB signaling through phosphorylation of TGFBR1 and downstream effectors-small mothers against decapentaplegic -2 and -3 proteins (SMAD2 and SMAD3). The 3D ht-UtLM spheroid model is an effective system for studying environmental agents on human uterine fibrosis. TBBPA can promote fibrosis in uterine fibroid through TGFB/SMAD signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingli Liu
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch (MTB)Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP)National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Linda Yu
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch (MTB)Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP)National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Lysandra Castro
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch (MTB)Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP)National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Yitang Yan
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch (MTB)Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP)National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Natasha P. Clayton
- Cellular & Molecular Pathogenesis BranchDNTP NIEHS, NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Pierre Bushel
- Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, Division of Intramural Research (DIR)NIEHS, NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Norris D. Flagler
- Cellular & Molecular Pathogenesis BranchDNTP NIEHS, NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Erica Scappini
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, DIRNIEHS, NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Darlene Dixon
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch (MTB)Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP)National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIHResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
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Guo W, Dai M, Zhong Z, Zhu S, Gong G, Chen M, Guo J, Zhang Y. The association between vitamin D and uterine fibroids: A mendelian randomization study. Front Genet 2022; 13:1013192. [PMID: 36212159 PMCID: PMC9532761 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1013192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs), the most common benign gynecological tumor, can bring severe negative impacts on a woman's life quality. Vitamin D, is thought to play an important role in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. In recent years, several studies suggested that higher level of vitamin D has a negative effect on the occurrence of UFs, but the results of studies on the relationship between them are conflicting and further evidence needs to be studied. Here in, we used a two-sample Mendelian Randomization (2SMR) study to explore the causal relationship between genetically predicted vitamin D levels and the risk of UFs. The exposure data comes from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary dataset consisting of 441,291 individuals, which includes datasets from United Kingdom Biobank, FinnGen Biobank and the corresponding consortia. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with vitamin D at a significant level of p < 5 × 10-8 and low linkage disequilibrium (LD) level (r2 < 0.01) were selected. The outcome data comes from a GWAS dataset of IEU analysis of United Kingdom Biobank phenotypes consisting of 7,122 UFs cases and 455,811 controls. Our inverse-variance weight (IVW) analysis results support the causal association of genetically predicted vitamin D with the risk of UFs (OR = 0.995,95% CI = 0.990-0.999, p = 0.024). In addition, heterogeneity and pleiotropy were not observed in statistical models. In summary, our results indicate that elevated serum vitamin D levels are in strong relationship with reduction of the risk of UFs, which indicates that the clinical treatment of UFs may have a new and excellent option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of West China Second University Hospital, BMI Center for Biomass Materials and Nanointerfaces, College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengyuan Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of West China Second University Hospital, BMI Center for Biomass Materials and Nanointerfaces, College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhuoling Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of West China Second University Hospital, BMI Center for Biomass Materials and Nanointerfaces, College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - San Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guidong Gong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of West China Second University Hospital, BMI Center for Biomass Materials and Nanointerfaces, College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of West China Second University Hospital, BMI Center for Biomass Materials and Nanointerfaces, College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Junling Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of West China Second University Hospital, BMI Center for Biomass Materials and Nanointerfaces, College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaoyao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of West China Second University Hospital, BMI Center for Biomass Materials and Nanointerfaces, College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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El Sabeh M, Saha SK, Afrin S, Borahay MA. Simvastatin Inhibits Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Uterine Leiomyoma. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6382454. [PMID: 34614511 PMCID: PMC8557633 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is upregulated in uterine leiomyomas, the most common benign tumors in the female reproductive tract. Simvastatin is an antihyperlipidemic drug, and previous in vitro and in vivo reports showed that it may have therapeutic effects in treating leiomyomas. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of simvastatin on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in leiomyoma. We treated primary and immortalized human leiomyoma cells with simvastatin and examined its effects using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunocytochemistry. We also examined the effects using human leiomyoma tissues from an ongoing randomized controlled trial in which women with symptomatic leiomyoma received simvastatin (40 mg) or placebo for 3 months prior to their surgery. The results of this study revealed that simvastatin significantly reduced the expression of Wnt4 and its co-receptor LRP5. After simvastatin treatment, levels of total β-catenin and its active form, nonphosphorylated β-catenin, were reduced in both cell types. Additionally, simvastatin reduced the expression of Wnt4 and total β-catenin, as well as nonphosphorylated β-catenin protein expression in response to estrogen and progesterone. Simvastatin also inhibited the expression of c-Myc, a downstream target of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The effect of simvastatin on nonphosphorylated-β-catenin, the key regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, was recapitulated in human leiomyoma tissue. These results suggest that simvastatin may have a beneficial effect on uterine leiomyoma through suppressing the overactive Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak El Sabeh
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Subbroto Kumar Saha
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Mostafa A Borahay
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Correspondence: Mostafa A. Borahay, M.D., Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Chuang TD, Quintanilla D, Boos D, Khorram O. Long Noncoding RNA MIAT Modulates the Extracellular Matrix Deposition in Leiomyomas by Sponging MiR-29 Family. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6365958. [PMID: 34491311 PMCID: PMC8459448 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the expression and functional role of a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MIAT (myocardial infarction-associated transcript) in leiomyoma pathogenesis. Leiomyoma compared with myometrium (n = 66) expressed significantly more MIAT that was independent of race/ethnicity and menstrual cycle phase but dependent on MED12 (mediator complex subunit 12) mutation status. Leiomyomas bearing the MED12 mutation expressed higher levels of MIAT and lower levels of microRNA 29 family (miR-29a, -b, and -c) compared with MED12 wild-type leiomyomas. Using luciferase reporter activity and RNA immunoprecipitation analysis, MIAT was shown to sponge the miR-29 family. In a 3-dimensional spheroid culture system, transient transfection of MIAT siRNA in leiomyoma smooth muscle cell (LSMC) spheroids resulted in upregulation of miR-29 family and downregulation of miR-29 targets, collagen type I (COL1A1), collagen type III (COL3A1), and TGF-β3 (transforming growth factor β-3). Treatment of LSMC spheroids with TGF-β3 induced COL1A1, COL3A1, and MIAT levels, but repressed miR-29 family expression. Knockdown of MIAT in LSMC spheroids blocked the effects of TGF-β3 on the induction of COL1A1 and COL3A1 expression. Collectively, these results underscore the physiological significance of MIAT in extracellular matrix accumulation in leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Der Chuang
- Department of Ob/Gyn Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Derek Quintanilla
- Department of Ob/Gyn Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Drake Boos
- Department of Ob/Gyn Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Omid Khorram
- Department of Ob/Gyn Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Correspondence: Omid Khorram, MD, PhD, Department of Ob/Gyn, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 W. Carson St., Box 467, Torrance, CA 90502, USA.
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Ali M, Raslan M, Ciebiera M, Zaręba K, Al-Hendy A. Current approaches to overcome the side effects of GnRH analogs in the treatment of patients with uterine fibroids. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2021; 21:477-486. [PMID: 34612122 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2022.1989409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most prevalent benign neoplastic threat originating from myometria of reproductive age women, with a profound financial load valued in hundreds of billions of dollars. Unfortunately, there is no curative treatment so far except surgery and available pharmacological treatments are restricted for short-term treatment options. Thus, there is a large unmet need in the UF space for noninvasive therapeutics.Areas covered: The authors reviewed the literature available for the utility of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs in women with UFs. We also focused on clinical studies exploring the therapeutic benefits of novel oral non-peptide GnRH antagonists that were recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in combination with estradiol/norethindrone acetate for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with UFs in premenopausal women.Expert opinion: The results regarding the efficacy of new-generation oral GnRH-antagonists, such as elagolix, relugolix and linzagolix, are promising and offer potential prospect for the future therapy of UFs. However, these antagonists must be combined with hormonal add-back therapy to minimize the resultant hypoestrogenic side effects such as bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Cegłowska, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kornelia Zaręba
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Żelazna, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Szydłowska I, Grabowska M, Nawrocka-Rutkowska J, Kram A, Piasecka M, Starczewski A. Markers of Inflammation and Vascular Parameters in Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator (Ulipristal Acetate)-Treated Uterine Fibroids. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3721. [PMID: 34442017 PMCID: PMC8397116 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The exact mechanism of selective progesterone receptor modulator action in leiomyoma still challenges researchers. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of ulipristal acetate (UPA) on immunoexpression of inflammatory markers and vascularization in fibroids. UPA-treated patients were divided into three groups: (1) good response (≥25% reduction in volume of fibroid), (2) weak response (insignificant volume reduction), (3) and no response to treatment (no decrease or increase in fibroid volume). The percentage of TGFβ, IL6, IL10, CD117, and CD68-positive cells were significantly lower in the group with a good response to treatment vs. the control group. Moreover, the percentage of IL10 and CD68-positive cells in the group with a good response to treatment were also significantly lower compared to the no response group. Additionally, a significant decrease in the percentage of IL10-positive cells was found in the good response group vs. the weak response group. There were no statistical differences in the percentage of TNFα-positive cells and vessel parameters between all compared groups. The results of the study indicate that a good response to UPA treatment may be associated with a decrease of inflammatory markers, but it does not influence myoma vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Szydłowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (J.N.-R.); (A.S.)
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48 Street, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Jolanta Nawrocka-Rutkowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (J.N.-R.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrzej Kram
- Department of Pathology, West Pomeranian Oncology Center, Strzałowska 22 Street, 71-730 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Piasecka
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48 Street, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Andrzej Starczewski
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (J.N.-R.); (A.S.)
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Molecular and Cellular Insights into the Development of Uterine Fibroids. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168483. [PMID: 34445194 PMCID: PMC8395213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas represent the most common benign gynecologic tumor. These hormone-dependent smooth-muscle formations occur with an estimated prevalence of ~70% among women of reproductive age and cause symptoms including pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and recurrent abortion. Despite the prevalence and public health impact of uterine leiomyomas, available treatments remain limited. Among the potential causes of leiomyomas, early hormonal exposure during periods of development may result in developmental reprogramming via epigenetic changes that persist in adulthood, leading to disease onset or progression. Recent developments in unbiased high-throughput sequencing technology enable powerful approaches to detect driver mutations, yielding new insights into the genomic instability of leiomyomas. Current data also suggest that each leiomyoma originates from the clonal expansion of a single transformed somatic stem cell of the myometrium. In this review, we propose an integrated cellular and molecular view of the origins of leiomyomas, as well as paradigm-shifting studies that will lead to better understanding and the future development of non-surgical treatments for these highly frequent tumors.
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Ciebiera M, Ali M, Prince L, Zgliczyński S, Jakiel G, Al-Hendy A. The Significance of Measuring Vitamin D Serum Levels in Women with Uterine Fibroids. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2098-2109. [PMID: 33108619 PMCID: PMC8262605 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00363-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are benign tumors originating from smooth muscle cells and are considered a common pathology that affects numerous women which is a notable socio-economic problem. Several UF risk factors have been identified including black race, obesity, and vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is steroid compound with pleiotropic effects on the human body. Vitamin D deficiency is a major public health concern worldwide. Several studies have shown that the majority of UF patients experienced hypovitaminosis D. In addition, sufficient vitamin D serum levels are associated with the reduced risk of UFs. In this review, we present available data highlighting the importance of measuring vitamin D serum levels in women with UFs and women at a high risk for UF development. We proposed a preliminary clinical instruction of 25-hydroxyvitamin D measurements and vitamin D supplementation for clinicians who are involved in the treatment of patients with UFs. Achieving sufficient serum levels of vitamin D might be of interest in patients with UFs. Screening, supplementation, treatment guidelines, and public health strategies for vitamin D deficiency in women with UFs as well as women at a high risk of UF development might be of potential importance as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, ul. Cegłowska 80, 01-809, Warsaw, Poland.
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Lillian Prince
- Biological Sciences Division: Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stanisław Zgliczyński
- Department of Internal Diseases and Endocrinology, Central Teaching Clinical Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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41
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Yan Y, Liu J, Lawrence A, Dykstra MJ, Fannin R, Gerrish K, Tucker CJ, Scappini E, Dixon D. Prolonged cadmium exposure alters benign uterine fibroid cell behavior, extracellular matrix components, and TGFB signaling. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21738. [PMID: 34245615 PMCID: PMC8284923 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100354r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The heavy metal Cadmium (Cd), a widespread environmental contaminant, poses serious hazards to human health and is considered a metallohormone and carcinogen. In women with uterine fibroids, there is a significant association between blood Cd levels and increased fibroid tumor size. The aim of this study was to determine if benign human uterine leiomyoma (fibroid) cells could be malignantly transformed in vitro by continuous Cd exposure and, if so, explore a molecular mechanism by which this could occur. We found when fibroid cells were exposed to 10 µM CdCl2 for 8 weeks, a robust and fast‐growing Cd‐Resistant Leiomyoma (CR‐LM) cell culture was established. The CR‐LM cells formed viable colonies in soft agar and had increased cytoplasmic glycogen aggregates, enhanced cell motility, a higher percentage of cells in G2/M phase, and increased expression of the proliferation marker Ki‐67. NanoString analysis showed downregulation of genes encoding for extracellular matrix (ECM) components, such as collagens, fibronectins, laminins, and SLRP family proteins, whereas genes involved in ECM degradation (MMP1, MMP3, and MMP10) were significantly upregulated. A volcano plot showed that the top differentially genes favored cancer progression. Functional analysis by ingenuity pathway analysis predicted a significant inhibition of TGFB1 signaling, leading to enhanced proliferation and attenuated fibrosis. Prolonged Cd exposure altered phenotypic characteristics and dysregulated genes in fibroid cells predicative of progression towards a cancer phenotype. Therefore, continuous Cd exposure alters the benign characteristics of fibroid cells in vitro, and Cd exposure could possibly pose a health hazard for women with uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitang Yan
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Jingli Liu
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Arianna Lawrence
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Michael J Dykstra
- Cellular & Molecular Pathogenesis Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Rick Fannin
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Molecular Genomics Core Laboratory, NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kevin Gerrish
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Molecular Genomics Core Laboratory, NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Charles J Tucker
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Fluorescence Microscopy and Imaging Center, NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Erica Scappini
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Fluorescence Microscopy and Imaging Center, NIEHS, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Darlene Dixon
- Molecular Pathogenesis Group, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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42
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Kirschen GW, AlAshqar A, Miyashita-Ishiwata M, Reschke L, El Sabeh M, Borahay MA. Vascular biology of uterine fibroids: connecting fibroids and vascular disorders. Reproduction 2021; 162:R1-R18. [PMID: 34034234 DOI: 10.1530/rep-21-0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fibroids are benign tumors caused by the proliferation of myometrial smooth muscle cells in the uterus that can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, urinary retention, and infertility. While traditionally thought of as a disease process intrinsic to the uterus, accumulating evidence suggests that fibroid growth may be linked with the systemic vasculature system, although cell-intrinsic factors are certainly of principal importance in their inception. Fibroids are associated with essential hypertension and preeclampsia, as well as atherosclerosis, for reasons that are becoming increasingly elucidated. Factors such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, estrogen, and endothelial dysfunction all likely play a role in fibroid pathogenesis. In this review, we lay out a framework for reconceptualizing fibroids as a systemic vascular disorder, and discuss how pharmaceutical agents and other interventions targeting the vasculature may aid in the novel treatment of fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory W Kirschen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Abdelrahman AlAshqar
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | | | - Lauren Reschke
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Malak El Sabeh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mostafa A Borahay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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43
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AlAshqar A, Reschke L, Kirschen GW, Borahay MA. Role of inflammation in benign gynecologic disorders: from pathogenesis to novel therapies†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:7-31. [PMID: 33739368 PMCID: PMC8256101 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence supports the notion that inflammation fosters the development of common benign gynecologic disorders, including uterine leiomyoma, endometriosis, and adenomyosis. Numerous cytokines, chemokines, and growth and transcription factors have indisputable roles in the establishment and maintenance of benign gynecologic disorders by initiating complex cascades that promote proliferation, angiogenesis, and lesion progression. The interaction between inflammation and benign gynecologic disorders is orchestrated by a plethora of factors, including sex steroids, genetics, epigenetics, extracellular matrix, stem cells, cardiometabolic risk factors, diet, vitamin D, and the immune system. The role of inflammation in these disorders is not limited to local pathobiology but also extends to involve clinical sequelae that range from those confined to the reproductive tract, such as infertility and gynecologic malignancies, to systemic complications such as cardiovascular disease. Enhanced understanding of the intricate mechanisms of this association will introduce us to unvisited pathophysiological perspectives and guide future diagnostic and therapeutic implications aimed at reducing the burden of these disorders. Utilization of inflammatory markers, microRNA, and molecular imaging as diagnostic adjuncts may be valuable, noninvasive techniques for prompt detection of benign gynecologic disorders. Further, use of novel as well as previously established therapeutics, such as immunomodulators, hormonal treatments, cardiometabolic medications, and cyclooxygenase-2 and NF-κB inhibitors, can target inflammatory pathways involved in their pathogenesis. In this comprehensive review, we aim to dissect the existing literature on the role of inflammation in benign gynecologic disorders, including the proposed underlying mechanisms and complex interactions, its contribution to clinical sequelae, and the clinical implications this role entails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelrahman AlAshqar
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Lauren Reschke
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gregory W Kirschen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mostafa A Borahay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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44
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Expression of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Isoforms in Canine Endometrium with Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia-Pyometra Complex. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061844. [PMID: 34205820 PMCID: PMC8234116 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061844] [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: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pathomorphological changes and functional disorders of the uterus have long been a significant problem in the reproduction of dogs. The most commonly identified uterine disorders leading to permanent loss of fertility in dogs include cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra. These diseases may occur jointly as a CEH–pyometra complex. Despite numerous studies, the etiology of this disease remains unclear. TGF-β is considered to be one of the key factors in pathophysiological uterine disorders. The results indicate the significant expression of TGF-β1 in endometrial tissues in bitches affected by CEH–pyometra complex. Consequently, among all TGF-β isoforms, TGF-β1 is a potential biomarker involved in the regulation of a dog’s endometrium with proliferative and degenerative changes. Abstract Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra are the most frequently diagnosed uterine diseases affecting bitches of different ages. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) has been classified in females as a potential regulator of many endometrial changes during the estrous cycle or may be involved in pathological disorders. The aim of this study was to determine the expression of TGF-β1, -β2 and -β3 in the endometrium of bitches suffering from CEH or a CEH–pyometra complex compared to clinically healthy females (control group; CG). A significantly increased level of TGF-β1 mRNA expression was observed in the endometrium with CEH–pyometra compared to CEH and CG. Protein production of TGF-β1 was identified only in the endometrium of bitches with CEH–pyometra. An increase in TGF-β3 mRNA expression was observed in all the studied groups compared to CG. The expression of TGF-β2 mRNA was significantly higher in CEH and lower in CEH–pyometra uteri. The results indicate the presence of TGF-β cytokines in canine endometrial tissues affected by proliferative and degenerative changes. However, among all TGF-β isoforms, TGF-β1 could potentially be a key factor involved in the regulation of the endometrium in bitches with CEH–pyometra complex.
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45
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Navarro A, Bariani MV, Yang Q, Al-Hendy A. Understanding the Impact of Uterine Fibroids on Human Endometrium Function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:633180. [PMID: 34113609 PMCID: PMC8186666 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.633180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are the most common benign gynecological tumors in women of reproductive age worldwide. They cause heavy menstrual bleeding, usually leading to severe anemia, pelvic pain/pressure, infertility, and other debilitating morbidities. Fibroids are believed to be monoclonal tumors arising from the myometrium, and recent studies have demonstrated that fibroids actively influence the endometrium globally. Studies suggest a direct relationship between the number of fibroids removed and fertility problems. In this review, our objective was to provide a complete overview of the origin of uterine fibroids and the molecular pathways and processes implicated in their development and growth, which can directly affect the function of a healthy endometrium. One of the most common characteristics of fibroids is the excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, which contributes to the stiffness and expansion of fibroids. ECM may serve as a reservoir of profibrotic growth factors such as the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and a modulator of their availability and actions. Fibroids also elicit mechanotransduction changes that result in decreased uterine wall contractility and increased myometrium rigidity, which affect normal biological uterine functions such as menstrual bleeding, receptivity, and implantation. Changes in the microRNA (miRNA) expression in fibroids and myometrial cells appear to modulate the TGF-β pathways and the expression of regulators of ECM production. Taken together, these findings demonstrate an interaction among the ECM components, TGF-β family signaling, miRNAs, and the endometrial vascular system. Targeting these components will be fundamental to developing novel pharmacotherapies that not only treat uterine fibroids but also restore normal endometrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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46
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Zannotti A, Greco S, Pellegrino P, Giantomassi F, Delli Carpini G, Goteri G, Ciavattini A, Ciarmela P. Macrophages and Immune Responses in Uterine Fibroids. Cells 2021; 10:cells10050982. [PMID: 33922329 PMCID: PMC8146588 DOI: 10.3390/cells10050982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids represent the most common benign tumors of the uterus. They are considered a typical fibrotic disorder. In fact, the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins—above all, collagen 1A1, fibronectin and versican—are upregulated in this pathology. The uterine fibroids etiology has not yet been clarified, and this represents an important matter about their resolution. A model has been proposed according to which the formation of an altered ECM could be the result of an excessive wound healing, in turn driven by a dysregulated inflammation process. A lot of molecules act in the complex inflammatory response. Macrophages have a great flexibility since they can assume different phenotypes leading to the tissue repair process. The dysregulation of macrophage proliferation, accumulation and infiltration could lead to an uncontrolled tissue repair and to the consequent pathological fibrosis. In addition, molecules such as monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), granulocyte macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), activin A and tumor necrosis factor-alfa (TNF-α) were demonstrated to play an important role in the macrophage action within the uncontrolled tissue repair that contributes to the pathological fibrosis that represents a typical feature of the uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Zannotti
- Department of Specialist and Odontostomatological Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (A.Z.); (G.D.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
| | - Stefania Greco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
| | - Pamela Pellegrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
| | - Federica Giantomassi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (F.G.); (G.G.)
| | - Giovanni Delli Carpini
- Department of Specialist and Odontostomatological Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (A.Z.); (G.D.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Gaia Goteri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (F.G.); (G.G.)
| | - Andrea Ciavattini
- Department of Specialist and Odontostomatological Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (A.Z.); (G.D.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.G.); (P.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+39-071-220-6270
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47
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Kumar R, Gulia K. The convergence of nanotechnology‐stem cell, nanotopography‐mechanobiology, and biotic‐abiotic interfaces: Nanoscale tools for tackling the top killer, arteriosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks. NANO SELECT 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/nano.202000192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv Kumar
- NIET National Institute of Medical Science Rajasthan India
| | - Kiran Gulia
- Materials and Manufacturing School of Engineering University of Wolverhampton Wolverhampton England, UK
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48
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Zou LL, Li JR, Li H, Tan JL, Wang MX, Liu NN, Gao RM, Yan HY, Wang XK, Dong B, Li YH, Peng ZG. TGF-β isoforms inhibit hepatitis C virus propagation in transforming growth factor beta/SMAD protein signalling pathway dependent and independent manners. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:3498-3510. [PMID: 33682288 PMCID: PMC8034461 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) plays an important role in the viral liver disease progression via controlling viral propagation and mediating inflammation‐associated responses. However, the antiviral activities and mechanisms of TGF‐β isoforms, including TGF‐β1, TGF‐β2 and TGF‐β3, remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that all of the three TGF‐β isoforms were increased in Huh7.5 cells infected by hepatitis C virus (HCV), but in turn, the elevated TGF‐β isoforms could inhibit HCV propagation with different potency in infectious HCV cell culture system. TGF‐β isoforms suppressed HCV propagation through interrupting several different stages in the whole HCV life cycle, including virus entry and intracellular replication, in TGF‐β/SMAD signalling pathway–dependent and TGF‐β/SMAD signalling pathway–independent manners. TGF‐β isoforms showed additional anti‐HCV activities when combined with each other. However, the elevated TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β2, not TGF‐β3, could also induce liver fibrosis with a high expression of type I collagen alpha‐1 and α‐smooth muscle actin in LX‐2 cells. Our results showed a new insight into TGF‐β isoforms in the HCV‐related liver disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Zou
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Rui Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hu Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Li Tan
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mei-Xi Wang
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Nan-Nan Liu
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rong-Mei Gao
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Yan Yan
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Kai Wang
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Biao Dong
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Huan Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zong-Gen Peng
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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49
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Leistico JR, Saini P, Futtner CR, Hejna M, Omura Y, Soni PN, Sandlesh P, Milad M, Wei JJ, Bulun S, Parker JB, Barish GD, Song JS, Chakravarti D. Epigenomic tensor predicts disease subtypes and reveals constrained tumor evolution. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108927. [PMID: 33789109 PMCID: PMC8111960 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108927] [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: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the epigenomic evolution and specificity of disease subtypes from complex patient data remains a major biomedical problem. We here present DeCET (decomposition and classification of epigenomic tensors), an integrative computational approach for simultaneously analyzing hierarchical heterogeneous data, to identify robust epigenomic differences among tissue types, differentiation states, and disease subtypes. Applying DeCET to our own data from 21 uterine benign tumor (leiomyoma) patients identifies distinct epigenomic features discriminating normal myometrium and leiomyoma subtypes. Leiomyomas possess preponderant alterations in distal enhancers and long-range histone modifications confined to chromatin contact domains that constrain the evolution of pathological epigenomes. Moreover, we demonstrate the power and advantage of DeCET on multiple publicly available epigenomic datasets representing different cancers and cellular states. Epigenomic features extracted by DeCET can thus help improve our understanding of disease states, cellular development, and differentiation, thereby facilitating future therapeutic, diagnostic, and prognostic strategies. Leistico et al. apply tensor decomposition and classification methods to integrate information from hierarchical heterogenous epigenomic datasets and identify histone modification patterns that discriminate disease conditions, tissue types, and differentiation states. Leiomyomas are shown to possess alterations in distal enhancers and large-scale regions confined to chromatin contact domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob R Leistico
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Priyanka Saini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christopher R Futtner
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Miroslav Hejna
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Yasuhiro Omura
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Pritin N Soni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Poorva Sandlesh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Magdy Milad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jian-Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Serdar Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - J Brandon Parker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Grant D Barish
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jun S Song
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | - Debabrata Chakravarti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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50
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Vasiliev G, Chadaeva I, Rasskazov D, Ponomarenko P, Sharypova E, Drachkova I, Bogomolov A, Savinkova L, Ponomarenko M, Kolchanov N, Osadchuk A, Oshchepkov D, Osadchuk L. A Bioinformatics Model of Human Diseases on the Basis of Differentially Expressed Genes (of Domestic Versus Wild Animals) That Are Orthologs of Human Genes Associated with Reproductive-Potential Changes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2346. [PMID: 33652917 PMCID: PMC7956675 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Earlier, after our bioinformatic analysis of single-nucleotide polymorphisms of TATA-binding protein-binding sites within gene promoters on the human Y chromosome, we suggested that human reproductive potential diminishes during self-domestication. Here, we implemented bioinformatics models of human diseases using animal in vivo genome-wide RNA-Seq data to compare the effect of co-directed changes in the expression of orthologous genes on human reproductive potential and during the divergence of domestic and wild animals from their nearest common ancestor (NCA). For example, serotonin receptor 3A (HTR3A) deficiency contributes to sudden death in pregnancy, consistently with Htr3a underexpression in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) during their divergence from their NCA with cavy (C. aperea). Overall, 25 and three differentially expressed genes (hereinafter, DEGs) in domestic animals versus 11 and 17 DEGs in wild animals show the direction consistent with human orthologous gene-markers of reduced and increased reproductive potential. This indicates a reliable association between DEGs in domestic animals and human orthologous genes reducing reproductive potential (Pearson's χ2 test p < 0.001, Fisher's exact test p < 0.05, binomial distribution p < 0.0001), whereas DEGs in wild animals uniformly match human orthologous genes decreasing and increasing human reproductive potential (p > 0.1; binomial distribution), thus enforcing the norm (wild type).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennady Vasiliev
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Irina Chadaeva
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Dmitry Rasskazov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Petr Ponomarenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Ekaterina Sharypova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Irina Drachkova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Anton Bogomolov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Ludmila Savinkova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Mikhail Ponomarenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Nikolay Kolchanov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Alexander Osadchuk
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Dmitry Oshchepkov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
| | - Ludmila Osadchuk
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (I.C.); (D.R.); (P.P.); (E.S.); (I.D.); (A.B.); (L.S.); (N.K.); (A.O.); (D.O.); (L.O.)
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