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Liu D, Yuan L, Xu F, Ma Y, Zhang H, Jin Y, Chen M, Zhang Z, Luo S. Interleukin-33 promotes intrauterine adhesion formation in mice through the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway. Commun Biol 2024; 7:1022. [PMID: 39164588 PMCID: PMC11336135 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06709-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
IL-33 belongs to the inflammatory factor family and is closely associated with the inflammatory response. However, its role in the development of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) remains unclear. In this study, the role of IL-33 in the formation of IUAs after endometrial injury was identified via RNA sequencing after mouse endometrial organoids were transplanted into an IUA mouse model. Major pathological changes in the mouse uterus, consistent with the expression of fibrotic markers, such as TGF-β, were observed in response to treatment with IL-33. This finding may be attributed to activation of the phosphorylation of downstream MAPK signaling pathway components, which are activated by the release of IL-33 in macrophages. Our study provides a novel mechanism for elucidating IUA formation, suggesting a new therapeutic strategy for the prevention and clinical treatment of IUAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Liu
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, Institute of Medical Sciences, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Liwei Yuan
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, Institute of Medical Sciences, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Fengjuan Xu
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, Institute of Medical Sciences, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Yulan Ma
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, Institute of Medical Sciences, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Huixing Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiran Jin
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, Institute of Medical Sciences, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | | | - Zhining Zhang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology Surgery of the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Sang Luo
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, Institute of Medical Sciences, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
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Zhou Z, Wu X, Chen T, Zhang B, Li W, Zhou M, Zhao J, Dong E, Li T. Restoration of functional endometrium in an intrauterine adhesion rat model with endometrial stromal cells transplantation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:181. [PMID: 38902788 PMCID: PMC11191336 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03788-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: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) as a prevalent gynecological disease is developed from infection or trauma. However, therapeutic strategies to repair damaged endometrium are relatively limited. Emerging studies have shed light on the crucial role of endometrial stromal cells (EnSCs) in the process of uterine endometrial regeneration. EnSCs isolated from the uterine endometrium have similar characteristics to mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). However, it is still unknown whether EnSCs could be used as donor cells to treat IUA. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential efficacy of EnSCs in treating rat IUA. METHODS Human EnSCs were isolated from the endometrial tissue of healthy female donors and subjected to extensive expansion and culture in vitro. Immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, cell proliferation assay, trilineage differentiation experiment, and decidualization assay were used to characterize the biological properties of EnSCs. We evaluated the immunoregulatory potential of EnSCs by analyzing their secreted cytokines and conducting bulk RNA sequencing after IFN-γ treatment. After EnSCs were transplanted into the uterine muscle layer in IUA rats, their therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms were analyzed using histological analysis, Q-PCR, fertility and pregnancy outcome assay, and transcriptome analysis. RESULTS We successfully isolated EnSCs from the endometrium of human donors and largely expanded in vitro. EnSCs exhibited characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells and retained responsiveness to sex hormones. Following IFN-γ stimulation, EnSCs upregulated the anti-inflammatory cytokines and activated immunosuppressive molecules. Xenogeneic transplantation of EnSCs successfully repaired injured endometrium and significantly restored the pregnancy rate in IUA rats. Mechanistically, the therapeutic effects of EnSCs on IUA endometrium functioned through anti-inflammation, anti-fibrosis and the secretion of regeneration factor. CONCLUSIONS Due to their large expansion ability, immunoregulatory properties, and great potential in treating IUA, EnSCs, as a valuable source of donor cells, could offer a potential treatment avenue for injury-induced IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengli Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, 650500, China
- The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650031, China
| | - Xiaomei Wu
- The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650031, China
| | - Tingwei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Wenxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Min Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Jingxue Zhao
- The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650031, China
| | - E Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China.
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, 650500, China.
| | - Tianqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China.
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, 650500, China.
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Ciszewski WM, Woźniak LA, Sobierajska K. Diverse roles of SARS-CoV-2 Spike and Nucleocapsid proteins in EndMT stimulation through the TGF-β-MRTF axis inhibited by aspirin. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:296. [PMID: 38807115 PMCID: PMC11134719 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01665-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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2 virus causes severe COVID-19 in one-fifth of patients. In addition to high mortality, infection may induce respiratory failure and cardiovascular complications associated with inflammation. Acute or prolonged inflammation results in organ fibrosis, the cause of which might be endothelial disorders arising during the endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). METHODS HUVECs and HMEC-1 cells were stimulated with SARS-CoV-2 S (Spike) and N (Nucleocapsid) proteins, and EndMT induction was evaluated by studying specific protein markers via Western blotting. Wound healing and tube formation assays were employed to assess the potential of SARS-CoV-2 to stimulate changes in cell behaviour. MRTF nuclear translocation, ROS generation, TLR4 inhibitors, TGF-β-neutralizing antibodies, and inhibitors of the TGF-β-dependent pathway were used to investigate the role of the TGF-β-MRTF signalling axis in SARS-CoV-2-dependent EndMT stimulation. RESULTS Both viral proteins stimulate myofibroblast trans-differentiation. However, the N protein is more effective at EndMT induction. The TGF-β-MRTF pathway plays a critical role in this process. The N protein preferentially favours action through TGF-β2, whose secretion is induced through TLR4-ROS action. TGF-β2 stimulates MRTF-A and MRTF-B nuclear translocation and strongly regulates EndMT. In contrast, the Spike protein stimulates TGF-β1 secretion as a result of ACE2 downregulation. TGF-β1 induces only MRTF-B, which, in turn, weakly regulates EndMT. Furthermore, aspirin, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, might prevent and reverse SARS-CoV-2-dependent EndMT induction through TGF-β-MRTF pathway deregulation. CONCLUSION The reported study revealed that SARS-CoV-2 infection induces EndMT. Moreover, it was demonstrated for the first time at the molecular level that the intensity of the EndMT triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection may vary and depend on the viral protein involved. The N protein acts through TLR4-ROS-TGF-β2-MRTF-A/B, whereas the S protein acts through ACE2-TGF-β1-MRTF-B. Furthermore, we identified aspirin as a potential anti-fibrotic drug for treating patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech M Ciszewski
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka Str. 6/8, Lodz, 92- 215, Poland
| | - Lucyna A Woźniak
- Department of Structural Biology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego Str. 7/9, Lodz, 90-752, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Sobierajska
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka Str. 6/8, Lodz, 92- 215, Poland.
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Huang B, Lu D, Kong Y, Ma L. Successful live birth of thin endometrium: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37399. [PMID: 38428873 PMCID: PMC10906640 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE The success of pregnancy depends on various factors, with the endometrial receptivity being a crucial component. Endometrial thickness (EMT) serves as a direct indicator for assessing endometrial receptivity. Previous studies have suggested that a thin endometrium is associated with lower pregnancy rates, especially in patients with an EMT of less than 4 mm. Even in assisted reproductive technology cycles with high success rates, clinical pregnancy cases in patients with such thin endometrium are reported to be very few, let alone in natural conception cycles. Therefore, a thin endometrium poses significant challenges for infertility patients. In this study, patients with an extremely thin endometrium were able to achieve clinical pregnancy and successful live births through natural conception, highlighting the possibility of success even in challenging cases. PATIENT CONCERNS The patient presented with polycystic ovary syndrome and ovulation disorders. She underwent a natural cycle of letrozole-induced ovulation. On the day of the human chorionic gonadotropin trigger, she had an EMT of 3.8 mm. DIAGNOSES Polycystic ovary syndrome, ovulation disorders, thin endometrium. INTERVENTIONS The patient received medications including Progynova, Aspirin, and Dydrogesterone. OUTCOMES The patient achieved spontaneous conception and subsequently had a live birth. LESSONS This case report underscores the significance of managing a thin endometrium during letrozole-induced ovulation. While EMT is traditionally pivotal for predicting embryo implantation success, our findings indicate that endometrial receptivity extends beyond thickness alone. Factors such as endometrial morphology, type, and blood supply play crucial roles. Successful pregnancies with a 3.8 mm EMT are rare, making this case a beacon of hope for such patients. It highlights that, with appropriate interventions, successful pregnancies remain attainable. For those with a thin endometrium, emphasis should extend beyond thickness, addressing ways to enhance both endometrial blood supply and morphology for improved pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Huang
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Danying Lu
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanxiang Kong
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin Ma
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Li T, Chan RWS, Li RHW, Ng EHY, Zhang S, Yeung WSB. Endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells improve regeneration of injured endometrium in mice. Biol Res 2024; 57:6. [PMID: 38347646 PMCID: PMC10863157 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-024-00484-3] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The monthly regeneration of human endometrial tissue is maintained by the presence of human endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (eMSC), a cell population co-expressing the perivascular markers CD140b and CD146. Endometrial regeneration is impaired in the presence of intrauterine adhesions, leading to infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss and placental abnormalities. Several types of somatic stem cells have been used to repair the damaged endometrium in animal models, reporting successful pregnancy. However, the ability of endometrial stem cells to repair the damaged endometrium remains unknown. METHODS Electrocoagulation was applied to the left uterine horn of NOD/SCID mice causing endometrial injury. Human eMSC or PBS was then injected into the left injured horn while the right normal horn served as controls. Mice were sacrificed at different timepoints (Day 3, 7 and 14) and the endometrial morphological changes as well as the degree of endometrial injury and repair were observed by histological staining. Gene expression of various inflammatory markers was assessed using qPCR. The functionality of the repaired endometrium was evaluated by fertility test. RESULTS Human eMSC successfully incorporated into the injured uterine horn, which displayed significant morphological restoration. Also, endometrium in the eMSC group showed better cell proliferation and glands formation than the PBS group. Although the number of blood vessels were similar between the two groups, gene expression of VEGF-α significantly increased in the eMSC group. Moreover, eMSC had a positive impact on the regeneration of both stromal and epithelial components of the mouse endometrium, indicated by significantly higher vimentin and CK19 protein expression. Reduced endometrial fibrosis and down-regulation of fibrosis markers were also observed in the eMSC group. The eMSC group had a significantly higher gene expression of anti-inflammatory factor Il-10 and lower mRNA level of pro-inflammatory factors Ifng and Il-2, indicating the role of eMSC in regulation of inflammatory reactions. The eMSC group showed higher implantation sites than the PBS group, suggesting better endometrial receptivity with the presence of newly emerged endometrial lining. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest eMSC improves regeneration of injured endometrium in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
| | - Rachel W S Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Pokfulam, China.
| | - Raymond H W Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Pokfulam, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Pokfulam, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sir Run Run Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Pokfulam, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
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Zhang Z, Li B, Wang Z, Yang L, Peng J, Wang H, Wang Y, Hong L. Novel LncRNA LINC02936 Suppresses Ferroptosis and Promotes Tumor Progression by Interacting with SIX1/CP Axis in Endometrial Cancer. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:1356-1374. [PMID: 38385087 PMCID: PMC10878161 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.86256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is a prevalent gynecological malignancy, and metabolic disorders are among its most significant risk factors. Abnormal iron metabolism is associated with the progression of cancer malignancy. Nevertheless, the involvement of iron metabolism in the EC remains uncertain. Ceruloplasmin (CP) functions as a multicopper oxidase and ferroxidase, playing a crucial role in maintaining the metabolic balance between copper and iron. Prior research has demonstrated that the dysregulated expression of CP has important clinical implications in EC. However, the specific underlying molecular mechanisms remains uncertain. This research examined the impact of CP on the malignant advancement of EC by suppressing ferroptosis. Next, we explored the possibility that Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) LINC02936/SIX1/CP axis may be a key pathway for inhibiting ferroptosis and promoting cancer progression in EC. Mechanistically, SIX1 modulates the expression of CP, whereas LINC02936 interacts with SIX1 and recruits SIX1 to the CP promoter, leading to upregulation of CP, inhibition of ferroptosis, and promotion of EC progression. Administration of a small peptide cloud block the LINC02936-SIX1 interaction, thereby inhibits EC progression by promoting ferroptosis. Altogether, this is the first report on the lncRNA regulation of ferroptosis in EC. Our research enhances the knowledge of the lncRNA-mediated regulation of ferroptosis in EC progression and indicates the potential therapeutic significance of the LINC02936/SIX1/CP axis in treating EC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Li Hong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province People's Republic of China
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Li C, Hu Y. Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Cell-Free Therapy for Intrauterine Adhesion. Int J Stem Cells 2023; 16:260-268. [PMID: 37385632 PMCID: PMC10465336 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc21177] [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: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) can occur after trauma to the basal layer of the endometrium, contributing to severe complications in females, such as infertility and amenorrhea. To date, the proposed therapeutic strategies are targeted to relieve IUA, such as hysteroscopic adhesiolysis, Foley catheter balloon, and hyaluronic acid injection have been applied in the clinic. However, these approaches showed limited effects in alleviating endometrial fibrosis and thin endometrium. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can offer the potential for endometrium regeneration owing to reduce inflammation and release growth factors. On this basis, MSCs have been proposed as promising methods to treat intrauterine adhesion. However, due to the drawbacks of cell therapy, the possible therapeutic use of extracellular vesicles released by stem cells is raising increasing interest. The paracrine effect, mediated by MSCs derived extracellular vehicles (MSC-EVs), has recently been suggested as a mechanism for their therapeutic properties. Here, we summarizes the main pathological mechanisms involved in intrauterine adhesion, the biogenesis and characteristics of extracellular vesicles, explaining how these vesicles could provide new opportunities for MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Department of Gynecology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Gynecology, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuanjing Hu
- Department of Gynecology, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
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Qi J, Zhang X, Zhang S, Wu S, Lu Y, Li S, Li P, Tan J. P65 mediated UBR4 in exosomes derived from menstrual blood stromal cells to reduce endometrial fibrosis by regulating YAP Ubiquitination. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:305. [PMID: 37644565 PMCID: PMC10463480 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02070-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a recurrent and refractory reproductive dysfunction disorder for which menstrual blood-derived stromal cells (MenSCs) might be a promising intervention. We reported that administration of MenSCs-derived exosomes (MenSCs-EXO) could achieve similar therapeutic effects to MenSCs transplantation, including alleviating endometrial fibrosis and improving fertility in IUA rats. The mass spectrometry sequencing result suggested that UBR4, a member of the proteasome family, was abundantly enriched in MenSCs-EXO. This study aimed to investigate the key role of UBR4 in MenSCs-EXO for the treatment of IUA and the specific molecular mechanism. RESULTS UBR4 was lowly expressed in the endometrial stromal cells (EndoSCs) of IUA patients. MenSCs-EXO treatment could restore the morphology of IUA endometrium, reduce the extent of fibrosis, and promote endometrial and vascular proliferation. Knockdown of UBR4 in MenSCs did not affect the characteristics of exosomes but attenuated the therapeutic effect of exosomes. UBR4 in MenSCs-EXO could alleviate endometrial fibrosis by boosting YAP ubiquitination degradation and promoting YAP nuclear-cytoplasmic translocation. Moreover, P65 could bind to the UBR4 promoter region to transcriptionally promote the expression level of UBR4 in MenSCs. CONCLUSION Our study clarified that MenSCs-EXO ameliorated endometrial fibrosis in IUA primarily by affecting YAP activity mediated through UBR4, while inflammatory signaling P65 may affect UBR4 expression in MenSCs to enhance MenSCs-EXO therapeutic effects. This revealed a novel mechanism for the treatment of IUA with MenSCs-EXO, proposing a potential option for the clinical treatment of endometrial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Qi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Siwen Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Yimeng Lu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuyu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Pingping Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
| | - Jichun Tan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, No. 39 Huaxiang Road, Tiexi District, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine (China Medical University), National Health Commission, Shenyang, China.
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Li C, Zhou M, He X, Di R, Zhang Z, Ren C, Liu Q, Chu M. Comparative proteomics of ovaries elucidated the potential targets related to ovine prolificacy. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1096762. [PMID: 37675075 PMCID: PMC10477366 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1096762] [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: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Small Tail Han (STH) sheep, a unique Chinese breed, is recognized for its early maturity, year-round estrus, and prolificacy. However, the molecular mechanism of its high prolificacy has not been fully elucidated. The Proteomics approach is feasible and effective to reveal the proteins involved in the complex physiological processes of any organism. Given this, we performed the protein expression profiling of ovarian tissues during the luteal phase using polytocous STH sheep (litter size ≥2, three consecutive lambings) and monotocous STH sheep (litter size =1, three consecutive lambings) (PL vs. ML), and the follicular phase using polytocous STH sheep (litter size ≥2, three consecutive lambings) and monotocous STH sheep (litter size =1, three consecutive lambings) (PF vs. MF), respectively. Parallel Reaction Monitoring (PRM) was conducted to validate the differentially abundant proteins (DAPs). The tandem mass tag (TMT) quantitative proteomic results showed that a total of 5,237 proteins were identified, of which 49 and 44 showed differential abundance in the PL vs. ML and PF vs. MF groups, respectively. Enrichments analyses indicated that the DAPs including TIA1 cytotoxic granule-associated RNA-binding protein-like 1 (TIAL1), nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), and cellular retinoic acid-binding protein 1 (CRABP1) were enriched at the luteal phase, while TIAL1, inhibin beta-a-subunit (A2ICA4), and W5PG55 were enriched at the follicular phase, potentially mediating reproductive processes in polytocous ewes. Furthermore, six DAPs were verified using PRM, confirming the accuracy of the TMT data acquired in this study. Together, our work expanded the database of indigenous sheep breeds and provided new ovarian candidate molecular targets, which will help in the study of the genetic mechanisms of ovine prolificacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Yunnan Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resource Conservation and Germplasm Enhancement, Yunnan Academy of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Mei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Pig Molecular Quantitative Genetics of Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zijun Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Chunhuan Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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Lang P, Liu T, Huang S, Zhou Z, Zhang M, Lin Y, He Q, Yao Y, Liu Z, Zhang L. Degradable Temperature-Sensitive Hydrogel Loaded with Heparin Effectively Prevents Post-Operative Tissue Adhesions. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023. [PMID: 37179492 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Tissue adhesions could occur following surgeries, and severe tissue adhesions can lead to serious complications. Medical hydrogels could be applied at surgical sites as a physical barrier to prevent tissue adhesion. For practical reasons, spreadable, degradable, and self-healable gels are highly demanded. To meet these requirements, we applied carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) to poloxamer-based hydrogels to generate low Poloxamer338 (P338) content gels displaying low viscosity at refrigerator temperature and improved mechanical strength at body temperature. Heparin, an effective adhesion inhibitor, was also added to construct P338/CMCS-heparin composite hydrogel (PCHgel). PCHgel presents as a flowable liquid below 20 °C and could rapidly transform into gel when spread on the surface of damaged tissue due to temperature change. The introduction of CMCS enabled hydrogels to form a stable self-healable barrier at injured positions and slowly release heparin during the wound healing period before being degraded after ∼14 days. Ultimately, PCHgel significantly reduced tissue adhesion in model rats and displayed higher efficiency than P338/CMCS gel without heparin. Its adhesion suppression mechanism was verified, and it also displayed good biosafety. Therefore, PCHgel showed good clinical transformation potential with high efficacy, good safety, and ease of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puxin Lang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
| | - Tiantian Liu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
| | - Shiqi Huang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
| | - Zhaojie Zhou
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
| | - Mengxing Zhang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
| | - Yunzhu Lin
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, P. R. China
| | - Qin He
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, P. R. China
| | - Yuqin Yao
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
| | - Zhenmi Liu
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
- Med-X Center for Materials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610000, China
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11
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Yuan L, Cao J, Hu M, Xu D, Li Y, Zhao S, Yuan J, Zhang H, Huang Y, Jin H, Chen M, Liu D. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells combined with estrogen synergistically promote endometrial regeneration and reverse EMT via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:121. [PMID: 35971112 PMCID: PMC9377128 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00988-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a clinical disease characterized by the uterine cavity occlusion caused by the damage of the endometrial basal layer. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transplantation have the potential to promote endometrial regeneration mainly through paracrine ability. Estrogen is an indispensable and important factor in the repair of endometrial damage, which has been reported as a promising and adjunctive therapeutic application for stem cell transplantation therapy. This study aims to investigate the synergistic effect of BMSCs and estrogen on improving the endometrial regeneration and restoring the endometrium morphology in a dual damage model of IUA in rabbits and the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS BMSCs were isolated and identified by adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation and flow cytometry assays. The rabbit IUA animal model was established by a dual damage method of mechanical curettage and lipopolysaccharide infection. Additionally, we investigated the therapeutic impact of both BMSCs and estrogen either separately or in combination in a rabbit model. The retention of PKH26-labeled BMSCs was observed by vivo fluorescence imaging.The number of endometrial glands and the degree of fibrosis were observed by H&E and Masson staining respectively. Western blotting, Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect biomarkers related to endometrial epithelium, endometrial fibrosis and EMT. Finally, the protein expression of core molecules of Wnt/β-catenin pathway was detected by Western blotting. RESULTS PKH26-labeled fluorescence results revealed that BMSCs appeared and located in the endometrial glands and extracellular matrix area when orthotopic transplanted into the uterine cavity. Histological assays showed that remarkably increasing the number of endometrial glands and decreasing the area of endometrial fibrosis in the BMSCs combined with estrogen treatment group. Moreover, downregulated expression of fibrosis markers (fibronectin, CollagenI, a-SMA) and interstitial markers (ZEB1, Vimentin, N-cadherin), as well as upregulated E-cadherin expression were found in the combined group. Further study of in vivo staining revealed that fluorescence intensity of CK7 was stronger in the combined group than that of direct BMSCs intrauterine transplantation, while vimentin showed the opposite results. Moreover, the protein levels of β-catenin, Axin2, C-myc, CycinE of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway increased in the BMSCs combined with estrogen group than in the other treatment groups. CONCLUSION BMSCs combined with estrogen can promote the differentiation of stem cells into endometrial epithelial cells to facilitate the regeneration of damaged endometrium. The potential mechanism of the synergistic effect may inhibit the occurrence of EMT by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Yuan
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Jia Cao
- Department of Beijing National Biochip Research Center Sub-Center in Ningxia, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Mingyue Hu
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Dabao Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Shiyun Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Juanjuan Yuan
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Huixing Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Yani Huang
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - He Jin
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Meixia Chen
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
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Cheng YH, Tsai NC, Chen YJ, Weng PL, Chang YC, Cheng JH, Ko JY, Kang HY, Lan KC. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma during Preventive and Therapeutic Stages of Intrauterine Adhesion in a Rat Model. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020476. [PMID: 35203684 PMCID: PMC8962268 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is caused by artificial endometrial damage during intrauterine cavity surgery. The typical phenotype involves loss of spontaneous endometrium recovery and angiogenesis. Undesirable symptoms include abnormal menstruation and infertility; therefore, prevention and early treatment of IUA remain crucial issues. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) major proposed therapeutic mechanisms include neovascularization, tissue regeneration, and fibrosis. We examined the effects of ESWT and/or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) during preventive and therapeutic stages of IUA by inducing intrauterine mechanical injury in rats. PRP alone, or combined with ESWT, were detected an increased number of endometrial glands, elevated vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression (hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry), and reduced fibrosis rate (Masson trichrome staining). mRNA expression levels of nuclear factor-kappa B, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β, interleukin (IL)-6, collagen type I alpha 1, and fibronectin were reduced during two stages. However, PRP alone, or ESWT combined with PRP transplantation, not only increased the mRNA levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and progesterone receptor (PR) during the preventive stage but also increased PR, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and IL-4 during the therapeutic stage. These findings revealed that these two treatments inhibited endometrial fibrosis and inflammatory markers, thereby inhibiting the occurrence and development of intrauterine adhesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hua Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Ni-Chin Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pingtung Christian Hospital, Pingtung 900, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ju Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Pei-Ling Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Yun-Chiao Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
| | - Jai-Hong Cheng
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (J.-H.C.); (J.-Y.K.)
- Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Leisure and Sports Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Jih-Yang Ko
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (J.-H.C.); (J.-Y.K.)
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yo Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (Y.-H.C.); (Y.-J.C.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.); (H.-Y.K.)
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-7-7317123-8654; Fax: +886-7-7322915
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Establishment of Adenomyosis Organoids as a Preclinical Model to Study Infertility. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12020219. [PMID: 35207707 PMCID: PMC8876865 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12020219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis is related to infertility and miscarriages, but so far there are no robust in vitro models that reproduce its pathological features to study the molecular mechanisms involved in this disease. Endometrial organoids are in vitro 3D models that recapitulate the native microenvironment and reproduce tissue characteristics that would allow the study of adenomyosis pathogenesis and related infertility disorders. In our study, human endometrial biopsies from adenomyosis (n = 6) and healthy women (n = 6) were recruited. Organoids were established and hormonally differentiated to recapitulate midsecretory and gestational endometrial phases. Physiological and pathological characteristics were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, and ELISA. Secretory and gestational organoids recapitulated in vivo glandular epithelial phenotype (pan-cytokeratin, Muc-1, PAS, Laminin, and Ki67) and secretory and gestational features (α-tubulin, SOX9, SPP1, PAEP, LIF, and 17βHSD2 expression and SPP1 secretion). Adenomyosis organoids showed higher expression of TGF-β2 and SMAD3 and increased gene expression of SPP1, PAEP, LIF, and 17βHSD2 compared with control organoids. Our results demonstrate that organoids derived from endometria of adenomyosis patients and differentiated to secretory and gestational phases recapitulate native endometrial-tissue-specific features and disease-specific traits. Adenomyosis-derived organoids are a promising in vitro preclinical model to study impaired implantation and pregnancy disorders in adenomyosis and enable personalized drug screening.
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Huang J, Zhang W, Yu J, Gou Y, Liu N, Wang T, Sun C, Wu B, Li C, Chen X, Mao Y, Zhang Y, Wang J. Human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells combined with PPCNg facilitate injured endometrial regeneration. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:17. [PMID: 35022063 PMCID: PMC8756707 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02682-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caused by the injury to the endometrial basal layer, intrauterine adhesions (IUA) are characterized by uterine cavity obliteration, leading to impaired fertility. Human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) have the potential to promote endometrial regeneration mainly through paracrine ability. PPCNg is a thermoresponsive biomaterial consisted of Poly (polyethylene glycol citrate-co-N-isopropylacrylamide) (PPCN) mixed with gelatin, which has been reported as a scaffold for stem cell transplantation. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effect of hAMSCs combined with PPCNg transplantation in promoting the regeneration of injured endometrium. METHODS hAMSCs were cultured in different concentrates of PPCNg in vitro, and their proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle were examined by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. Immunofluorescence was used to determine the MSCs specific surface markers. The expression of pluripotent genes was analyzed by qRT-PCR. The multiple-lineage differentiation potential was further evaluated by detecting the differentiation-related genes using qRT-PCR and specific staining. The Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat IUA model was established with 95% ethanol. hAMSCs combined with PPCNg were transplanted through intrauterine injection. The retention of DiR-labeled hAMSCs was observed by vivo fluorescence imaging. The endometrium morphology was assessed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson staining. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed to detect biomarkers related to endometrial proliferation, re-epithelialization, angiogenesis and endometrial receptivity. The function of regenerated endometrium was evaluated by pregnancy tests. RESULTS hAMSCs maintained normal cell proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle in PPCNg. Immunofluorescence and qRT-PCR showed that hAMSCs cultured in PPCNg and hAMSCs cultured alone expressed the same surface markers and pluripotent genes. hAMSCs exhibited normal multilineage differentiation potential in PPCNg. Vivo fluorescence imaging results revealed that the fluorescence intensity of hAMSCs combined with PPCNg intrauterine transplantation was stronger than that of direct hAMSCs intrauterine transplantation. Histological assays showed the increase in the thickness of endometrial and the number of endometrial glands, and the remarkably decrease in the fibrosis area in the PPCNg/hAMSCs group. The expressions of Ki-67, CK7, CK19, VEGF, ER and PR were significantly increased in the PPCNg/hAMSCs group. Moreover, the number of implanted embryos and pregnancy rate were significantly higher in the PPCNg/hAMSCs group than in the hAMSCs group. CONCLUSIONS PPCNg is suitable for growth, phenotype maintenance and multilineage differentiation of hAMSCs. hAMSCs combined with PPCNg intrauterine transplantation can facilitate the regeneration of injured endometrium by improving utilization rates of hAMSCs, and eventually restore reproductive capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayue Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yating Gou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Nizhou Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Congcong Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Benyuan Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Changjiang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Xinpei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yanhua Mao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yingfeng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 55, Daxuecheng Middle Road, Chongqing, 401331, China.
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Ma J, Zhan H, Li W, Zhang L, Yun F, Wu R, Lin J, Li Y. Recent trends in therapeutic strategies for repairing endometrial tissue in intrauterine adhesion. Biomater Res 2021; 25:40. [PMID: 34819167 PMCID: PMC8611984 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-021-00242-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a common gynaecological disease that develops from infection or trauma. IUA disease may seriously affect the physical and mental health of women of childbearing age, which may lead to symptoms such as hypomenorrhea or infertility. Presently, hysteroscopic transcervical resection of adhesion (TCRA) is the principal therapy for IUAs, although its function in preventing the recurrence of adhesion and preserving fertility is limited. Pharmaceuticals such as hormones and vasoactive agents and the placement of nondegradable stents are the most common postoperative adjuvant therapy methods. However, the repair of injured endometrium is relatively restricted due to the different anatomical structures of the endometrium. Recently, the treatment outcome of IUAs has improved with the advancement of hysteroscopic techniques. In particular, the application of bioactive scaffolds combined with tissue engineering technology has proven to have high therapeutic potential or endometrial repair in IUA treatment. Herein, this review has summarized past therapeutic strategies, including postoperative adjuvant therapy, cell or therapeutic molecular delivery therapy methods and bioactive scaffold-based tissue engineering methods. Therefore, this review presented the recent therapeutic strategies for repairing endometrium treatment and pointed out the issues of clinical concern to provide alternative methods for the management of IUAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyan Ma
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Precision Diagnosis & Treatment of Major Gynecological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hong Zhan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Wen Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Liqi Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Feng Yun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ruijin Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women' s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Yangyang Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Precision Diagnosis & Treatment of Major Gynecological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China.
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16
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Gu P, Li W, Zhao X, Xu D. The Top 100 Most Cited Articles on Intrauterine Adhesion: a Bibliometric Analysis. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:460-474. [PMID: 34780024 PMCID: PMC8782778 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00794-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Bibliometric analysis is a statistical method that attempts to assess articles by their citations, analyzing their frequency and citation pattern, which subsequently gleans direction and guidance for future research. Over the past few years, articles focused on intrauterine adhesions have been published with increasing frequency. Nevertheless, little is known about the properties and qualities of this research, and no current analysis exists that has examined the progress in intrauterine adhesion research. Web of Science Core Collection, BIOSIS Citation Index, and MEDLINE database were searched to identify articles on intrauterine adhesion published from 1950 to October 2020. The 100 most cited articles were chosen to analyze citation count, citation density, authorship, theme, geographic distribution, time-related flux, level of evidence, and network analysis. An overwhelming majority of these 100 articles were published in the 2010s (35%). Citations per article ranged from 30 to 253. Chinese authors published the most papers in the top 100, followed by the USA, France, Israel, and Italy. The most salient study themes included operative hysteroscopy and adjunctive treatments for improving reproductive outcomes. The most common level of evidence was level II, and there was no statistical difference in the number of citations between the levels. The network analysis indicated that hysteroscopy, hysteroscopic adhesiolysis, infertility, and the reproductive outcome had a great degree of centrality in the 2000s and 2010s. In comparison, placental implantation had a great degree of centrality in the 2000s, and stem cell and fibrosis had a great degree of centrality in the 2010s. The value of IUA investigation has been gradually appreciated recently. Hysteroscopic adhesiolysis was continuously explored to achieve better reproductive outcome. Over time, the main focus of research has gradually shifted from complications to postoperative adjuvant treatment. Moreover, breakthrough progress is needed in underlying mechanism and early prevention of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Gu
- Department of Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Waixing Li
- Department of Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Xingping Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Dabao Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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Lee WL, Liu CH, Cheng M, Chang WH, Liu WM, Wang PH. Focus on the Primary Prevention of Intrauterine Adhesions: Current Concept and Vision. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105175. [PMID: 34068335 PMCID: PMC8153321 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), and its severe form Asherman syndrome (Asherman’s syndrome), is a mysterious disease, often accompanied with severe clinical problems contributing to a significant impairment of reproductive function, such as menstrual disturbance (amenorrhea), infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss. Among these, its correlated infertility may be one of the most challenging problems. Although there are many etiologies for the development of IUA, uterine instrumentation is the main cause of IUA. Additionally, more complicated intrauterine surgeries can be performed by advanced technology, further increasing the risk of IUA. Strategies attempting to minimize the risk and reducing its severity are urgently needed. The current review will expand the level of our knowledge required to face the troublesome disease of IUA. It is separated into six sections, addressing the introduction of the normal cyclic endometrial repairing process and its abruption causing the formation of IUA; the etiology and prevalence of IUA; the diagnosis of IUA; the classification of IUA; the pathophysiology of IUA; and the primary prevention of IUA, including (1) delicate surgical techniques, such as the use of surgical instruments, energy systems, and pre-hysteroscopic management, (2) barrier methods, such as gels, intrauterine devices, intrauterine balloons, as well as membrane structures containing hyaluronate–carboxymethylcellulose or polyethylene oxide–sodium carboxymethylcellulose as anti-adhesive barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ling Lee
- Department of Medicine, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Department of Nursing, Oriental Institute of Technology, Taipei 220, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (M.C.); (W.-H.C.)
| | - Chia-Hao Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (M.C.); (W.-H.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Min Cheng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (M.C.); (W.-H.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Hsun Chang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (M.C.); (W.-H.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Min Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan;
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (M.C.); (W.-H.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Female Cancer Foundation, Taipei 104, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-28757566
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Tiaoshen Tongluo Attenuates Fibrosis by Modulating the TGF- β1/Smad Pathway in Endometrial Stromal Cells and a Rat Model of Intrauterine Adhesion. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6675329. [PMID: 33981353 PMCID: PMC8088367 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6675329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a serious complication caused by excessive fibrosis resulting from endometrial repair after trauma. The traditional Chinese medicine Tiaoshen Tongluo recipe (TTR) contains ingredients associated with the alleviation of fibrosis. The transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad pathway is thought to mediate fibrosis in IUA. In this study, we evaluated the influence of TTR on endometrial fibrosis in a rat model of IUA and in TGF-β1-stimulated endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). TTR was found to alleviate the level of endometrial fibrosis in a rat model of IUA. A higher number of collagen fibers and greater damage were observed in the endometrial tissue of untreated rats compared to those treated with TTR. The expression of TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4 was upregulated following IUA, whereas Smad7 expression was downregulated. TTR lowers the expression of TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4 but increases the expression of Smad7 in vivo, indicating that TTR can modulate the expression of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway to mediate fibrosis. In ESCs, the phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 and upregulation of Smad4 were induced by TGF-β1 whereas the expression of Smad7 was inhibited. Administration of TTR reduces the phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3, increases Smad4 expression induced by TGF-β1, and promotes the expression of Smad7. TTR modulates the TGF-β1/Smad pathway to alleviate the generation of fibrotic tissue in response to IUA.
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Zhao YX, Chen SR, Huang QY, Chen WC, Xia T, Shi YC, Gao HZ, Shi QY, Lin S. Repair abilities of mouse autologous adipose-derived stem cells and ShakeGel™3D complex local injection with intrauterine adhesion by BMP7-Smad5 signaling pathway activation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:191. [PMID: 33736694 PMCID: PMC7977602 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02258-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective was to explore the therapeutic effect of autologous adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) combined with ShakeGel™3D transplantation to activate the BMP7-Smad5 signaling pathway to treat intrauterine adhesions (IUA). METHODS Autologous ADSCs were isolated and then merged with ShakeGel™3D. The IUA model was established by mechanical injury. The third generation of autologous ADSCs was injected directly into the uterus in combination with ShakeGel™3D. After 7 days of treatment, endometrial morphology, number of endometrial glands, endometrial fibrosis area, and fibrosis biomarker analysis by RT-PCR and IHC were examined. BMP7 and phosphorylation of Smad5 were also detected, and the recovery of infertility function in treated mice was evaluated. RESULTS Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) showed that autologous ADSCs expressed CD105 (99.1%), CD29 (99.6%), and CD73 (98.9%). Autologous ADSCs could still maintain a good growth state in ShakeGel™3D. Histological examination revealed that the number of endometrial glands increased significantly, and the area of fibrosis decreased. At the same time, the expression of BMP7 and Smad5 in the ADSCs + Gel group was significantly upregulated, and the final reproductive function of this group was partly recovered. CONCLUSIONS Autologous ADSCs can be used in combination with ShakeGel™3D to maintain functionality and create a viable three-dimensional growth environment. The combined transplantation of autologous ADSCs and ShakeGel™3D promotes the recovery of damaged endometrial tissue by increasing BMP7-Smad5 signal transduction, resulting in endometrium thickening, increased number of glands, and decreased fibrosis, leading to restoration of partial fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shao-Rong Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qiao-Yi Huang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Wei-Can Chen
- Department of Anaesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Tian Xia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian province, China
| | - Yan-Chuan Shi
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, Univeristy of New South Wales, Sydeny, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Hong-Zhi Gao
- Clinical Center for Molecular Diagnosis and Therapy, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Qi-Yang Shi
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Shu Lin
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China.
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20
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Hoffmann M, Kant TA, Emig R, Rausch JSE, Newe M, Schubert M, Künzel K, Winter L, Klapproth E, Peyronnet R, Ravens U, El-Armouche A, Künzel SR. Repurposing mesalazine against cardiac fibrosis in vitro. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2021; 394:533-543. [PMID: 33064167 PMCID: PMC7892689 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-020-01998-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are exacerbated and driven by cardiac fibrosis. TGFβ induces fibroblast activation and differentiation into myofibroblasts that secrete excessive extracellular matrix proteins leading to stiffening of the heart, concomitant cardiac dysfunction, and arrhythmias. However, effective pharmacotherapy for preventing or reversing cardiac fibrosis is presently unavailable. Therefore, drug repurposing could be a cost- and time-saving approach to discover antifibrotic interventions. The aim of this study was to investigate the antifibrotic potential of mesalazine in a cardiac fibroblast stress model. TGFβ was used to induce a profibrotic phenotype in a human cardiac fibroblast cell line. After induction, cells were treated with mesalazine or solvent control. Fibroblast proliferation, key fibrosis protein expression, extracellular collagen deposition, and mechanical properties were subsequently determined. In response to TGFβ treatment, fibroblasts underwent a profound phenoconversion towards myofibroblasts, determined by the expression of fibrillary αSMA. Mesalazine reduced differentiation nearly by half and diminished fibroblast proliferation by a third. Additionally, TGFβ led to increased cell stiffness and adhesion, which were reversed by mesalazine treatment. Collagen 1 expression and deposition-key drivers of fibrosis-were significantly increased upon TGFβ stimulation and reduced to control levels by mesalazine. SMAD2/3 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, along with reduced nuclear NFκB translocation, were identified as potential modes of action. The current study provides experimental pre-clinical evidence for antifibrotic effects of mesalazine in an in vitro model of cardiac fibrosis. Furthermore, it sheds light on possible mechanisms of action and suggests further investigation in experimental and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Hoffmann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Theresa A Kant
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ramona Emig
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- CIBSS Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Johanna S E Rausch
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Manja Newe
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mario Schubert
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Karolina Künzel
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Luise Winter
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Erik Klapproth
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Rémi Peyronnet
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ursula Ravens
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ali El-Armouche
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stephan R Künzel
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01309, Dresden, Germany.
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